best places for solo travel in europe

FREE 9 Best Places For Solo Travel in Europe Guide

Do you want to visit the best places for solo travel in Europe but don’t know where to go? Are you wondering where it’s safe and where you can get the most out of your trip? You’ve come to the right place. As always, you’ll find my carefully curated list of my choices for the best places for solo travel in Europe, with solid travel insights and no fluff.

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Travel Insights: Best Places for Solo Travel in Europe

  • For safety consult the map curated with the Global Peace Index
  • Eastern Europe tends to be more affordable when it comes to travel and food costs. The area has very friendly locals, manicured cities, and unspoilt nature awaits here. The infrastructure is sometimes not as extensive as in the rest of Europe.
  • Northern Europe has a high standard of living. Locals value nature and a quieter lifestyle. They are often introverted, which means they are respectful and keep mostly to themselves.
  • Central Europe is my personal favourite area. Extensive infrastructure as well as great weather from March to October. The Danube Region is a personal favourite.
  • Western Europe is popular, with major cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam attracting many travellers. It rains a lot in this part of Europe, especially from October to July. The best time to visit is typically in August and autumn. However, over the past year, most areas in Europe have seen cultural shifts, more litter, and higher crime rates.
  • Southern Europe is popular for its Mediterranean climate, which brings warm to hot weather. Beaches are busy during the summer, and cities such as Barcelona and Rome, along with countries like Croatia and Slovenia, are stunning. The lifestyle in these warmer countries is profoundly different from the rest of Europe, with late mealtimes and nighttime activity. Locals are often frustrated by overtourism, and their reactions can be hostile.

TOP TIP: If you’ve never travelled solo before but are thinking about giving it a go, I’d recommend starting small. I call this the “Prototype Experience.” Basically, travel locally for a short trip to build up your confidence. It’s a great way to figure out what you really need and want from a solo trip and tweak your travel style along the way.

Choosing The Best Places for Solo Travel in Europe

With so many gorgeous places for solo travel in Europe, it is hard to actually make a decision. One major question you can ask yourself is “what do I want to get out of this trip?”.  When choosing the best places for solo travel in Europe you can consider a few criteria which are highly individual. I would suggest the following considerations for your travel planning:

Your personal interest: Ask yourself why you want to go to a specific place and if it can engage you. You don’t want to go somewhere and then be bored. Is it for its history, the picturesque city landscape, the food, the museums? I am interested in art nouveau architecture and coffee, as opposed to safaris or diving trips. So when I choose my destinations, I check first if they tick off some of my interests and I drop some pins on Google Maps during my research.

Your personality: What are your main personality traits? For example, I am a Gemini. I love acquiring knowledge and the more intellectual things in life, so I am attracted to places with high living standards and cultured societies. Someone who likes energetic places may find Helsinki boring, or if you are an orderly person you may find Naples too much of a chaos.

travel board santiago airport
Where to next?

Your preferences: This is a broad point but, for example, do you prefer to stay in a hotel or a hostel? Do you prefer a more introverted destination or do you want to go somewhere with a lively nightlife? Warm destinations or a colder climate? Less visited destinations or busy tourist places? I will always suggest cities with a lively and well-developed touristic infrastructure to female travellers who want to start solo travelling, as it is easier to get around and the positive vibe makes for a great first solo travel experience.

Your travel style: If you haven’t travelled solo before, this might be hard to answer, but think about accessibility to the destination. Is it easily reachable, or do you have to take several flights or buses to get there? Consider onsite transportation too. Are you into luxury stays or down-to-earth sightseeing? Do you like travelling in regions or in cities?

My 9 Best Places for Solo Travel in Europe

Choosing the best places in Europe for solo travel depends on your interests, travel preferences and personality. Barcelona is great for nightlife, while Helsinki offers a more relaxed lifestyle. Austria has many travel options, while Portugal is known for its beaches and sunshine.

As a European solo traveller, I tend to stay within Europe because it is culturally diverse, safe, and offers many perks. Within the Union I do not have to worry about visas and rarely need to exchange currencies, which makes travelling here very convenient.

