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Solo Backpacking Trip To Europe: 12 Simple Tips for Beginners

• February 23, 2021 October 17, 2023

Traveling to Europe alone for the first time? Wondering what to expect, how to plan, and what you should know before embarking on your first solo backpacking adventure? If you’re seeking answers, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll discover tips for traveling alone, how to prepare for solo backpacking, ways to budget during your trip, and some hacks to make your solo backpacking journey even more memorable.

By the end, you’ll feel more informed and confident that everything will go smoothly on your maiden solo travel through Europe. Let’s dive into these tips!

Disclosure : This article features affiliate links, including Amazon.com. If you decide to buy through one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra expense to you. For more details, please see my disclosure policy .

1. Why even go solo?

Traveling by yourself might feel intimidating initially. There’s no one by your side to rely on when you have questions, feel down, or face challenges. You can only rely on yourself when you embark on a solo trip. That’s precisely what makes solo backpacking such a rewarding experience. There are numerous benefits to traveling alone. It can boost your self-esteem, increase your confidence, make you more courageous, and provide opportunities to meet inspiring individuals.

Backpacking solo offers a unique experience filled with unexpected situations, cherished memories, new connections, and a journey brimming with adventures. It will enhance your ability to handle various challenges and foster a deeper appreciation for what you have. Nothing can stop your personal growth.

Read more : Benefits of Solo Travel .

2. Before you depart, review these essential documents

First and foremost, before traveling abroad, you’ll require certain documents to move from one country to another, book a room, or legally identify yourself.

Safety first – Obtain Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must for any traveler; it’s common sense. I always secure travel insurance when going abroad, and thankfully, I’ve never needed medical treatment. However, I’ve heard numerous stories about people who embarked on trips without it. You can probably guess how those stories ended. No one is ever 100 percent safe when backpacking solo. Unforeseen incidents can occur at any time. Spending all your savings on medical bills wouldn’t be ideal, which can be ridiculously high in many countries.

Don’t forget essential documents

Other essentials for solo backpacking include your most important documents, starting with your passport. Ensure it remains valid for at least six months ahead. Some countries won’t allow entry if your passport is set to expire within the next six months.

In Europe’s Schengen Area , having an identification card for making accommodation reservations or other transactions requiring verification is also helpful. If available, bringing a driver’s license, student ID, or any other discount cards is advantageous to aid in budgeting.

Read more : Planning a Backpacking Trip to Europe ! (guide)

3. Essential Gear for Your First Solo Trip

Having reliable and durable gear is fundamental to a successful solo backpacking trip. Invest time determining what you need or want, but always aim to pack as light as possible—wondering where to start?

What Kind of Backpack Do I Need?

Firstly, possessing the right solo backpack is crucial. Opt for quality that feels as comfortable on your back as a shoe does on your foot. It should feel right from the first try. Consider various features, such as the ability to convert it into a smaller backpack, the ease of access (so if you need items at the bottom, you don’t have to unpack everything), its water resistance, and whether there’s adequate space for essential items (like documents, electronics, and other valuables).

For example, I have a Thule Guidepost 65L Backpack . It’s already been on my back for three years, and I’m still very satisfied.

What to wear?

Clothes will occupy the majority of your backpack. When backpacking, you’ll need to change outfits daily due to sweating. I recommend opting for sporty attire that dries quickly in the clothing department. This means you can wear sporty shirts for several days.

Solo backpacking often involves a lot of hiking, so quality footwear is essential. For everyday use, sports shoes are suitable. However, hiking boots that offer ankle protection are safer if you plan to hike in mountainous terrains. For your first solo backpacking trip, ensure you have enough clothes to last at least a week. This way, you’ll only need to think about laundry once a week.

Other essential backpacking gear

Your additional items depend entirely on how you plan to backpack through Europe. Aside from documents and clothes, you won’t need much else if you’re solo backpacking with a guaranteed roof every night.

However, if you’re a more adventurous solo backpacker and sleeping under the stars appeals to you, you’ll need extra gear. This includes camping essentials like a sleeping bag, mattress, and a compact first aid kit. Consider bringing a bowl, spoon, and knife from the kitchen department. A portable stove is also a must-have for those who enjoy cooking (or even if you don’t).

Read more : Lightweight Backpacking Gear for Traveling ; Backpacking Europe Packing List For Women .

4. Packing a backpack

First and foremost, the most crucial tip is to pack as lightly as possible. Remember, you’ll be carrying everything on your own. I recommend not exceeding 15 kilograms for your first solo backpacking trip, including extra food and water. The weight might feel manageable initially, but it can become burdensome if you wear it all day.

Initially, you might have a list of items that won’t fit. Perhaps too many clothes or superfluous equipment. Ultimately, the art of solo backpacking lies in packing all the essentials while still leaving some room for unexpected items.

How to Fit Everything into a Backpack?

Firstly, consider leaving some clothes in the closet. Pack enough clothing for a week and include at least one extra pair of shoes and flip-flops. Avoid packing unnecessary items. A key tip : Only bring items you use often, so plan thoughtfully.

Also, leave at least 10 percent of your backpack’s space free for food, water, and unexpected items.

Read more : How to pack a tent for backpacking .

5. Bring Something to Ward Off Boredom

While it might seem contradictory to the earlier advice of packing light, there’s a rationale behind this. Solo backpacking means you’ll have moments of solitude. While solitude can be refreshing, there will be times when you might feel bored.

Bring along something that keeps boredom at bay. For instance, I enjoy reading, so I always have a book with me. If you’re passionate about photography, bring a camera. Or, if you enjoy entertaining yourself or even a larger audience on the streets (perhaps to earn some money), consider packing a compact instrument like a ukulele.

How do you fit these into your bag? A book is easy, but you might need to leave some things at home for the ukulele. Along the way, you will find ways to carry your stuff.

6. Plan Your Trip Based on Time and Budget

The nature of your trip hinges on how much you’re willing to spend and the duration of your travels. While adventurous solo backpackers might argue that spontaneity is key and that there’s no need for a plan, this approach is great for solo travel. However, if you’re working with a specific budget or time constraint, it’s advisable to have a general plan for your first solo journey.

If you’re pressed for time , prioritize various activities to maximize that limited period. Draft a concise bucket list of sights you want to see and experiences you wish to have. If money isn’t a pressing concern because you have a set end date, that’s a relief. However, always ensure you have a return ticket. The goal is to maximize every moment.

For longer trips, especially those without a definitive end date, it’s crucial to adhere to a strict budget. The aim is to minimize expenses. A valuable tip for solo backpacking is to take things slow. This approach offers two significant advantages: without the rush, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of your destinations, and by reducing the need for frequent transportation, you’ll save money. Embrace a leisurely pace and immerse yourself in local cultures and communities.

7. Best solo backpacking destinations in Europe

The ideal destination largely depends on the solo backpacker’s preferences, mode of travel, and overall budget. First, determine the kind of solo trip you’re aiming for. Consider the western part of Europe if you’re drawn to renowned cities, landmarks, or tourist hotspots. However, if you’re seeking adventurous travel, untouched wilderness, hidden treasures, and hiking trails, the eastern part of Europe might be more fitting. It’s also worth noting that the western region tends to be pricier than the eastern one.

Read more : Best cities in Europe for solo travel .

Western Europe

In Western Europe, prime countries for solo travel include Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal. These expansive nations boast many stunning locales, day trips from major cities, iconic landmarks, and natural wonders. Spain and Portugal are particularly appealing destinations for those on a tighter budget.

Remember, there are always ways to economize, regardless of your destination. For instance, explore tips on backpacking through Italy on a budget .

Read more : Italy travel guide .

Eastern Europe

The lesser-known eastern regions of Europe also offer fantastic destinations. Consider starting with Budapest in Hungary, then exploring Slovenia, Romania, or the Balkan countries for off-the-beaten-path solo adventures. These nations might not be as frequented as their Western counterparts, but they’re teeming with undiscovered treasures. Undoubtedly, this part of Europe is more suited for adventurous travel and budget-conscious backpackers.

Read more : Greece travel guide ; Albania travel guide ; Slovenia travel guide ; Hungary travel guide .

So, what are the top destinations in Europe? It truly depends on the individual traveler’s desires and what they’re eager to explore. Budget considerations also play a significant role. Rest assured, Europe has no shortage of excellent spots for solo travel.

8. Seek Out Fellow Travelers

A significant advantage of backpacking solo is meeting many new people. It’s not that individuals approach you simply because you’re alone. That doesn’t work so easily. You’ll need to muster the courage to initiate conversations. However, the desire to connect with others can boost your confidence, pushing you out of your comfort zone. You can strike up conversations on the streets, in bars, hostels, or even online through social media and travel apps. Here are some helpful apps:

Couchsurfing

In my opinion, this is the best platform to connect with incredible individuals from all over. There’s a “hangouts” section where travelers and locals can interact, making plans to enjoy activities together. It’s a favorite among many travelers.

While primarily known as a dating app, Tinder can also be effective for meeting new people abroad. Many users are open to showing you around or hanging out if approached respectfully.

This app is another favorite among travelers. Its primary function is to connect farms, organizations, or small businesses with individuals willing to work in exchange for food and accommodation—a voluntary exchange program. Additionally, there’s a “travel buddy” section where you can connect with other adventurous individuals.

Read more : Best apps for backpacking .

9. How to Budget While Backpacking Solo?

When picturing a typical backpacker, it’s common to imagine someone not flush with cash to spend lavishly at every turn. Backpackers often explore various strategies to minimize expenses and budgeting is also essential for solo backpacking. Here are three primary areas where you can significantly reduce costs.

Accommodation

A logical choice for accommodations would be hostels. They offer the most affordable and hassle-free option for solo backpackers. For instance, HostelWorld boasts the most extensive selection of hostels. When browsing, start by sorting by the lowest price.

Also, consider its location, read reviews, and check for additional perks (like included breakfast). Weigh the benefits, location, and price when making a decision. Sometimes, it’s worth paying more for a centrally located hostel rather than choosing the cheapest one far from the main attractions.

As mentioned, the Couchsurfing app isn’t just for meeting new people. Its primary function is to help travelers find a couch to sleep on. You send cordial requests to potential hosts; if they accept, you can stay at their place for the night. Engaging with locals enriches the travel experience, and there’s no better platform for this than Couchsurfing.

Wild Camping

Wild camping is an option almost everywhere if you’re willing to simplify your needs. While not exactly suitable for city centers, you can find spots where it feels logical and convenient. All you need is a sleeping bag, and a mattress and tent can be beneficial for added comfort. It’s truly an immersive experience for a solo backpacking trip!

Read more : Camping Alone: Tips On How To Feel Safe .

For those on a budget, public transport is the best choice. Local trains and buses offer excellent connections between European countries, allowing you to traverse Europe efficiently. To search for transport schedules and compare prices, I recommend using Omio . If Omio doesn’t list transportation options for less-known destinations, you can find local transport providers on Rome2Rio .

Carpooling with BlaBlaCar

BlaBlaCar is gaining popularity in Europe. It’s a carpooling app where you search for your destination, and if you find someone driving that way, you can join them. It’s often more affordable than public transport.

Hitchhiking

One of my top transport tips is hitchhiking. It’s an experience worth adding to your bucket list, even if you to try it once. Some days, you might get fortunate and make quick progress, while others might be slower.

Read more : Tips for Hitchhiking in Europe .

The first rule is to steer clear of restaurants. While treating yourself occasionally is okay, it’s essential to remain disciplined and resist frequent temptations. Dining out can quickly deplete your funds. If you choose restaurants, choose those away from touristy areas , where locals dine. Alternatively, street food is a great way to satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank.

Another sensible approach is to purchase groceries from supermarkets and enjoy picnics outdoors. However, the most cost-effective tip for meals is to cook for yourself. Whether preparing pasta in a hostel kitchen or cooking in the wilderness with your stove, self-catering will save you significantly.

Read more : Budget backpacking tips .

10. Leave room for spontaneity

Having a general idea of what you want to do or where you want to go is essential. Conduct preliminary research about your upcoming solo backpacking trip, such as marking desired destinations on Google Maps. This gives you a sense of direction to begin your journey.

However, once you’re on the move, allow for spontaneity. Perhaps you’ll hear about a nearby intriguing location or a hidden gem you wouldn’t want to miss. Being flexible is the best advice for solo backpackers, ensuring you savor every moment of your adventure.

11. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture and Traditions

Traveling is less about the places you visit and more about the people you meet in those places. To truly appreciate a backpacking destination, it’s essential to immerse yourself in its local culture and traditions.

Begin with some research about your destination. Familiarize yourself with local events, beliefs, traditions, and culture. This way, when you arrive in a foreign country, you won’t come across merely as a tourist, but as a traveler eager to integrate into the culture. Additionally, learning even a few basic phrases in the local language can earn you greater respect from the locals.

So, what’s the best way to understand local culture?

Engaging with locals is the most authentic approach. For instance, I participated in a Workaway in Hungary for a week during my European backpacking journey. This experience allowed me to witness the daily lives of locals, understand their traditions, and sample local food and beverages. The Couchsurfing platform is also an excellent way to make new friends and gain insights into life in a foreign country.

In the end, ask yourself: What will be more memorable? Merely visiting renowned attractions abroad or experiencing those places with a deeper understanding of their stories, and culture, and engaging with the locals?

12. Stay in hostels or Couchsurfing

As previously highlighted, solo travel can sometimes feel isolating. While you might spend a lot of time exploring on your own, it’s essential to have human interactions. You might have items like a book or guitar to keep you company, but they can’t replace meaningful conversations.

If you want to connect with like-minded individuals, staying in a hostel is an obvious choice. Hostels are some of the most diverse and international places you can find in any country you visit. You might encounter other solo backpackers eager to chat and share experiences. Not only are hostels conducive to socializing, but they’re also budget-friendly. It’s a win-win.

Another fantastic way to meet people is through Couchsurfing. While you’ll primarily interact with locals, it offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the destination. Your hosts might even act as informal guides, showing you around and saving you the effort of extensive research. It’s truly a remarkable experience!

Read more : My First Solo Backpacking Experience in Europe .

These solo travel tips are perfect for jumpstarting your journey, especially if you’re new to backpacking in Europe. As you progress, you’ll uncover other unique benefits tailored to your experiences since each backpacker’s adventure unfolds differently. You’ll soon realize that it’s a life-changing experience, and everything tends to work out despite any challenges. Rest assured, solo backpacking in Europe is safe. Dive into your first adventure and travel without any regrets!

Recent Posts about Solo Travel:

How to stay safe when backpacking solo

8 Best cities in Europe for solo travel

Camping alone: Tips on How to Feel Safe

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Home » Europe » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Europe | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Europe | Destinations & Tips for 2024

I firmly believe that everyone needs to solo travel in Europe at least once in their life. Exploring different cultures in such a small amount of space is simply mind-blowing.

But trust me, I know just how nerve-racking taking that leap is. That’s why I’ve put together the ultimate guide on European solo travel.

Travelling alone is more than just hopping from one hostel bed to another: it’s about finding out who you are and what the world has to offer. Travel is the best teacher life can give you – and the most fun.

From meeting people around the world to falling in love with your soulmate (more than once, oops…) and seeing some of the world’s best sights, solo travel will change your life.

And to be honest, Europe is the perfect place to start. Even though travelling through Europe is more expensive than Southeast Asia or Latin America, it also feels familiar for Westeners.

English is widely known, the public transport is immaculate, the food you recognize, and most places welcome solo travellers with open arms. So take a deep breath, and let’s plan the BEST freaking solo trip of your life!

7 Things to Do in Europe When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in europe, the best travel apps for solo travel in europe, safety tips for solo travellers in europe, tips for solo travelling in europe, final words for your solo europe trip.

So obviously, Europe is a continent, and if we broke it down country by country, there are SO MANY things for solo travellers to do. But since that would take hours on end to read (and write), let’s focus on the top 7 things you absolutely cannot miss while solo travelling in Europe .

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1. Join a Walking Tour

I’ve yet to visit a good European city that didn’t have a walking tour to join, and usually, they’re free. (Big score for budget backpackers.)

Occasionally, they can be a drag, but I’ve found that if you book them through your hostel, the guides are usually enthusiastic while being equally informational. And best of all, you’ll be joined by other travelers making it one of the best ways to make friends .

You’ll spend the morning getting a feel for the city, and I love doing this on my first day in a new place because the guides can give you some local tips on all the best places to eat, drink, and party. You’ll see all the must-do’s and have a good idea of how to get around the place.

2. Check off Iconic Landmarks

Whether you’re checking off the world’s wonders or just want to drink some wine under the Eiffel Tower, Europe is the perfect destination for travellers who love sightseeing. The continent is full of some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and will definitely keep you busy. (Get ready to be walking 20,000+ steps a day!)

Travelling solo allows you to go to the ones that are high on your list without having to worry about someone else’s schedule. Plus, you can take as many pictures and selfies as your heart desires without being judged!

3. Go on a Pub Crawl

If you’re staying at a hostel , more often than not, someone will be hosting a pub crawl. And let me tell you, Europeans do it differently. There is a high possibility you’ll be out all night long and an even higher possibility of having an epic adventure through the city.

Since they’re organised through the hostels, you’ll be around other travellers about your age, and it’s the perfect way to loosen up and meet other people. Entry into the clubs and bars is usually free, and you might get a shitty shot of absinthe or bottom-shelf liquor on the house.

(If you’re on a budget, drink up. If hangovers are the bain of your existence… well, buy something else. Ha!)

4. Take a Cooking Class

Some of the world’s best food comes out of Europe (and some of the worst, I’m looking at you, beans and toast). And while it might not be in your budget to eat out for every meal, taking a cooking class is one of the best ways to experience local culture and flavours.

Sometimes, you’ll get to go shopping at the local market or step into an old grandma’s home that smells like freshly baked bread. Not only will you learn how to make delicious dishes, but you’ll also get a glimpse into the daily life of locals. It’s one of my favourite ways to meet other travellers who are interested in the same things as me.

5. Eat at Local Spots

I can’t recommend eating at local spots enough. I know it can be difficult to break out of your comfort zone and dine alone, but after a few times, it’ll grow on you.

I’ve come to love heading out to a local spot and getting to interact with the staff and other guests, grabbing some food. Trust me, they can tell you’re a tourist. And for the most part, they will be super kind and help you if you’re confused about the menu or any other customs you aren’t familiar with.

Plus, eating at local spots is typically much cheaper than eating at tourist hotspots. You’ll also get to taste authentic dishes that are so freaking delicious you’ll be dreaming of them for ages.

6. Get Lost in the World’s Best Museums

Museums are the perfect way for solo travellers to spend their day. And the ones in Europe are the BEST.

I seriously don’t think it gets better than the Louvre , the British Museum , or the Rijksmuseum . Not only are they a treasure trove of historical and cultural artefacts, but you also get to explore at your own pace and take in all the beauty without feeling rushed.

7. Attend a Music Festival

If you love music, then you’ve come to the right place. Europe is home to some of the best festivals in the world . I don’t know what it is or why they’re so much better than the rest of the world but prepare for the best vibes and the best shows (and the best drugs, if you’re trying to turn up.)

I’ve definitely planned a solo trip to Europe solely around Tomorrowland, and it was one of my best travel experiences ever. Just make sure to research the festival beforehand and plan accordingly because some tickets sell out super fast.

And don’t be afraid of going alone. You’ll meet loads of other travellers and locals. Plus, it’s a music festival, so everyone is there to have a good time.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

With 44 countries and hundreds of cities, how on earth are you supposed to choose where to go ? Even with all the money in the world, there is just no way to hit all of the European destinations.

I know. I find it tragic as well.

But there are a few places that are just better suited for solo travellers in Europe, and here they are! The top 5 solo destinations in Europe.

Prague is a backpacker haven, making it the perfect destination in Europe for solo travellers. If you go to Prague and don’t make any friends… well, maybe the problem is you.

Ha, just kidding. But seriously, the city has always been known for its amazing nightlife, cheap eats and drinks, and friendly locals.

The city is absolutely gorgeous, and whether you’re planning to stay in Prague in the summer or the winter, the city’s charm is breathtaking. You’ll find a little bit of everything while visiting the city, you can learn about the history on a walking tour (I recommend the ones in the old town.)

Getting lost in the cobblestone streets is like a medieval fairytale. The Museum of Communism is also a great activity for solo travellers, as you’ll get to learn about a really interesting part of history, and you can even join a tour if you want to meet people.

Fun fact: Prague is also one of the safest cities in Europe, making it the perfect destination for solo female travelers .

The Prague Dream Hostel is one of my favourite stays in the city. It’s super warm and cosy in the common areas, so meeting friends is a breeze. It’s also located about a 20-minute walk from the old town, which is perfect for exploring on your own.

History, culture, and nightlife collide in Berlin, making it a must-visit for solo travellers in Europe. Berlin was the first European city I ever visited, and I’m not sure that was the smartest idea, but it definitely prepared me for all the cities I would visit after it.

As someone who grew up quite sheltered, the nightlife in Berlin had its way with me. It was a hell of a time. And if you’re into the techno scene, my god, you’re about to have the time of your life.

But Berlin has so much more to offer than just its party scene. The city is filled with museums, galleries, and historic sites that are a must-see for any solo traveller interested in culture and history.

One of my favourite things to do in Berlin was biking around the city, admiring the street art and architecture. Joining some sort of tour, whether it be biking or walking, is a must. While walking alone is fine, hearing the stories and learning more about the city and the war really adds to the experience.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Berlin, I highly recommend checking out the Circus Hostel . It’s located in a great area with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, and they offer a variety of room options, including dorms and privates. Plus, they host events like pub crawls and walking tours making it easy to meet other travelers.

Everyone dreams of visiting Amsterdam on their European tour, and for good reason. The city is one of the coolest and most progressive destinations in Europe, making it perfect for solo travellers.

The best way to explore Amsterdam is by bike. There is some crazy statistic that there are more bikes than people, and after visiting—I believe it.

And one of my favourite things about visiting Amsterdam is literally everyone speaks English. So if you’re feeling a bit paranoid about being able to communicate, well, Amsterdam is the perfect choice for you.

Just prepare for the bluntness. They don’t mean to be rude—they’re just honest.

Unfortunately, loads of expats have moved to the city, pushing out a lot of the Dutchies. And in the summer, it’s pretty much a melting pot of travellers. This is sad because you miss out on a lot of the local culture that made Amsterdam so unique to begin with.

But it’s still an epic destination in Europe, and make sure to stay at Flying Pig Downtown . The staff are amazing. And with all of the awesome common areas, you can hang out, drink a beer, smoke some green, and meet some other travellers.

For so long, Portugal was flying under the radar, and then, what seemed like out of nowhere, it became everyone’s go-to destination in Europe. And they weren’t wrong.

Travelling to Portugal is awesome just about any time of year, and Lisbon is one of the best cities for solo travellers. Unless you don’t like hills… because Lisbon is all hills.

The city has a chill vibe with lots of street art, great food, and plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travellers. Head to the famous Time Out Market for some food and drinks, or take a free walking tour to learn about the history and culture. You can also do some pretty sick day trips from Lisbon like visiting the beautiful beaches of Cascais or the gorgeous castles of Sintra.

If you’re looking for a party place, stay at Yes! Lisbon . This hostel is full of social butterflies, and they put on one heck of a bar crawl every few nights.

Barcelona is one of the most iconic cities in all of Europe, so obviously, it landed a spot on this list. You can visit the ever-unfinished Sagrada Familia or roam the charming streets of the Gothic Quarter.

Barcelona is also known for its delicious food scene and buzzing nightlife. And if you’re into beaches, there are plenty of those too!

Although Barcelona isn’t exactly the cheapest place in Europe, there is lots of opportunity here to bring the costs down. You’ll find cheap flights here from many corners of the world and public transport is easy-peasy.

Barcelona is every solo traveller’s dream come true. I don’t know if it’s because of the weather or the blunt locals (well, most of them have moved to Barcelona, but we will still call them locals), but it’s just so easy to make friends here.

Every morning, you’ll find the cafes full of people enjoying breakfast and a chat, and every night, the streets are packed with young people grabbing dinner on their way out to explore the nightlife. And from what I experienced, just about every night you can party.

My favorite hostel was Onefam Paralelo . Every night, they have a family dinner, making it easy to meet other guests, and typically, everyone goes out together after.

Here are a handful of my favourite travel apps that helped me backpack through Europe immensely. Having these apps in your arsenal will give you superpowers. Trust me.

• Google Maps – Do I need to explain this one?
• Booking.com – Easily the best app for accommodation.
• Hostelworld – This app is perfect for finding the best hostels in Europe .
• Google Translate – Such an easy way to speak every language.
• Couchsurfing – Backpacking Europe isn’t always the cheapest, and downloading the couch surfing app will help you save some money and meet locals.
• Interrail Planner App – If you’re planning on travelling by train in Europe , this app will be your best friend. It helps you plan out your route, shows you the different train options and schedules, and even lets you book tickets.
• Flixbus – But if you plan to travel by bus to save some money, Flixbus is a great option. Their app makes it easy to book tickets and navigate different routes.
• Rick Stevens Audio Europe – This audio guide app offers guided walking tours in different European cities. You’ll get insider tips and historical background information while exploring independently.
• Holafly – An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card.

Facebook groups are also a great shout for solo backpackers, and so is the Hostelworld chat for your location. My best tip though? Get off yo’ phone and go chat to people!

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

So this is where it gets tricky lumping all of Europe together into safety tips. Each country definitely varies when it comes to levels of crime. So make sure to look up the countries you’re headed to before and do some research on their travel warnings. With that said, here are a few tips to help keep you safe while exploring solo in Europe.

Pickpockets are in just about every city, so just be smart about your belongings. Don’t wear fancy jewellery. Zip your bags and keep them in front of you, and maybe even get a necklace thing for your phone to make sure it doesn’t get snatched.

If you’re going out or bar hopping, don’t get hammered. I know it feels a bit like a theme park as you travel from city to city. But you aren’t untouchable, and creeps exist everywhere.

So don’t drink too much. If you are a female solo traveller, try to go with a group of friends and don’t wander off alone. Like anywhere, Europe is safe to travel alone but you must keep your wits about you.

If this is your first big solo trip, don’t worry, these tips will help you have a killer time in Europe and could also save your ass.

• Travel light , and pick a trusty backpack over a rolling suitcase.
• Book hostels . It’s the BEST way to travel solo. You’ll meet awesome people and they’re often nicer than hotels.
• If you’re travelling on a tight budget , you can get cheap transport tickets if you book in advance .
• Free walking tours are a must ! They’re a great way to meet people and explore the local areas and, well, they’re free!
• Leave your heels at home . Good travel shoes are essential.
• Always have some Euros on hand. Cash is still king.
• Don’t just visit cities … please. Countries are more than just their tourist hotspots and Instagram-famous locations.
• With that being said— do the touristy things . There is a reason everyone loves going to the Eiffel Tower or seeing the Colosseum. Don’t leave wanting more.
• Get European travel insurance . You never know what can happen, and we want you safe, not hundreds of dollars in debt and unable to get home safely.

My final tip would be to just go for it and also to go with the flow. Nothing ever unfolds exactly how you imagined it, but this is the beauty of travel. We love the mystery of surprises, don’t we?

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

All that’s left to say is get ready for a trip of a lifetime. My first solo trip to Europe was more than I could have ever imagined, from getting kicked out of a club in Barcelona to jumping on the back of a Vespa to ride around Rome with a stranger. Travelling solo brings opportunities to your front door that you would never even think possible.

