Travelling solo is a liberating experience which allows you to perfectly tailor a holiday itinerary around your own personal tastes without compromise. Solo holidays mean you can travel at your own pace, discovering new attractions and experiences that are in keeping with the things that matter most to you.
Choosing the right destination is key to the success of a solo holiday and ultimately there isn't one size fits all. That's why we've quizzed our Luxury Travel Specialists to provide us with a list of what they consider to be the top 5 best places to go on a solo holiday taking into account the needs of varying different types of traveller. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie looking to hit spectacular ski slopes, a foodie in search of unique flavours or an ardent traveller looking to take in new cultures, a solo holiday can provide you with the opportunity to see the world in your own unique style.
Explore our list of the best places to go on holiday alone below to find a little inspiration for your next tailor made getaway.
1. Tokyo - Japan
Tokyo was almost universally at the top of the list for all of our Luxury Travel Specialists when it came to nominating the best places to go on a solo holiday. Combining an extraordinary variety of attractions with a culture in which eating out, sightseeing and enjoying activities alone are viewed as being entirely normal, Tokyo is a dream destination for solo travellers. The culture is also incredibly welcoming too, making it a comfortable venue for those who want to explore independently without feeling unsupported.
One of Tokyo's greatest strengths is the sheer diversity of great experiences it offers. History enthusiasts can visit Senso-ji Temple, the capital's oldest temple, in the atmospheric Asakusa district, where traditional architecture and nearby shopping streets offer a fascinating mix of old and new. Meanwhile, Akihabara Electric Town is a must for anyone interested in retro gaming, anime and electronics, with countless specialist shops to explore where you can choose a souvenir from your trip.
Another top tip for shopping enthusiasts visiting the city is to make the time to frequent Takeshita Street in Harajuku, famous for its colourful fashion boutiques, quirky accessories and youthful street culture. Elsewhere, Tokyo's extensive collection of art galleries, museums, gardens and restaurants means there is always something new to discover.
Travelling alone also allows you to embrace Tokyo's famous food scene without compromise. From intimate ramen counters and sushi bars to bustling food halls, there are countless opportunities to sample unique Japanese cuisine. With so much to see and do, Tokyo is one of the best places to go on holiday by yourself, particularly if you are willing to embrace an entirely different kind of culture.
2. Barcelona - Spain
For solo holidaymakers seeking high culture, breathtaking architecture and a lively urban atmosphere, Barcelona is a first class holiday choice. Spain's Catalan capital is famous for its welcoming character, remarkable architecture, historic neighbourhoods and exceptional restaurant scene, making it easy to fill your days with experiences that suit your individual interests.
The city's most popular streets and attractions offer plenty of opportunities for independent exploration. You could begin your adventure with a walk through the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, where narrow medieval streets open onto charming squares, historic buildings and inviting cafes. GaudÃ's extraordinary architectural creations are another essential part of any trip, with the spectacular Sagrada FamÃlia offering an unforgettable insight into Barcelona's artistic heritage.
Lovers of fine art will find plenty to enjoy in the city's galleries while foodies can discover everything from traditional Catalan dishes to innovative international cuisine. Exploring the street markets, sampling freshly made local tapas or settling down for a coffee provides a convenient way to take in the local culture without needing to coordinate with anyone else.
Barcelona's blend of culture, walkable neighbourhoods and Mediterranean character makes it one of the best places to go on holiday alone, whether you are planning a short city break or a longer independent adventure. Its combination of sightseeing opportunities, thriving shopping districts, foodie experiences and architectural triumphs means that there is something to appeal to almost every type of solo traveller.
3. Whistler - Canada
Solo travellers don't have to sacrifice a sociable atmosphere or luxury accommodation when it comes to planning a ski holiday. In fact, Whistler in British Columbia is the perfect holiday destination for adventurous solo travellers, offering world-class skiing facilities alongside a welcoming village environment where meeting fellow solo travellers can provide opportunities to make new friends.
The pedestrian-friendly village is a major attraction in its own right. With restaurants, cafes, shops and luxury accommodation clustered around its lively streets, it is easy to get around and enjoy the resort without constantly needing transport. Everything is available to you over a very small radius without making everything feel overly cramped. The extensive ski terrain provides opportunities for beginners and experienced skiers alike, while group ski and snowboard lessons offer an enjoyable way to develop your skills and connect with like minded people who share your interests.