Some places I visited in the past did not impress me much, but destinations that are unfriendly to solo travel have been rare. I actually revisit a couple of cities frequently as they feel like home with a familiar and friendly atmosphere. Here are my 9 best places for solo travel in Europe:

Vienna – Home of Intellectuals

Vienna solo travel in europe
Postcard perfect Vienna

Vienna takes my top spots when it comes to the best places for solo travel in Europe, as it was my first solo destination. What can I say? I have been regularly back for the past 8 years and keep falling in love with Vienna time and time again. 

If you are into art, sophisticated culture, and a high quality of life, then Vienna is for you. The city and its locals are incredibly charming, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation about the painter Klimt, Vienna’s many characterful neighbourhoods, or the Habsburg Royals, who are still fondly cherished and very much a big part of Viennese culture. Vienna may be smaller than other European capitals, but it’s packed with endless activities. The public transport system is well-connected, and you’re never really more than a short 20 minute ride away from anything important. 

Besides, Vienna is home to European coffee culture, which is also UNESCO certified. Flanere on the Ringstrasse boulevard and take in the grand buildings or sample Austrian cuisine. Vienna is also a pioneering city in urban development, striving for a sustainable living environment for everyone. Examples include the new cycling street on Argentinerstraße, modelled after the Dutch style, and the many well-maintained gardens and parks. Hiking in the surrounding Viennese Forest is another personal highlight of mine. 

You see, I never get bored here as there is always something to do here.

Where to stay? Vienna has some great apartment hotels, such as the Adina. If you like quirky and characterful, I can also recommend Hotel Daniel* or Hotel Schaani. If you are after something more luxurious with a holiday-feel I can recommend MAXX by Steigenberger or Hotel Moons*, with gorgeous views over the Wieden neighbourhood. 

moons hotel vienna wieden
Moons Hotel in Wieden is an excellent choice

READ MORE: A FREE 4 Day Vienna Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Vilnius – Capital City with Small Town Charm

historic old town and churches in vilnius
Vilnius’ Old Town is UNESCO certified

I rate Vilnius as a best place in Europe for solo travel, because the capital of Lithuania is cosy and super laid-back. The historic Old Town will feel homely and familiar in no time. The city retains this small-town character with a big international touch and cocoons you quickly. Add to that the friendliness of the introverted locals, an easy and accessible transport system and zero mass tourism.

The pace of life in Vilnius is slow. Take your time and enjoy all the cafés and restaurants in the world or sightsee the many UNESCO-certified churches. There is a bit of an edge to it, as there are many residential areas with Brutalist panel blocks around, visible from viewpoints across town. But that is Vilnius, too. Often, most people don’t know much about Vilnius or haven’t even heard of it in the first place, which makes this capital city even more exciting to discover and get to know.

Did you know, for example, that Vilnius is one of the rare places in Europe that allows hot air balloons to take off in the city? These flights can be expensive, but in Vilnius, they are on an affordable scale. There are a couple of tour operators providing trips. My tip would be to speak to the Tourist Information and find a good deal with a local provider that guides in English. A balloon trip costs around 140€. 

Where to stay? Hotel Neringa*, newly refurbished 4* Hotel on the ever-so-trendy Gedimino Avenue, Vilnius’ eclectic flanering mile. Housed in a historic landmark, the hotel has over 120 modern and tastefully decorated rooms. Mine was clean, and spacious, and I could fully relax here. The staff were amazing, too. Neringa’s rooftop bar is the place to be in town during a warm summer eve.

Riga – Hanseatic History Meets UNESCO Architecture

house of the blackheads in riga summer

Riga is also a best place in Europe for solo travel, because it is on another level. This prosperous Hanseatic city by the river Daugava reminded me massively of Antwerp. Picturesque houses, quaint squares, engaging history and a lively atmosphere make Riga a memorable top spot for solo travel. Reminiscent of the Hanseatic League are The House of Blackheads as well as the Bremer Musician statue, the Three Brothers and the Swedish Barracks near the Powder Tower.