Not that getting kicked out of the club was fun, but it definitely makes for a great story to tell. And you’re about to have all of that and more. You’ll learn more about yourself and honestly see more churches than you ever need to in your whole life—but, hey, that’s Europe.

So regardless if you’re visiting one country or are on an epic solo backpacking journey through Europe, you’re about to eat, dance, and live your life to the fullest. So double-check your travel packing list , and get ready to say hola, merci, ciao, and cheers as you embark on your solo adventure in Europe.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Darren Griffiths

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Travels with Erica

A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

What I Wish I Knew Before Backpacking Europe Alone

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Backpacking Europe alone after high school is one of the biggest clichés out there.

I’m proud to say that I avoided that cliché and travelled Europe alone for the first time right after University. 😉

Cliché or not, there is a reason why backpacking Europe alone is one of the most popular things for young people interested in travel to do.

Hell. I travel Europe alone as often and as frequently as I can even though it has been years since my first solo trip to Europe!

Europe is my favourite place on the planet, and the best part is it is super easy for solo travellers to explore Europe.

However, there are a few things I wish I knew before backpacking Europe alone.

These things would have saved me a lot of anxiety, money, and a few tears along the way.

If you’re planning your first backpacking trip through Europe, this is the post for you!

Hopefully you’re a little bit more prepared than I was!

Tips for planning your first solo trip

Table of Contents

You Don’t Have to Stay in Hostels

When I was researching before my first solo trip to Europe, every blog I read said that solo travellers stay in hostels.

The fact that I had to stay in hostels, and there were no other affordable options was beat into my head.

There were other reasons, such as the social aspect, that people were recommending hostels. But those reasons didn’t resonate with me as an extreme introvert.

The biggest thing I wish I knew before backpacking Europe alone is that I didn’t have to stay in hostels.

They’re a great, affordable option.

But they’re not the only option.

I spent months staying in hostels and hating it. They’re just not my jam.

If you’re like me and don’t love hostels, know that there are tons of affordable options out there!

I highly recommend you try to find guest houses to stay in or Airbnbs.

A lot of the time they are less expensive to stay in than a budget hotel and aren’t much more expensive than a hostel.

They’re a great option for people like me who don’t enjoy staying in hostels but also don’t want to spend a ton of money on lodging.

Of course, there are limits to how well this works.

If you’re in an expensive city like London, you’re going to be paying a pretty penny no matter where you stay.

Including hostels.

So, figure out what your budget is and research all your options before automatically searching and booking a hostel.

Don’t Take Internet Safety Lightly

Not enough people take internet safety seriously when they travel, and that is a mistake.

In fact, being internet safe is one of the most important travel safety tips I can give you!

As a traveller, you connect to public wifi networks on a daily basis, and this puts your devices at risk of being hacked.

And, yes, even hotel and café wifi networks that have a password are considered public wifi networks!

Anybody can access public wifi networks, and you’d be surprised at how easy it is for someone to steal your online data without you even knowing it.

I can’t imagine a worse scenario than backpacking Europe alone and having someone steal my banking information.

The hassle of canceling all your banking cards and then trying to figure out a way to fund the rest of your trip is not the type of thing you want to deal with when you’re on a solo trip.

The only way you can protect your devices when using a public wifi network is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN essentially puts a forcefield around your devices and makes it impossible for prying eyes to access your online information.

It makes using a public wifi network just as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the password.

In my mind, installing a VPN on your devices is a non-negotiable.

It is the responsible thing to do, and there are no excuses for not protecting your online information and data when you travel.

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used quite a few different VPNs over my years of travel, and, to be frank, most of them suck.

They slow your phone down to a snail’s pace. It is so frustrating to use most VPNs that you end up turning them off and exposing your online information.

Which totally defeats the purpose of having a VPN!

The only VPN I use and trust now is NordVPN .

I’ve been using them since 2018 and have no plans change provider.

They are the fastest VPN on the market, which is why I recommend them to my fellow travel lovers.

We need our internet to be quick, and if you’re like me, you don’t have the patience to deal with lagging internet.

That is never an issue with NordVPN .

You hardly notice a difference in the speed of your internet. You can use your devices and be safe without sacrificing any internet speed.

Plus a NordVPN subscription is super affordable.

It costs less than a latte per month, and you can install a VPN on up to six devices with on subscription.

There are no excuses not to protect your online information and data when backpacking Europe alone.

My motto is that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online information and date!

Get Off the Beaten Path

One of the biggest mistakes most people backpacking Europe alone make is not getting off the beaten path and visiting less popular tourist destinations.

This includes what cities you choose to visit and what you choose to see and do in those cities.

Even if you only visit the most popular cities in Europe, there are still less common things you can do to experience a different side of the city.

Now that I’m an experienced traveller, there is nothing I love more than finding lesser known cities and exploring them.

They give you a different taste of what life in that country is like without all the tourists swarming around.

There is nothing wrong with visiting the most popular tourist sights and cities.

They’re popular for a reason!

I just think you should also go out of your way to see a different part of the place you’re travelling.

Taking a day trip to a nearby town or village is one of the easiest ways to get off the beaten path and see more of a country.

I personally like to spend three or four days in three or four different cities when I visit a country, but I know not everybody has time for that.

All I’m asking is that you do at least one thing on your backpacking trip through Europe that can’t be found on the first page of every guide book ever written.

Overrated cities in Europe

Set a Realistic Budget

This is one of the biggest mistakes I made the first time I was backpacking Europe alone.

I read a ton of blogs that said you should only spend $50/day in Europe. That’s all you need.

It created this image in my mind that $50 is what I should spend a day, and if I spent more than $50, I wasn’t a very good traveller.

Now I know that is absolute rubbish, but I didn’t back in 2015 when I went on my first solo trip to Europe.

I also failed to take into consideration the exchange rate. The blogs were referring to $50 USD/day. I was budgeting $50 CAD/day, which came out to about $32 USD/day!

If there is only one tip for backpacking Europe alone on this list you listen to, let it be this one.

Do not blindly listen to anybody on the internet who tells you how much it costs to travel anywhere.

That is their experience. You can use it is a guide, but do not take it as a hard fact.

Instead, think about what your travel style is. How you imagine your backpacking trip to Europe looks and go from there.

You’re travelling alone, so if you underestimate how much money you need, you’re kind of screwed.

There is nobody travelling with you that you can potentially borrow money from, and you need to figure out how to make too little money stretch your entire trip.

It is not a fun place to be!

So, set a realistic budget and have a little extra money saved just in case some things are more expensive than you anticipate.

You don’t want to have to skip meals or stay in terrible accommodation just because you didn’t set a realistic budget!

Digital nomad jobs for beginners

Backpacking Europe Alone Isn’t Glamorous

Backpacking Europe alone is over glamorized in the media.

Images of meeting an Italian man and falling in love, finding your true self, and becoming an influencer are attached to the idea of travelling Europe aline.

While all those things are possible, I’m here to tell you that they are not the norm.

Backpacking Europe alone is amazing- don’t get me wrong- but it isn’t quite as romantic as you might think it is.

I guarantee that you’ll shed a few tears, your clothes will stink (and you’ll hate doing laundry), you’ll get lost more times than you can count, and I see a number of cheap grocery store meals in your future.

It’s all part of backpacking Europe alone, and it also might be some of the best parts of it!

If you’re going into Europe with your rose coloured glasses on, you’ll be disappointed.

One of the fun parts about backpacking Europe alone is figuring out how to solve the little problems that pop up along the way.

Because trust me no trip goes 100% to plan!

And, in my opinion, the best way to make sure your solo trip to Europe is amazing is to have realistic expectations and know that what you see in the media probably isn’t how your trip is going to go.

But it will undoubtably be an amazing trip though!

Undeniable benefits of travelling alone

Currency Can be a Pain in the Butt

A lot of people think of Europe and see it as one big economic zone where everything is the same.

While a lot of European countries use the Euro, there are many who don’t. And that makes currency a bit of a pain.

Not only do you have to figure out how to get the different currencies you need, you also need to keep the currency conversion straight in your head.

Again, it isn’t much of an issue if you only visit countries that use the Euro , but most people visit countries with different currencies.

When you’re backpacking Europe alone, you need to have a plan on how you’re going to handle all the different currencies you need.

My recommendation is to get convert some of your money into the currency of the first country you’re visiting before you leave.

You’ll have money to pay for whatever transportation you need to take when you land and buy food.

You do not want to deal with converting currency after a long flight when you’re tired and just want to get to your accommodation!

After that, I like to use ATMs to the currency I need for the rest of my trip.

Beware of ATMs in Europe

ATMs can cause a bit of confusion in Europe.

The most important thing you need to remember is to never select the option that does the currency conversion for you and removes money from your bank account in your local currency.

Always select the option to have the money withdrawn in the local currency and let your bank do the conversion.

ATMs in Europe are notorious for giving you a horrible exchange rate, and you’ll waste a lot of money if you remove money in your home currency rather than the local one.

No matter what option you choose, you will receive money in the local currency. I know that section may sound confusing, but it will make sense once you get to Europe.

Another major tip I can give you is don’t take too much money out at one time.

I’ve been in situations where I’ve overestimated how much money I’ll need and then have a bunch of left over currency that isn’t accepted in the next country I’m visiting.

It is a fine line to walk between getting enough money versus getting too much money.

Finally, be sure you have a currency conversion app on your phone. It helps you keep track of what the local currency is doing based on your home currency.

This is a huge help for staying on budget and understanding what you’re paying for things while backpacking Europe alone.

Transportation is a Breeze

I was a bit nervous about getting around Europe on my first backpacking trip. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect and didn’t want to spend a ton of money and fly from place to place.

It didn’t take long before I learned that Europe isn’t like other parts of the world (like Asia) where it can be a challenge to get from city to city and country to country.

There are trains and buses that take you pretty much anywhere you need to go.

Even across international borders!

The last time I was in Europe for an extended period of time, I took a total of four flights in three months!

From London to Dublin and back. From London to Finland. And Prague to Paris more due to needing to be in Paris quickly for an event rather than there not being a way to overland between the two cities.

The only thing you need to be aware of is there are some countries where the price of train tickets steeply rise the closer you get to the day of departure.

The biggest culprits of this price hike are the UK and France .

If you’re travelling within or between these two countries, be sure you book your train ticket as early as possible.

Tickets go on sale three months in advance, and you want to buy your tickets as shortly after that as possible.

If you’re not a planner, the bus may be a better option than the train. Bus ticket’s don’t see a price increase the same way train tickets do.

But, transportation is not something that should hold you back from backpacking Europe alone.

It is super easy to use, and even a beginner traveller can breeze their way around Europe without too much sweat.

A solo traveller’s guide to London

A solo traveller’s guide to Paris

Don’t Ignore Eastern Europe

Okay. So, this is one thing I did know before backpacking Europe alone, but I feel like not enough people know it!

Eastern Europe is amazing and doesn’t get enough love!

I’m talking the Baltic States, the Balkans, Central Europe, Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, everything outside Western Europe really.

Most of my favourite European countries are outside of Western Europe and along the road less travelled.

They are beautiful, full of history, and are home to some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

And as a bonus for people backpacking Europe alone, they are extremely affordable.

I once got a plate of pierogi, a salad, steamed vegetables, a drink, and a piece of cake for about $10 USD in Ukraine! Where else are you going to find such great value in Europe?!

I fully understand the desire to tour Western Europe. It is home to some of the most iconic sights in Europe.

But that doesn’t mean that Eastern Europe deserves to be ignored.

I highly, highly, highly recommend you arrange your itinerary so you spend at least a third of your trip in Eastern or Central Europe.

Not only will your wallet thank you, but I have a feeling it will also result in some of the best memories that come out of your trip.

A solo traveller’s guide to Prague

Take Your Time

I’m seeing a trend here, and it is following bloggers blindly.

Says the person who is now a travel blogger writing this post.

But the blogging content put out in 2014/2015 when I was planning my trip and backpacking alone in Europe is vastly different from what is online now.

Back then, I saw post after post after post saying you should never stay in a city more than 3 days.

Yes. That includes major cities like London and Paris!

The sentiment online at that time was you have to keep moving and see as much as possible as quickly as possible or you’re not travelling properly.

Thankfully the travel blog world has change a bit, and now there is more of a focus on slowing down and getting a more in-depth taste of a city or country.

I spent the first month and a half of my backpacking trip to Europe rushing around. I was exhausted from never settling in anywhere and never having a break to people watch in a café.

Don’t be like me!

Thankfully I figured out that it is worthwhile to slow down and spend more time in each city.

It is much more enjoyable, relaxing, and it gives you a better appreciation for the place you’re visiting.

I mean it is ridiculous to think that you can get a true taste of a major European city in three days or less. That’s nonsense.

I’m not going to tell you how much time to spend in each place.

That’s super personal and changes based on what city you’re visitng.

I am going to tell you to do your research and figure out a reasonable time to stay to see everything you want to do.

I also like to add on an extra day just in case the weather is bad, I’m tired one day, or I discover something else I want to do.

Plus, you can always take a day trip if you don’t need that extra day!

Backpacking Europe Alone is Safe but Know the Local Scams

Before I went on my first solo trip to Europe, I had people in my life telling me it wasn’t safe for solo female travellers.

Or that certain countries (like Ukraine) I planned to visit weren’t safe.

I didn’t listen to them and went on my trip anyways, but I would be lying if I wasn’t a bit nervous at the start of my trip.

Especially when I got to some of the lesser travelled countries in the Balkans.

Now I know that it wasn’t something I ever had to worry about, and you don’t have to either!

Europe is very safe.

Even in less financially rich countries you don’t have anything to worry about.

You can start backpacking alone in Europe and know that you’re safe and don’t have to stress over your personal safety.

The one thing you do need to worry about though is knowing local scams.

Every country and city in the world has local scams.

These can range from something as simple as pick pocketing to something much more elaborate like people not giving you the proper change or giving your counterfeit money.

You need to be aware of what the local scams are wherever you’re going.

This will help you know what to look out for.

As a solo traveller, you are solely responsible for your safety. You don’t have a friend to watch your back, so it is even more important you familiarize yourself with local scams.

But, aside from scams, Europe is super safe. Even for solo female travellers.

Overcome your fear of solo travel

Best European Countries for Solo Travellers

There you have it. You’re now in the know and are more prepared for your first solo trip to Europe than I was!

Europe is one of the best and easiest places for solo travellers. Even if you’re a complete beginner, you can successfully backpack Europe alone.

If I can do it, you can do it. I was a horrible traveller when I first backpacked Europe alone.

It is so important to understand that not everything is going to be perfect and know that you’ll have to problem solve along the way.

Backpacking Europe alone is one of the best experiences you’ll have in your life.

The continent is so full of life, food, and beauty. And no two countries are the same!

So, book that ticket, strap your backpack on, and have the time of your life!

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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How to travel solo in europe | your guide to solo travel planning.

Tips and advice for traveling alone in Europe. How to have a successful solo backpacking journey through Europe.

Helpful Travel Tips & Articles

Many people are intimated by the thought of solo travel but plenty of people travel alone in Europe. In fact, my first backpacking Europe trip was a solo adventure and I’ve now done 10+ solo trips to Europe. And while I was a little worried at first, I now find traveling alone to be a super rewarding experience. 

And while traveling alone does have some downsides, I still wholeheartedly endorse solo travel to anyone.

In this guide, I’ll teach you how to travel solo in Europe—including the positives and negatives, how to meet people, how to stay safe, how to fight loneliness, and plenty of other practical advice for making the most of your solo travels. 

Note: Looking for female-specific advice — check out our Guide To Solo Travel For Women in Europe . 

The Best Things About Solo Travel In Europe

Solo travel has always been a niche style of travel (check out the r/SoloTravel subreddit) but it truly started booming alongside the surge of post-pandemic travel ( Kayak’s Travel Trend Report states that single-person ticket sales are up by 36% compared to 2022). Many major news publications have also recently written about the benefits of traveling alone— The Solo Trip-Explore at Your Own Pace – NY Times , How (and Why) to Travel Alone – Vox , and Solo Travel: Why More People Are Doing It – BBC .

Let’s jump straight into some of the best things about traveling alone (don’t worry, I’ll cover the downsides in the next section).

Easier To Simply Get Started

I’ve met countless people who have put off travel for 5 or 10 years because they couldn’t find someone to travel with.

Taking a trip to Europe is a big commitment. It takes a lot of time and money. Trying to coordinate schedules and budgets of multiple people is often enough to delay (or even prevent) the start of a trip. 

And every group seems to have one person who can’t commit or cancels last minute—which can throw a wrench into the entire trip before it even begins.

But with solo travel, all you have to do is buy that ticket and you’re on your way.

Complete Control Of Your Day

Traveling alone allows you to be in total control so you can do whatever you want, whenever you want. You can eat whenever, see whatever, and go wherever you want. 

Feel like sleeping in? You got it.

Want to just walk for hours? Go for it. 

You can’t fully appreciate this freedom until you travel with other people.

Food Freedom

From my experience, choosing where to eat is one of the most stressful aspects of traveling with other people—especially when you’re traveling with a larger group of people. 

When you travel alone you can choose exactly where to eat and you don’t have to worry about splitting bills and making sure you get paid back. 

Dining alone can also help you get seated faster if the restaurant has seats at the bar.

Choose Your Itinerary

Trying to get an entire group of people to agree to an itinerary can cause a lot of fiction. 

Some people love the beach. Others love city adventures. Some people want to travel cheaply and others want to drop a lot of cash. Some want to stop at every souvenir shop and others want to spend their days in museums. Inevitably, these misaligned travel styles things cause stress and conflict.

Solo travel allows you to do things you want to do. You don’t need to answer to anyone else. In a group, everyone has their own ideas of what to see and this can cause a lot of conflicts.

No Arguments

Travel is stressful. And you usually take out that stress on your travel partners. This can cause riffs between you and your travel partner or riffs within a larger group. 

I find myself getting much less stressed when I am traveling alone… because I’m not going to argue with myself. 

Total Focus

There is no one to “distract” you when you’re traveling solo. You’re totally focused on whatever it is you’re experiencing.

An Opportunity To Reinvent Yourself

You can be whoever you want to be when you travel alone. Solo travel gives you a chance to shake off the “old you” and try being someone else for a while.

Meet New People

Groups tend to unknowingly put up a “wall” between themselves and other travelers—which often prevents them from making friends with other people.

I’ve also found that solo travelers tend to meet other solo travelers—especially if you’re staying in a hostel. 

No Large Group Issues 

Traveling in a large group poses other issues that a small group won’t experience. 

One of the biggest issues is finding a table at restaurants because reservations for more than four people can be a hassle. In fact, even a reservation for 4 people will be much harder than a group of two. 

Even finding two and three-bedroom rental properties can be difficult.

Large groups also stand out so you’re much more likely to be pegged for tourists.

An Opportunity For Self-Growth

Most solo travelers find that self-growth is the greatest long-term benefit of traveling to Europe alone. You learn that you can rely on yourself. You learn that you can figure stuff out while on the road. You develop self-confidence after figuring out a difficult problem. 

In the end, you become a stronger person.

Disadvantages of Solo Travel

I’d be lying if I said that solo travel was always amazing—because it’s not. And sometimes it kind of sucks. 

But I’ve also found the difficulties of solo travel end up being the most rewarding experiences.

Eating Alone

Many people feel really uncomfortable eating alone—especially in restaurants. It isn’t bad for breakfast and lunch but dinners do get a little lonely.

In actuality, eating alone isn’t nearly as awkward as we think it will be… but, given the choice, I’d still rather eat with someone than eat alone.

Unwanted Isolation

Solo travel can be isolating. And every solo traveler will experience bouts where they wish they had someone to hang out with. 

I remember my very first night of solo traveling. I was in Dublin and the hostel was overrun by a large group of Spanish students.  didn’t meet any English speakers that first night so it was pretty lonely. I was also a new traveler so I was pretty timid. Luckily, occasions like this were pretty rare.

But, I still find going to bars alone to be intimidating.

No “Buddy System” 

Having someone to share your memories with can be nice—especially if everyone travels well with each other. 

Traveling with a friend also helps with other practicalities like having someone watch your bags, watch your drinks, save your seat, help you solve a problem, etc.

Too Many Selfies

Most of my travel photos are selfies. Minor issue but all your photos start looking the same after a while. Of course, you can ask strangers to take your photo but that also gets old (and people take really bad photos).  

General Safety

Europe is a very safe place for solo travelers but there is always safety in numbers no matter where you go. 

On the other hand, traveling with a large group makes you stand out as a bunch of tourists—which brings another host of issues. I’ve written more about safety as a solo traveler further down in this article.

No “Single’s Tax”

Solo travel can be more expensive (on a per-person basis) than traveling with a group because you’re not able to split some travel costs—notably hotel rooms/rental apartments and food. For example, splitting the cost of a hotel room between two people is a huge money saver. 

Tips On How To Travel Alone Successfully

Now that we’ve covered the positives and negatives of solo travel, let’s take a look at some tips to help you successfully travel alone. 

Consider Staying In Hostels

Hostel life isn’t for everyone but it’s an excellent way to be instantly connected with other travelers (especially other solo travelers).

Hostels have changed a lot in the past 5-10 years. Europe now has a number of higher-end hostels so many feel more like boutique hotels than the stereotypical budget backpacker flops of yesteryear. 

Additionally, just about every nicer hostel has private rooms and many hostels cater to every age so you won’t feel out of place if you’re not the typical twentysomething traveler. 

Many hostels often plan group meals, bar crawls, and walking tours to help create a communal vibe so do a little research to find a hostel that fits your travel style.

More Tips On How To Meet People In Hostels

Hostels are naturally social but there are a few things you can do to increase the chance of meeting other people.

• Don’t Break The Unspoken Hostel Rules: Check out The Savvy Backpacker’s guide to hostel etiquette .
• I didn’t do a very good job being outgoing my first few nights and I had a hard time meeting people. But after the third night, I forced myself to be a little more outgoing and it opened up so many doors.
• Buy People Beer: Buy some cheap beer and offer it to people. You’ll meet TONS of people this way. People will often do the same for you. Trust me, this will be the best €10 you can spend.
• Cook Meals In The Hostel: You’ll meet so many people if you hang out in the kitchen around dinner time. Or, if nothing else, hang around the kitchen at dinner time and you’ll probably be invited to eat with other guests.

Check out my Guide To Hostels in Europe to get a more in-depth look at the world of modern hostels and visit my Accommodations Page to see my list of the best hostels in Europe.

Stay In A Fun/Popular Neighborhood

I always try to book accommodation that’s located in a fun neighborhood because I love being able to walk out the door and instantly have coffee shops, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife within walking distance.

Fun neighborhoods also tend to be the safest since they’re the most popular so there are always people out and about.

The best neighborhoods are typically the most expensive in terms of accommodation so you’ll pay a bit of a premium, but I think it’s worth the extra costs.

Take A Food Tour, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting, Etc. 

Participating in a group event is an excellent way to meet other people.

I love taking food tours when traveling solo since eating is naturally a communal event—especially when there is alcohol involved. Many food tours take place at night so it’s a great way to fill your evening after you’ve spent the day exploring the city. I’ve personally taken Devour Food Tours in Rome, Seville, and Madrid—all were excellent (check out my Devour Rome Food Tour review to learn more).

Cooking classes are also a great way to meet people since you’re all in a kitchen preparing a meal together and then you all gather to eat everything you just made. For example, I’ve taken cooking classes in Paris at Cook’n With Class and a cooking class in Florence. These classes generally last 3-5 hours so you still have plenty of time to do other things that day.

Take A Walking Tour

Walking tours tend to be a little less social than food tours and cooking classes since you’re mostly listening to the guide talk but it’s still an excellent way to be around others.

But you’ll naturally start up conversations when the guide isn’t talking and you might end up making a new travel buddy along the way.

Most cities have free walking tours (the guides work off tips) so it’s an affordable activity as well. You can also find more specialty paid walking tours and those tend to attract like-minded travelers.

Couchsurfing, Reddit, and Other Meetup Groups

Most big cities across the world have active Couchsurfing and Reddit meetup groups that attract people eager to meet and chat. These groups typically meet at a local bar to help the conversations flow. 

The best way to find these groups is to Google “CITYNAME Couchsurfing Meetup” or “CITYNAME Reddit Meetup.” Meetup.com can also be a good resource for finding people who are also looking for things to do.

Rent A Room On Airbnb

While not guaranteed, renting a room in an Airbnb can be a good way to interact with your hosts. Plenty of hosts will invite you to dinner or be open to hanging out. 

For example, my Airbnb hosts in Naples invited me to have a homemade dinner with them one evening out on their beautiful rooftop patio.

Use Dating Apps

Using dating apps can be a good way for single travelers to meet locals and other tourists. Plus, meeting a local is a good way to find cooler places that you might not find on your own. 

Hit The Bar

The bar has always been a natural place to meet other people.

If you feel weird about drinking alone, I recommend bringing a book and sitting at the bar as you look much more approachable than if you’re just scrolling through your phone.

Safety Tips For Solo Travelers

While Europe is a very safe place to visit, common sense safety measures are still something that all solo travelers should consider.

Act Like You Belong

One of the best things you can do while traveling alone is to simply act like you belong. Walk with confidence. Pretend like you’ve been there a million times before. People who look lost and bewildered instantly stand out.

Stay In A Safe Neighborhood

Always do some research before booking your accommodation to ensure it’s in a safe neighborhood—especially at night.

TIP: The areas around train stations in Europe are often a little sketchy (since there is a large transient population) but this is also where much of the cheap accommodation is found. So keep this in mind when booking a place to stay.

Listen To Your Instincts

If something doesn’t feel right then you shouldn’t do it. It’s a pretty simple concept but sometimes it’s easier said than done.

Know Where You’re Going

Pulling your phone out every two seconds to see where you’re going will naturally draw attention to yourself and it’s a signal that you’re lost. So spend a little time studying your route so you only need to check periodically.

Keep Connected With Reliable Mobile Data

Having reliable mobile data for your phone can be a huge help when traveling—you need it for Google Maps, rideshare apps, digital train tickets… and just about anything else so don’t rely on hard-to-find free wifi to keep you connected.

I recommend buying a cheap prepaid European data plan—check out my guide to How to Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe and my guide to the best eSIM data plans for Europe .

Get Familiar With Common Travel Scams

As G.I. Joe says, “Knowing Is Half The Battle” so it’s smart to familiarize yourself with the most common travel scams so you can avoid them.

I’ve written extensively about How to Avoid Pickpockets and Outsmart Thieves in Europe and How to Avoid Common Travel Scams In Europe but here are a few safety tips to consider while traveling alone.

You can also Google “scams in CITY” to get a better idea about the specifics of common scams in individual cities—for example, the “deaf/mute petition scam” is popular in Paris and Bus #64 in Rome is a hotspot for pickpockets.

Pack Light and Blend In

Lugging around a huge, heavy suitcase or massive backpack makes you an instant (and slow-moving) target. This is even more true in chaotic, crowded, and pickpocket-heavy locations like train stations, subways, and city buses.

Furthermore, knowing how to dress so you don’t instantly stand out as a tourist can also give you another level of safety.

I’ve written multiple packing-related articles you might want to check out:

• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Travel Europe Packing List for Women
• Europe Packing List  (for any travel style)
• Hostel Packing List
• How to Avoid Looking Like a Tourist in Europe

Buy Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is smart for all travelers because it can save your butt financially. I use and recommend  World Nomads  for most travelers but there are a handful of other travel insurance companies.

• Recent Posts

• Backpacking Europe Packing List — My Europe Travel Packing Guide - April 6, 2024
• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - March 24, 2024
• Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly - March 3, 2024

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The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. That means when you buy products/services through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission—it doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps support the site.

