Solo travel has become a growing trend. What is the appeal of this type of travel? The freedom to explore at your own pace, immerse yourself in the local culture, and enjoy a meal without the need for conversation are just some of the reasons that attract adventurers to embark on a solo trip. Plus, traveling alone, without the distractions of a companion, allows for a deeper connection with the destinations you visit.
All the details on the Kayak and OpenTable report ranking the best places in the world for solo travel.
Recommended destinations for your next trip
Where to go on your next solo trip? Kayak and OpenTable analyzed several cities in the United States and around the world based on the highest proportion of solo travel searches conducted on Kayak ‘s search engine and the proportion of solo dining at OpenTable restaurants .
They then evaluated this data by taking into account factors such as safety (including a safety index from Numbeo and crime reports from the FBI ), accessibility (prices for hotels, flights, and meals), hotel satisfaction scores, and cultural richness (using OpenStreetMap to calculate the number of museums, theaters, and concert halls tagged in a city). Finally, an online survey was conducted to determine how welcoming cities are to solo travelers.
The result: a ranking of the top 10 solo travel destinations around the world and the top 10 places to travel solo in the US.
The best cities in the world to travel alone
Topping the global list is Berlin , and it’s easy to see why this German city was named the best city in the world to travel solo. Whether exploring the remnants of the Berlin Wall or dancing the night away at a techno music club, this city offers solo travelers the chance to immerse themselves in a capital that’s as dynamic as it is welcoming. With an average meal cost of $31 and hotel prices of $168 per night, it’s also a budget-friendly option.
Second on the list is Vancouver , a Canadian city that combines urban sophistication with natural beauty. Known for its safety and stunning scenery, it is ideal for those who enjoy both urban life and the outdoors.
Montreal , another Canadian city, takes the third spot. A city of festivals, gastronomy and history, it offers an exciting cultural experience with a European twist. Plus, it has a high safety rating and moderate costs, making it a great choice for solo travelers.
Other cities on the list include Paris (famous for being the city of love, but also an ideal destination for solo travelers), followed by Milan, Dublin, Toronto, Dubai, Mexico City and London.
The best cities in the United States for solo travel
For those who prefer to stay in the United States , Kayak and OpenTable also ranked the best cities in the country for solo travel. Topping the list is Washington DC, the nation’s capital, which is perfect for both history and art lovers, with plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace. The city’s high average hotel rating and numerous free attractions also help make it a fantastic choice for solo travelers.
Boston is close behind. Rich in history and full of character, Massachusetts ’s capital offers solo travelers the chance to follow in the footsteps of America ’s founding fathers , enjoy world-class museums, and dine at some of the country’s best seafood restaurants. The city’s compact size and walkability make it an easy and enjoyable place to explore on your own.
Chicago , known for its architecture, art scene, and deep-dish pizza, takes the third spot. The Windy City offers a mix of cultural experiences, from the Art Institute to jazz clubs, making it a notable destination for solo travelers. The city’s affordability and variety of attractions ensure you’ll never run out of things to do.
In addition to the top three, other US cities that shine as solo travel destinations include Atlanta (offering a mix of Southern hospitality and rich culture); Salt Lake City (perfect for outdoor enthusiasts); Tampa , Florida; Philadelphia; Seattle; Los Angeles and New York City.
Ranking: The 10 best destinations in the world for solo travel
1. Berlin, Germany
2. Vancouver, Canada
3. Montreal, Canada
4. Paris, France
5. Milan, Italy
6. Dublin, Ireland
7. Toronto, Canada
8. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
9. Mexico City, Mexico
10. London, United Kingdom
Ranking: Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations in the US
1. Washington, DC
2. Boston, Massachusetts
3. Chicago, Illinois
4. Atlanta, Georgia
5. Salt Lake City, Utah
6. Tampa, Florida
7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
8. Seattle, Washington
9. Los Angeles, California
10. New York City