The Old Town of this merchant city is, of course, the touristic centre, but Riga invites you to explore beyond. The high concentration of Art Nouveau buildings with dramatic ornaments in the nearby neighbourhoods keeps the cityscape young and exciting. Make sure to visit the Art Nouveau triangle Alberta – Strelnieku – Elizabetes Iela. There are several shops, a museum and countless symbolic decorations to admire. Stop at Galerija Riga and enjoy the rooftop views, or stroll along Miera iela, a newly gentrified area with street art and quirky cocktail bars. 

A local legend tells us about a water fairy who roams the streets of Riga every 100 years asking the first person it comes across “Is the city of Riga finished building?” to which the stranger absolutely has to say “No, it continues growing and thriving”. More whimsical stories can be found in the local fairy tale/history book “Stories of the Old Town” available at bookstore Jānis Rose.

Where to stay? The modern AC by Marriott* is located in the “silent centre” and only a 5 minutes walk away from brunch cafes in the art nouveau triangle. It is a 15 minute walk to the historic city centre but the area is generally exciting and has lots to offer itself. 

riga hotel recommendation solo travel
AC by Marriott had everything I needed for my stay in Riga

READ MORE: 3 Week Itinerary For An Epic Baltics Tour & Finland Trip

Tallinn – Medieval Playground For Slow Travellers

Tallinn christmas markets best places for solo travel in europe
The Christmas Market in the Old Town square

Tallinn, with its charming medieval Old Town and digital nomad-friendly culture, is often considered as one of the best places in Europe for solo travel. It is supremely manicured, polished, effortlessly modern and gentrified. It is compact in size and you could, if you wanted to, walk from the bus or the airport into town within 20 minutes. 

Tallinn isn’t as big as Riga, nor does it have the same buzzing energy. However, the international flair is there, and it’s clear that the medieval character is Tallinn’s main charm. I appreciate Tallinn for its rich history and the care that goes into preserving the Old Town every day. The surrounding neighbourhoods are equally well maintained and offer plenty of shopping and entertainment. One area I particularly enjoy is the Rotermann Quarter, where converted warehouses are home to shops, cafés, art, and an energetic vibe.

Beyond that, Tallinn has a lovely small Christmas Market, and in the summer, it’s worth exploring outside the centre. Coffee and art are concentrated in the Telliskivi area, while renting a bike lets you plan day trips to Kadriorg Park or the Birgitta Convent ruins. Alternatively, take the bus to Keila Joa Park to see the waterfalls and enjoy a nature hike. You can also catch a ferry to nearby islands like Prangli, Aegna, or Naissaar for some peace and tranquillity. 

Where to stay? Tallinn has a great selection of hotels and modern hybrids. For my stays I have always opted for CityBox Tallinn*. Whilst it has its flaws, it is a modern unfuzzy and basic accommodation choice directly in the harbour quarter. The ferry terminals as well as Old Town and Rotterman Quarter are only a 5 minute walk away. 

Helsinki – Calm Energies in a Big City

Helsinki cathedral superterassi senate square finland
A true “I am in Helsinki” moment

To me, Helsinki is a best place in Europe for solo travel for several reasons. It is not your typical sightseeing city and there are no skyscrapers here. You’ll be completely amazed by the lack of the usual frantic energies that capital cities such as London or Rome exude. You come to Helsinki to experience its Nordic lifestyle and get to know Finnish culture. That means, for example, going for a sauna session at Allas Sea Pool, riding the Ferris wheel, island hopping with the excellent ferry links, strolling along Senate Square or eating a reindeer hot dog at the market. 

Helsinki’s charm for me unfolds particularly during the winter, when you walk around and take in its beautiful National Romanticism architecture. Favourite areas to see some of the enchanting buildings with natural ornaments and motifs from the National epos Kalevala are Katajanokka, Kallio, Ullanlinna and Eira area. The mystical shapes and solid granite structures create a stark contrast that sets a strong tone for the mostly residential buildings. If you look very closely, most of the houses in Helsinki resemble small castles with their slim tourettes and towers. Pay also attention to the doors, as some of them glow in the low winter sun. If you ask me, Helsinki in winter is perfect to immerse yourself in The Lord of the Rings books as it is such an atmospheric place. 