Thanks For Reading! — James

Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

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Helpful Travel Tips & Articles , Packing

Fashion Advice: How to Avoid Looking Like An American Tourist In Europe

Fashion advice to help you look like a local when visiting Europe.

How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves

Everything you need to know about keeping your valuables safe and secure.

How to Avoid Common Tourist Scams In Europe

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My First Solo Trip Review: Backpacking Europe

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: February 12, 2024

Categories Europe , Solo Travel , Travel Stories

Home » Europe » My First Solo Trip Review: Backpacking Europe

In the Summer of 2011 at 18 years old, I set out on my first solo trip. For three months I backpacked around Europe through 20 countries. I traveled by train, bus, and boat. In this article, I review my first solo trip. I’ll talk about planning, packing, budgeting, my route, experiences, and more. I’ll discuss the mistakes I made and the things I did right. Hopefully, you can learn from my experience to help make your first solo trip a bit smoother and less stressful.

Why I Decided to Take this Trip

I knew I wanted to travel after high school but I didn’t know where to go or how to go about it. While studying Spain in Spanish class, my teacher taught us about Europe’s extensive rail network. She shared her experience traveling around the continent with a Eurail Pass. After some more research, I concluded that Europe sounded like an easy destination for a first-time solo traveler like myself.

Research and Preparation for My First Solo Trip

Because this was my first trip, I wanted to be as prepared as possible so I wouldn’t feel overwhelmed when I arrived in Europe. I researched every aspect of the trip extensively and planned for every possible scenario. I didn’t want any unexpected surprises. Topics of research included visas, transportation, safety, pricing, accommodation, and more.

At the same time, I wanted to keep my plans as open as possible so I didn’t pre-book much. I didn’t know how fast or far I’d want to travel because everything was new to me. I also wanted to be a bit spontaneous. This turned out to be a good idea as travel in Europe was much faster and easier than I expected.

Building my Itinerary

I started off by studying the world map that I had hanging in my room to familiarize myself with the geography of Europe. I created several potential itineraries that I thought were possible with the time I had. My plan was to fly in and out of the same airport so I created a loop itinerary.

Next, I researched each country in the region. I read travel blogs, articles, travel forums, and borrowed a Western Europe travel book from a family friend. While researching, I made a list of potential activities, museums, monuments, and points of interest that I may want to see.

A few top destinations included Stonehenge, the Louvre, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the canals of Amsterdam. I’m also pretty interested in WWII history so I wanted to see Anne Frank’s house, Oskar Schindler’s factory, Anne Frank House, and Auschwitz, and a few more sites.

Transportation

The next step was researching transportation. I started by shopping for the cheapest flight from Los Angels to Europe. London seemed to be the cheapest city to fly into at the time.

I also researched the Eurail Pass extensively. I looked up the time tables for each leg of my itinerary to check whether or not the Eurail pass covered it and what time I would leave and arrive in each city. When it didn’t, I looked at bus tickets. I found that Europe is so well connected that almost every route is possible.

Before the trip, I applied for my first passport. While I was waiting for it to arrive, I researched visas. I learned that my US passport allowed me to travel pretty much anywhere I wanted without arranging any visas in advance. The only one I would need was for Turkey, which was available at the border on arrival.

Accommodation

I planned to stay in hostels most nights and camp once in a while. I looked for hostels on Hostelworld and Booking.com in each city that I planned to visit. While researching, I checked prices, the location in the city, whether or not they included breakfast, and how to get there from the train station.

I only booked my first three nights in London but I wrote down the names and prices of some hostels that I might stay in along the way. Because summer is so busy, I knew that I would need to book in advance most of the time so it helped to be prepared.

Next, I started thinking about what kind of clothing and gear I would need for the trip. I needed to buy a new backpack to carry my clothing and gear. I already had most of the clothing I needed. The only other gear I needed to buy was outlet converters, a money belt, and a few small items.

Finally, I needed to make a budget. As I researched, I wrote down the price of everything I could think of including my flight, Eurail pass, reservations, bus tickets, hostels, food, drinks, entry tickets, and more. I then added it up. I’ll talk more in-depth about budgeting later on.

Telling My Family About my Solo Travel Plans

One issue I ran into while planning my first solo trip that I didn’t consider beforehand was how difficult it was going to be to tell my friends and family about my plans. I got some pushback and questioning. Particularly from my grandparents. Some people just don’t get solo travel. My dad got it. My mom was unsure but accepting.

Common questions, comments, and concerns I heard include: ‘Why are you doing that?’ ‘Why don’t you go with a friend?’, ‘Isn’t that dangerous?’ , ‘Why don’t you travel in your own country instead?’, ‘Why don’t you wait until you’re older?’, ‘How are you going to pay for that?’ ‘Why do you want to go there?’, ‘Why don’t you get a job instead?’, ‘you don’t want to do that’, ‘you’ll never make it’, etc.

At times, I began to doubt myself. I wondered if I was biting off more than I could chew. If I was capable and competent enough to complete the trip. Luckily, I was strong enough to push through the criticism and go through with my plans. I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t have second thoughts though.

I’m not the only solo traveler who has run into this issue. Telling friends and family about solo travel plans is a common concern. It comes up frequently on the subreddit r/solotravel. I’ve read some horror stories there about people’s families forbidding them to travel or even threatening to disown them if they go through with their travel plans. Luckily my family wasn’t that extreme.

If you face this problem when planning your trip, my best advice is to answer their valid questions about safety, transportation, budgeting, accommodation, etc. to put their mind at ease. Try to avoid talking about the trip as much as possible. If you let them dwell on it and bash your plans, you’ll just start to doubt yourself. No good can come of it. You may even feel tempted to cancel your trip.

For some more tips, check out this great guide to dealing with unsupportive friends and family.

Money and Budgeting for My First Solo Trip

My first major obstacle in planning my trip was making sure I had enough money. I saved up around $5000 for the trip from working at McDonald’s, 18 years worth of birthday money, and some painting work I did for my friend’s parents. This had to cover all of my expenses including airfare, the Eurail Pass, other transportation, accommodation, food, drinks, entertainment, activities, souvenirs, travel gear, etc. My goal was to make it last 3 months.

I made a rough budget to find out what this whole thing would cost me. I spent a significant amount of time researching the pricing of everything I could think of and adding it all up. To make my budget, I priced out the following:

• Travel gear- I needed to purchase a backpack, outlet converters, a tent, some clothes, new shoes, travel-sized toiletries, and a few more small items.
• Plane ticket- I shopped around to find which city was the cheapest to fly into from Los Angeles. It turned out to be London.
• Eurail pass- I considered which pass I would require based on the duration of my trip and the number of trains I planned to take. I found that the Eurail pass was economical for my particular trip. I went with the 3 month global pass.
• Hostels- I went on Hostelworld and Booking.com and researched the price of dorm beds in most of the cities that I planned to visit in order to get a rough idea of the price of hostels. I found an average price for each city, multiplied it by the number of nights I planned to stay, then added up all of the hostel costs to get a rough accommodation budget idea.
• Entry fees, tours, and activities- I looked into the prices for various things that I wanted to do while traveling including entry to museums, parks, tours, etc. I’m not really into organized activities so this cost was pretty low.
• Food- I considered the cost of restaurant meals and cooking my own food in hostel kitchens. This one is difficult to estimate. I planned to cook for myself most of the time.
• Alcohol- This one was tough to price as well. I couldn’t legally drink in my home country at the time but I knew I’d be drinking on my trip.
• Miscellaneous- I budgeted a bit extra for various unexpected expenses just to be on the safe side. I think I ended up buying a couple of new shirts and a new pair of shorts when mine wore out.
• Souvenirs- I don’t buy souvenirs but if you plan to, you’ll want to budget for them.
• Travel Insurance- I did not have travel insurance on this trip but I probably should have.

After adding everything up, my total costs came out above my $5000 budget for my three-month trip. To cut costs, I made some changes to my itinerary. I cut out a few expensive Western European cities and added a few more affordable Eastern European cities. I also eliminated a couple of destinations that my Eurail Pass wouldn’t cover. Eventually, I was able to get my budget to around $5000.

First Solo Travel Tip: Make sure you have some emergency money in case a problem arises. You don’t want to spend every penny you have on your trip. You need some backup in case an emergency arises. That way, you’re covered if your phone gets stolen or if you need to buy a ticket home in an emergency. You also need some money to re-establish yourself when you return home. For example, maybe you need to rent an apartment.

Exactly how much you need depends on your age, budget, financial situation, etc. I like to carry at least $300 in cash plus have a couple thousand extra in my checking account. I didn’t have any emergencies on this trip but it brought me peace of mind knowing I had some extra cash just in case.

For more info on travel budgeting, check out my guides:

• How to Make an Accurate Budget for Long Term Travel.
• Guide to Ultra Low Budget Travel on $10 Per Day.

Tickets and Reservations I Booked in Advance

About a month and a half before my trip, I bought the following tickets and made the following reservations:

• Plane ticket- I bought a round trip ticket between Los Angeles and London with Air Canada. It cost around $1200.
• Eurail Pass- I bought the 3 month global unlimited pass. It cost around $700.
• Hostel- I booked 2 nights in a hostel in London. I wasn’t sure how many days I’d want to stay or where exactly I’d go next so I just booked the first two nights.
• Tour- I booked myself on a tour from London to Stonehenge for the day after I arrived.

First Solo Travel Tip: Book your first few days of accommodation in advance. Having a hotel or hostel bed already reserved brings peace of mind because you know where you’re going when you arrive. It also helps when passing through immigration.

To make things even easier, consider booking your airport transportation in advance as well. Many hotels and hostels offer a shuttle service. If you plan to take public transport from the airport to your accommodation, make sure you know which bus or train lines you need to take. Also, have the hotel’s phone number and address handy in case you need to ask for directions or tell your driver where you need to go.

Gear and Packing for My First Solo Trip

Travel doesn’t really require much specialty gear. Before I left, I bought a few items including:

•  Travel Backpack- I needed something lightweight and voluminous enough to accommodate all of my clothes and gear. I wanted a backpack that was small enough to carry on an airplane and large enough to accommodate 3 months worth of gear. I bought the Osprey Talon 44. This is a great bag. After 10 years of rough use on 6 continents, it’s still in excellent condition. Read my full review of the backpack here.
• Outlet converters- For charging my camera. I didn’t pack a laptop or cell phone on this trip.
• First aid kit- I bought a small first aid kit with bandages, antibiotic ointment, anti-diarrhea medicine, etc.
• Tent- I bought a cheap one person non-freestanding tent. I wasn’t sure whether or not to travel with a tent. I figured I could at least save some money by camping.
• Sleeping bag- I bought a lightweight synthetic travel sleeping bag. This turned out to be pretty useful. These days, I always travel with some type of blanket, quilt, or sleeping bag. It comes in handy surprisingly often.
• Money belt- Instead of using a wallet, I used a money belt to carry my passport, cash, and cards. This helps to protect valuables from muggers and pickpockets. I bought the Eagle Creek Silk Undercover money belt on Amazon. I’m really happy with it. I actually still use the same one to this day. It’s one of the only pieces of original travel gear that I still use. Read my full review of the money belt here.

Pretty much everything else I needed I already had. I packed:

•  1 pair of shoes
• 1 pair of sandals
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 pair of swim shorts
• Glasses, contacts, and sunglasses
• A toiletries kit

The following two sections cover the first week or so of my trip. Things started out a bit rough. There is definitely a learning curve to solo travel. In this section, I’ll outline a couple of mistakes I made and the lessons I learned. I’ll also describe a few unexpected hiccups I experienced along the way. Hopefully, my stories can help you avoid experiencing similar problems.

My First Day of Solo Travel

My dad drove me to LAX and dropped me off. I don’t remember being particularly nervous which is surprising because I’m generally a pretty anxious guy. I felt confident and prepared.

The flight itself went smooth. I checked in and checked my backpack then boarded my flight without any issues. I had a brief stopover in Toronto before catching my first intercontinental flight to London.

After landing in Heathrow, the first problem immediately arose. While standing around the baggage claim, the crowd slowly thinned out until I was the last guy standing next to the belt. My bag didn’t arrive. Air Canada lost my backpack full of all my travel gear that I had so carefully packed. Stupidly, I packed everything in my backpack, including my contact lenses and camera.

I walked over to the baggage counter and told the agent that my bag didn’t show up. The guy was incredibly unsympathetic. He just handed me a form. All I could do was fill it out and hope that Air Canada found my backpack. I was offered no compensation.

Luckily, I did have my debit cards so getting cash wasn’t a problem. After clearing customs and immigration, I navigated the tube into central London.

I had a bit of trouble finding my hostel. I ended up wandering around Borough High Street for around an hour before I managed to find the entrance. Once I found the place, I checked in and went to sleep. This was my first day of solo travel. So far I hated it.

Over the next couple of days, I walked down to the nearest payphone to call Air Canada a couple of times per day. I tried my best to get some type of compensation out of them but they offered nothing. They just expected me to wait in the city for my bag to arrive.

Finally, on the third day, my backpack made it to London. Someone dropped it off at the hostel reception. Now my trip could begin.

A few important lessons I learned on my first day of solo travel:

•  Only bring a carry-on bag- I overpacked. Probably because this was my first trip and I didn’t know exactly what I would need. Now I know that a carry-on-sized bag is sufficient to accommodate enough gear for almost any trip. These days, I never check a bag unless I’m packing camping gear. Check out my guide to checked vs carry-on luggage for more info.
• Never fly Air Canada- At this point, I have flown on dozens of airlines and Air Canada has the absolute worst customer service that I have ever experienced. I found this particularly shocking since Canadians are such nice people in general. I will never fly Air Canada again.
• Always have travel insurance- I probably could have gotten some type of compensation for the trip delay. Luckily my bag was found this time. If it wasn’t I would have been out several hundred dollars. Travel insurance would have come in handy.

My First Solo Trip Begins

From London, I decided to travel to Amsterdam. The Eurostar cost too much so I decided to take the bus then transfer to a train. I left London without knowing exactly how I was going to get to Amsterdam, where I would sleep, or when I would arrive. This turned out to be a mistake.

I caught an afternoon bus from London to Brussels. There, I activated my Eurail pass and caught my first European train. I ended up on an afternoon train to Antwerp then transferred onto a night train to Amsterdam. Unfortunately, I didn’t arrive until midnight.

This was my mistake. I arrived in an unfamiliar city in the middle of the night without any accommodation booked. I had no way of accessing the internet to look for a hostel because I didn’t have a phone and all of the internet cafes were closed. At this point, my only options were to spend the night in the train station or go out wandering around the city looking for a place to sleep.

I walked out of the train station, not knowing that I couldn’t re-enter until the following morning. Essentially, I ended up spending a long, cold night wandering the streets of Amsterdam with my backpack. I didn’t know where to go so I just walked.

Over the course of the night, I ended up meeting a series of strange and interesting characters including a drunken cyclist, a homeless Welshman, and an odd bald guy. The whole night was just bizarre, like a fever dream. I didn’t sleep at all. Luckily I didn’t get robbed. You can read about my night in Amsterdam here.

The following day, I started my search for a place to sleep for that night. After visiting half a dozen hostels, I realized that everything was fully booked or out of my price range. I never considered that Amsterdam would be fully booked out and I couldn’t afford to pay $50 per night for a dorm bed. This is peak summer season travel in Amsterdam.

Eventually, I found an internet cafe and went online to look at my options. I knew that worst case, I could catch a train to another city. Of course, I really wanted to experience Amsterdam.

Hostelworld had nothing in my price range. I found a campground just outside the city that was accessible by tram. I ended up camping there for the next few nights. This turned out to be cheaper and more pleasant than a hostel anyway. Luckily, I was traveling with a tent.

From this ordeal I learned to:

• Avoid arriving in an unfamiliar city late at night or early in the morning without confirmed accommodation and transport plans- Everything becomes more difficult at night. For example, public transportation often stops running, hotels and hotels lock their doors for security reasons, and restaurants are all closed. Arriving at night is also slightly more dangerous because most crime happens at night. You don’t want to be out wandering around a foreign city in some random neighborhood at 2 am looking for a hotel with a vacancy. Nothing good can come of it. If you plan to arrive in a new city in the middle of the night, book ahead and arrange your transport in advance. Also, make sure your hotel reception expects you. Better yet, arrive during the day.
• Book ahead in popular destinations or during peak season- Some touristy cities, like Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Paris for example, fully book out during the busy season. Sometimes you need to book up to a couple of weeks in advance in order to get a bed in a decent hotel, hostel, or Airbnb.
• Carry a tent- You can almost always find a place to camp. Most campgrounds won’t turn you away, even if they’re packed. There is always a bit of space. If you have a tent, you can also wild camp. If you don’t want to carry a tent, consider packing a hammock. For more info on camping while traveling, check out my guide to traveling with a tent.

The Rest of the Trip

The trip started out pretty rough but I feel like I learned a few valuable travel lessons early on. From there on out, it was smooth sailing.

A few highlights from my first solo trip included:

• Stockholm- For whatever reason, I loved this city. I also met a great group of fellow travelers at the hostel.
• The hostels- I’m probably in the minority here, but I love staying in hostels. This trip gave me my first hostel experience. I’ve stayed in hundreds since.
• The train rides- On this trip, I learned that I’m a train guy. While traveling, I ride them whenever possible. This trip gave me my first taste of train travel.
• Prague- This is probably my favorite European city. It’s cheap, beautiful, and the beer is great. I love it.
• Wandering around on foot- Most European cities are compact and walkable. For the most part, you don’t have to worry about wandering into a dangerous neighborhood. One of my favorite things to do while traveling is walking around. Europe is perfect for this.
• Krakow- Another historic and beautiful European city. It’s affordable too.
• The ferry ride from Greece to Italy – I slept on the deck in my sleeping bag. The weather that night was perfect.
• Istanbul- As an inexperienced traveler at the time, this city felt really exotic.
• Camping- Many European cities have campgrounds within the city or just outside. They’re usually accessible by public transport. My favorite places I camped were Munich and Amsterdam.

My First Solo Trip Route

I put my Eurail pass to good use and ended up visiting about 20 countries during my first solo trip. On average, I stayed in each city for 3-4 nights. That gave me enough time to see the main sites and go out one night. If I was really enjoying a city, I’d stay 4-5 nights. Travel time between cities was always less than a day.

I visited the following cities during my first solo trip:

London – Amsterdam – Copenhagen – Stockholm – Berlin – Munich – Prague – Krakow – Bratislava, Slovakia – Vienna – Budapest – Bucharest – Sofia – Istanbul – Thessaloniki, Greece – Rome – Zurich – Interlaken, Switzerland – Barcelona – Madrid – Paris – Bruges

My personal favorites were Amsterdam, Stockholm, Prague, Krakow, Istanbul, and Barcelona.

The Eurail pass covered every trip except London-Brussels, Sofia-Istanbul, Istanbul-Thessaloniki, and Bruges-London. I bought these tickets separately at the bus or train station.

Accommodation: A Note about European Hostels

Europe is the birthplace of youth hostels. The first one opened in Germany in 1912. That means that travelers have been hosteling in Europe for over 100 years. My dad backpacked Europe in the 60s and probably had a similar experience to me.

At this point, I have stayed in hostels on 6 continents. In my opinion, Europe offers the best hostels in terms of facilities and cleanliness. There are also a lot of them. Hostels are absolutely everywhere on the continent.

Unfortunately, European hostels are expensive and prices keep increasing. During my first solo trip, the most expensive hostels cost around $30 per night in Stockholm and Amsterdam. Average prices were around $7-$15.

These days, hostel prices are significantly higher. In most Western European capital cities, expect to pay $25-$35 per night for a dorm bed in a centrally located hostel during busy season. In the most expensive cities like Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich, Oslo, and Stockholm, you might pay $40-$50 during peak season. That’s getting a bit too pricey for most backpackers traveling long term.

Luckily, prices are still reasonable in Eastern Europe. For my next European trip, I plan to visit Ukraine, Moldova, the Balkans, and the Caucuses. Hostel prices still seem very reasonable in that part of the continent.

First Solo Trip Tip: Stay in Social Hostels

Solo travel gets lonely. Particularly at night. To help you meet people, stay in a social hostel. Hostels offer a common area, bar, walking tours, group meals, pub crawls, and a variety of other social events. These offer great opportunities to meet fellow travelers to go out with, sightsee with, and even travel with.

One thing to remember when booking is that hostel atmosphere varies greatly. Some are more oriented to partying while others are more chilled out. Some are designed to be social while others are geared pretty much only for sleeping. Be sure to check reviews before booking. Check out my guide to choosing a hostel for some helpful tips.

If you’re not comfortable sleeping in a dorm room with other people, most hostels offer private rooms. This way, you get to take advantage of the social aspects of hostels while still maintaining some privacy. Couchsurfing is another great social accommodation option.

Transportation: European Trains and the Eurail Pass, Budget Airlines, and Buses

Europe has maybe the best transportation infrastructure in the world. Between trains, buses, and budget airlines, you can travel pretty much anywhere on the continent quickly and usually affordably.

The European rail system, in particular, is world-class. Trains are reliable, comfortable, fast, and the system is extensive. You can travel almost anywhere by train. It’s impressive if you come from a place where train travel is less common.

I bought the 3 month global unlimited Eurail pass before my trip. At the time, the pass cost around $700. While writing this article, I checked the price on their website and found that the pass costs about the same now. Somehow the price hasn’t increased in 9 years. That’s actually pretty impressive.

I absolutely recommend traveling by train in Europe but I’m still not sure whether to recommend the Eurail pass. On one hand, I used my Eurail pass extensively and definitely feel that I got my money’s worth. The pass even included my fairy fare from Greece to Italy. On the other hand, I think it would be easier, and for some trips cheaper, to just buy tickets as you go.

One thing that annoys me about the Eurail pass is the fact that you have to pay a reservation fee for most longer routes. They generally charge 10-15 euro per trip. Shorter routes often don’t require a reservation. You just hop on. The reservation fees add up quickly. I probably spend a couple of hundred Euro to reserve seats.

If the train is too expensive, I recommend you check bus ticket prices. It’s almost always cheaper to travel by bus. A few budget European bus lines include Flixbus, Megabus, and Eurolines. Bus companies vary by region as well. If you shop around, you can score some great deals. For more info, check out my bus vs train travel guide.

When traveling between cities that are more that a day apart overland, consider flying instead. European budget airlines offer surprisingly low rates. In some cases, it’s cheaper to fly than take the bus. A few popular European budget airlines include Ryanair, Norwegian Air Shuttle, EasyJet, Wizz Air, Pegasus Airlines, AirBaltic, and Eurowings.

First Solo Travel Tip: Travel by night. This benefits you in two ways. First, you’ll save money on a night of accommodation. Second, you’ll save valuable time. Rather than wasting a whole day sitting on the train or bus, you can sleep through the trip and wake up in a new city ready to explore. Of course, your sleep will suffer unless you book a bed in a sleeper car.

Accessing Money on My First Solo Trip

Before my trip, I got my first debit card from my local credit union. I was still 17 while planning the trip so I had to have one of my parents sign for the card. I kept most of my money in my checking account so I could access it through ATMs. At the time, I did not have a credit card. As I traveled, I withdrew cash from ATMs. I never had a problem finding one in Europe.

I also left home with about $500 USD in cash, which I stored in my money belt. This was as a backup just in case my debit card was lost, stolen, or shut off for some reason. Occasionally, I would exchange some cash for the local currency when I found a good exchange rate.

The cash came in handy on one occasion. For whatever reason, my debit card did not work in Romania. Even after calling my bank, they couldn’t figure it out.

I ended up spending a decent chunk of money on currency exchange fees and ATM fees. I learned my lesson after this experience.

These days, I use a travel credit card instead of a debit card or cash whenever possible. I do this for three reasons.

• There are no exchange fees- Travel credit cards eliminate most fees. This saves you 1-3% on every transaction. Most debit cards charge a fee. You also avoid the conversion fee of exchanging cash.
• Using a credit card adds security- Credit card companies can do chargebacks. They can refund you if your card gets overcharged or stolen and used by a criminal. This is possible because credit card companies usually don’t pay vendors until the following month. They still have the money so they can give it back to you if you fall victim to fraud or a scam.
• I can take advantage of the points to travel more- Rewards points add up fast. Most credit card companies offer bonus points when you open a new card as well. For example, I paid for my round trip airfare to Africa with credit card points. That saved me around $1200.

I also carry a debit card with no foreign transaction fees or ATM withdraw fees. This has saved me hundreds of dollars in fees over the years.

Things I Would Have Done Differently on My First Solo Trip

Even thought the trip was a success, it wasn’t perfect. If I were to take this same trip again, I would:

• Pack lighter- I didn’t want to buy everything new for the trip. I just didn’t have the budget. I ended up packing heavy clothing and gear that I already owned. As a result of this, my pack was pretty heavy. I’ve since upgraded to mostly ultralight gear. A lighter pack makes travel so much easier and less stressful. For help packing, check out my ultralight travel packing list.
• Pack better shoes- I packed one pair of Converse All-Stars. These are great looking shoes but just aren’t comfortable enough for long walks. Over the course of the trip, I walked several hundred miles in them anyway. My feet hurt. These days, I pack running shoes or trail runners. I can walk all day and experience zero foot pain.
• Spend more time in the outdoors- Europe offers some beautiful natural scenery. I spent most of my time in cities. On a future trip, I’d like to do some hiking in the Italian Dolomites, Norwegian Fjords, and Mont Blanc.
• Spend less time in Western Europe – The region is beautiful and historic but too developed and touristy. In fact, the central tourist zones are so clean and well kept that they feel like Disneyland. I found Eastern Europe to be much more interesting. Having said this, I’m glad to have visited the famous western European capitals.
• Spend more time in smaller towns- I mostly stuck to big capital cities like Berlin, Rome, Paris Amsterdam, London, Stockholm, etc. On a future trip, I would like to explore some second tier cities like Bergen, Norway, and Frankfurt, Germany. I would also like to visit some rural regions.
• Visit fewer destinations- I was packing up and traveling to a different city every 3-4 days. I ended up visiting about 20 countries in just 3 months. I wanted to see everything, which got exhausting. These days, I travel much slower. I like to take some time to get to know each city and relax a bit. I’m over my country counting phase.

Things I Should Have Left at Home

Most first time travelers end up overpacking. Myself included. Some of the things that I shouldn’t have packed include:

• DSLR camera- Too bulky and heavy. I don’t even travel with a camera anymore. I just use my phone. Of course, phone cameras were pretty bad at the time of this trip so that wasn’t really an option.
• Some of my clothes- I packed too many clothes. I could have left a couple a couple t shirts, underwear, and socks at home. These days, I just pack a couple of shirts and pants and buy more when my originals wear out.
• My heavy tent- The thing weighed like 4 pounds. I still carry a tent. Just an ultralight model. I have the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 1 and love it.
• Sleep sheet- While researching for the trip, I read online that it’s a good idea to sleep in your own sheet or sleeping bag liner in hostels for hygiene reasons. This is unnecessary. Hostels are clean enough.

Loneliness During My First Solo Trip

During this trip, I quickly learned that solo travel is a lonely experience. I spent hundreds of hours alone in transit. I cooked and ate many meals alone. Much of the time I went sightseeing alone. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s just something to consider before taking a solo trip.

This wasn’t really a problem for me because I’m a bit of a loner naturally. Having said that spending so much time alone can take its toll. Sometimes I wished I had someone to talk to and enjoy the experience with. Sometimes I wished I had someone to suffer with during the low points.

