These are the most effective solo journey locations for 2026

Solo journey can appear intimidating at first, however many discover it uniquely gratifying.

In a 2024 Skyscanner survey, 43% of the two,000 American respondents stated they took a solo journey that 12 months with plans to do it once more. Their high causes for touring by themselves have been for self-care, private progress and having the liberty to observe their very own schedule.

As many solo vacationers know firsthand, the place you go could make all of the distinction in your journey. Heading to a far-off vacation spot that is tough to navigate might be aggravating for first-time solo vacationers.

Tripadvisor just lately dropped its Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026, together with a listing of the highest solo journey locations, primarily based on thousands and thousands of evaluations and rankings from real-life vacationers made between October 2024 and September 2025.

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“Solo travel can be incredibly rewarding, but it asks more of the traveler,” Tripadvisor’s Chief Communications Officer Laurel Greatrix stated in a press release to USA TODAY. “Our 2026 Solo Travel Destinations reflect where solo travelers consistently say they had great trips — places that tend to feel welcoming, manageable, and genuinely enjoyable when you’re traveling alone.”

Here are the most effective locations for solo vacationers, in keeping with Tripadvisor.

Cape Town Central, South Africa

With its somber historical past, multicultural background and pure landscapes, Cape Town affords vacationers a satisfying journey. People can go to historic websites akin to Robben Island, devoted to Nelson Mandela, or discover the outside. About an hour’s drive from the town is the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, that includes 30 sq. miles of mountain climbing trails, seashores and wildlife.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is not only for surfers or yogis, however anybody searching for a tropical escape. Although this Indonesian island shouldn’t be precisely off the crushed path, it’s nonetheless beloved by many vacationers. This 12 months, it earned the title as Tripadvisor’s high vacation spot on this planet, not just for its beautiful seashores and tropical jungles however array of actions like manta ray snorkeling, batik material workshops and extra.

Madrid, Spain

Solo vacationers can simply lose monitor of time meandering the Spanish capital of Madrid, taking within the attractive structure and historical past at one of many many museums. The metropolis feels full of life with golf equipment, boutiques and a plethora of eating places. After a time out and about, vacationers can take pleasure in tapas, tasting native flavors akin to paella and wine.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnam’s capital of Hanoi retains vacationers busy with its historical past and eclectic power. The metropolis is residence to over 600 temples in addition to important websites, akin to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the colonial-style Old Quarter. The meals is value a go to all by itself, with banh mi and scrumptious crepes influenced by French and Chinese cultures, and even Michelin-rated eating places.

New York City, US

The metropolis that by no means sleeps is an efficient alternative for solo vacationers in 2026. New York’s numerous background means vacationers can style cultures from around the globe, from Chinatown to Queens. The metropolis has no scarcity of iconic issues to do, from the Statue of Liberty to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Central Park.

Edinburgh, Scotland

If grand castles and even grander natural magnificence are up your alley, then Edinburgh is your good subsequent solo vacation spot. Travelers can take a look at the long-lasting Edinburgh Castle, one of many oldest fortified websites in Europe, perched upon a hill, earlier than having fun with the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Old Town and the sweeping vistas of Arthur’s Seat. To calm down, folks can hit one of many metropolis’s many pubs or sip on afternoon tea.

Santiago, Chile

Santiago is an up-and-coming vacation spot set in opposition to the backdrop of the Andes. From being residence to the tallest constructing in South America – the Gran Torre Santiago – to the various cafes and dance golf equipment, solo vacationers will at all times discover one thing to do in Chile’s capital. For some peace and quiet, it’s also possible to enterprise simply exterior the town borders to one of many many vineyards.

London, United Kingdom

London is a sprawling metropolis, providing one thing for each kind of traveler. Visit world-class museums, eat Sunday dinner at a pub or take pleasure in a play on the Globe. For solo vacationers, exploring England’s capital is comparatively accessible, particularly with the Tube. Sign up for a strolling or meals tour to soak up the sights and information from an area.

Berlin, Germany

Exploring Berlin can really feel like being in each the previous and the longer term. The metropolis is residence to Museum Island – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes 5 world-class museums – and to historic websites just like the Berlin Wall and the Holocaust Museum, that are somber but must-visit locations. However, the town can be energetic, with its cutting-edge vogue, techno golf equipment and trendy artwork galleries.

Dublin, Ireland

Travelers cannot go incorrect with a go to to Dublin, the historic capital of Ireland and the most effective vacation spot for solo journeys. Even in the event you’re not a literature buff, you will nonetheless really feel captivated by this charming metropolis that seems like touring again in time. Solo vacationers will discover Dublin to be walkable, so it is simple to discover by yourself. Visit the Dublin Castle, take a look at the Ninth-century manuscript of the Book of Kells at Trinity College, earlier than noshing down some fish and chips for dinner.