During the summer, you can also party alongside locals at Helsinki’s birthday (12th June) or at a music gig at Tavestia Night Club, get sick on the rides at amusement park Linnanmäki (Lintsi), try delicious Fazer chocolate, read at the trendy Oodi library or buy Moomin mugs to take home. Helsinki is all about creating core life moments. 

Where to stay? A clear winner for me is the Hotel AX* in Jätkäsaari. This stylish new hotel combines art with relaxation. Every room is themed with a local artist. Mine was a phoenix fighting an octopus inspired by a Finnish poem. The bedding was so luxurious and super soft, I slept well here and I usually have a light sleep in hotels. AX was lovely, modern, top service and exactly what I look for in a hotel.

READ MORE: Is Helsinki Worth Visiting: 7 Solid Reasons & Travel Advice

Amsterdam – Young, Vibrant & Free Spirited

staalmeestersbrug amsterdam solo travel
Romantic canal views from Staalmeestersbrug

Amsterdam is often rated as the best place in Europe for solo travel, because of its exuberant lifestyle, free spirited character and young atmosphere. It is also one of the most accessible destinations when it comes to solo travel in Europe. I approve wholeheartedly. As a solo-travelling Gemini lady, Amsterdam in The Netherlands is where the party never ends.

Young, dynamic and creative are just one side I admire of Amsterdam. Especially during the summer months, when the days are long and sunny, the atmosphere is invigorating, fun and exciting. Apart from ticking off some of the renowned sites such as Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh or Anne Frank House, Amsterdam has a fantastic food and coffee culture, numerous cool clubs and open air celebrations as well as quirky creative quarters and unique Dutch fusion architecture. Endless opportunities await and all are best explored by bike, of course. 

Cycling, cheese & stroopwafel tasting as well as Amsterdam’s unique architecture and dreamy canal landscape have invited me back numerous times in the past 5 years. Dutch is also quite easy to learn, and I enjoy returning to practise my skills.

Where to stay? Hotels within the Grachten network are expensive all year around. It is best to stay either in the Sloterdijk area or near Amstel, as these are close to the city centre and only a short metro ride away. During my latest visit, I stayed in a quirky hybrid hotel, called CityHub*, which was perfect for me as a solo traveller. For another time, I also have The nui Fender very high on my list.

solo travel amsterdam cityhub hybrid capsule hotel
100% approved: CityHub is a cool and quiet hotel/hostel hybrid

READ MORE: FREE 3 Days In Amsterdam Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Leipzig: Microcosm of Culture Meets Alternative Vibes

Leipzig town hall with hot air balloon summer in leipzig
Hot air balloons over Leipzig are a common sight in the summer

Leipzig, known for its vibrant arts scene and affordable cost of living, is an underrated destination and one of the best places in Europe for solo travel. The city is not only highly valued for its history as a prestigious fair and university hub, but is home to some great names in classical music, such as Wagner, Bach and Grieg who all lived and worked here.

As a vital centre of the printing press in the 16th century, Leipzig established itself as a cosmopolitan city that easily connects to other places in Europe such as Antwerp, Vienna or Paris.

Flanere the charming streets of the Old Town and hear classical music played at every corner. If you need more action, rent a kayak and glide along Leipzig’s extensive canal network or rent a bike and explore the rich lakeside with whitewater rafting and surfing facilities or simply relax at the beach. 

And of course, don’t miss out on the architecture: Leipzig is, after Görlitz, the city in Germany with the best-preserved and restored heritage sites. The many fair and merchant houses, with their hidden courtyards, are a local sport for shortcutting when flanering in town. The Monument for the Battle of Nations is Europe’s tallest monument, a popular filming location (The Hunger Games), and inspiration for Erebor’s design in The Hobbit movies. As Germany’s only city with traditional coffee houses, you have to experience the Riquet House.

Where to stay? Leipzig has a great selection of modern and stylish new hotels in all price ranges. My favourites are Hotel Capri* directly in the centre. I can also highly recommend Legere Express which is a comfortable new budget hotel only a short walk from central. 