Whistler's thriving apres ski scene provides another perfect opportunity to socialise. You can settle into a cosy bar for a drink or enjoy a relaxed meal at a world class restaurant. You'll find that there's no pressure to join a group, but plenty of opportunities to strike up conversations if the mood takes you.
For anyone looking for the best ski holiday destination for solo travellers, Whistler offers an appealing balance of adventure, independence and sociability.
4. Finnish Lapland
For a solo holiday that combines spectacular natural scenery with memorable outdoor experiences, nowhere on Earth can quite match Finnish Lapland. Finland is statistically one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a welcoming culture making it a prime destination for solo holiday makers.
Lapland offers an extraordinary variety of activities for those who enjoy exploring the great outdoors. Skiing and snowboarding provide opportunities for adventure in the snow, while guided husky sledding and reindeer experiences during the winter season offer a fascinating insight into traditional ways of life in the region. Solo holidaymakers can also discover the area's beautiful wilderness through snowshoeing, hiking and guided snow mobile treks that are as exciting as they are memorable.
Of course, one of the region's most extraordinary natural attractions are the Northern Lights. Travelling solo gives photography enthusiasts the flexibility to plan excursions around their interests, irrespective of the time of day. Although sightings can never be guaranteed, the opportunity to witness the aurora is an unmissable opportunity which has to feature near the top of anyone's bucket list.
Beyond its famous natural attractions, Lapland also offers beautiful landscapes that are ripe for exploration. These are made up of frozen waterfalls, snow covered forests and peaceful wilderness trails. Those looking to combine Finnish Lapland with a visit to another destination may want to venture into neighbouring Iceland to discover the Golden Circle with its famous waterfalls, geysers and geological wonders.
5. Edinburgh - Scotland
For those who would prefer a destination slightly closer to home, Edinburgh is one of the best places to go on a solo holiday in the UK. Scotland's historic capital combines fascinating heritage, a welcoming atmosphere and an excellent selection of cultural attractions, making it particularly well suited to independent exploration.
The city's compact centre is perfectly suited to discovering the majority of the city's key attractions on foot. You could follow the Royal Mile through Edinburgh's atmospheric Old Town, explore the impressive Edinburgh Castle and wander along historic streets lined with traditional architecture. Museums and galleries provide plenty to occupy curious minds, while guided walking tours offer an enjoyable way to learn more about the city's history, literary figures and intriguing legends.
Edinburgh also has a perennially welcoming pub culture, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed night out where you can meet new people and make new friends. Its selection of traditional pubs, independent restaurants and cosy cafes provides plenty of opportunities to experience Scottish cuisine at its very best.
Beyond the main attractions, Edinburgh offers numerous scenic walking routes, from exploring the historic streets and gardens to climbing Arthur's Seat for spectacular views across the city. These opportunities to combine sightseeing with outdoor exploration make it particularly appealing to those who enjoy learning about a destination without sacrificing the opportunity to enjoy time in the great outdoors.
With its rich cultural scene, fascinating history and friendly atmosphere, Edinburgh is a fantastic destination for anyone wondering where to go on holiday on their own.
Plan Your Perfect Solo Holiday with Elegant Resorts
Whether you dream of discovering Tokyo's fascinating culture, enjoying a sociable ski escape in Whistler or experiencing the spectacular natural landscapes of Finnish Lapland, there really is no one size fits all when it comes to deciding on the best places to go on a solo holiday. That's why we have presented a wide range of potential destinations for you to take into consideration. Hopefully our list of the best places to go on a solo holiday has provided a little inspiration, providing you with the inspiration for a solo holiday adventure that will be entirely bespoke to your requirements.
Get in touch with our Luxury Travel Specialists today to start the exciting process of planning your next getaway. We'll take into account all of your hopes and requirements so we can create a tailor made solo holiday itinerary which is every bit as unique as you are.
The Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts can draw on their first-hand destination knowledge, experience and contacts to create a tailor-made solo holiday around your individual wants, needs and requirements. From choosing the right accommodation and arranging memorable excursions to incorporating cultural experiences, outdoor adventures and moments of relaxation, your itinerary can be designed around the way you want to travel.
Get in touch with the Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts to begin planning your bespoke solo escape and discover the freedom of a holiday created entirely around you.