Of course, most of the time I wasn’t alone. I met fellow travelers as well as locals everywhere I went. At most hostels I met people to sightsee with, eat with, and go out with. On a couple of occasions, I even met people to travel with for short stints.

Luckily, meeting people as a solo traveler is pretty easy. A few ways to meet people include:

• Stay in a social hostel- Choose a hostel with a large common area and a bar. These features make it easy to meet fellow travelers. If the hostel offers outings or group activities, even better.
• Go on a free walking tour- These are incredibly common in Europe. You’ll definitely meet fellow travelers.
• Try to keep a positive attitude and try to look approachable- If you appear friendly, you’ll make friends more easily. People don’t want to talk to you if you look like you don’t want to be bothered.
• Share food and drinks- Buy some beers or snacks and share them with other guests in the hostel. You’ll make friends quickly.
• Go to a bar- Hotel and hostel bars are great places to meet people.
• Stay with a local host or go couchsurfing- This way, you’ll automatically have a friend when you arrive.
• Chat people up while in transit- You might make a friend and the time passes faster.
• Take a class- Cooking, yoga, diving, and surfing classes are all great places to meet people. You’ll instantly become frineds with your classmates because you all share a common interest.
• Volunteer or work- You’ll become quick friends with your host and fellow volunteers while working together.

For more help, check out my guide to meeting people while traveling alone.

First Solo Travel Tip : If you’re thinking about taking your first solo trip, it’s important to recognize that you will be spending a great deal of time alone. Even if you’re a chatty people person, you won’t meet people everywhere you go. Some hostels aren’t that friendly. In some cities you simply don’t meet anyone you connect with. You will be eating alone, sightseeing alone, and sitting alone for hours on the bus or train. If you’re the kind of person who needs constant social interaction, you may not enjoy solo travel. It’s not for everyone, which is fine.

A Note About Technology on My First Solo Trip

When I took this trip in 2011, smartphones and Wifi were just becoming common. I didn’t bring any kind of internet-connected device. I didn’t even bring a regular cell phone. During the trip, I only saw a handful of travelers with laptops or phones.

Back then, pretty much every hostel offered computers in the common area. I used these to research and make bookings as I went and to keep in contact with family and friends through email and Facebook. Occasionally, I used payphones to call home. I feel like I got to experience the tail end of the pre-smartphone era of travel.

Travel has changed significantly since 2011. These days, I always bring my phone and laptop when I travel. Every hostel has Wifi. Common computers and payphones are a thing of the past. A few major advantages of technology include:

• Navigation- GPS makes it so much easier to find hostels, restaurants, points of interest, transit stations, etc. Even when I don’t have internet, I can download maps from Google Maps or Maps.me and use my phone’s GPS to find where I need to go. One of the most annoying parts of my first solo trip was finding the hostel when I arrived in a new city. Before leaving the previous hostel, I had to handwrite directions to my next hostel. I could usually get to the neighborhood pretty easily but actually finding the hostel was a challenge. In Budapest, I spent almost two hours wandering around until I finally found the hostel’s postage stamp sized sign on the side of a building. Now I could walk right there with my phone.
• keeping in touch- These days, I can call and text my friends and family back home and around the world whenever I want. There are dozens of free apps available including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Snapchat, WeChat, etc. Sometimes I buy a local SIM card so I can call local numbers and use mobile data. Calling home was incredibly expensive during my first solo trip.
• Communication with locals- With Google translate, I can communicate with pretty much anyone in their language. I usually download the offline version if I don’t have a local SIM card with mobile data.
• Currency conversion- Instead of trying to calculate the prices in my head, I can whip out my phone and quickly convert prices into dollars with the most up to date exchange rate. This helps greatly with budgeting and avoiding scams.

A Few Tips for Your First Solo Trip

• Choose your destination wisely- Some places are easier to solo travel than others. For your first solo trip, you probably don’t want to go to Nigeria or Afghanistan. Choose an easy destination with established tourist infrastructure. This makes it easy to get around and find decent accommodation. Choose a region that is popular among backpackers. You’ll have an easier time meeting people. Also, consider the language barrier. A few great destinations for first-time solo travelers include Southeast Asia, Western Europe, and Central America. For some more ideas, check out my guide to the best solo travel destinations.
• Meet people- As mentioned above, traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time. Put some effort into meeting fellow travelers and locals. Looking back, some of my best memories of the trip were created with the people I met along the way.
• Try to blend in- Tourists are a target for scammers, pickpockets, and muggers. By blending in, you reduce your risk of falling victim to a crime. To blend in, try to dress like a local rather than a tourist and avoid speaking too loudly. I blended in pretty well on my first solo trip. In the hostel in Stockholm, someone recommended I roll up my jeans at the bottom so I would blend in more. I guess that was in style in Northern Europe at the time. About 5 minutes after I walked out of the hostel some guy approached me speaking Swedish. After he learned that I didn’t speak the language, he told me that he thought I was a local because I was dressed like a Swede. It was a funny coincidence.
• Always have a backup plan- It’s important to have a plan B in case things turn south. Carry some extra cash in case you need to take a taxi back to your hotel. Upload copies of all of your important documents to the cloud in case your passport gets stolen. Make sure you always have the address of your hotel on your person in case you get lost. Try your best to be prepared for every situation.
• Pack light- Schlepping around a massive 90 liter backpack full of 50 lbs of gear grows old quickly. Try to pack everything you need into a carry-on-sized bag. 40-50 liters is ideal. Try to keep the total weight under 10 kg or 22 lbs if possible. If there is any question about whether or not you’ll need something, just leave it at home. Be sure to weigh your luggage before you leave to make sure it meets the airline weight limits. A light and compact bag allows you to avoid luggage fees. You can also easily walk with it across the city. You don’t need transportation everywhere you go.
• Don’t plan too much- It’s fine to make a basic itinerary but I recommend you avoid booking anything beyond the first few days. Try to leave some room for spontaneity. Your plans will probably change once you reach your destination anyway. For example, maybe you end up falling in love with a particular city and you decide that you want to extend your stay. Maybe you end up hating a country and want to get out of there. If you already planned everything and booked everything in advance, changing your plans becomes difficult. If you keep your plans open, you can play it by ear.
• Slow down- Many first-time solo travelers try to cram too many destinations and activities into their itinerary. I made this same mistake. Instead of trying to do everything, pick out a few things to do in each city. Instead of visiting 10 cities in a month, visit 3 or 4. Give yourself time to relax and explore. You’re on vacation after all.
• Do your own thing- The best part of solo travel is the absolute freedom of it. You can do whatever you want without having to take anyone else’s preferences into consideration. It’s all about you. If you feel like renting a bike and riding across the city, you can. If you feel like going to a water park, you can. You also get to avoid things you don’t like doing. If you hate museums, skip them. If you don’t care for the local cuisine, eat something else. It’s your vacation. There is no right or wrong way to solo travel.

Final Thoughts about My First Solo Trip

I realize this is a cliché, but this trip was life changing. Not in the sense that I ‘found myself’ or that I changed in any way. Rather, that I found what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted to travel. By the time I arrived back home, I was already planning my next trip, Asia.

10 years have passed since I took my first solo trip. During that time, I designed my life around travel. So far, I have visited 60 countries on 6 continents with plenty more trips planned for the future. I also started this travel blog and become a digital nomad. In this sense, the trip changed the course of my life.

Are you a solo traveler? Share your story about your first solo trip in the comments below!

More from Where The Road Forks

• Solo Travel Vs Group Travel: Pros and Cons
• 35 Types of Tourism
• 22 Benefits of Traveling
• Backpack Vs Suitcase: Pros and Cons
• Am I Too Old for Hostels?

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Walking holidays for solo travellers

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Hiking tours for solo travellers

Safe & well looked after all around.

If you want to experience an active holiday individually and by yourself, a few questions might arise. Which  travel destination  offers the ideal conditions for single travellers? For what age are hiking holidays for solo travellers suitable, are there any restrictions here? Is there a contact person on-site to answer questions? Can I find my way along the hiking routes on my own? Our  Eurohike travel specialists  have all the answers to these questions.

All advantages of our walking holidays for solo travellers at a glance:

• All Eurohike hiking holidays in Europe are designed to be  bookable and feasible from one person  – so you are free to choose your walking destination. Do you prefer a more southern holiday destination and enjoy travelling by plane? Or do you prefer a holiday destination that can be reached by car? Many of our hiking destinations are easy and uncomplicated to reach by car.
• With our  personal on-site support  during your hiking holidays, you will always be well looked after and have a direct contact person for any questions you may have. Our Eurohike travel specialists are of course also available to you via our  Eurohike service-hotline .
• Our hiking tours offer active  experiences for all  levels of hiking , regardless of age.
• Our detailed  travel documents  are individually tailored to your hiking tour and guide you safely and easily along the right  hiking paths . Tips and recommendations for restaurants and sights are of course also included.
• Many of our hiking tours are suitable for  walking with a dog . And what could be better than exploring the wonderful hiking regions of Europe together with your four-legged companion?

The most beautiful hiking holidays for solo travellers across Europe

Hiking holidays for solo travellers in austria.

Austria  offers solo travellers the ideal conditions for a relaxed and wonderfully restful hiking tour. Whether in the beautiful Salzburger Land, in the Salzkammergut, in Carinthia, in Tyrol, along the Danube or across the provinces – the dreamlike hiking regions are guaranteed to soothe body and soul. Step by step, discover the most beautiful views in the Salzburger Land and the Salzkammergut on our  hiking holiday Ten Lakes Trekking Tour, 10 days  or the  hiking holiday Panorama Walking Tours in the Zell am See District with Charm . Further south, enjoy beautiful Carinthia on our  hiking holiday Carinthian Mountains & Lakes . The extra portion of charm and enjoyment awaits solo travellers on the  hiking tour based in one hotel :  Enchanting Kitzbühel with Charm . The areas along the Danube also promise plenty of hiking pleasure for single travellers, such as the  short hiking holiday  on the  World Heritage Trail Wachau, 5 days . You can explore two wonderful provinces in Austria on our  hiking holiday Pilgrim Trail from Salzburg to Tyrol .

Hiking holidays for solo travellers in Germany

Explore the beautiful areas of Germany individually and at your own hiking pace – this and much more is what you will experience on a  hiking holiday with luggage transfer  for solo travellers. Walk along the most beautiful  quality & premium hiking trails in Germany , such as the  Rheinsteig ,  Salzalpensteig-Path ,  Altmühltal Panorama Path ,  Moselsteig- and Eifelsteig  or  Rennsteig . Hiking holidays at the highest level are guaranteed here for single travellers! Solo travellers experience an impressive active holiday on our  mountain hiking holiday from Lake Königssee to Lake Chiemsee  or the  hiking holiday Bavarian & Salzburg Alps . Have you always wanted to explore Germany's highest mountain and not do without any comfort? Then our  hiking holiday around Zugspitze with charm  is just the thing for you. Germany is a real hiker's paradise for singles and solo travellers!

Walking holidays for solo travellers in Italy

The multifaceted regions of  Italy  offer plenty of soothing moments in nature and a distinctive programme of enjoyment – the best way to discover the most beautiful places in South Tyrol, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lake Garda, Piedmont or Tuscany is by foot. At your own individual hiking pace, you march along the  Via Claudia   from Lake Reschensee to Meran  or  from Meran to Lake Garda with Charm . Both hiking tours are also suitable for  hiking with a dog . A unique experience awaits all solo travellers on our  hiking holiday picturesque Tuscany  or on the  walking holiday in Piedmont . The best way to experience the beautiful  Friuli-Venezia Giulia  region is on our  hiking holiday Alpe-Adria-Trail Italy .

Walking holidays for solo travellers – more destinations

The wonderful hiking holiday destinations in the south also offer a wonderful experience for all solo travellers. Our Eurohike travel specialists will accompany you from your first enquiry to your departure and, of course, we are always there for you with our team on-site. Experience a  year-round walking holiday  on our  hiking holiday around Madeira  and  around Madeira with Charm , exploring the most beautiful places on the island by foot. Regardless of the season, solo travellers can experience the charm of the Canary Islands on our  mountain hiking holiday Walking Paradise Tenerife . Have you always wanted to travel to the beautiful Balearic Island of Mallorca and hike through the picturesque landscape without foregoing any comfort? Our  hiking tour based in one hotel  –  Mallorca‘s West Coast with Charm  – offers solo travellers exactly this relaxing holiday experience.

Even more inspiration

Alpine crossing by foot

Discover the European Alps up close

Hiking by the season

Year round hiking experience with Eurohike

Popular hiking holidays and classics

All the classics and the most beautiful walking tours in Europe

Hiking holidays for wine lovers

On the trail of wine by foot

Hiking by rivers and lakes

Hiking tours by the water to recharge your batteries and find peace and quiet

Hiking videos & moving impressions

Moving pictures and impressions of hiking all over Europe

Island hiking

Hiking holidays on the most beautiful islands in Europe

Pilgrimage hiking tours

Active movement and soothing tranquillity while pilgrimage hiking

Hiking in Northern Europe

The most beautiful hiking tours in the north

Coastal hiking

Hiking holidays on the most beautiful coasts of Europe

Culinary Walking Holidays

Walking and exploring the culinary specialities of the hiking region

Therefore hiking holidays with Eurohike benefits that convince

Perfectly organized hiking tours

In Eurohike hiking vacations, you enjoy that extra level of service and comfort. From start to finish, our Eurohike travel specialists plan and organize your active vacation, giving you even more time to enjoy your active getaway. During your hiking tour, you can focus worry-free on what truly matters: the joy of hiking with your loved ones.

Comprehensive guidance from our travel specialists

Our experienced travel specialists are available to assist you at any time, both during the selection of your tour and throughout the booking process. Your wishes and concerns are our top priority, ensuring that your journey becomes the most beautiful time of the year.

Well-prepared travel information and route descriptions

All guests receive a comprehensive information package with detailed walking maps and travel documents including tips and information on culture, cuisine, country and people - tailored to the respective region and requirements of the individual walking tour. Every year, we review the route meticulously, and continually develop new variations that provide even more insights into the land and culture.

Accommodations with feel-good factor

After a wonderful day of cycling, you will be welcomed in our carefully selected accommodations in the evening. We choose our accommodations with care and consideration, always with a focus on their special orientation towards active vacationers and opportunities for evening relaxation. You'll experience that extra level of comfort on our charming hiking tours , where you can enjoy even more feel-good facilities and an added touch of indulgence.

Hiking without luggage

With us, you'll enjoy the most comfortable form of active vacation. Eurohike transports your luggage to the next accommodation every day. Leave the hotel in the morning with ease, and by evening, your bags will already be waiting at the next lodging. Experience a completely carefree hiking adventure across Europe with our luggage transfer!

Personal on-site support

Our Eurohike original tours are characterized above all by the personal touch for which we have been known for many years. For our original tours, you will be personally welcomed by our team members at the arrival destination. In an informational meeting, all details about the tour and the itinerary will be explained. Our on-site team is also available for tips and recommendations.

Exploring the most beautiful routes with our on Tour-App

We invest a lot of time and effort in crafting our routes and meticulously review them regularly. Thanks to the Eurobike & Eurohike on Tour app, navigating the most beautiful cycling routes in Europe becomes child's play, ensuring you don't miss any of the highlights along the way.

Twice a month we send you the latest information about our hiking holidays, our team and lots of travel inspiration. When you register, you will receive a € 20 credit towards your next hiking tour!

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Hiking Destinations for Solo Travelers: Safe, Easy, Stunning Options

March 7, 2024 by Janice Waugh

I discovered a love of hiking in my early 50s. It was a surprise. Since then I have discovered many exciting, safe, and easy hiking destinations for solo travelers. Hiking, urban or in nature, is a great focus or addition to any solo trip.

Being outdoors makes me happy. I don't have to take on a mountain. Something easy is as good as a challenge, as long as I'm outside. I was surprised to learn that a recent survey crowned the South West Coast Path, England as the happiest walk worldwide. I've done that walk and it's listed below.

I was raised in major cities and city travel had been my mode with family, partners, and friends. It was on one of my first solo trips that I indulged a romantic notion that walking the Lake District would make me a calmer, more centered person. And it did. I always feel better when out in nature.

This post is about safe and easy solo hiking destinations that I've discovered in my travels. As you will see from the list below, there are all sorts of experiences to be had hiking. From well-groomed, sometimes paved paths to narrow, craggy trails with hazardous roots and stumps, to mountainous routes that will take you to spectacular views, there are many options from which to choose. From Canada to Europe, from Patagonia to the Lake District, hiking trails have their own unique flavors and each is wonderful.

Table of Contents

Great Hiking Destinations for Solo Travelers in Europe and the UK

Europe has a long tradition of hiking. Getting out of the cities and onto trails is a typical Sunday excursion. The Germans especially have a reputation for being long distance hikers. There is a romantic view of hiking in Germany. They actually called the route along the Tauber Valley from Tauberbischofsheim through to Rothenburg the Romantic Road. However, hiking is a common activity throughout Europe, especially where there are mountains. Here are the places I've hiked.

Solo Hiking in France with a Backup Guide

It's difficult to go hiking in France and avoid vineyards, quaint villages, and the occasional chateau. Of course, like the Austrian recommendation below, there are the French Alps as well for another take on hiking.

My hiking in France has focused on the Loire Valley which is famous for its chateaux. In fact, I walked every other day on this seven-day trip. Walking days were between chateaux and the rest days were about visiting the chateau and related village. Read Travel Solo on a Self-Guided Walking Tour: Seeing France Slowly .

Solo Hiking in Iceland

The best thing about Iceland is its natural beauty. I don't think anyone would argue this point. The food is fine. The people, though hard to meet, are welcoming. But the landscape took my breath away. Whether you want an afternoon hike or one that covers many days, you will never tire of the landscape. It's also worth noting that there are not really any dangerous animals in Iceland. Here's a link to some hiking options in Iceland .

Hiking in Zugspitz Area, Austria

Zugspitz is the tallest mountain in Germany. Located on the Austrian/German border, I've hiked the Austrian side where the trails are wide and well groomed. There are no rocks or roots to trip over. It's civilized and the paths are designed to take you from one place to another, from a lake for swimming, to a restaurant for lunch, to another for a beer. And along the way, there are wonderful views of the stunning Alps. The closest city is Innsbruck, however, you can access it from Munich. See hiking in Bavaria below.

Hiking Alone in Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is probably the most traditional area of Germany you can visit. Think chalets with balconies and carved wood railings. Think of mountains and the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. There is hiking almost everywhere in Bavaria but for hiking and more I'd suggest  Tegernsee , a small spa town about 50 minutes south of Munich and 90 minutes east of the castle. It offers plenty of circular hikes around lakes and in the mountains. For the end of the day, there are the spas and some fabulous restaurants including Restaurant Überfahrt , where the chef has earned two Michelin stars.

Solo Walking in the Lake District, England

Walking (hiking) in the Lake District is where I first discovered that I liked hiking. The first day I was puzzled by it – did I enjoy it? But the next day I awoke eager to go again. This surprised and delighted me. There are over 100 different trails in the Lake District (many people make it their mission to complete them all) at various levels, making it a great hiking destination for multi-generational families, serious hikers, and yes, casual hikers/solo travelers like me. The paths are very well marked and the views are breathtaking.

Solo Hiking on The Isle of Skye, Scotland

I loved the Isle of Skye. There is a sense of separation from the mainland in the culture. It's quiet and beautiful despite the number of tourists that visit every year. The hiking is safe and possible even for those at a beginner level. You definitely need hiking shoes at a minimum, though hiking boots are better. You can expect rain so rain gear is important as well. For details on where to stay, where to hike, and how to get around, read:  The Spectacular Isle of Skye Without a Car .

Hiking the West Highland Way, Scotland

Here's what one of our readers wrote about the West Highland Way: “The whole trip was truly an awesome experience. Not only was I blown away by the landscape, but also by the Scots themselves. These are warmhearted and welcoming people, always friendly, with a very good sense of humor (which I really like). They offer the best whiskies (of course) you can think of and food you cannot get enough of.” Read  Solo Travel Destination: The West Highland Way, Scotland .

Solo Hikes in Canada and the United States

Much more of North America is left in its natural state than Europe. Many hikes go through dense forest with a destination of a waterfall or a view. Rather than looking at the views that are often in every direction in the UK and Europe, in North America, a hiker's focal length is often quite short, to the forest floor, the flora around, and sometimes the wildlife. Here are some recommended hiking destinations for solo travelers in Canada and the United States.

Exploring the Acadian Shores in Nova Scotia, Canada

The coastline of the Acadian Shores is a series of peninsulas and on each peninsula is an opportunity for a wonderful hike. Groomed but not paved, trails, windswept grasses, lighthouses, and beautiful sunsets are all there. Here's a list of trails in the vicinity . There is much more to do in the area. Here is my seven-day itinerary: The Great Acadian Road Trip: Itinerary, Tips and Lots of Pics .

Solo Hiking in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

These photos show classic hiking in North America. Narrow trails, lightly managed, deep in the woods. For the hike above I had a guide with me. Going deep into the forest along an unfamiliar trail on which you are unlikely to meet another person is not the best idea for solo hikers. However, there are trails just outside Prince Rupert that are accessible by bus, well-used and safe for solo travelers. More about Prince Rupert here.

The Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, Canada

Hikes like the East Coast Trail on the Bay of Fundy remind me of an architectural theory I once read that suggested that the best view from a home should not have a massive window in a convenient place. If the house is designed that way, the view eventually becomes commonplace and overlooked. The idea is to force the looker to pause, to really take in and enjoy the view. That's what we have on the Bay of Fundy. Beautiful woods rich with the smell of flora, and only the occasional view, making each all the more delightful.

Solo Hiking in Kauai, Hawaii

Solo hiking in Kauai is safe in terms of wild animals. The only potential problem is wild boars and I’m told they’re inclined to stay away from you. Every trail I was on had some people on it – not lots, but enough that if something happened to you, a person would be by in about 10 minutes who could help. The greatest danger I found hiking in Kauai is how slippery it can get when the red soil/clay is wet.

On a hike along the ridge of the Waimea Canyon, my first really slippery climb up, a man, shirtless, moving like a billy goat with two hiking sticks said to me, “you’ll need this” and passed me one of his sticks without stopping. It was like he dropped out of the sky just to take care of me! Kauai is a great place for hiking.

Solo Hiking in National Parks, Utah, USA

There are many National Parks in Utah but there are five that really stand out: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Canyonlands, and Capital Reef. There are dangerous animals in the National Parks but if you stay where there are usually people, it is highly unlikely that one will come your way. You'll want to visit at a time when the parks are less busy but stay on the main trails so that if something should happen, you will have another hiker come by shortly.

Urban Hiking in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Yes, it's wonderful to get outside a city but one must remember that most cities have fascinating urban hikes to explore. The photo above was taken from the lighthouse point at Tommy Thompson Park on the Leslie Street Spit in Toronto. The walk results in a great view of downtown. The park is exclusively for cyclists and hikers and is a destination for bird watchers. Over the course of a year, over 100 species stop by the park for a rest or to stay.

Great Solo Hiking Trips Around the World

Here are a few more hiking destinations I can recommend for solo travelers, based on my own experiences in different countries.

Hiking with a Group in Hong Kong: Urban Hiking

Hiking is a popular activity in Hong Kong–though I'm sure it ranks far behind shopping. Nevertheless, when I looked to see if there was a Meetup group I might want to join to connect with locals when I was there, hiking showed up as number one. So I joined a group and off I went. I made a couple of mistakes.

• I scheduled my hike the day after arriving from Toronto. I needed more time to recover from jet lag.
• I didn't take into account the impact the change in climate would have. I went from a cool, dry spring to very hot and humid weather overnight.

Yet, with the caveat of giving yourself time to acclimatize to Hong Kong's weather and time zone, I would recommend hiking there. You can read about my hike here .

Stay on the Path in The Blue Mountains, Australia

Hiking the Blue Mountains, or bushwalking as it’s called in Australia, is available to all levels of hikers. What you see in the photo above is just a smidgen of the Great Dividing Range that runs over 3,500 km along the eastern coast of Australia from Queensland through New South Wales to Victoria. Hiking trails are well marked, especially around Katoomba where the Three Sisters is. Yet, according to posters put up by the local authorities, more than 130 people get lost in the bush of the Blue Mountains every year and some don’t make it out at all. It's advisable to stay on the path.  Click here for more on where to go, stay, eat, and hike .

Solo Hiking in Patagonia, Chile

There are two main options in Patagonia: the W and the circuit. Each can be done in a number of ways. The W trails were designed and built less than twenty years ago for the average hiker. Before then you had to be an expert climber to go. The hiking involves fields, wide trails, narrow trails through woods, and very rocky portions near the top. There are major rewards in hiking Patagonia such as the Towers as shown above.

Beyond Hiking Destinations: What Solo Travelers Need to Know

Here are some posts to help you with the other elements of planning, preparing, and enjoying a solo hiking trip.

• Solo Hiking: What You Need to Know to Hike Alone
• Backpacking Solo: How to Plan an Exhilarating & Safe Budget Trip
• Walking the Camino Solo: Life-Changing for Body, Mind & Spirit
• Preparing for the Camino: What You Need to Know

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Hiking Tours in Europe

Macs Adventure has built its first-class reputation for self-guided active travel in Europe since its foundation in 2003. We have fine-tuned our European alpine hikes ,  pilgrimages , long distant trails , and indulgent ‘ in style ’ hiking tours. We have uncovered hidden ancient pathways, rocky coastlines, and Roman backroads where civilizations grew, and the best hikes were born. You’ll often be greeted by locals who are eager to share the hidden secrets that nature and culture hold in Europe.

The cultural diversity in Europe affords the opportunity to awaken all your senses! Savor delicious tapas on the Camino Frances , the finest whiskey on the West Highland Way , or unique local fare with a dramatic backdrop of the Alps on the Tour du Mont Blanc . In the Italian Cinque Terre , you will hike past local picturesque vineyards during the day and sip the local fine wine in the evening. Visit the Bernese Oberland to spot the Chamois on mountain paths, or head to Portugal's Silver Coast  to smell the wildflowers in the hills of Sintra.

There are so many special places in Europe, and we’re here to find the right experience for you!

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Practical Advice On Planning A Solo Backpacking Europe Trip

Europe is one of the most diverse continents in the world. You can take the next train from Vienna to Bratislava (the journey takes just an hour) and leave the train in a different country, being welcomed by different food, culture, and language. Europe is often a destination where travelers spend several weeks enjoying the historical old towns and their people.

If you have ever contemplated traveling through Europe on your own and just were not sure, don’t fret. We have got your back! Read on for practical advice on planning a solo backpacking Europe trip – a journey of a lifetime!

To remain connected throughout your trip to Europe – Get your  Tep Wireless  Portable pocket-size WiFi now!

Your Adventure

Traveling on your own, the most important decisions can be daunting. Where do I stop? What do I want to see? Do I care more about the sea or the city? Maybe you are the type of person who looks at the travel pictures on Instagram and thinks that, actually, you want to see everything .

Start with a list and then check the routes you could take. You may already have a set of dates in your mind, but the sooner you know how long you would like to be traveling, the easier your plans are going to become. Europe may be small, but it is still a continent and you won’t be able to see every country in just two weeks.

Get ready to plan your adventure. On a solo backpacking Europe trip, you have all the freedom in the world. Plan a few extra days in case you end up enjoying Berlin and Paris a little more than the other cities in your itinerary. Europe has such a great transportation network that you can get train tickets for just a few euros.

Forget all the stress but DO plan your journey!

Your Backpack

If you usually rely on others to pack toothpaste, sunglasses, or travel books, you need to intensively plan the contents of your backpack. As a solo traveler, you can only rely on your backpack. Forgetting to pack items can be costly as some European countries are pricey.