READ MORE: FREE Leipzig City Guide For First Time Visitors

Antwerp – Leipzig’s Belgian Twin 

City hall antwerp belgium
So much history! Brabo fountain and the historic city hall

With its trendy café scene, stunning art nouveau architecture, and friendly atmosphere, I rate Antwerp as one of the best places for solo travel in Europe. Its rich history as a merchant city and the workplace of famous artists often reminds me of my equally beloved Leipzig. Both cities share a connection through their extensive publishing and printing heritage.

Whilst you’re here, don’t miss Plantin’s printing workshop, the newly refurbished Paul Peter Rubens residential home, the impressive library at Nooteboom Zaal, the unique Bootje Huis, and the station designed as a cathedral, often rated Europe’s prettiest. Other art nouveau masterpieces in the Zurenborg triangle are also worth exploring, all of which can easily be seen on a self-guided walking tour or by bike.

Do you love fashion, art, and design? Antwerp won’t disappoint. Known as a centre for arts and culture, it can easily keep up with Milan or Paris, minus the big price tag. Favourite areas to snap up a unique piece from local brand Essentiel or concept art are Klosterstraat and Kammenstraat.

All of these exciting sides of Antwerp will make you hungry and I got great news for you. Antwerp has 16 Michelin-starred restaurants and is secretly known as Europe’s most affordable destination for fine dining. Places such as Kommilfoo, Dome, or The Jane should be high on your list, but PAK or the family-run Bateau Perdu for casual dining are also top picks. More recommendations are in my extensive Antwerp guide. See you soon?

Where to stay? Antwerp has some stylish and affordable budget hotels such as Citybox Antwerp. If you prefer something even more stylish and with that extra holiday-feel I can recommend A-Stay* or August. 

READ MORE: Ultimate Travel Guide with 30 Things to do in Antwerp

Utrecht – 900 years of Excellence

Utrecht domtoren en oude gracht in de zomer
Utrecht icons: the Domtoren, Oude Gracht and the laid back Utrecht lifestyle

One of the most interesting and best places for solo travel in Europe has to be Utrecht. Only a short 35 minute train ride away from Amsterdam, this city is often referred to as its “quieter” sibling. And indeed, Utrecht has a calmer vibe, yet is full of character and can engage your senses non-stop. 

The Oude Gracht with its quaint wharf cellars and the impressive Domtoren make for a great first impression. There is so much life along the Gracht which is at its peak during the summer months. Rent a paddle boat and enjoy the Utrecht lifestyle yourself or fetch hot frietjes and enjoy the down-to-earth atmosphere. 

Similar to Antwerp, Utrecht has a very rich historic background that can completely absorb your mind and transport you back in time. Several well-preserved archeological sites such as the Lofen Palace and DomUnder preserve Utrecht’s magic. Utrecht has several vital UNESCO sites, including the Domtoren, The Netherland’s highest tower and remnants of the limes, a former Roman fortress wall.

The Rietfeld Schroeder House, a pioneering modern home, is another UNESCO certified site. Built in 1924, the house is a De Stijl masterpiece with open spaces, sliding panels, and bold primary colors that make it feel like living inside a painting. You have to experience this to believe it. 

And last but not least, Utrecht is a shoppers paradise. Not only can you find stylish pieces at Dutch brands such as Costes or Cotton Club, but the city has an excellent array of charming bookshops and concept stores for individual gifts & souvenirs. 

I always look forward to my “Utrecht Day” during my summer holidays but my list for next time already includes a longer stay directly in town. I would also like to rent a bike and cycle the path to Amsterdam (approximately 40km) which follows canals and bypasses traditional windmills.  

Where to stay? I have not stayed overnight in Utrecht yet, but if I do, I would stay somewhere within the Old Town. A first research into the accommodation choices has revealed that Utrecht has some characterful boutique hotels which I would love to try out. On my list are:

Malie House* – this is very me and my first choice when looking for accommodation in Utrecht. I love the stylish, clean design & decorations.

Eye Hotel – uncomplicated, clean look and vibe.

Nox Hotel* – sleek, dark and mysterious design, this has character!

