As adventurers all over the world seek greater freedom and independence, solo travel is reaching all-time highs.

Still, it’s worth remembering that taking a trip alone can be as intimidating as it is rewarding, and knowing how to pick the right destination is the key to an amazing experience.

The best way to gauge how good of a fit a city would be for lone travelers is to rely on the advice and experience of those who’ve been there before you.

With that in mind, Hungarian airline Wizz Air analyzed thousands of TripAdvisor reviews in search of the best solo travel destinations.

These were the 5 cities that scored the highest:

1. Rhodes

If you’ve been keeping up to date with the latest travel trends, the fact that the gorgeous Greek city made it to the top of yet another “Best Destinations” list should come as no surprise.

According to the Wizz analysis, over 75% of solo travelers gave Rhodes a 5-star review, making it the most popular destination in all of Europe.

Aerial view of Lindos, Rhodes, Greece

Before we move on any further, though, it’s important to note that the island is currently still recovering from the devastating wildfires that ravaged over 135,000 hectares (521 mi²) of forest and vegetation.

With that said, traveling to the Aegean island is currently deemed safe, and local authorities are even giving out free vouchers to those whose vacation was cut short this past summer.

Moreover, Rhodes still remains one of Greece’s most captivating destinations, boasting picturesque landscapes, a rich history, and welcoming locals that make all tourists feel at home – especially those traveling solo.

If you do get a chance to fly to Rhodes, you won’t want to miss out on the Old Town, The Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of Knights, and the ancient amphitheaters that tell tales of a fascinating past.

Old town of Rhodes, Greece

2. Split

It seems like solo travelers have a taste for gorgeous coastal cities, with Split coming in at no. 2.

Over 73% of solo travelers who ranked the Croatian hotspot on TripAdvisors gave it a perfect 5-star score.

Many of them singled out the historic attractions and vibrant nightlife as the highlights of their trip.

For example, the Diocletian’s Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the four principal Roman gates were all deemed must-sees.

Though marking a few attractions in your itinerary is crucial, in my experience, it’s best to set at least a whole day aside to simply wander through Split’s labyrinthine streets in search of the gorgeous local cafes, art galleries, and bustling markets.

Diocletians Palace Split, Croatia

3. Faro

Next up on today’s list is Faro, the proud capital of the Algarve region.

The stunning Portuguese city beckons solo travelers with its safe, peaceful ambiance, unspoiled natural beauty, and charming cobbled streets that make you feel like a character right out of your favorite book.

What’s more, Faro truly offers something for every type of traveler, so don’t let its understated vibe fool you – your days here will be jam-packed.

Beachgoers can sunbathe in the gold-sanded Praia de Faro. Nature lovers will find themselves at home at the Ria Formosa Natural Park, while history buffs can marvel at the Faro Cathedral.

Belmarco Mansion in the city center of Faro, Algarve, Portugal. Morning scene from the Faro old town, South Portugal

4. Istanbul

Istanbul is currently one of the trendiest travel destinations on Earth, and for good reason.

The Turkish metropolis offers what can only be described as a sensory overload with its bustling bazaars, ornate mosques, and palaces that echo tales of empires past, making it the perfect choice for those who dislike the overwhelming quietness that sometimes comes with traveling alone.

Here, you can spend your days exploring iconic landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

Aerial view of Istanbul, Turkey

Between sightseeing sessions, though, you’ll want to indulge in Istanbul’s world-class culinary scene. The food here will not only be unlike anything you’ve tried before but pretty affordable too.

With all that said, though, I’d highly recommend hiring a professional guide to take you through the city if it’s your first time traveling alone to Istanbul.

While the city provides a feast for the senses, it can all quickly get overwhelming, so having a local along with you will make the experience feel significantly safer and more enjoyable.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

5. Florence

The cradle of the Renaissance is a magnet for solo travelers captivated by art, history, and romance.

If you’re looking forward to a trip filled with world-class museums (the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery), mouthwatering dishes, and iconic landmarks (Ponte Vecchio, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazzale Michelangelo), Florence is the place to be.

Aerial view of Florence, Italy

Credit: Source link