Depending on the length of your journey, you should get the appropriate backpack with enough volume to store everything you could potentially need. However, don’t forget that Europe has mild weather and you won’t need climbing axes or heaps of guide books. Restaurants and inns are an integrated part of every tiny village, and if you book hostels along the way, you won’t even need to pack a tent .

Nevertheless, don’t forget to leave room for memories. If you find a particularly nice box with Russian lacquer art design, you will need some space in your backpack. Don’t forget to pack your camera for all the great pictures that will forever remind you of your adventures.

DO pack everything you need, but don’t forget the extra room for your souvenirs!

Also Read: Check Out These Unpopular European Countries To Visit

The correct etiquette.

Europe may be a small continent, but that does not mean that there is little to discover during your solo backpacking Europe trip. In fact, the individual countries in Europe are so different that people are often shocked when they arrive. Mentality, culture, and even politeness change as soon as you cross over the border.

Before you embark on your journey, definitely do your research. If you want to spend a few days in London, stick to the queues, while locals are generally nicer to you if you don’t look like the stereotypical tourist in Rome. Germans can be quite friendly and their neighbors in the Netherlands are often described as one of the most open-minded nations in the world.

Wherever you decided to go, try to research politeness and etiquette for the countries of your choice and the locals will repay you with their gratitude. Why not learn some new words in a few languages as well? A nice “Obrigado” (“thank you”) in Portugal will make a big difference. Locals love it when travelers try to communicate in the local language.

DO your research!

If you are worried traveling on your own is going to be awful and lonely, you need not worry any longer. Europeans are hospitable and the continent is considered safe if not the safest. On your travels, you will meet many like-minded people, who will share their stories and adventures.

The world is your oyster. Do talk to people in hostels and ask the locals for the way. Do try to speak the language of the country you are in and respect its culture. You will never forget the food in the restaurant in Milan the local guide recommended because it was that much better.

At the same time, we live in a digital age and apps can be your best friend. You won’t be traveling completely on your own if you look for other travelers via the Internet and you will enjoy the beer in the pub in Edinburgh even more if it is shared.

DO engage with the locals!

Related: Backpacking Solo For The First Time? Here’s How To Travel On Periods

Just focus on these tips and your solo backpacking Europe trip will become the most memorable journeys of your life!

Want To Fit In A Short Road Trip In Your Solo Backpacking Europe Trip? Find The Cheapest Cars Here

Author’s Bio

Helene writes for  BackpackerTrail , your first source for international backpacking. Created as a German start-up, the company has now started to expand into the English and Spanish speaking world. Whether you are just browsing for ideas or actively planning your next trip,  BackpackerTrail  has got your back

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hahaha I should really start working on #3 – I’m sooooo awkwardly bad with communicating with people while I travel and I always feel like I’m missing out on something!

Hahaha! We all have been there.. I used to be the same, but the more I traveled solo I kept on getting better with communicating with the people 🙂

Some great tips here! Totally agree on etiquette, respecting customs, and learning to speak a few sentences of the local language! Did wonders for me when i first moved to Florence! Additionally, local recommendations are pure gold, and often become the highlights of our trip!

Thank you, Galatia! I’m happy you liked these tips 🙂

That’s a lot of useful information. We often disregard the fact that all these countries are unique on their own and need their own research. Respecting the culture and people is a way of showing gratitude to them.

This made me ready to plan a backpacking trip across Europe (when Americans can return, of course)! I can’t wait to explore cobblestone streets, eat local food, and explore again 🙂

Totally agree about spending time extensively planning your backpack! It’s the best way I’ve figured out how to maximize my time when moving from one destination to the next!

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Solo travel in europe: best places to travel alone + tips.

Are you looking for the best solo travel destinations in Europe?

Then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve visited most European countries over the past three decades, many of these as a solo traveller.

To inspire you to   plan your next solo trip to Europe, I’ve pulled together an awesome list of the best destinations. To make it as varied as possible, I’ve reached out to fellow travel writers for their suggestions.

Read on to discover the best places to travel alone in Europe and solo travel tips, including how to get around and how to stay safe.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Dreaming of your first solo trip? Click here to download your FREE solo travel toolkit . 

It’s just what you need to kickstart your plans!

IN THIS ARTICLE

My Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations in Europe

1.  anywhere in italy.

Italy is an amazing solo travel destination , especially if you are travelling alone for the first time . It was one of the first countries that I visited as a solo traveller more than 30 years ago and one to which I have returned more times than I can count.

There is a well-worn tourist trail, and English is widely spoken in tourism hotspots and by younger people. And the familiarity that comes with unconscious immersion in the country’s food and culture makes Italy a super easy country for the novice solo traveller.

For centuries, Italy’s landscape, history and food have drawn travellers from across the globe (for me, add  Italian coffee bars  and  gelato! ). The famous  hilltop towns of Tuscany  draw travellers from near and far.

Italy is every Renaissance fangirl or fanboy’s dream with world-famous art and architectural treasures too numerous to count. From Rome to Rimini, Urbino to the Uffizi, Cortona to  Carrara’s marble mines , there’s something for everyone.

READ THESE NEXT!

• Best Solo Travel Destinations in Italy
• How to Have the Best Solo Trip to Rome
• The Perfect Solo Trip to Florence

2. Anywhere in Spain

Spain ticks many of the boxes for an ideal solo travel destination . 

It has natural beauty in spades with wide, sandy beaches, rugged rocky coves and a highland plateau, straddled by dramatic mountain ranges.

Thanks to decades of mass tourism, it has an extremely well-developed infrastructure. There are accommodation choices to suit all budgets, restaurants are plentiful, English is widely spoken and the train network is extensive. 

One of  the things that Spain is most famous for  is its rich historical heritage. Its UNESCO-listed sites include  Granada’s majestic Alhambra Palace ,  Seville’s Cathedral  and its  Alcázar palace , Antoni Gaudí’s work in  Barcelona  (including the jaw-dropping  La Sagrada Família ) and  Tarragona’s Roman ruins  (to name but a few).

And don’t write off the Canary Islands for your solo trip.  They offer much more than sun-and-sangria beach flops, from hiking in the Anaga Forest of Tenerife to exploring the magical world of César Manrique in Lanzarote.

READ THESE NEXT:

• Canary Islands Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide
• Lanzarote Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide
• Gran Canaria Solo Travel: Itinerary & Essential Guide
• Tenerife Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

3. Anywhere in Portugal

Portugal is one of the cheapest solo travel destinations in Western Europe.

Although not as well developed as that of its Iberian neighbour, Portugal’s travel infrastructure does allow independent exploration with its rail network covering major tourist hubs. And as Portugal is a relatively small country, this makes travel more manageable if you only have a few weeks to spare.

Like Spain, it has a temperate climate and abundant natural beauty with a long beach-lined coastline, a mountainous north and the lush Duoro River valley, home to the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. 

The sub-tropical island of  Madeira is one of the best places I have visited as a solo traveller  in recent years.

Finally,  Portugal has been ranked as the third safest country in the world,  welcome news if you are a female solo traveller. 

READ THIS NEXT:   Solo Travel in Madeira: The Ultimate Guide

4. Ghent, Belgium

If you are a solo traveller looking for a less-touristy alternative to Bruges in Belgium, book your ticket to gorgeous Ghent.

Bruges may be better known, but Ghent has a cityscape to rival its busier neighbour with red-bricked gable-roofed buildings and monumental Gothic spires overlooking meandering canals. It’s a delight.

Hit the highlights of this medieval city on a free Ghent self-guided walking tour , taking in the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb in St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and climb the UNESCO-listed Belfry for a bird’s eye view of Ghent. Take a boat tour along the canals and, as evening falls, join a local for a beer tour of the city (highly recommended!).

A broad range of places to stay in Ghent and the excellent value Ghent City Card help to keep things affordable. It is a friendly and safe city with locals, students and tourists alike enjoying its attractions, bars and restaurants.

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is a superb solo city break  and is a good jumping-off point for Iceland’s outstanding natural wonders. 

Take a  day tour of the  Golden Circle , a 300 km circular route that loops from Reykjavik into central Iceland, to explore the country’s rugged interior. Soak your cares away in the milky waters of the  Blue Lagoon  whilst sipping on a cool Icelandic beer. 

Iceland’s crime rate approaches zero and, as a solo female traveller, harassment is also rare. It is easy to book excursions online or via one of the agencies in downtown Reykjavik, and Iceland is also a mecca for outdoor activities.

Whilst it’s safe to say that Iceland isn’t the most budget-friendly destination, there are tips and tricks for cutting costs when you visit Iceland .

6. London, England

I may be biased, but my home town of London has a cultural scene that is second to none. There are world-class  museums , including Tate Britain and Tate Modern , a theatrical and musical landscape to accommodate all tastes, excellent restaurants and, of course, a lively drinking culture. 

There is no shortage of  things to do in London as a solo traveller . 

Meet fellow travellers on one of the many  walking tours  – I recommend one of the London street art tours. Or tick off many of London’s landmarks by taking a stroll along the Victoria Embankment or the South Bank. 

Or see the sights from the water by taking a  boat ride along the Thames  (for the more adventurous you can ride in a RIB!). This is a great way to fully appreciate London’s magnificent bridges .

On those rainy afternoons (and we do get a few of these!), visit a museum or gallery, get a bargain ticket for a  theatre  matinee performance, see a new  cinematic release  or an old classic or linger over a book in a coffee shop.

Finally, if you want a break from city life, take one of the many  easy day trips from London , including Bohemian Brighton, the golden dunes of Camber Sands , the dreaming spires of Oxford and the Georgian splendour of Bath.

7. Rhine Valley, Germany

Are you a solo traveller searching for a perfect mix of legend, history and beauty? Then start planning a trip to the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, also known as the Rhine Gorge.

The good news is that you don’t have to fork out for an expensive cruise to experience this idyllic section of the Rhine. It’s easy to explore Germany’s Romantic Rhine Valley on public transport.

Base yourself in Boppard and use local trains and buses to visit Burg Rheinfels , one of the mightiest castles on the river, Bacharach and Oberwesel .

And when the sightseeing is done, there’s the region’s excellent food and wine to savour.

8. Highlands of Scotland

Studded with deep lochs and soaring mountains, the Scottish Highlands is blessed with some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet. 

Better still, its abundance of outdoor activities provides ample opportunities for solo travellers to meet other people. If you prefer solitude, solo hiking is relatively safe as long as you don’t too far off the beaten path.

And if you love train travel as much as I do, you’re in luck. From catching the Caledonian Sleeper from London to the magical Harry Potter scenic train between Fort William and Mallaig , there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring trips.

Base yourself in Fort William to ride the Jacobite steam train and visit glorious Glencoe . Make the lovely city of Inverness your second base, the jumping-off point for Loch Ness and the historic Culloden battlefield.

9. Provence, France

The ease with which you can explore  Provence by train ; fields filled with fragrant lavender; ancient Roman ruins; picture-perfect walled medieval cities and some of the best food and wine in the world. These are just a few reasons why this region of France is perfect for those who are travelling alone. 

During a week in Provence, you can explore the ‘three As” – the historic cities of  Avignon, Arles  and  Aix-en-Provence . If you are a history buff, visit the amphitheatre at  Orange  and the sensational  Pont du Gard , the tallest aqueduct bridge in the Roman world.

Moving south, spend a day in revitalised  Marseilles , visiting the MuCEM, Marseille’s Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, before relaxing in the quintessential Provençal portside town of Cassis.

And, of course, in summer there are the lavender and sunflower fields in full bloom.

10. Kraków, Poland

If you are looking for a budget-friendly solo travel destination with a first-rate bar scene, Kraków could be just the ticket. This is a city that hasn’t sold its soul to tourism, and where it is possible to feast on a meal for 15 PLN washed down with a glass of craft beer for 5 PLN (around 4 GBP). 

Join one of its excellent  free walking tours  – I loved the one exploring  Kraków’s Royal Road  –  to meet like-minded travellers. However, the whole city has a social vibe.

Reflect on Kraków’s tragic past by visiting  Kazimierz , the city’s old Jewish Quarter, the former Jewish ghetto in  Podgorze  and the neighbouring  Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory.  For many people, the chance to take a  day trip to  Auschwitz   is reason enough to visit Kraków. 

For something a little different, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the  Wieliczka  Salt Mine , a labyrinthine network of tunnels lacing through the mine’s salty depths. Just 12km south-east of Kraków, this is an easy day trip from Kraków. 

Best Cities in Europe for Solo Travel (A to Z List)

11. amsterdam, the netherlands.

Amsterdam has a large and vibrant community of travellers, be they leisure travellers or freelance digital nomads.

People hang out at hostels or connect with each other through communities such as Couchsurfing or Meetup. Couchsurfing events are a great way to meet locals in addition to fellow travellers (I remember joining a meet-up of Spanish-speaking folks in Amsterdam, which was such fun!).  

In addition to this thriving community, Amsterdam is also home to tons of  museums.   If you have even a little curiosity regarding history or art, you can spend hours here, not really caring about having company. 

Getting around Amsterdam is easy and it’s a convenient base for day trips to other Dutch cities. The excellent tram network, comfortable buses and cycling infrastructure are a real boon for a solo traveller in Amsterdam.  

The best sights in Amsterdam are the museums and  Dam Square . The  Jordaan area  is also a good place to spend an evening chilling in cafes and pubs. 

If you feel more adventurous, cross the river to the  Noord region  to enjoy the  I AM HOLLAND experience  and  Adam’s Lookout . The former experience gives you an epic virtual tour of The Netherlands, while the latter offers a stunning view of the city. 

By Umang of Travelmax

12. Athens, Greece

Athens is friendly, welcoming, easy to get around and home to spectacular attractions.

With relatively cheap flights from Europe and beyond, some great hostels and an excellent range of bars, restaurants and cafes, Athens is an amazing destination for solo travellers taking a weekend break and those travelling more extensively across Europe.

Choose centrally located accommodation in Athens so you can easily walk around the top sights.

These include the  Acropolis  (and Acropolis Museum), the  Ancient Agora, Monastiraki, Plaka  and  Syntagma Square.  Thankfully there are so many options within this area that you won’t be hard pushed to find a decent hotel or Airbnb.

Athens also has some awesome  tours  that you can take (e.g. Local Food Tours, Street Art Tours) which are a great way to interact with both locals and other travellers.

As Athens has both easy-to-use public transport and taxis, you’ll be able to explore the city safely. There are also some fun day trips that can be taken as tours out of the city.

By Chrysoula of Athens and Beyond

13. Belgrade, Serbia

If you’re looking for the perfect solo travel destination in Europe, you really can’t go wrong with Belgrade, Serbia.

The capital of Serbia has lots to offer visitors and it is a great place to visit alone. There are countless  things to do in Belgrade over two or three (or more!) days  and the atmosphere of the city, along with the gregarious nature of the locals, make it ideal to visit on your own.

Belgrade is a popular city amongst backpackers and there are countless hostels throughout the city, where it is easy to meet other like-minded travellers.

There are also numerous free walking tours of the city’s neighbourhoods. Ideal for meeting others while learning about the destination.

Belgrade locals are also easy-going, sociable and easy to talk to, so you never truly have to feel alone when visiting this dynamic city.

Some of the top sites in Belgrade include the fascinating  Old Town , the wonderful pedestrian street of  Knez Mihailova  and, of course, the sprawling  Kalemegdan  fortress park overlooking the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. There are also several interesting  museums  where you can learn more about Belgrade’s history plus a great nightlife scene to experience.

By Maggie of The World Was Here First

14. Bruges, Belgium

Picture-postcard-perfect Bruges is an idyllic destination for those travelling alone in Europe and an essential part of any Belgium itinerary .

It is picturesque, safe, easy to get to and there are lots of things to do. As it is a compact and walkable city, it is simple to navigate.

Bruges is famous for its meandering canals that lace their way through its perfectly preserved medieval centre , its magnificent Belfry , world-class museums and, of course, Belgian beer .

But for my money, one of the best things to do in this charming city is to take a self-guided Bruges chocolate tour . Belgium produces some of the finest chocolate in the world, and this is the ideal place to try the best of the best from the city’s artisan producers.

15. Brussels, Belgium

The Belgian capital is one of Europe’s liveliest cities. With just one day in Brussels , you can soak up its medieval architecture and stuff yourself silly with beer, waffles and chocolate.

The UNESCO-listed Grand Place is at the heart of Brussels’ city centre and is lined with porticoed and frilly, late medieval buildings. This is also where the city’s Christmas market takes place.

On the eastern side of the city, old architecture gives way to sleek skyscrapers, including the headquarters of the European Union .

Lovers of cartoons should follow the Comic Strip Walk or visit the Belgian Comic Strip Centre .

Brussels is also the best base from which to visit other Belgian cities. Ones for your bucket list include lovely Leuven and its botanic garden ( De Kruidtuin Leuven ), Mechelen and Hasselt (don’t miss the Jenever Museum and Japanse Tuin Hasselt ).

16. Budapest, Hungary

There are so many great places to travel alone in Europe and Budapest is one of them.

Budapest is a safe city to visit, even at night. However, as with any big city, take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Also, Budapest is easy to navigate. The trams and buses are simple to use, there are lots of helpful maps that will guide you from place to place and the majority of the signs are written in English.

Budapest has great hostels and hotels, world-class attractions and first-rate restaurants and pubs that won’t break the bank. As a solo traveller, you can find anything within your budget.

Some of the most iconic things to do in Budapest include the  Parliament House ,  Dohany Street Synagogue ,  Fisherman’s Bastion , the  Jewish Quarter ,  St. Stephen’s Basilica , the  Chain Bridge , and  Szechenyi Spa Baths .

By Disha of  Disha Discovers

>>> Are you looking for motivation to book your solo trip to Europe? If so, check out these inspirational quotations about travelling alone .

17. Cologne, Germany

For a German city with a rich historical legacy, visit Cologne.

It is best known for the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral , one of the greatest churches in Christendom, and its toilet water, Eau de Cologne .

Germany’s fourth-largest city is also home to the busiest railway bridge in the world, Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrücke), which is smothered in love locks. The other highlights of Cologne include its 12 great Romanesque churches , the Old Town ’s squares and buildings and its insanely popular Chocolate Museum .

Last but not least, don’t leave town before trying the local Kölsch , the delicious local brew which has a hoppy and slightly sweet taste.

18. Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark’s capital city is effortlessly cool.

Copenhagen has the lot. A historic city centre with cobbled streets and candy-coloured gabled houses; a cutting-edge design scene and trendy shops, bars and restaurants.

Paying your respects to The Little Mermaid is pretty much obligatory but manage your expectations. At just four feet tall, she is a little underwhelming.

One of the best things to do in Copenhagen is to take a canal cruise from Nyhavn and Ved Stranden, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective. With its crayon-hued houses, the former rough sailors’ district of Nyhavn has been transformed into the poster child of Copenhagen.

Finally, for a different side of Copenhagen, stroll through the hash-perfumed community of Freetown Christiana . There are not many cities that have a main drag called Pushers Street.

19. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is the gem of the Adriatic coast in Croatia. As it’s not a dangerous city, you don’t need to take special safety precautions; just use your common sense like anywhere else and you will be fine.

With all the great  things to do in Dubrovnik , you will be busy all day long with sightseeing.

Be sure to  walk the city walls  around the  Old Town.  The views from there are incredible and with the ticket, you can also visit  Fort Lovrijenac  just outside the Old Town.

Fans of  Game of Thrones  will recognise many of Dubrovnik’s sights from their television screen. One of the best activities in Dubrovnik though is just wandering around its narrow streets and enjoying the atmosphere of the town.

The city is very popular among tourists, especially in the summer season, but once the crowds are gone Dubrovnik is bliss.   

By Kami of Kami & The Rest of the World

20. Dublin, Ireland

By day and by night, Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, has a diverse range of attractions to offer. As a solo tourist, you will feel right at home and have a packed  Dublin itinerary  exploring the city, its culture and top-class tourist sights.  

The must-see attractions include the  Guinness Storehouse  with an unbeatable view of the Dublin skyline from the Gravity Bar,  Trinity College  and the medieval manuscript of the Book of Kells and the latest treasures found in the  Chester Beatty Library .  

Dublin is designated a UNESCO City of Literature. Join in the fun at the  James Joyce Bloomsday Festival  in June, or visit the  Museum of Modern Literature  to get a taste of Irish Literature at its finest. 

If you want to learn more about the country’s history, visit Kilmainham Gaol , the birthplace of modern Ireland

Ireland’s capital is an excellent base for  day trips  with many locations to choose from, so you won’t have to bother renting a car. From Howth Harbour outside the city centre (reachable by train) to the Cliffs of Moher or to the Giant’s Causeway, you will be spoilt for choice! 

In the evenings, you can enjoy some great  live music  in the many pubs around the city. There is always music in  Temple Bar,  but it can be very touristy. 

Try some of these other pubs for a more authentic atmosphere. Don’t worry about being by yourself, it is very easy to strike up a conversation with most Irish people! 

By Emer and Nils of Let’s Go Ireland

21. Frieburg, Germany

Hugging the western edge of the Black Forest, sunny Freiburg im Breisgau is the perfect destination for the solo traveller wishing to combine a cultural city break with first-rate hiking. has a lot going for it.

This university city has a compact Old Town (Altstadt), a magnificent Cathedral, a handful of first-rate museums and more cafes and restaurants than you can shake a stick at. It is also an excellent base from which to explore the Black Forest.

Although it was extensively damaged by Allied bombing raids in World War II, its Old Town has been faithfully restored and is home to a number of fine medieval buildings. The city even has a resident crocodile!

If you crave an easy walk in the Black Forest, a short bus and tram journey will bring you to the Schlauslandbahn Cableway. From the top station, 2.5 km to 8.8 km walking trails offer sensational views over this iconic German landscape.

22. Glasgow, Scotland

As a solo traveller, do you want to visit a city that is friendly and welcoming, gentle on your wallet, filled with fun people and dotted with amazing things to do? Look no further than Glasgow, Scotland.

The city’s slogan “People Make Glasgow” could not be more true. The locals are super friendly, whether you need help with directions to want to meet new people in the pub. 

There are numerous budget-friendly accommodation options from great hostels to quirky boutique guest houses. Most attractions and museums are free to visit, which makes it easy to soak up as much of Glasgow’s history, art and culture as possible.  

Glasgow has also many fantastic green spaces and a colourful  street art  trail with massive murals. There are several street  food markets , cool  shops  filled with local designs and of course endless  pubs with live music  and banter.  

I highly recommend taking a  history tour with Glasgow Women’s Library  and looking into the city’s historic involvement with the slave trade, signs of which can be seen in street names and buildings around the city. 

And that’s just in the city.

Glasgow is also a great place to base yourself if you want to take  day trips to the Scottish countryside.  Other cities like Stirling and Edinburgh are within easy reach. Beautiful castles, stunning Highland scenery and several Scottish islands are on your doorstep.  

All this and more makes Glasgow a perfect place to visit as a solo traveller.

By Kathi of Watch Me See

23. Gothenburg, Sweden

Sweden’s second city, Gothenburg is an underrated destination compared to the capital, Stockholm . But as the world’s most sustainable destination four times in a row, it’s a European city that will  inspire any solo traveller .   

Gothenburg is a very walkable city, filled with beautiful  botanical gardens , local  designer shops , and a strong Swedish  fika  culture. Gothenburg is a paradise for foodies and has a much more affordable price tag compared to Stockholm. 

With free walking tours, it’s easy for solo travellers to make friends and explore quaint neighbourhoods such as Haga, which is famous for baking the largest cinnamon rolls in Sweden.  

The best time of year to visit the city is December for the Gothenburg  Christmas markets . This is when the whole city turns into a festive winter wonderland. 

Gothenburg has four Christmas markets, but the main one is Sweden’s largest and is found at Liseberg Amusement Park. Liseberg is an icon in Sweden and includes thrilling rollercoaster rides, a seasonal ice skating show and over 80 Christmas stalls and shops.

By Roshni of The Wanderlust Within

24. Helsinki, Finland

Modest Helsinki, or  Finland , might not be at the top of your list when considering places for a solo Europe escape, but it should be. 

Tucked away in the northeast of Europe, Helsinki is an enigma; an excellent secret destination full of local charm and personality but minus the crowds. A short vacation with a difference. 

Not only is it wonderfully weird and completely original, but it is utterly welcoming to everyone. And it is oh so safe! Helsinki is one of the safest cities in the world, and you can walk everywhere during the day without worry. 

Finns are shy, reserved and independent, and love to spend time alone. However, this adds to Helsinki’s appeal as a solo travel destination since most of its attractions can easily be undertaken by one person. 

Dining alone , drinking coffee, sauna, you name it; being solo here is completely normal. And, especially as a female traveller, it would be unheard of for someone to come up and harass you for being alone. 

Strolling around Helsinki is like being in an outdoor museum of architecture, with an eclectic mish-mash of magnificent neoclassical architecture, art nouveau constructs, and modern design. Inside top highlights include the  Kiasma Museum , the  Löyly Sauna , the  Amos Rex , and the  Moomin store . 

And don’t forget to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed  Suomenlinna Island Fortress . You might not know much about Helsinki before visiting, but you’ll never forget it afterwards.

By Jordan of Inspired by Maps

25. La Valletta, Malta

La Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a great European destination for solo travellers.

It’s delightfully compact, with stone buildings piled on top of each other higgledy-piggledy. The entire Valletta peninsula is only a couple of kilometres long, so you can easily explore the whole city on foot. Just be prepared to climb lots of stairs.

Most locals here speak fluent English, so it’s easy to make new friends

Valletta’s role as the headquarters of the Knights of Malta from the 16th to 18th Centuries is a very important part of the city’s history, and many of its best sights relate to this period. The knights’ armoury can be visited inside the  Palace of the Grand Masters , though the palace now serves as the parliament and president’s office, most of it is off-limits.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral  doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the interior is covered head to toe in marble and frescoes and is incredibly ornate. If you love art, be sure to visit the  Cathedral Museum , which displays two paintings by Caravaggio, who was once a knight himself.

And Valletta is the perfect base from which to explore the rest of this small island nation. Across the harbour from Valletta are three other cities:  Birgu, Senglea  and  Bormla.

Most locals here speak fluent English, so it’s easy to make new friends.

Finally, don’t leave Valletta without trying some of the  traditional Maltese foods  like bigilla and pastizzi .

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

26. Lyon, France

Lyon may be a big city – it is France’s 2nd or 3rd, depending on your source – but that is precisely what makes it perfect for the solo traveller: an abundance of choice. 

If you’re new to Lyon, go see the  murals . These are scattered along the edges of the  Old Town , as well as here and there throughout the rest of the city. They not only look realistic, but are huge and provide a strong sense of Lyon’s personality. 

Lyon is considered France’s gastronomic heartland and if you believe French food is sublime, Lyon is amazing when it comes to  food . 

There are plenty of great restaurants but try a  bouchon , a typical Lyonnais eatery. If the heavy fare is daunting, head for  Les Halles Paul Bocuse , a covered market filled with shops that sell every kind of food you could expect to find in Lyon, and more.

Wandering around  Old Lyon  is always a pleasure, as is visiting the  Roman Fourvière  Theatre. But for an intriguing view of Lyon, two things should grab your attention, both related to silk, of which Lyon was for years France’s main supplier. 

The first is the  traboules  in the old town: these are ancient tunnels that allowed weavers to carry bolts of silk from building to building without getting them wet when it rained. 

The second must-see sights are the silk establishments on the  Croix-Rousse hill ; these are shops, or old buildings where workshops were once located, topping it off with a visit to the  Maison des Canuts , the silk museum. 