5 Places for Solo Travel in Europe to Reconsider

Here is a list of cities that I don’t think make for the best places for solo travel in Europe. This is based on my experience and is therefore subjective. Some places are worth visiting; however, I believe they may not be ideal for a first-time solo trip.

Copenhagen – Compact, Friendly but Expensive

tourist area in copenhagen nyhaven
The lively Nyhaven area is popular with visitors

Compact, with attractions like The Little Mermaid, Tivoli, and Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen is a major tourist magnet. It has been a popular destination since 2016 and keeps record visitor numbers to this day. The city also has a great brunch and food scene, along with the Botanical Gardens and Nordic design, making it a laid-back favourite for solo travellers.

In the past I have thoroughly enjoyed its modern, open, and youthful vibe. It’s a city with a relaxed lifestyle where you’ll feel at home in no time. Although it engaged me during my past visits, I haven’t actively planned any return trips. Partly due to the high costs of food and accommodation, and also because some areas are known for gang-related crime. Copenhagen may offer cheap flights from anywhere in Europe, but hotel rates can quickly eat into your travel budget. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead and monitor the best times to travel, rather than relying on spontaneity.

READ MOREFREE 3 Day Copenhagen Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Berlin – Dark Past, Unsexy Present 

solo travel berlin germany
Berlin Cathedral with TV and Lustgarten

Berlin is my hometown, but I’m not a huge fan. I often wonder why people want to visit. The city’s history and sites are all connected to Dark Tourism, such as the Topography of Terror, Hitler’s bunker, Cold War spy locations, the Holocaust Memorial, and the Berlin Wall. All are very grim reminders of its past, and it doesn’t appeal to me at all. It also fails to meet my needs for sophisticated culture and beautiful architecture. A fellow content creator describes Berlin as “the edgy skater guy who, despite being alright to look at, just isn’t capable of the deep, meaningful conversation I’m looking for”  and I feel this description is spot on. 

Surprisingly, around five million international visitors come to Berlin each year, drawn by its “edgy” and “cool” hipster vibes. Street art tours and raves at legendary nightclubs are particularly popular, along with the city’s extensive digital nomad and entrepreneurial culture. Berlin is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Museum Island and the Hufeisensiedlung, a distinctive horseshoe-shaped housing estate designed in a pioneering modernist style to provide affordable living spaces.

I’ll let you decide if that’s enough incentive to visit, but for me, compared to other European cities, it simply can’t keep up and doesn’t feel attractive enough.

READ MOREThe Teufelsberg Graffiti Gallery might be Berlin’s latest Hot Spot

Brussels – Solo Travel Needs Planning

Brussels grand place solo travel
UNESCO heritage for a reason: the impressive Grand Place

Having lived and worked in Brussels for a while, it will always feel like home to me in some way. The city has an extensive brunch culture, and its art nouveau architecture is spectacular. However, as a solo traveller, I don’t think it makes for the best impression, especially if this is your first solo trip.

Brussels is heavily designed for the EU institutions, giving it a frantic, work-focused energy. Many couples live here, and it can be difficult for solo travellers to join events or secure restaurant reservations. Compared to other European cities, Brussels feels rough and quite unkempt, which might discourage first-time solo travellers. It is a destination that definitely needs to be experienced and discovered, particularly since its art nouveau architecture is among the finest in Europe. Not all interesting sites are publicly accessible on a regular basis, so Brussels is better suited for travellers who enjoy challenges and don’t mind extra organisation and planning.

READ MOREA Complete Brussels 3 Day Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Budapest – Grand Dame at The Danube

solo travel to budapest hungary
Views over Budapest from the Fisherman’s Bastion

Budapest has a grand old-world charm, with its monumental buildings and rich history. It’s everything I had hoped Paris would be. The Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Hungarian Secession-style architecture are all worth a visit. The city park, with its manicured grounds and wide open spaces, is inviting too.

What put me off about Budapest was the widespread scam mentality, the rudeness and unfriendliness of some locals working in hospitality, and the overall feeling of being unwelcome as a solo traveller. It’s also not as affordable as one might think. The popular ruin bars reminded me too much of Berlin and everything I resent about it, like graffiti, beer smells, and the “edgy” student look. Beyond Budapest, infrastructure is often underdeveloped, so travelling further can be challenging and more time-consuming.

