There’s no shortage of travelers jetting off to explore the world solo nowadays. Everyone’s on the hunt for the freedom and independence that comes with traveling alone.
Long gone are the days when eating by yourself was considered ‘odd.’ More often than not, when you’re traveling around, you’re bound to run into a few travelers on the same path of adventure.
Popular accessories company Kipling recently launched their travel index compiled of specific country-based information focusing on safety, activities, and attractions. The report focused on female travelers and where they considered the best for solo travel this year.
With travel on the rise significantly, solo travelers are now looking for more off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore.
Here are 3 cities most popular for solo travel in Europe for 2023:
Hamburg
As Germany’s second-largest city, Hamburg is crammed with culture and history. For solo travelers looking for a city escape with a thriving food scene, Hamburg is the place.
While a popular port city, Hamburg is still relatively less busy than other cities such as Berlin and Munich. Known for being a leader in green travel, Hamburg is a spacious city best explored by walking or biking.
With an array of outdoor activities, parks, and beer gardens, sometimes the best way to see a new place is to get lost in its spaces and see what you find!
If you’re a solo traveler looking to explore more than one city, Hamburg is centrally located and a convenient spot for adventuring through other parts of Germany.
The crime rates in the city are pretty low, and it’s very safe for travelers to walk around day or night. Germany in general attracts an influx of younger travelers, so it’s always possible to meet fellow solo travelers along your journeys.
Faro
A lesser-known destination in the Algarve often overshadowed by neighboring Lagos, Faro sits proudly as the capital of this beautiful region.
A short drive from Spain and close to other popular parts of Portugal, Faro is the perfect jumping-off point for travels throughout the country. The Southern Portuguese city is an undiscovered gem teeming with quaint restaurants, secluded beaches, and historic sites.
Faro is ideal for solo travelers looking for a warmer climate, small-city vibes, and a thriving cultural experience. There are so many things to do here, from visiting the infamous ‘Bones Chapel’ to taking a boat trip to one of the many islands in the area.
Since it is a small area, it’s easy to meet locals and fellow travelers when you’re visiting. With narrow streets and few hostels in the area, building a community here is not difficult.
Faro is generally pretty safe to walk around day or night. With a buzzing nightlife scene, there are usually always people around in the streets at all times. If you’re lost, the locals are incredibly friendly and willing to lend a helping hand!
Edinburgh
A popular hotspot for every type of traveler year round, this medieval city in Scotland has a lot to offer. Edinburgh has a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking to try the best Scottish delicacies or want to immerse yourself in the Scottish Highlands.
For solo travel, this is one of the best destinations to explore. Edinburgh has endless possibilities for solo travelers throughout the city. Cute coffee shops, museums, and local pubs (where you’re bound to get chatting to a few of the locals).
Edinburgh was also crowned as one of the best cities to visit in the world last year by Time Out Publications. If that doesn’t sell this charming city, I’m not sure what will!
The city is scattered with a variety of hotels, activities, and hostels perfect for meeting fellow wanderers out and about. Join one of the infamous bar crawls, and you’ll soon feel at home.