France is a safe destination for solo travellers and Lyon is no exception. That said, it is best to stick to the more touristed parts of town after dark. It is, after all, a major city.

By Leyla of  Offbeat France

27. Munich, Germany

Bavaria’s capital has a friendly, supportive small-town feel but, at the same time, it is metropolitan enough to nurture a thriving traveller and ex-pat scene.  Munich has a good choice of accommodation  and its public transport is excellent and easy to navigate, allowing you to explore every part of the city. 

Here are some of the must-dos in Munich: 

Munich Beer Halls.  Everyone knows the Hofbräuhaus, but there are quite a few others that are not quite as touristy, like the Paulaner, or the Weißes Brauhaus. 

What is great about these beer halls is that they usually have community tables that you share with others. That makes it easy to connect with other guests and chat.  

Swimming in the Isar.  If you travel to Munich in the summer, pack your swimsuit and go to the Isar Beaches. That is where the locals hang out and it is easy to connect with others.  

Go on a Walking Tour . Munich has a lot of history and a walking tour is fun, inexpensive (sometimes even free), and you can meet other travellers. To get some non-touristy recommendations, ask the guide for his favourite bars and restaurants 

Pro Tip:  If a restaurant is busy and does not have empty tables, it is customary to join a party already seated. Simply ask if the seat is taken, and if they nod in approval you can join them.

This is a great way to find some company during meals if you are travelling alone. 

By Maria of Europe Up Close

28. Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg (Nürnberg) is both a wonderful destination for solo travellers in its own right and a fabulous base from which to explore Bavaria by train.

Nuremberg Old Town is home to magnificent medieval buildings, a thousand-year-old castle, Germany’s tiniest (and some say tastiest) bratwurst and one of the country’s biggest and best Christmas markets. But Nuremberg is perhaps best known for its dark Nazi past, as the city where Hitler liked to throw a really big party.

Easy day trips from Nuremberg include UNESCO-listed Bamberg , home to the smokiest beer on the planet, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber , the medieval city that inspired the Disney animation Pinocchio .

29. Paris, France

France is a fabulous solo travel destination and Paris is no exception.

Easy public transport, many people speaking different languages and an abundance of fellow travellers help make Paris a great city to visit solo.

It’s also a relatively safe city to visit if you are travelling alone. You can easily walk around many of the popular neighbourhoods and take the metro at night without feeling uncomfortable.

Paris’s top attractions include a visit to the  Eiffel Tower , browsing the many museums like the  Louvre  and  D’Orsay ,  people-watching  at one of the hundreds of cafes, and strolling down the  Champs-Elysees .

And don’t forget to grab a baguette and a bottle of wine, and enjoy a picnic in one of the many lovely  parks .

Some other great things that you visit in Paris are the  Catacombs  – if you dare! –  and the stunning churches that dot the city, like  Sacre-Coeur  and  Saint-Sulpice .

So, make sure you plan at least  four days in Paris  for your next solo adventure. It will be epic!

By Stephanie of The World As I See It

30. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is one of the prettiest medieval cities in the world and one of the best places to travel solo with lots to see and do.

Take a  walking tour . Several companies offer free walking tours of the old town, the castle and even some lesser-known neighbourhoods, and this is a great way to meet other people who are travelling alone.

Enjoy a beer at  Letna Park Beer Garden  or  Strahov Monastery.  Both places offer spectacular views of the city.

Visiting a quirky museum like the  Beer Museum  (which includes a beer tasting), the  Chocolate Museum or the Museum of Alchemists and Magicians , where you learn the darker side of Prague’s history.

Along with things to do during the day, Prague has an excellent  nightlife and food scene  worth checking out. If you want dinner and a show, you should book a  medieval dinner show  or a  dinner show with traditional Czech dancing .

If you want to party, Prague has a few  pub crawls  worth checking out.

With its colourful architecture, cobblestoned streets and countless things to do you are bound to have the best time exploring Prague on your own. 

By Marika of  Clumsy Girl Travels

31. Pristina and Prizren, Kosovo

If you are travelling alone in Kosovo, make sure you visit its capital, Pristina, and its cultural heart, Prizren.

Solo travel in Kosovo feels safe,  the locals are friendly and welcoming, especially at local cafes such as Half&Half Cafe in Pristina.

Hostels are well maintained and also very cheap. Bus routes between key cities are not only very budget-friendly but easy to navigate.

Pristina,  Europe’s newest capital, is trendy and home to underrated street art and to a diverse range of eateries, including modern and vegan cafes. Look out for the National Library, one of the world’s ugliest buildings, and the Bill Clinton statue (yep, he’s quite the hero in Kosovo!).

More cultural gems include the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa.

In  Prizren,  the Prizren Fortress has spectacular views over the city. There are also many museums to learn more about European, and more specifically Balkan, history.

Nature lovers and keen hikers can also take a day trip to the scenic trails of Peja or to one of the less well-known national parks.

By Cass of Cassie the Hag

32. Reims, France

Reims is one of the loveliest cities in France, known for its magnificent cathedral and its champagne houses, all of which are UNESCO-listed.

Beneath Reims is a labyrinth of 200 km of caves that provide the perfect environment for the second fermentation of champagne. This is the shared real estate for the city’s champagne houses.

It’s very easy to put together a DIY champagne tour of Reims , even if you are travelling alone. From the Disneyesque Champagne Pommery to the elegance of Taittinger, there’s a champagne house for everyone (and far worse ways of spending a day).

With flying buttresses a-plenty and an enigmatic smiling angel, Notre Dame de Reims is one of Europe’s great Gothic cathedrals. This was the coronation site for most of the French kings and its architecture set the mould for cathedrals to follow.

33. St. Petersburg, Russia

Due to the ongoing geopolitical situation, travel to Russia is not currently recommended. For current travel advice, check the advice of the UK FCO here .

St Petersburg in Russia is not only a gem of a city but is also one of the best places to travel alone in Europe.

Some of the major costs for solo travellers are taxis and hotels. However, St. Petersburg has an excellent public transport system that is easy to navigate.

Furthermore, the city has lots of hostels where it is easy to meet other travellers.

There are lots of solo travel-friendly things to do.

First of all, St. Petersburg is full of interesting  museums  that you can explore at your own pace. The most famous of these is the  Hermitage,  where you can easily spend a whole day.

As well as the museums, there are the 18th and 19th-Century  palaces of the Romanov tsars  and their families. These  European palaces  are not only worth a visit because of their opulent and extravagant rooms inside, but also for their beautiful palace gardens.

St Petersburg is a year-round destination. Visit in the summer for the long nights and to see the bridges open up over the Neva River. Go to  St Petersburg in winter  for cold, snowy days and the beauty of the frozen Neva.

By Ellis of Backpack Adventures

34. Salzburg, Austria

With an abundance of stunning architecture, a pretty old town and its connection to some musical icons, both classical and modern, the Austrian city of Salzburg is a wonderful destination for solo travellers. And the city’s excellent public transport connections to Austria and beyond make it one of the best places to visit in Europe.

Top sights in Salzburg  include the  Cathedral,  the 12th Century  Residenz ,  Mozart’s Birthplace  (one of many Mozart sights in Salzburg ) and  Hohensalzburg Fortress , an imposing castle atop a hill overlooking the city.  All can be found close to the  Old Town  in the compact city centre and Salzburg’s tourist pass can save you money on ticket prices.

Getreidegasse  and  Linzer Gasse , two of Salzburg’s most famous streets, are the places for retail therapy or to find the perfect souvenir. Amongst the shops and boutiques, you’ll find one of the city’s specialities on sale, a chocolate ball with a marzipan centre known as a  Mozartkugel .

A short walk from the Old Town, and across the Salzach River, the  Mirabell Palace  and gardens are well worth a visit. Most visitors flock to the steps in front of Rose Hill to re-enact a famous scene from  The Sound of Music .

Salzburg can be easily explored alone on foot, on a hop-on-hop-off bus, or even by horse-drawn carriage. But if you’d prefer some company, the Tourist Office offers several guided city tours every day. 

By Carolyn of Holidays to Europe

35. Sibiu, Romania

Sibiu, a small city in Romania’s southern Transilvania, is an ideal destination in Europe for the solo traveller. 

First and foremost, Romania in general, and Sibiu in particular, are super safe.

Walking home alone at night is not a problem, even as a solo female traveller. There are people who will approach you at restaurants and ask for money if you’re sitting outside, but there are no aggressive tactics employed.

Sibiu is small and pedestrian-friendly, important if you’re not partial to taking public transportation. You’ll be able to walk amongst its colourful buildings and get lost in the winding cobblestone streets of the  Old Town 

There’s no shortage of things to do in Sibiu, including  restaurants  serving delicious food, an impressive number of  museums  and  open-air markets . You’ll never be bored in the European Cultural Capital in 2007.  

If you’re partial to nature, Sibiu is located in the Carpathian Basin. There are plenty of hiking and trekking options nearby, not to mention some gorgeous green parks.

Finally, the people of Romania are very friendly and English is widely spoken among the younger generations.

By Jade of The Migrant Yogi

36. Split, Croatia

For my money, Split is one of the most extraordinary cities in Europe. Over the millennia its UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian’s Palace has morphed into the tangle of churches, chapels and houses that now form Split’s medieval hub.

This is truly living history, not some dry, roped-off archaeological site.

Game of Thrones fans are also in luck. Some of its scenes were filmed in Diocletian’s Palace and a Split Game of Thrones tour is on offer.

Split is also home to one of the most bizarre museums I have ever visited ( Froggyland ) and a supermarket that is UNESCO-protected.

As this is a popular port of call for cruise ships, it’s good to get off the beaten track in Spilt . Away from the day-trippers, there is a wonderful walk along the Marjan Peninsula to Telegrin, its highest point.

37. Vienna, Austria

For elegant cafe culture with a twist of Mozart, Vienna is one of the best places to travel alone in Europe.

With its imperial architecture, magnificent museums, classical music scene and cafes galore, Austria’s capital is a superb destination for the solo traveller at any time of year. 

Take a journey from Ancient Rome to the Renaissance by exploring the vast collection of the  Kunsthistoriches Museum . Visit  Schloss Schönbrunn , one of the Hapsburg Empire’s palaces, in all its gilded glory. 

But perhaps the jewel in Vienna’s crown is the UNESCO World Heritage site of the  Belvedere Palace , home to Gustav Klimt’s  The Kiss  (1908).

Finally, if you are visiting  Vienna at Christmas , don’t leave the city before washing down a plate of  Bratkartoffeln  with  glühwein  (mulled wine) at one of the city’s  Christmas markets . 

38. Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw, Poland’s 4 th  largest city, is a hidden gem in Central Europe and is an ideal solo travel destination for several reasons.

First, it’s easy to get there, whether you want to fly in or prefer taking the bus or the train.

Second, it’s safe. I wandered around in the evening and never felt unsafe. A close friend who calls Wroclaw home swears by the city’s safety too.

Third, it’s just so easy to walk around and explore. You can use public transport (trams & buses), but it’s easy to see  Wroclaw’s main sights  on foot as they’re located within walking distance of each other.

In the heart of Wroclaw Old Town lies the  Market Square  with beautiful merchant houses and a monumental  Old Town Hall . Many visitors to Wroclaw enjoy tracing the famous  Wroclaw dwarfs.

Walk through Butcher’s Street  and then stroll all the way to the lovely  Tumski Island  with its impressive  cathedrals . 

This beautiful city doesn’t attract many visitors, yet there’s so much to see and do in Wroclaw.

By Veronika of Travel Geekery

Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe: Natural Wonders

39. bansko, bulgaria.

Bansko is Bulgaria’s largest  ski resort  and one of the cheapest places to ski in Europe, perfect for making your holiday budget go further . But this mountain town is so much more than a ski resort. 

Bansko is located two hours from Sofia and 2.5 hours from Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second city, and is served by great public transport connections. There are lots of places to stay here; self-catering accommodation, small family-run hotels and larger ones too, some with pools. 

There are two great co-working locations here in Bansko and, as such, the town has a great social life for solo travellers. With co-living spaces and hostels available, plus apartments for US$180 a month, there are cheap options for places to stay as a single traveller.

The town is easy to navigate on foot and there are great  hiking and mountain biking  activities with superb groups on Facebook for visitors to find out about activities with others. 

Eating out is cheap, with a great selection of Bulgarian  mehanas , alongside more international foods. You’ll also find takeaway and delivery options too. 

From May onwards there are free  outdoor festivals , including the  Bansko Jazz festival , which has run for more than 20 years.

By Sarah of  Lets Grow Cook

40. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lovely Lake Bled is the jewel in Slovenia’s crown.

This picturesque corner of Europe has many of the ingredients for a perfect solo travel break.

Slovenia is cheap by European standards, it’s relatively safe and has a good travel infrastructure.

Lake Bled has an abundance of walking trails, a castle perched on a hillside and an enigmatic island to visit. Traditional boats plough the turquoise waters of the lake, but if you prefer to confine your travelling to dry land, there’s the super scenic Bohinj Railway .

Lake Bled is a mecca for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and joining an organised tour to go canyoning / underground kayaking / ziplining / river rafting (delete as appropriate) is a fantastic way to meet other travellers.

If food and wine are more your thing, join a wine-tasting session – Slovenian wines are very quaffable – and don’t leave town before biting into a slice of feather-light Lake Bled Cake.

41. Lake District, England

The North of England has a reputation as being extremely friendly, and the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is no exception.

Full of quaint towns and villages, the Lake District is very visitor-friendly. Base yourself in a small town such as  Ambleside  or Windermere to be in the best possible location.

The main activity for most visitors is  hiking , something that can easily be done as a solo traveller. Views around the Lake District are spectacular, so don’t forget your camera.

Local buses mean it is easy to get from town to town.

You can also travel to a lot of the lakes by steamer boat. These traditional ferry boats are a great way to see the scenery from a different angle.

Or rent a bike and explore some of the  cycle trails .

If the sun is out, you will find everyone sitting in the afternoon in a scenic garden, enjoying a traditional English roast. Wander alone into any old English pub in the Lake District, and you are sure to make friends in a matter of minutes.

By Demi of Around The World With Her

42. Northern Norway

From Arctic-connected  Tromso  up to  Bodo , the “gateway to the North”, Northern  Norway  is brimming with natural wonders. But why is it an excellent place for a solo traveller?

Well, I usually prefer going to big party destinations, like Madrid or Berlin, together with friends. But when it comes to nature destinations, I prefer going alone, especially if it is something challenging like mountainous Norway.

Norway allows you to test yourself, and somehow, after returning home, you feel stronger.

Northern Norway connects world-famous mountain views and small comfortable towns. But you don’t need to just visit tourist places. 

Unknown fjords are just as beautiful. If you go alone, you can easily choose routes, hike difficulty, and type of landscape according to your preferences and fitness.

If you go to Northern Norway, make sure you visit Tromso, the centre of Arctic Exploration and Saami culture. Make it on a ship through the  Northern archipelago  and long  Raften Pass.  And visit the jewel of Northern Norway – the Lofoten Islands . 

By Alexander of Engineer On Tour

43. Zermatt, Switzerland

If you are yearning to hike amongst mountain peaks, one of the best places to travel alone in Europe is  Zermatt.  

The appeal of the town itself and the relative ease with which you can explore its surroundings make Zermatt a fantastic solo travel destination at any time of year. 

The star of the show is the mighty  Matterhorn , piercing the sky above the town like a harpoon tip.

To get the best view of the mountain, take a ride on the Gornergrat Railway. From here, there are also great  hiking trails  through mountain valleys and along woodland paths scattered with pine cones, accompanied by the soundtrack of gurgling mountain streams and distant cowbells.

To reach Zermatt, take the  Glacier Express   from St. Moritz, one of the world’s great train journeys. 

Visas for Europe travel

Many non-EU passport-holders enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days every six months. The Schengen Area consists of 27 member countries , most of which are in the European Union (EU).

Post-Brexit, the UK is not a member of the Schengen Area.

From 2025, US citizens will have to apply for an ETIAS prior to their trip towards Europe.

Travelling around Europe

Europe by train

There are few things I like better than travelling by train , especially in Europe. Its rail network is vast, connecting major cities and scenic spots in an eco-friendly way.

For the most part, European trains are reliable and have spacious seating, Wi-Fi and dining cars. Stations are usually located in the heart of the city (and are sometimes destinations in their own right).

I have been lucky to ride on some of Europe’s most scenic routes, including the Glacier Express and the Jacobite Steam Train . But you don’t have to buy a ticket for these iconic trains to experience treated to ever-changing landscapes.

European rail passes ( Interrail / Eurail passes ) can unlock the joy of train travel in 33 countries. But always compare the price of the train pass with that of point-to-point tickets for your planned itinerary to figure out if an Interrail pass will be good value .

Many countries have their own rail passes – the Swiss Rail Pass is a good one – or you can just stick with point-to-point tickets.

You can book ahead using the websites of individual train operators, RailEurope or Omio . For local routes, I’ve found that it is often easier to buy a ticket from a self-service machine at the station.

Europe by bus

For the places that trains don’t reach, there are buses.

Tickets are often – but not always – cheaper than train or airfare, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers. The flip side is that bus travel might take longer than trains.

FlixBus and Eurolines operate affordable services connecting Europe’s major cities. To search across multiple operators, head to Omio .

Europe by air

Budget airlines like EasyJet and RyanAir operate cheap flights across Europe.

However, getting around Europe by air would not be my preferred option. Aside from the lack of sustainability and the stress of flying in the 21 st Century, you don’t get a sense of the landscape unfolding as you travel from A to B.

That said, there are times when flying might be the most feasible option. You can check flight timetables and prices here.

Europe by car

Again, this one isn’t for me. I am not a happy driver, it’s a lonely experience and hiring a car can be extortionate as a solo traveller.

But I have rented a car in the past and it’s hard to beat when it comes to flexibility and the ease with which you can access remote areas.

With the exception of Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland,  Malta and Cyprus, European countries drive on the right.

If you are a non-E.U. citizen, make sure that you confirm that your license will allow you to drive in Europe. As automatics are in short supply in Europe, make sure that you book in advance if you can’t drive stick.

Europe Solo Travel Tips

Safety tips for female solo travellers.

If you are a female solo traveller you might be wondering if it is safe to travel alone in Europe. And while some countries are safer than others, broadly speaking the answer is a resounding “yes.”

That said, there are actionable steps you can take to stay safe when travelling alone. The bottom line is to take the same precautions that you would at home and keep your valuables safe (I use this theft-proof day pack when I travel)

Here are my top tips:

• Choose accommodation in a good area of town
• Share your itinerary with someone at home
• Don’t flash your valuables (better still, keep them locked in your hotel safe)
• Trust your gut; if somewhere doesn’t feel right, leave
• Go easy on the booze and never leave a drink unattended
• Never, ever tell strangers that you are travelling alone

Meeting people on a Europe solo trip

Loneliness is a common fear amongst solo travellers . But the good news is that there are failsafe ways to meet people when you are travelling alone.

Being open and friendly and taking an interest in people goes a long way.

Although my hostelling days are behind me, I have made lifelong friends whilst staying in hostels.

Nowadays, I find that an organised activity is an excellent way to make friends on the road. I make most of my bookings through GetYourGuide , largely because they have a broad portfolio and most activities come with free cancellation within 24 hours of the event.

Tips for dining out alone

Solo dining is not something I relish. However, I’ve done this so many times that I have developed these tips and tricks for eating out alone .

Bring a prop or two, exude confidence and enjoy every morsel.

Booking hotels in Europe

Choosing the right hotel is important when you are planning your solo Europe vacation. You want somewhere that is affordable, comfortable, welcoming and, above all, safe.

I book around 80% of my accommodation in Europe via Booking.com . When the price or cancellation terms are better, I will book directly with the hotel.

Solo Travel in Europe: Final Thoughts

I hope that these recommendations inspire you to plan a future trip to Europe. It’s an easy part of the world to visit as a solo traveller and has enough diversity to satisfy most people.

If you are not sure whether you are ready to explore Europe independently, why not join a  group tour ?

As well as being a relatively hassle-free way of travelling, there are many other  benefits of a group tour  as a solo traveller. There are lots of  group travel companies  out there but two companies that I have used and can recommend are  Exodus Travels  and  Explore Worldwide!

You’ll have an expertly curated itinerary and you often gain valuable insights into the country, the people and its culture. Generally, there’s safety in numbers. Finally, if you fear the dark spectre of loneliness, there’s the reassurance of ready-made travel companions.

• The Best Places to Travel Alone in Asia
• 23 Best Places to Travel Alone in the USA
• 19 Awesome Places to Travel Alone in Africa

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

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30 Best Single & Multi-Day Hikes in Europe

• Updated on: June 12, 2023

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Table of Contents

Hiking in Europe can be an exhilarating experience if you know where to look! Don’t know where to begin? No worries, in this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you 30 of the best hiking trails in Europe. We’ve personally completed some of them already, and we’ve thoroughly researched the others with hopes to tackle them soon!

The selection is amazingly diverse, spanning more than 20 countries, various mountain ranges, beaches, and forests, while taking in incredible landmarks, wildlife, and attractions along the way. Whether you’re looking for a multi-day adventure, or the best single-day hiking trails in Europe, there’s bound to be one that you’ll love!

So, with that in mind, lace up your boots, and let’s take a look at some of the best hikes in Europe!

Hiking in Europe: What to Expect?

In one word: diversity. Expect landscapes that vary from arctic tundra and craggy mountains, to volcanic boulder fields, sand dunes and deep, dark forests. Expect an ever-changing canvas of culture, cuisine, and attitude. Europe is small compared to other continents, but travel for long enough in any direction, and you’ll soon see how quickly things change from place to place. 

One minute you’ll be hiking along a Mediterranean beach, soaking up the sun, and the next, you’ll be climbing up Alpine pastures, ascending snowy peaks, before dropping back down into a lively town. Each night offers the chance to relax in an utterly new environment, drinking wine and eating mussels one day, beer and sausages the next, and moonshine and pickles after that.

Practically speaking, Europe is home to an amazingly well-developed hiking culture, with trails that are well-kept and well signed. Some form of sheltered accommodation can normally be found along most trails, ranging from luxury chalets to humble mountain huts. Wild camping is allowed in some areas, but not all, so be sure to check beforehand.

So, whether you’re looking for solitude, company, tranquility or a challenge, there’ll be numerous hiking trails in Europe that tick all the right boxes.

Video: Best Hiking Routes In Europe Inspiration

16 Amazing Multi-Day Hikes

Few things are as far removed from everyday life as heading out on a multi-day hike into the wilderness. It truly is the ultimate escape, an opportunity to live humbly, work your muscles, and breathe in the fresh, clear air, while your mind wanders. Even though Europe seems largely populated, there are still plenty of places where you can walk for days and lose touch with the modern world all together.

With that in mind, here are some of the most amazing multi-day adventures when it comes to hiking in Europe.

1. Laugavegur Trail | Iceland’s Best Hike

• Distance:  52.1 km
• Elevation gain:  1.702 m
• Duration:  14 hours 45 minutes
• Difficulty level:  hard
• Kind of trail:  Point to point
• Starting point:  Landmannalaugar, open in Google Maps

This 4-day trek crosses 55 km (34 miles) through Landmannalaugar nature reserve, and some of the best, and most diverse, scenery in Iceland — and that’s saying something! Along the way you’ll take in iconic black sand deserts, geothermal springs, lakes, glaciers, grasslands, forests, broiling lava fields and icy rivers, all to a backdrop of mysterious, rainbow hued mountains. 

The Laugavegur trail is not for the faint-hearted and is best tackled by experienced hikers. It does, however, guarantee an epic adventure! Gaining just over 1,700 meters in elevation as you ascend the mountains, the full hike can only really be carried out between June and September. To get there, you’ll need to drive or take a bus from Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar.

There are huts along the way, but you’ll need to book these long in advance, especially during high season. Fortunately, camping is allowed in the areas around the huts, with fresh running water aplenty! Top tip! Take a good pair of water shoes or sandals, as you’ll need to cross around 4 rivers, with depths ranging from ankle to knee-deep. Read my in-depth Laugavegur Trail here , where I describe everything you need to know.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

2. Tour du Mont Blanc | Trekking the Top of the Alps

• Distance:  165 km
• Elevation gain:  10.583m
• Duration:  57 hours 45 minutes
• Kind of trail:  Loop
• Starting point:  Chamonix, open in Google Maps

Hiking in Europe doesn’t get any better for first timers with this epic hike. At 170 km (106 miles), it’s long, but the going isn’t too tough for anyone in reasonable health. There are some pretty scary ladder sections though, so if you’re not comfortable with heights or exposed climbing, it might not be for you. The French town of Chamonix is a popular start point, and the easiest way to get there is to take an airport shuttle from Geneva.

The well-signed route climbs to a staggering 10,583 meters through some of the best scenery the Alps has to offer, with gorgeous glaciers at every turn. Starting in France, it meanders into Italy, then Switzerland, before returning to the start point. Due to the mountainous terrain, it should only be attempted between June and October .

On average, the full route takes around 10 days to complete, though there are tons of variations to reduce the length and avoid the tougher sections. In terms of accommodation, you can either camp, make use of mountain huts, or stay in some of the 50 official accommodations along the trail. It’s not all wilderness either, and the trail passes through 17 towns and several small villages along the way, ideal for sampling amazing food and soaking up the local culture.

Map not loading? Click  here  or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

Also Read: Hiking Guide Switzerland

3. Hardangervidda Transverse | Losing Yourself in Tranquility

• Distance:  92.1 km
• Elevation gain:  2.897 m
• Duration:  25 hours 45 minutes
• Difficulty level:  Moderate
• Starting point:  Vøringsfoss, open in Google Maps

The Hardangervidda region in southern Norway is one of the largest high mountain plateaus on earth, and the vast majority of it sits above the treeline, with low points of around 970 meters. It’s a popular area for an array of hikes and cross-country skiing adventures, and there are plenty of routes to choose from, both long and short. The small village of Finse is a popular starting point, and you can get there by train from Oslo.

Traversing this epic landscape typically takes between 7 and 14 days depending on the route you choose, and can cover distances of about 100km to more than 200 km. With elevation gains of more than 3,500 meters, the going can be tough. The trails aren’t suitable for hikers during winter months, and are best visited between June and September.

If ‘just’ multi day hiking in Europe isn’t enough adventure for you, go wild camping ! But if you prefer to travel lightweight you can also pay to use the many huts that are dotted throughout the area. Hardangervidda is an amazingly remote area, and the ideal place for those seeking solitude. At the same time, the scenery is spectacular, with fjords, crashing waterfalls, and popular landmarks such as the epic Trolltunga, around every turn.

4. West Highland Way | Scotland’s Finest Hike

• Distance:  155.8 km
• Elevation gain:  5.365 m
• Duration:  44 hours 35 minutes
• Difficulty level:  Hard
• Starting point:  Clydebank, open in Google Maps

The Highlands of Scotland are an incredible place for hiking, and can rival even the mightiest European mountain ranges in terms of beauty. One of the most stunning ways to explore this rugged region is to take on the West Highland Way. Stretching 156 km (96 miles), with a total elevation gain of 5.365 meters, the route skirts numerous breathtaking lochs, before climbing through the peaks of the West Highlands.

Along the way, enjoy open moorlands and countryside parks, and marvel at the natural splendor all around you. The route takes you from the town of Milngavie, to Fort William, where you can see Ben Nevis. Getting to Milngavie is easy, and you can either take a train or a bus from Glasgow.