READ MOREMy Ultimate Eastern Europe Itinerary around the Danube Region

Porto – My worst Solo Travel Nightmare

porto riverside and bridge
Porto’s riverside on the Vila Nova de Gaia embankment

Porto gets a lot of rave reviews, but as a solo traveller, I can’t share the same excitement. During my stay, I was relentlessly harassed by locals on several occasions, which left me upset and intimidated, so I tried not to stand out too much. The city’s popular sites didn’t really impress me either. A bookshop you have to pay to enter or a tiled train station, when I’ve already seen places like Antwerp and Leipzig, left me feeling underwhelmed. The overall vibe just didn’t resonate with me; it felt a bit too pretentious.

Porto’s main attraction is the wine trade, so the riverbank is lined with pubs and wine bars that attract a certain crowd, which isn’t really my scene. Overall, I felt uncomfortable as a solo traveller in Porto due to the harassment and the heavy emphasis on drinking culture. For a city that doesn’t have much to offer beyond that, the hotel rates also felt disproportionate.

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My chosen best places for solo travel in Europe combine safety, cultural richness, and accessible infrastructure. They offer engaging experiences tailored to your interests and a welcoming atmosphere, making your first solo adventure enjoyable and stress-free. Remember, this is your trip, your time, and your self-care moment. Enjoy your first solo trip, take in the experiences that matter to you, and I’d love to hear from you when you’re back.

Thank you so much for reading. If you enjoyed the post and would like to support my blog & research, you can do so via Buy Me a Coffee.

Till next time,

Carolin

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5 Comments

  • Reply
    Lyn (aka Jazz)
    9 September 2025 at 6:44 pm

    What a great post for the novice solo traveller! I really like how your discussion of making sure to choose destinations that suit individual interests and passions. I find this is so important to my experience as a solo traveller. When I travel in Europe, I’m looking for history, architecture, and great walking areas in a safe environment, so I especially appreciate that you highlighted these. I haven’t done enough exploring of Eastern Europe and truly appreciate your insights into the cities of the region.

  • Reply
    Laura
    9 September 2025 at 7:09 pm

    Great article Carolin! I was just thinking about this dilemma last week as I am starting to think about a winter vacation. I was leaning towards Porto but now I may reconsider. I poked around some of your hotel recommendations as well and the one in Helsinki looks fantastic. These hybrid hotel/hostels are so appealing for solo travelers. As for the rest of the places on your list, I have only briefly been to Amsterdam so I have a lot of visiting to do. Thanks for the tips!

  • Reply
    Jan
    12 September 2025 at 3:11 pm

    𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗲𝗻𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲. 𝗜 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘂𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗼 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗵𝗼𝘁 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗱𝘂𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗻𝗶𝘂𝘀, 𝗟𝗲𝗶𝗽𝘇𝗶𝗴, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁 – 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗼 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀. 𝗜 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘁. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘁𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗮 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗽. 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗼 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗯𝗲 𝘀𝗼 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘃𝗶𝗯𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 😉

    𝗳𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲 🥖🪽

  • Reply
    Emma
    15 September 2025 at 4:55 am

    I love this post, what great places. And of your top choices Leipzig is the only one I’m yet to visit. Interesting to hear you thought Riga had more of a buzz than Tallinn – my experience was the opposite, although that could have been the time of year I visited. So many great places here, I’d happily visit any of them again. As you know I did enjoy Berlin, but I’m sure my impression is different from someone growing up there. The history is actually what interests me (here and anywhere I go). Yet if we’re comparing cities to bright and bubbly personalities I get your point in that Berlin is very different from the others on this list

  • Reply
    Riana Ang-Canning
    21 October 2025 at 6:57 pm

    Such a great post, Carolin! I love how you’ve shared your personal experience in these places and given really good reasons to go or not to go on a solo trip. I definitely agree with your recommendation of Amsterdam – it’s where I tell people to go for their first solo trip in Europe. Beautiful, lots of history/culture, easy to get to and everyone speaks English!

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