While winters can be harsh, the route can be attempted at any time of the year, though beginners should avoid October to April. Wild camping is allowed along the route, though you can also book accommodation at a variety of guesthouses and B&Bs. On average, it takes between 6 and 7 days to complete the entire trail.

5. Corsica’s GR20 | The Toughest Hike in Europe?

• Distance:  169.8 km
• Elevation gain:  11.887 m
• Duration:  61 hours 25 minutes
• Starting point:  Calenzana, open in Google Maps

Corsica is a beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea, and GR stands for Grande Randonnée in French, which translates to ‘great hike’. To many the GR20 is considered one of the most difficult hiking trails in Europe, though that’s debatable. Around 180 km (112 miles) long, with an elevation gain of around 12,000 m, it certainly demands a high level of fitness. However, the way is extremely well-marked, with several supply stops along the way.

Indeed, between 10,000 and 20,000 hikers tackle this route each year, and on average it takes around 15 days to complete. You’ll find a number of mountain huts (refugios) along the path, and you can pay to stay and eat. Otherwise, while wild camping is largely prohibited on the trail, you can camp in the area around the huts.

The trail itself crosses the island north to south, along its mountainous spine, offering incredible views the entire way. Hikers typically start in Calenzana, at the northern end of the route, and you can get there easily by bus from the ferry port at Calvi. The best times to tackle the GR20 are from June to October.

6. El Camino de Santiago | Following in the Footsteps of Pilgrims

• Distance:  892.5 km
• Elevation gain:  20.227 m
• Duration:  232 hours 55 minutes
• Starting point:  Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, open in Google Maps

If you want to learn something about history while hiking in Europe, this is the go-to hike. This trail dates back to the medieval ages, when pilgrims would make the trek to the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Nowadays, you don’t have to be a pilgrim to enjoy this long-distance hike! There are actually a great many routes that you can take, varying in length and difficulty.

One of the most popular, however, is the Camino Frances from St Jean Pied de Port, a town in the French Pyrenees foothills. If you’re flying to Biarritz airport, take the airport bus to the town of Bayonne, and from there you can take a direct train.

From St Jean Pied de Port, an 800+ km (497 miles) hike awaits, which equates to around 5 weeks on the trail. Along the way, there are many forms of accommodation, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. While it is possible to camp, it’s not always easy to find a good spot. The scenery along this mega-hike is extremely varied, passing through an array of towns and villages, as well as mountains, coastlines, vineyards, and forests.

7. GR131 | Conquering the Canary Islands

The GR131 is an incredible trail that cuts across all 7 of the Canary Islands. In total, the route takes you over 650 km (404 miles) of incredibly varied, ever-changing scenery, as you hop from island to island. You can expect an ascent of around 20,000 meters, and the whole route generally takes around 5 weeks to complete. Of course, you can split it up into smaller chunks, and tackle one island at a time rather than all 7.

Along the way, you’ll climb incredible volcanic, mountain ranges, your efforts rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views across the sea. Traverse pine forests, black sand deserts, dunes, ancient vineyards, and stock up in far-flung villages. Wash the day’s dirt off in waterfalls and rivers, and relish being one with nature!

Strictly speaking, camping isn’t allowed on the route, but considerate, no-trace campers can find some stunning places to stay at night. Otherwise, you’ll come across an array of towns and villages, most of which offer accommodation, as well as supplies. There’s no set order or start point for the GR131, the best way to enjoy it is to take it at your own pace.

8. Alpe Adria Trail | Discover the Garden of Eden

• Starting point:  Salzburg, open in Google Maps

Crossing 3 very different countries; Austria, Slovenia, and Italy, the Alpe-Adria-Trail offers extremely varied scenery and culture alike. While the route is a long one, stretching 750 km (466 miles), it’s extremely well-signed from start to end, and is pretty beginner-friendly. An elevation gain of around 2,370 meters makes for some tough sections, but for the most part it’s easy-going.

Split into 43 stages of around 20 km each, the trail typically starts on Austria’s highest mountain, Großglockner. From there it takes you on a gorgeous tour of Alpine villages and rugged mountain ranges, before crossing into Slovenia’s humble, but wild landscape. Taking in mountain lakes and immense pine forests, you eventually leave the mountains behind, arriving at Italy’s azure Adriatic coastline.

You can get to the start point by taking the ‘Glockner Bus” from Salzburg, Hinterglemm, or Zell am See, direct to Kaiser-Franz-Josefshöhe, on Großglockner. The route is open from April until October , after which winter snows shut the roads to the start of the trail. There are tons of accommodation choices along the route, such as guesthouses and chalets, but sadly wild camping isn’t allowed. Besides the amazing views, one of the best things about this route is the cultural diversity.

9. Alta Via 1 | The Dolomites High Route

• Distance:  118.9 km
• Elevation gain:  7.995 m
• Duration:  42 hours 12 minutes
• Starting point:  Lake Braies, open in Google Maps

Italy’s Dolomites are an incredible part of the world, offering superb mountain views, craggy rock formations, and glorious mountain lakes. The Alta Via 1, also known as the Dolomites High Route, takes you on a 120 km (75 miles) tour of this wonderland, starting in Dobbiaco and heading south to Belluno. Expect a height gain of around 7,995 meters, and a challenging trek lasting around 10 to 15 days.

A lot of the trek remains high up in the mountains, but there are excellent places to stay each night, with a number of quality mountain huts (rifugi) dotted along the trail. These are generally open from June until September (tackling the route outside of these months is not recommended), and you may need to book in advance in July and August . While camping is officially prohibited on the trail, overnight bivouacking is tolerated, as long as you set up late, leave early, and leave no trace.

The route starts from Lago di Braies, a stunning mountain lake that you can row on if time allows! You can get here by bus from Dobbiaco, and you can get there by bus or train, with several services from major nearby cities such as Innsbruk or Venice. 

10. Transylvania Mountain Trail | Into the Wild

Few places in Europe offer the rugged wilderness that you’ll find in Romania’s Transylvania region. An area steeped in history and myth, with a rich culture and awe-inspiring scenery, hiking in Europe’s Transylvania is an exciting and rewarding experience. Transylvania is circled by the wild Carpathian mountains, and it’s here that this hiking trail takes us.

The entire region is criss-crossed with hiking paths, most of which are pretty well-signed, though many can be difficult to handle at times. Expect occasional climbing sections, though cables are typically in place to help. Traversing the mountains typically takes 4 or 5 days over about 75 km (47 miles), and there are a number of simple cabins and shelters to use along the way. If you’re feeling brave, you can also bring your camping gear, just beware of wolves and bears!

The mountain trails are best explored between late June and September — throughout the rest of the year they soon become covered in deep snow. Sinaia, one of the most popular towns in the Carpathians, is a typical starting place, with regular trains and buses running from larger cities such as Bucharest and Brasov.

11. The Transcaucasian Trail | Svaneti, the Gem of Georgia

The Transcaucasian Trail is a work in progress, but the team behind it have plans to build an entire hiking network that runs across the immense Caucasian mountains — across Georgia and into Azerbaijan, via Armenia’s lower Caucasians. This epic undertaking could take some time, but some sections are more or less complete, ready for intrepid travelers!

Svaneti is perhaps the most beautiful of all of Georgia’s many national parks, showcasing the sheer might and splendor of the Caucasian mountains. This 5 stage route takes on some difficult terrain as it winds for around 140 km (87 miles) through the mountains. Along the way you’ll be immersed in deep forests and splashed by raging rivers, before climbing up mountain meadows, with glaciers and breathtaking mountains looming all around.

Starting at the village of Chuberi, the route ends at Ushguli, the highest village in Svaneti. Chuberi can be reached by Marshrutka (public minibuses), though the trailhead is around 2 and a half hours walk away from where it stops. Due to the high altitude and mountain weather, this route should only be tackled from June to October 

12. Hiking in Nordkapp | Discovering the True North

There isn’t one official multi-day hiking trail to Nordkapp, though there are a number of paths you can follow over the course of a few days. Here we’ll go over a few options. First of all, Nordkapp — or the North Cape — is the most northerly point of Europe (kinda, you’ll see below!), and it’s located on the island of Magerøya. The island is full of amazing tundra landscapes, criss-crossed with various short to medium length hikes to a number of intriguing sights.

The easiest way to explore Nordkapp is to drive there, but you can also fly to Honningsvåg airport, and from there take a bus to the village of Skarsvåg. Skarsvåg is a great place to set up a base camp, with various accommodation options ranging from campsites to guesthouses. From here, you can hike to a number of stunning sites, including Nordkapp, but also Knivskjellodden peninsula — the true most northerly point of Europe, only accessible by hiking.

Wild camping is legal in Norway, and recommended — imagine wild camping in the true north, away from the expensive tourist trap of North Cape! Wild camping while hiking in Europe gives you freedom to choose trails at your leisure and settle down where you like. On the plus side, you’re never too far from settlements and supplies. The tundra landscape is awash with craggy cliffs, moon-like craters, and roaming reindeer, and is akin to hiking on another planet!

13. Rota Vicentina | Soaking up the Sun

The Rota Vicentina is a little-known route that stretches more than 400 km (250 miles) in total, running north to south through the western Portuguese provinces of Alentejo and Algarve. Split into 2 longer multi-day hikes — the Historical Way and the Fisherman’s Trail — as well as numerous 1-day circular routes, it’s a superb way to see varied landscapes and soak up the Portuguese culture. It’s also a really great route to tailor to your own needs.

You can start and finish at any point, mix the two main trails, complete one or the other, or take on the route in its entirety. For example, the Fisherman’s trail is a 4-day, 76 km (48 miles) route that mostly hugs the coast, while the Historical Way, a 10-11-day, 229 km (143 miles) hike, stays mostly inland, passing old settlements and vineyards. The official start, on the Historical Way, is at Santiago do Cacém, which can be reached by bus from Lisbon. 

In terms of accommodation you’ll find tons of options along the way, including campsites, guesthouses and hostels. This part of Portugal enjoys fairly clement weather all year, so it’s possible to hike year-round. In fact, it’s best to avoid the summer high season, as it can be harder to find affordable accommodation without booking, and the weather is very hot during the day.

14. Westweg Trail | Magic and Mystery in the Black Forest

Germany’s Black Forest is a stunning area of natural beauty and a great place for hiking in Europe. Deep, dark pine forests, rumbling Alpine foothills, and high moors awash with mountain lakes, it’s a magical place to find solitude. The Westweg Trail cuts north to south for 285 km (175 miles), taking in some of the best scenery the epic forest has to offer, as well as mountain climbs.

Starting in Pforzheim — easily reached by train — the route is split into 12 stages, and can normally be completed within 2 weeks, eventually ending in Basel. You’ll pass through a number of small villages and towns along the way, so finding accommodation and supplies is a piece of cake. There’s everything from hostels and campsites, to guesthouses and mountain lodges.

Gaining around 7,900 meters of elevation across the entire route, this is a great trail to test your fitness. Well-signed in both directions, it’s pretty beginner-friendly, and there’s no need to do the entire route at once. The best times to tackle this stunning trail are between April and October — conditions can become rougher over winter making the going tough on those higher passes.

15. The Eagle Walk | Crossing the Tyrol Mountains

The Eagle Walk is a long-distance trail covering 413 km (257 miles) over 33 official stages. The route crosses pretty much all of Tyrol Province in Austria, home to some of the most spectacular Alpine landscapes in the country. It’s designed in such a way that it can be split into various day hikes, one continuous monster hike, or several shorter multi-day hikes, in which travelers pick and choose the sections they want to visit. When viewed on a map, the trail resembles the shape of an eagle, hence the name.

If you’re planning to complete the whole route, expect a total elevation gain of a whopping 31 km, and about 33 days of hiking. The first stage begins at the Rummlerhof inn, in the Alpine town of St. Johann, which you can reach via airport shuttle from Innsbruck, Salzburg, or Munich. From here you’ll cross the untamed Wilder Kaiser mountains, into the Arlberg massif, and eventually onto the face of Großglockner in East Tirol, Austria’s tallest mountain.

The paths are well-signed and offer up a rich tapestry of landscapes to lose yourself in; rugged mountains give way to Alpine meadows, blooming with wildflowers, set alongside bubbling brooks that lead to immense waterfalls, which in turn dribble along into ice caves! You’ll come across numerous mountain huts to stay in, as well as villages and towns that offer up varied accommodation options, though camping is scarce. The route is typically open from mid-June until late September.

16. Kungsleden | Following the King’s Trail Through Lapland

• Distance:  477.8 km
• Elevation gain:  11.673 m
• Duration:  126 hours 30 minutes
• Starting point:  Abisko, open in Google Maps

The Kungsleden (the King’s Trail) is an incredible 400+ km trail through Swedish Lapland, an area of majestic beauty, north of the Arctic Circle. Considered one of the best hikes in Europe, it’s well sign-posted with a good infrastructure in terms of bridges, huts, and supplies along the way. In fact, for much of the trail, you’ll find huts every 20 km or so. 

Along the trail, you’ll come across some of the highest mountains in Sweden, and depending on the time of year, bask in the midnight sun or marvel at the northern lights. With a total elevation gain of over 8,900 meters, the route runs north to south, from Abisko to Norrbotten. The easiest way to reach Abisko is to fly to Kiruna, and from there take a train or bus.

Hiking the Kungsleden is only really possible from June until September (you can see the northern lights in September!), due to harsh weather over winter months. Be advised that most huts are closed during the winter, so there are no supplies to be found once you’re in the wilderness. In terms of accommodation, the mountain huts can be booked in advance, otherwise you can wild camp along most of the trail with ease. 

14 Stunning Single-Day Hikes

Day hiking in Europe a great way to explore the area you’re staying in without worrying about carrying all your belongings with you. Typically easier going than multi-day hikes, the following single-day hikes are among the best in Europe. They take in amazing scenery, while providing a nice challenge.

Let’s take a look!

1. The Edelweiss Trail | Searching for Wildflowers in the Alps

• Distance:  19.8 km
• Elevation gain:  1.213 m
• Duration:  6 hours 50 minutes
• Starting point:  Zermatt, open in Google Maps

The elusive Edelweiss is a stunning Alpine flower that is seldom seen outside of Alpine slopes. Hiking this trail leads you to a veritable hidden treasure trove in Europe, where wildflowers such as Edelweiss thrive amid rugged conditions. Covering a distance of 19.8 km (14 miles), the Edelweiss trail, or Edelweissweg, is a stunning circular route that encompasses some of the most beautiful sights the Swiss Alps has to offer.

It’s a perfect one-day hike, typically taking around 7 and a half hours to complete. It starts from the station at Zermatt, a car-free ski town that can be reached by taking a train, airport shuttle, or driving to Tasch. From there, you can take the mountain cog railway straight to Zermatt station. The route is closed during winter months, and typically opens from June through October.

With an elevation gain of around 1,260 meters, the going can be tough at times, with loose scree, slick with the waters from natural springs. However, it’s well worth the effort. The Matterhorn can be seen through much of the route, as well as glaciers and an incredible waterfall at the end. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for eagles and mountain goats, and of course, the elusive Edelweiss.

2. Kallur Lighthouse | Walking Above the Waves

• Distance:  3.9 km
• Elevation gain:  299 m
• Duration:  1 hour 28 minutes
• Starting point:  Trøllanes, open in Google Maps

The Faroe Islands are an incredible place for some exciting hiking adventures, and one of the best has to be the Kallur Lighthouse trail. At around 3.9 km (2.5 miles) and with an elevation gain of just under 300 meters, it’s not the most difficult hike in the world, but it offers up some amazing views. No doubt you’ve seen photos of this iconic area online!

The lighthouse is located on the island of Kalsoy, which can only be reached by ferry. While the hike itself shouldn’t take more than an hour each way, it’s worth allowing 8-hours for the round trip, at least if you’re not staying on the island overnight. In fact, getting to the start point of Trøllanes requires a little planning — you’ll need to take the ferry from Klaksvik (you can take a bus from Tórshavn or drive). The ferry lands at Syðradalur, and from there you can take another bus to Trøllanes, or drive if you have a car.

From Trøllanes, the route is fairly easy to spot, as it winds along the side of a mountain. Grassy tracks lead to jagged cliff edges and amazing sea views, before you eventually reach the lighthouse. There are a number of viewpoints to enjoy — if you don’t suffer too badly from vertigo — and you’ll see fantastic views all around.

Check out : Complete guide to the Kallur Lighthouse hike

3. Valley of the Seven Lakes | Enjoy Life in the Slow Lane

• Distance:  24.5 km
• Elevation gain:  1.482 m
• Duration:  8 hours 20 minutes
• Starting point:  Bohinj, open in Google Maps

Slovenia might be small, but it’s packed full of amazing scenery that takes in mountains, waterfalls, lakes, forests, and much more. The Valley of the Seven Lakes trail is a fantastic way to see the best that the country has to offer. It’s a 25.7 km (16 miles), looped trail, and you can park your car at the start, near the town of Stara Fužina. Be advised, you’ll need to pay €10 to access the mountain road.

Gaining 1,190 meters of elevation along the way, it typically takes anywhere from 7 to 11 hours to complete, though for the most part the going is fairly good. The trail is open from spring through fall, and it can be an amazing place to explore in September as the colors start to change. 

As well as numerous mountain lakes, you can expect to see stunning pastures, jagged mountain ridges, woodlands, and rolling hills. If you prefer to spend more time in the valley, this hike can also be split into 2 days, as there are campsites and mountain huts along the way. 

4. Montaña Blanca Trail | Admiring the View from Volcanoes

• Distance:  10.6 km
• Elevation gain: 368 m
• Duration:  3 hours 5 min
• Kind of trail:  Out & Back
• Starting point:  National park El Teide, open in Google Maps

Tenerife may have a reputation as the Canary Islands party central, but there’s so much more to this slice of paradise than clubs and beaches. The center of the island is home to rugged, volcanic landscapes, with mountains reaching up to the sky. Located in the Teide National Park, Montaña Blanca might not be the tallest peak in the park, but it offers spectacular views, and it’s possible to hike up and down in a day.

The route starts at the foot of Montaña Blanca, in a car park on the TF-21. If you’re not driving, there’s also a bus stop here, with buses departing from the El Portillo Visitor Center — easily reached from Santa Cruz. The linear trail takes you 10.6 km to the La Rambleta — La Fortaleza Lookout Point, at a height of 3,536 meters and an elevation gain of 368 meters. Well-signed, it’ll typically take 5 hours to reach the peak, and it’s a good route for beginners who are in fairly good shape.

The area might see snow and dense mist in the winter, so it’s best to attempt this hiking trail in the far South of Europe between spring and fall. Along the walk you’ll pass amazing scenery, taking in lava fields strewn with giant lava boulders and the views from the top are incredible. At one point, the trail forks and leads to the peak of El Teide, an active volcano and Spain’s tallest mountain. The way up is pretty steep and hard going, but there is a mountain hut half-way if you wanted to turn this into a 2-day hike. If you want to climb Mount Teide, so the last 300 meters you need a permit, apply for your permit here.

5. Morskie Oko | Trailing the Tatras

Okay, so we’ll admit it, this isn’t the most thrilling hike for serious adventure travelers, but bear with us! In recent years it’s true that the Polish Tatras have become extremely popular with tourists, and as a result, many hiking trails are very user-friendly, and frankly overcrowded. However, Morskie Oko is worth checking out, especially outside of peak season.

Translated to the ‘Eye of the Sea’, Morskie Oko is a huge, crystal clear mountain lake in the High Tatras, an area of stunning natural beauty to rival the Alps. The trail is simple to follow, mostly asphalted, and covers around 16 km (10 miles) from the start at Palenica Białczańska to the lake and back. One way this typically takes around 2 hours. To do a loop of the lake, the total distance is 17.6 km (11 miles), but while you’re there, it’s also worth hiking up to Czarny Staw pod Rysami for a bird’s eye view of the epic lake. This brings the entire trip from start to end to around 19.4 km (13 miles), with an elevation gain of around 600 meters.

Getting to the trailhead from Zakopane is easy; either drive to Palenica Białczańska and use the spacious car park (around €2.50), or take one of the many buses from Zakopane bus terminal. This easy hike — you can even take a horse and carriage to the lake — is open year round, and winter snows transform the area into a real wonderland. You can avoid the worst of the crowds by traveling out of season.

6. Caminito del Rey | The Walkway of Death

• Distance:  6.8 km
• Elevation gain:  274 m
• Duration:  2 hours 5 minutes
• Starting point:  Ardales, open in Google Maps

The iconic walkway of death refers to a hiking trail in Europe that creeps through the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, an area of stunning natural beauty that cuts through a natural canyon, 700 meters deep. Carved out by the Guadalhorce River, this natural canyon is a wonder to behold. The Caminito del Rey is an old trail that hugs the canyon wall, with heart fluttering drops just inches from your feet.

Much of the 6.8 km (5 miles) trail is made up of boardwalks, narrow wooden ledges that are fixed to the canyon wall. In recent years, the path has been renovated, and isn’t nearly as deadly as it once was — you can see the old boardwalks as you make your way along the path, and you’ll soon see how the trail got its name. Nowadays, it’s a fairly easy and safe hike that typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete, and the scenery is absolutely stunning.

You’ll need to purchase a ticket for the Caminito del Rey, which costs €10 and should be booked in advance to avoid disappointment. The easiest way to get to the start point is to take a train to the village of El Chorro, and from there you can take a direct bus to the start point. With decent weather all year, you can enjoy this hike year round, with far fewer crowds outside of summer months. Check out my complete guide about the Caminito del Rey hiking trail!

7. Trolltunga | Trekking to the Troll’s Tongue

• Distance:  25.4 km
• Duration:  7 hours 59 minutes
• Starting point:  Tyssedal, open in Google Maps

The legendary Trolltunaga, or the Troll’s Tongue, is a thin slither of rock that juts out over 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet lake. It’s one of Norway’s iconic attractions, appearing in countless films and TV shows, and infinite Instagram photos! There’s a fantastic one-day hike that’ll take you to this wondrous landmark, that takes in amazing scenery along the entire route.

The main trailhead starts at ‘P2’ in Skjeggedal, which is reached by shuttle from the town of Odda — you can get to Odda by bus from Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, and Voss. From the P2 trailhead, it’s a 28 km (17 miles) round trip that ascends almost 800 meters. The entire trek should typically take between 8 and 12 hours, though a shorter route is available from P3 Mågelitopp (20 km/12.5 miles, ascending around 320 meters and taking about 7-10 hours).

Due to weather concerns, the main hiking season is from June until September — outside of those months only guided tours are allowed. This is one of Norway’s most popular hikes, so you can expect heavy traffic and long lines for photo ops on the tongue in high season. But it’s well worth taking on, the view from the top is simply amazing, even if you don’t want to queue to stand on the tongue itself.

8. Kjeragbolten | Standing on the Boulders of Giants

• Distance:  9.8 km
• Elevation gain:  595 m
• Duration:  3 hours 25 minutes
• Starting point:  Øygardstøl, open in Google Maps

The Kjerag boulder is wedged in tight between 2 cliff faces, towering 1,100 meters above the beautiful Lysefjord. You’ve probably seen the pictures, but the real thing is simply magical, and your imagination will run wild as you try to find an explanation as to how this phenomenon ever occurred! The hike up to the mysterious boulder is 11 km (7 miles) there and back, with an elevation gain of around 750 meters.

There are some extremely steep sections, but chains will help you pull yourself up, though the rocks can be slippery in the rain. Generally, the round trip will take between 6 and 10 hours, taking in amazingly varied landscapes and views. It’s a pretty strenuous hike, but it’s well worth the effort, and the adrenaline rush from standing atop the famous boulder is exhilarating!

The trail starts in Øygardstøl, and you can either drive here via car ferry from Stavanger, or take a bus from the same town. Kjeragbolten trail is open from June until the end of September — outside of the season you’ll need to go on a guided tour.

9. Three Peaks Hiking Trail | Discovering the Dolomites

The iconic three peaks, or Tre Cime di Lavaredo in Italian, are one of the most iconic sights in the Dolomites, one of Italy’s most amazing landscapes. High up in the Alps, breathtaking scenery awaits at every turn, and the three peaks area showcases some of the best. There are a number of hiking routes in the area, allowing you to explore, but the main trail, and most others, start from Rifugio Auronzo.

To get to Rifugio Auronzo, you’ll need to pay a €30 toll if you’re driving to get to the car park. Otherwise, you can take a bus from nearby Dobbiaco. From Rifugio Auronzo, the main route loops around an 8.8 km (5.5 miles) trail, taking in the iconic three peaks, as well as a wealth of alien-esque landscapes full of jagged rocks and precarious edges. 

The going is fairly easy for the most part, with an elevation gain of around 550 meters, and some sections of tunnels and the Via ferrata (Iron Way). Here, iron cables aid your climb across precarious edges. The classic route will typically take around 5 to 6 hours to complete, and is open from May until November.

10. Eiger Trail Hike | A Short and Sweet Alpine Trail

• Distance:  6.9 km
• Elevation gain:  98 m
• Duration:  1 hours 45 minutes
• Starting point:  Jungfraujoch, open in Google Maps

The Eiger Trail is a fantastic, quick hike in Europe, that provides amazing scenery all the way. If you’re short on time, but want to enjoy the breathtaking nature that the Swiss Alps has to offer, this is the hike for you. The trail travels point-to-point from Eigergletscher train station, downhill to Alpiglen train station, across a length of around 6 km (4 miles).

Getting to the starting point couldn’t be easier, just hop on a train and jump off at Eigergletscher station! From there, it’s a mostly downhill hike through steep alpine pastures, taking in wild streams, cascading waterfalls, and mountain views. Along the way, you’ll drop around 780 meters, and the total time should take between 2 and 3 hours.

The well-signed trail is open from June through October , and even during the busiest seasons it seldom becomes crowded. Once you’ve finished, you can jump back on the train and return to wherever you’re staying. Special Eiger Trail train tickets cost anywhere from 24 to 70 CHF on average, which includes the fare for the journey to Eigergletscher station and a return to your original destination from Alpiglen station.

11. Valbona to Theth | A trek across Albania’s Accursed Mountains

Don’t let the name of these mountains put you off! The area is absolutely stunning and a real pleasure to explore over the course of a day’s hike. Valbona and Theth are both small villages that share their names with the national parks they’re located in. Situated in northern Albania, it’s an area of jagged mountain ridges, meandering rivers, beautiful forests, and historic settlements.

The trail takes you from the village of Valbona, across the mountains, to Theth — of course you can do it the other way round. However, most people start from Valbona. While the hike itself is just 12 – 17 km (7.5 to 10.5 miles) long depending on where you’re staying in Valbona, and typically takes 6 to 8 hours, many trekkers make a 3-day round trip that incorporates this hike.

Starting in Shkodër, take a bus to the astonishing Lake Koman, which you will travel across by ferry. You can then take a bus from the lake to Valbona and stay the night. Rise nice and early the next day and complete the amazing hike, then either stay in Theth, or return to Shkodër. The trail is very well-marked, and gains an elevation of 1800 meters. Open late May through October, it’s best tackled towards the end of summer, when you’ll witness the amazing colors of Autumn.

12. Romania’s Retezat Mountains | Cut off from the Hustle and Bustle

The Retezat mountains get their name due to their flat peaks, and it looks as if the tops were “cut off” — which is exactly what Retezat means in Romanian. Retezat national park is Romania’s oldest, and one of its most remote; stunning in its tranquility, it’s a real wilderness, home to lynx, bears, wolves, marmots, eagles, and much more. The area is fantastic for multi-day hikes and single day hikes alike, with marked trails criss-crossing the entire park, leading up to peaks, glacial lakes, caves, and forests.

Climbing to Vârful Retezat (or Retezat peak, the third highest in the park) is a top choice for a challenging, but rewarding day hike. In fact, there are various routes to take, depending on how you enter the park. One popular route takes in around 12.2 km (7.5 miles) there and back, starting at the Rausor entrance, with a total elevation gain of 1,220 meters, passing the sublime lake stevia along the way. The hike up to the peak should take around 4 or 5 hours, with some tough sections near the top. Be sure to account for the return trip!

There’s a fee to enter the park of around €2, and the easiest way to get to any of the entry points is to drive. However, it’s worth the effort, as you’ll be treated to unspoiled landscapes, barely touched by humanity. Having said that, the park can be a little busy on summer weekends, but weekdays and shoulder seasons are ideal times to visit. The recommended hiking season is June to October.

13. Zandvoort en Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen | Walk Among the Wildlife

• Distance:  21.7 km
• Elevation gain:  226 m
• Duration:  5 hours 11 minutes
• Starting point:  Zandvoort, open in Google Maps

Home is where the heart is, and for us that’s the Netherlands! It’s easy to forget about the places you walked while growing up, but there are tons of amazing hikes in the Netherlands. This is one of our favorites, full of varied scenery, beautiful wildlife and nice places to stop and grab refreshments.

Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen is a stunning nature reserve just a short way from Amsterdam, so you can easily take a day out of the city to complete this hike. The route starts in the seaside town of Zandvoort, which you can reach by train, or if you’re driving, park at Zandvoort Zuid car park. From here, simply head to the beach and follow the signs to the reserve. Be advised that there’s a €1.50 entrance fee to the park and dogs are not allowed.

The trail stretches for 21.7 km (13.5 miles), with an elevation gain of 262 meters, making it a fairly moderate hike that most people should enjoy without issue. Along the way, it takes in sections of the beach, sand dunes, woodlands, lakes, and canals, as well as numerous wild animals, including foxes, deer, and birds of prey. At the end, there’s a fantastic pancake restaurant for a tasty reward, and from there you can either walk back to Zandvoort, or take a bus.

For more hiking in the Netherlands, check out these 5 forest hiking trails near Utrecht.

14. 15 peaks of Snowdonia | Can You Complete the Challenge?

• Distance:  53.4 km
• Elevation gain:  4.158 m
• Duration:  20 hours 15 minutes
• Starting point:  Llanberis, open in Google Maps

Let’s finish with a hiking challenge in Europe — can you conquer the 14 (well, actually it’s 15 since the OS maps were updated) peaks of Snowdonia in 24 hours? Also known as the Welsh 3000s, this adventure hike takes you on a journey to the top of each mountain in Wales that is more than 3,000 feet (914 meters) high. It’s tough, but it can be done, and the current record stands at a staggering 4 hours, 10 minutes and 48 seconds!

You can attempt the challenge from various different starting points, and there’s no set order in which you should reach the peaks. However, one of the most popular is the Crib Goch route, starting at Pen-y-pass. Not for the fainthearted, this trail consists of exposed, jagged ridges and sheer drops, but it is the best way to actually climb all of the mountains. It’s 46.8 km (29 miles) long from start to finish, with an elevation gain of around 900 meters, and for most people it’ll take anywhere from 10 to 20 hours to complete.

Besides the challenge, the scenery in Snowdonia is absolutely stunning, and if you’re lucky to be there on a clear night, the stars are so amazingly bright! This hike can be broken up into a multi-day hike if you’d rather take your time, and there are plenty of places to camp, as well as hostels and guesthouses. There’s a car park at Pen-y-pass, but it’s small and expensive — however, the Snowdon Sherpa is a bus service that can take you to all the main trailheads in Snowdonia National Park.

Hiking in Europe: Packing List Essentials

By now you’re probably furiously planning your next hike, but before you rush away and dust the old boots off, it’s important to remember to pack the essentials! For us, we never leave for any hike into the wilderness without the following items:

• Water bottle/bladder: having a good supply of potable water with you is a must, no matter how short the hike. Nowadays, there are plenty of excellent, lightweight choices that are reusable and hygienic. No matter how tempted you are to lighten the load, always make space for plenty of water.
• SPOT (safety system) : adventure hiking by its very nature is risky, but there’s no point in increasing the danger unnecessarily. With a SPOT safety device, you can maintain communication with the outside world well beyond the range of cell phone service. Using GPS, it’ll send out an SOS to rescue teams in case of an emergency, making it a really handy tool that might just save your life.
• Robust hiking boots : budget travelers beware! If there’s one thing you should never skimp on, it’s your hiking boots. A good, properly fitted pair will prevent twisted ankles, slipping down scree, and much more, for many years after you buy them. Be sure they’re waterproof and breathable, but most importantly, comfortable!

Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to packing for exploring the hiking trails of Europe. Fortunately, you can check out our full packing list right here! Check here, my packing list for hiking.

FAQ Best Hiking Destination In Europe

What country in europe has the best hiking.

Saveonenergy.com used the popular Alltrails.com to compile a list of the top hiking destinations in Europe. See the top 10 below: 1. Ireland 2. Iceland 3. United Kingdom 4. Italy 5. Spain 6. Switzerland 7. Norway & Germany 8. France & Portugal 9. Belgium & Denmark 10. Luxembourg

What is the longest hiking trail in Europe?

The longest hiking trail in Europe is the Kom-Emine, the trail is 650 km and connects 30 mountain huts for accommodation. In generally it takes hikers around a month to complete this hike.

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Thanks for checking out these 30 incredible hiking trails in Europe. I don’t know how about you, but I want to scratch them all off my bucket list! Just let us know in the comments below which hike you would love to do most or which one you’ve conquered already! And for more hiking inspiration you better check out our travel tips !

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EuropeanTrekking Holidays

One of our favourite ways to experience any region is to slow down and see it on foot. Europe of course offers some tremendous walking, hiking and trekking holidays from beginners to the more experienced and at all levels of physical exertion.

From the high Alps of France, Italy and Switzerland to the stunning Pyrenees to the epic coastal vistas of Italy, Croatia and the wonderful islands of Greece, Spain and the broader Mediterranean Sea. There are also of course some very famous routes including Tour du Mont Blanc , The Camino de Santiago and The Path of The Gods along the Amalfi coast.

If you want to mix up your adventures, a number of our trips are made up of a combination of activities, including trekking and cycling , trekking and kayaking and many more combinations. These multi-activity tours are great if you are looking for variety or are booking a longer trip. 

Top 10 European Trekking Holidays

Here are the top ten most popular trekking holidays in Europe but remember, we have an awful lot more on our website!

Mountains & Villages of Evia - 8 Days

Mont blanc highlights - 8 days, camino de santiago encompassed - 10 days, norway fjord trekking - 7 days, walking in tuscany - 8 days, walking the amalfi coast - 8 days, sierra de aitana trek - 8 days, classic dolomites - premium - 8 days, walking in andalucia - 8 days, walking the picos de europa - 8 days, best time to trek in europe.

This is really a very personal choice. Some really enjoy taking walking and hiking holidays in the winter months, the big advantage being both the lower prices and the fact it's very quiet.

Others of course prefer their walking holiday in the summer months, it can be tough with the sun beating down but it's also beautiful and you'll get a nice hikers tan!

Shona, a member of our team and a trekking expedition leader for ten years says ' I really prefer the months of spring and autumn because the weather is good but not sapping, it's busy enough without being crowded and the cool breezes are the most refreshing! '.

If in doubt, please do contact our team and we can help.

Solo Travellers & Trekking Holidays

If you're a solo traveller looking for a trekking holiday you're in the right place. The majority of our trekking and hiking holidays are guided small group adventures. Most groups have a wide age range (unless it's a 18-35 trip) and typically an equal mix of gender. 

However, usually 50% of any group is made up of solo travellers. These adventure trekking holidays are very much designed with solo travellers in mind.

In terms of rooms, you will be paired with someone of the same gender and age (as close as possible) or you usually pay a little more for your own room. The guide is there to help along the way and ensure everyone is comfortable and having an amazing time.

Accommodation

To make things as stress-free as possible for you, all the accommodation is included in our trekking tours, it means you don’t have to worry about booking somewhere for each night and you can concentrate on the scenery and the actual trek.

Full porterage is included which means your luggage will also be transported each day and will be waiting for you at the next stop. You only have to carry a day bag with some essentials. Many of our trip also includes some meals so another thing you don't have to worry about.

Some of the treks of course have no hotels or B&Bs but you'll be camping, a much more rustic experience!

Guided or Independent Tours?

The majority of our tours are guided, and you will be trekking with a small group of like-minded people. Most of our trips have around 60% solo travellers in each group and many come back having made friends for life! We only work with companies that employ qualified guides who know the area and are there to make the trip as enjoyable and safe as possible. They will keep your group en route, set a pace that suits all, plan the best meal stops and give you a great insight into the region. 

If you prefer to be a bit more independent, look out for self-guided trips, where you will be provided with maps, notes and you can set the pace yourself. These tours can vary from one-day trips to longer treks and are available on easy through to more advanced routes. Once again your luggage and accommodation will be sorted so that’s one less thing to worry about. 

How Fit Do I Have To Be

This really does depend on the length, difficulty and the altitude of the trek you are planning. For all easy and moderate treks, like The Camino de Santiago we suggest you head out for some long walks before your trip.

If you have new boots then we also highly recommend wearing them for at least one long walk ahead of the trip, trust us, your feet will thank you! Stretching is really important and both before and during your trek. 

For the more challenging treks like Mont Blanc it’s worth ramping up the training,  - the more prepared you are the more enjoyable you will find it. We’d suggest adding in some aerobic exercises and strength training to your regime. Another good tip is to practice with your day pack so you’re already comfortable carrying it when you are away. 

Trekking at Altitude (3000 metres above sea level or more)

Whilst not many, there are a handful of high altitude treks dotted throughout Europe and so it's worth knowing how altitude might affect you. Actually, It’s hard to know how this will affect you - as it can have an impact on travellers regardless of age, prior experience at altitude or fitness level. It certainly takes a couple of days to get used to the altitude so definitely take the time to do so. Ask our team if you are unsure how to add this in to your trip, but most include this in the itinerary.

Most people will experience some symptoms of altitude but as long as you are well prepared, you will get aclimatise in a few days and have a great time. Make sure you drink lots of water, take your time, listen to your body and let your leader know if you are feeling unwell. All leaders trekking at altitude are full trained in recognising the symptoms of rare, but more serious conditions that can arise at altitude.  

If you have any concerns or are worried about medical conditions you should speak to your GP before travelling.  We strongly recommend against buying medications that are available over the counter in some destinations without previously speaking to your GP.

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How to plan a solo trip to europe: everything you need to know.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Is traveling alone all over Europe, riding trains, eating delicious food, and discovering historical wonders, a dream of yours? Do you find yourself researching pubs in London and mountain hostels in Switzerland? And watching endless Instagram stories about pasta and pizza and wine in Italy?

You’re not alone. Solo travel in Europe is amazing — even if solo travel anxiety is real, haha. 

However, even though you might daydream a lot about booking that plane ticket, you’re still not sure how to plan a solo trip to Europe. Don’t worry. You’ve come to the right place for a healthy dose of inspiration topped off with some practical advice to make those dreams into realities.

First I want to acknowledge your fears. I get that solo travel to Europe might sound “intimidating” on paper. Sure, traveling solo might be more “mainstream” now than when I started traveling alone about ten years ago (yikes, has it really been that long?).

Regardless of that, the idea of stepping on a plane or bus without a friend or family member is still, understandably, scary for some people. Not everyone has the same confidence in the beginning and that’s perfectly fine.

Furthermore, the planning process is quite involved, especially if you’re coming to Europe from overseas and don’t want to join an organized guided tour. Don’t give up, though. I’m here to help!

Table of Contents

How to Plan a Solo Trip to Europe

In the first part of this post, I want to teach you how to plan a solo trip to Europe without too much hassle.

Usually, the main person stopping you from planning a solo trip to Europe is you . Of course, money is required (I wish that wasn’t the case), but aside from financial restraints, anxiety is usually the main hurdle preventing people from living out their solo travel fantasies in Prague or Vienna or London.

So, to help build your confidence, here are a few of my top tips for how to plan a solo trip to Europe. 

Good luck! I know you can do this!

Create a Reasonable Itinerary

First and foremost, I completely understand the urge to “see everything” on your trip to Europe. I still have a hard time eliminating cities and towns, and fretting over whether my itinerary is the “best use” of my limited time. There’s always more to see and do.

It sucks. I get it. We all wish we had unlimited PTO and money to explore Europe at length. Alas, we need to make hard choices. Don’t try to see everything.

I also want to emphasize that time is money. You don’t want to waste a ton of time sitting on planes, trains, and buses.

So, my personal advice is to spend at least two nights  in any given city or town. That way you can at least get a taste of the city, and decide if you want to spend more time there on a future trip. At the same time, two nights is short enough not to feel bad if you end up disliking a place.

Last but not least you’ll also appreciate not having to switch hotels every single morning. Trust me.

Know Your Comfort Zone

As a solo traveler, you’re in charge of your trip and that includes activities. So, if you’re not a mountain climber or don’t feel comfortable hiking from morning until night, then don’t feel pressured to do so just to impress others on social media or at home.

Of course, feel free to try new activities if you feel compelled to do so. For example, I decided to go paragliding in Slovenia in order to combat my fear of flying, and felt very comfortable running off the side of a mountain cliff. Well. As comfortable as you can be, haha.

As always, though, read reviews of any adventure company and stick with your gut. Instincts are powerful. If you truly feel deep discomfort at the thought of a particular activity, then don’t do it. 

Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for solo travel in Europe. I’m not even kidding. You don’t want to risk paying a enormous hospital bill because you didn’t want to pay for travel insurance.

Furthermore, travel insurance is especially important if you plan on venturing to remote areas of Iceland and Switzerland. You don’t even want to know how much it costs to fly you to a hospital after an accident. 

As for me, I personally recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance and have used their policies to cover all my solo trips to Europe. If you plan to travel internationally more than three times a year, then you might want to check out an annual policy, but for most travelers, World Nomads works great.

Research Out in Online Communities 

Solo travel in Europe is great for all sorts of people. However, traveling alone is probably easier for people who thrive on solitude and don’t necessarily need to make friends in hostels or group tours.

On the flip side, extroverts might feel concerned about making new connections on a brand new continent. Fortunately, with the wonderful internet, it’s super easy to connect with other travelers, especially in big and popular cities. 

For example, Facebook has many wonderful travel groups, such as Women Who Travel and Girls LOVE Travel, where you’re able to link up with other travelers, as well as locals. Of course, always use your best judgment when linking up with strangers from social media.

Furthermore, you can reach out to members of your social circle, such as family and friends, to see if they know anyone who lives in the places that you’re visiting. 

Share Your Itinerary 

I know, I know, I know. You’re an amazing independent traveler who’s confident in their skills to navigate all over Europe. That’s great and I obviously believe in you.

However, it’s a smart idea to share your plans with someone at home. I’ve traveled alone to Europe countless times, and I still leave my itinerary with family members in case, god forbid, an emergency happens. 

I, personally, feel a lot safer when someone knows where I’m staying and can connect me even if my phone goes missing. Sharing an itinerary is a wonderful practice that will help build your confidence, because you know someone at home has your back.

You might also want to register with the State Department (this tip is specifically for US-based travelers). Using STEP lets you register for free with the local embassy, which can keep you up to date about important news in your area. Having that added reassurance goes a long way. 

Thoroughly Read Reviews

Don’t skimp reviews, especially accommodation reviews, when you’re planning your visit to Europe. I’m not a diva with hotels. I don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on my credit card to have a memorable solo trip. Affordable doesn’t mean letting go of your standards, though.

So, with that said, I have zero tolerance for accommodation that is dirty or unsafe. Zero.

I spend plenty of time combing through reviews specifically left by solo travelers. You can easily sort reviews on bigger sites, such as Trip Advisor and Booking. If several solo travelers say they felt unsafe in certain hotel or even area surrounding the hotel, then consider it a red flag and move on.

Solo Trip to Europe Suggestions

When it comes to how to play a solo trip to Europe, location is (obviously) super important. I wanted to share a couple of destinations that really stood out to me as solo travel friendly,

Honestly, I think you could easily have fun in all these places even if it’s your very first time traveling throughout Europe by yourself. 

Barcelona, Spain 

I absolutely loved solo travel in Barcelona for many reasons. First of all, tapas culture made it super easy to “blend in” at restaurants and dine alone without judgement. Wandering from bar to bar was a great way to try a wide variety of local treats, while chatting with city residents and other travelers. 

Furthermore, Barcelona’s awe-inspiring Gaudi architecture and many museums (guh, I loved the Piaccaso Museum) are best experienced alone, without any distractions from a travel buddy. 

As a large city, Barcelona has plenty of connections so you’re able to enjoy solo travel in the rest of Spain and beyond if you wish to do so.

Granada, Spain

Granada is another city in Spain that’s wonderful for solo travel. Actually, traveling all of Andalusia alone means seeing lots of stunning intricate alcazars (which are palaces and fortresses) in the sun and eating free tapas until your stomach literally cannot take another bite. 

Solo travel in Granada is especially fun since you will definitely see the Alhambra Palace. This intricate palace and fort complex is one of the most incredible manmade sites that I have ever seen on all my adventures, and makes Granada worth visiting as a solo traveler. 

Furthermore, Granada is excellent for solo travelers who are visiting the city on a budget. I thought accommodation was cheaper here compared to nearby Seville.

In addition, Granada is still one of the best places to eat free tapas in Spain. You could technically go an entire trip without paying for food. That is, if you order a drink with your meal!

Edinburgh, Scotland (and Beyond!)

Scotland is my favorite country of all time, which is not a surprise to longterm readers of mine. Scotland is perfect in practically every way for solo travelers. Solo travel in Scotland makes you feel as if you’ve been transported into a mythical fairytale, particularly in the epic Highlands. 

I always suggest starting off with solo travel in Edinburgh and then venturing into Scotland’s countryside and islands. Group tours, such as Haggis Adventures, are fantastic for travelers who want to see the rural wonders without the hassle of renting a car.

Lake Como, Italy

Gosh, I adore Lake Como. Seriously, I could spend two weeks or more relaxing on Lake Como’s elegant shores or hiking in the surrounding mountains. This stunning region in northern Italy reminds me so much of Lord of the Rings , haha.

I personally recommend spending at least 2 days in Lake Como and then doing a longer trip around northern Italy. Sure, it’s possible to do a day trip to Lake Como from Milan , but Lake Como is best enjoyed when you have more time. It’s also very safe and easy for solo travelers to navigate. I never once felt uncomfortable exploring Como. 

Not to mention, I loved pretending I was in a James Bond movie. Don’t ask.

London, England

London is an excellent choice for your first solo trip to Europe. Firstly, London is safe for solo travel , especially for a city of its size. Everyone here speaks English and the tourism infrastructure is fantastic. 

I especially recommend London to introverted solo travelers. By and large, Londoners mind their own business and won’t pry when they see someone participate in activities alone, even at night time (and yes, London has lots of great solo nighttime activities for you to enjoy). 

Every type of traveler will discover something of interest in London. Do you like the theater? Go to the Globe! Are you a fan of jazz? Check out a show at Ronnie Scott’s. Do you adore books? Don’t miss the British Library’s gorgeous collection. 

Reykjavik, Iceland 

Iceland is one of the safest countries that I have ever visited, with Reykjavik ranking one of the safest capital cities that I’ve ever had the pleasure of exploring.

Ultimately, solo travel in Reykjavik is delightful. You’re able to explore this city day and night without stressing about your personal safety. Of course, common sense still applies, but it was so nice to relax and unwind.

As a solo traveler, you have options in Reykjavik. You can rent a car on your own and travel throughout the country, or organize guided day trips to Iceland’s spectacular natural beauty. And don’t miss the spas! Reykjavik is ideal for a wellness holiday!

Switzerland (All of It)

Still not sure how to plan a solo trip to Europe? Then just stay in Switzerland. It’s truly a masterpiece of a country. Solo travel in Switzerland is amazing, because each region feels like an entirely different country.

For example, solo travel in Zurich , the country’s biggest city, will be wildly different than solo travel in Lake Geneva where French is spoken and gorgeous vineyards and castles are everywhere to explore.

Switzerland is also remarkably safe and easy to navigate. The scenic trains connect not only Switzerland’s major cities, but smaller towns that look ripped from the pages of gorgeous fairy tales.

Venice, Italy

Last but not least, but solo travel in Venice also promises a very unique and beautiful experience, especially if you stay in the city of Venice. Which,  do.  Day tripping isn’t nearly as awesome as wandering a quieter Venice in the early hours of the morning and late evening. 

Venice is a romantic destination, but don’t let that turn you off. A solo traveler is still able to have a lot of fun here. Venice has plenty of world class museums, such as Doge’s Palace and Peggy Guggenheim Collection, that are best experienced all alone. You can take as much as as you want to admire the splendid art. 

Furthermore, Venice is perfect for solo diners with its extensive Cicchetti culture. Cicchetti or small snacks easily create a meal when you wander from bar to bar. And since Venice doesn’t allow cars, you don’t need to worry at all about driving either. 

I hope reading this post about how to plan a solo trip to Europe gave you confidence and now you’re writing your itinerary! Have a great time! 

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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Europe Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

Filters applied, 250+ europe tours for singles / solo travelers with 70,428 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Genuine Europe

Great few hiccups could've be helped

• In-depth Cultural

The Best of Eastern Europe

A well organised varied and interesting tour . The tour leader was delightful and aimed to please everyone. A variety of travel modes . Felt safe well cared for and accommodated Our tour group were all friendly and supportive

• Coach / Bus

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

It was great experience for us!

Best of Central Europe

This tour had everything I was looking for! Great Eastern European food, great local beer, and a variety of things to do for any type of interest. The hikes were fantastic, and the transportation between stops was well organized. This tour offers a good balance of free time and time with the group, which allows you to come together at the end of the day over dinner to discuss your day.

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

It was FANTASTIC!! I would recommend this tour to anyone. We were so happy to have Steve as our tour guide.

The Great Adventure

I had a great time with this tour

Europe Jewel

Well organised and executed tour.Got an opportunity to meet people all over the world and all are of very pleasant personalities.Tour leader Mrs.Shey Harrington organised it in excellent way and last to mention about our Driver Mr.Hans ,ever smiling and non tiring personality.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Europe Escape

Amazing experience, very fast paced . Sometimes you would arrive in locations during the night and leave early in the morning. Met amazing people and would do another trip there are some extra costs so best to factor this in as well. Would recommend.

Balkan Kaleidoscope

This was also few years back touring several Balkan countries Bulgaria, Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, North Macedonia and Albania. If I remembered the hotel that my wife & I stayed in North Macedonia is like an attic room, I mentioned to the tour guide and our hotel in Albania with no elevators, we were in the top floor, not easy for old people to use the stairs. But nothing was done to resolve my complain. Ditto, the bus driver kept on stopping because he wants to smoke. But overall the tour satisfied my curiosity on this part of the globe.

Essential Britain & Ireland

Very nice itinerary ... jam packed days and evenings. I chose not to do any of the extra evening excursions that were offered so I was able to use the time to explore every overnight stop on my own. The tour guide was amazing... so full of knowledge about all the countries/areas we visited.

European Delight

We enjoyed the tour with our close family and now we have beautiful memories to cherish with best holidays of our lifetime spent in Europe Our best tour guide from all of them was Albert. Maria was very helpful too. Other tour guides Jose, Christina and different local tour guides were knowledgeable too but was rushing too much. We had to rush a lot from morning thru evening with stop overs in between. Some more extra time at each stops would have been appreciated but understanding time restraints it was not possible. Couple of hotels were bit far away from city centre which was bit inconvenient so be prepared to grab stuff you need in your stopovers - guide would let you know in advance. Highly recommend this tour to people who want to visit more places in less time. Also ensure to book extra nights in Rome, Budapest and Paris as there is lots to do here Thank you

Europe Taster

Knowledgeable people behind our group! Outstanding

• Sightseeing

Tour from Athens to Belgrade: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

Hey guys it was just perfect! Everything! From organization to beautiful places that we visited. I was all around the world but Albania is something else. Wine, sea, food, local people, history, cities - perfection! The places where we stayed were beautiful and clean and tour guide was lovely, talkative and kind. Recommendation to everybody!

Rome to London Quest (Summer, 10 Days)

greg was awesome, approachable, able to answer questions and welcoming. Would definitely recommend Greg!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

This tour exceeded our expectations. The history of these countries is very interesting. The cities and towns we visited were fascinating. The scenery of mountains, lakes and coast was beautiful. We saw wonderful churches, mosques, monasteries, bazaars, castles, forts and walled cities. Our guide Sokol was great fun to be with. Before booking this trip, we had lots of questions, which were answered by Sirma from the CHOOSE BALKANS team promptly and with the information we had requested. As tourism is increasing in these countries, visiting at this point in time was magical. The use of local hotels was nice. This was a special trip that we highly recommend, and will stay in our minds for a long time.

What people love about Europe Solo Tours

We had a great time. I am planning my next trip soon with tourradar. Your tour guides are fantastic, especially Gaetano, Filipo, and Lee

Very good tour , something’s we didn’t find out right until the moment. But, overall good tour.

I really enjoyed the trip

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Solo Hiking Tours

Small group walking vacations for singles.

Explore your chosen destination at your own pace. Our walking and trekking vacations are graded from Easy to Challenging. Plus, our expert tour leaders will help you get to the heart of your destination and take away all the hassle of route planning.

Walking, hiking & trekking for singles

From leisurely paced walks along breathtaking coastlines, to more challenging treks up some of the world's most awesome mountains, our small group Walking and Trekking Trips offer everything you need for a more active adventure vacation. As they're guided by expert leaders, who ensure that all of the details are taken care of, they make perfect walking trips for  solo travelers  - all you need to worry abut is packing your most comfortable boots.

In fact, our walking and trekking vacations are some of our most popular group adventure trips of all, as they're a fantastic way to explore a new destination and take in its most unforgettable sights, sounds and scents. Our best-selling  Amalfi Coast Walking  vacation will take you along this spectacular Italian coastline and culminate with the famous 'Walk of the Gods', but with an easy pace, you'll have plenty of time and opportunity to enjoy delicious Italian cuisine and wine along the way - no wonder it's a favorite walking trip for solo travelers.

Or for solo travelers who really want to tick some destinations off their bucket list, there's our highly popular  Toubkal Climb , on which you and your fellow travelers will be led through some of Morocco's most exciting scenery, and towards Jebel Toubkal - North Africa's highest peak at 4167m, and from where the whole of the Atlas mountain range will unfold before you.

Travel solo, but never alone

What makes our trekking and walking trips popular with single travelers is that you get all of the thrill and authenticity of solo travel, but without being alone. On any of our small group adventure vacations you could be joined by every type of traveler, including families, couples, and indeed fellow solo adventurers, so you're sure to meet some interesting people to share your experience with. Included in the cost of your walking or trekking vacation with Explore is your accommodation, travel and activities, as well as some or all of your meals (you'll find full details on the individual trip page) plus your flights, if you wish. With the details taken care of and your itinerary carefully planned, all you need to do is arrive, and enjoy every minute of your trip. You'll also have plenty of free time scheduled in too - and whether you'd like to use that to explore your destination further, or just indulge in some relaxing downtime, how you spend that is up to you.

Our most popular solo walking tours

Amalfi coast walking - agriturismo.

Walking Jordan's Spice Trails

Walking in Madeira

Toubkal Climb

Canary Islands Walking - Gran Canaria

Walking in Northern Cyprus

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