Traveling solo can feel like freedom in its purest form. No compromises, no waiting on anyone else—just you, your backpack, and the world ahead. Europe is one of the easiest places to explore alone because of its safe public transport, walkable cities, and endless variety. But with so many options, how do you know which places are truly worth it for solo travelers?

I’ve been there—scrolling through maps late at night, wondering where I could wander without feeling out of place or unsafe. The good news? Europe is packed with cities that welcome solo travelers with open arms. From cozy towns where you can get lost in cobblestone streets to buzzing capitals where meeting people is as simple as sitting in a café, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 best solo travel destinations in Europe. These spots aren’t just about pretty views (though they’ve got plenty of that). They’re about connection, comfort, and experiences that make solo adventures unforgettable. I’ll share what makes each place shine, plus a few things to keep in mind so you can decide if it’s right for you.

Before diving into the list, here’s why Europe is perfect for traveling alone:

• Safe and reliable transport – Trains and buses connect even the smaller towns.
  
• Friendly to English speakers – While learning local phrases is polite, most places are used to tourists.
  
• Cultural variety in small distances – You can hop from medieval castles to modern art in just a few hours.
  
• Thriving hostel and café culture – Easy ways to meet other travelers without pressure.
  

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has this warm, laid-back energy that feels like a hug the moment you arrive. The pastel-colored streets, tiled buildings, and trams rattling uphill make it easy to wander without a plan. For solo travelers, Lisbon is safe, affordable, and bursting with character..

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • The city is compact—you can walk from neighborhood to neighborhood.
    
  • Locals are friendly, and many speak English.
    
  • Cafés and hostels make it simple to meet other travelers.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Explore Alfama’s winding alleys.
    
  • Ride Tram 28 for a cheap city tour.
    
  • Watch the sunset from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
    
• What to keep in mind: The city is hilly, so pack comfy shoes. Also, pickpockets can be sneaky on trams, so keep your bag close.
  

Read more about: 31 Favorite Places to Visit in the USA

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of the safest cities in the world, making it a dream for solo travelers. It’s modern yet cozy, with bikes everywhere, clean streets, and a strong sense of trust among locals.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Extremely safe, even at night.
    
  • Bike-friendly and easy to navigate.
    
  • English is widely spoken.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Stroll along Nyhavn’s colorful waterfront.
    
  • Visit Tivoli Gardens, especially at night when it’s lit up.
    
  • Rent a bike and ride like a local.
    
• What to keep in mind: Copenhagen is pricey, so budget meals at street food markets or cooking in hostels can help stretch your wallet.
  

3. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. Cobblestone streets, gothic spires, and a castle overlooking the city—it’s impossible not to be charmed. For solo travelers, Prague strikes a balance between affordable and culturally rich.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Easy to walk around—most sights are close together.
    
  • Hostels and walking tours are popular, making it easy to meet people.
    
  • Very budget-friendly compared to Western Europe.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Cross the famous Charles Bridge at sunrise before the crowds.
    
  • Explore Old Town Square and watch the Astronomical Clock.
    
  • Take a day trip to Kutná Hora to see the Bone Church.
    
• What to keep in mind: It’s a tourist hotspot, so certain areas can feel crowded. Venture into less popular neighborhoods for a quieter vibe.

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is bold, colorful, and full of life. It’s the kind of city where you can spend the morning wandering Gaudí’s creations, the afternoon at the beach, and the evening eating tapas in a buzzing plaza.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Lively social scene—easy to meet people in hostels or food tours.
    
  • Plenty of free or low-cost attractions.
    
  • Reliable public transport to get around.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Marvel at the Sagrada Família.
    
  • Walk down La Rambla and explore the Gothic Quarter.
    
  • Watch the sunset at Bunkers del Carmel.
    
• What to keep in mind: Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas, so keep your bag close and avoid looking too distracted.
  

5. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh feels like stepping into history. Its medieval Old Town, the castle perched on a hill, and the literary cafés make it one of the most atmospheric cities in Europe. For solo travelers, it’s cozy and welcoming.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Easy to explore on foot.
    
  • Locals are warm and chatty.
    
  • Lots of walking tours and day trips to join.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views.
    
  • Tour Edinburgh Castle.
    
  • Explore the Royal Mile’s quirky shops and hidden alleys.
    
• What to keep in mind: The weather changes quickly, so always carry a light jacket.
  

6. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of the most budget-friendly capitals in Europe and has a vibrant mix of history, nightlife, and relaxation. The city is split by the Danube, with hilly Buda on one side and lively Pest on the other.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Affordable food, accommodation, and transport.
    
  • Hostels and ruin pubs are perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
    
  • Thermal baths are great for a relaxing solo day.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Soak in Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
    
  • Walk across Chain Bridge.
    
  • Join a Danube river cruise at night to see the city lights.
    
• What to keep in mind: Nightlife can be intense—if you’re not into it, focus on the city’s cultural side instead.
  

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is often thought of as a party city, but for solo travelers it offers much more—canals, art, cozy cafés, and an easy-going vibe. It’s also one of the easiest cities to navigate on your own.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Compact and walkable (or bikeable).
    
  • English is spoken almost everywhere.
    
  • Museums and cultural spots are ideal for solo exploring.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Visit the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum.
    
  • Take a canal cruise.
    
  • Wander through Jordaan, a charming neighborhood full of boutiques and cafés.
    
• What to keep in mind: Bikes rule the road—be careful when crossing streets and don’t walk in bike lanes.
  

8. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is elegant, clean, and deeply cultural. From its grand palaces to cozy coffee houses, it’s a city where you can enjoy both history and slow moments.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Very safe and organized.
    
  • Perfect for history, music, and art lovers.
    
  • Coffee houses are ideal for sitting alone without feeling out of place.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Visit Schönbrunn Palace.
    
  • Attend a classical concert.
    
  • Treat yourself to Sachertorte in a traditional café.
    
• What to keep in mind: Vienna is calm rather than wild. If you’re looking for nightlife, it might feel too quiet compared to other cities.
  

9. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, with its medieval walls and views of the Adriatic, is simply breathtaking. It’s smaller than other cities on this list, but it packs a lot of charm and history.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Compact Old Town that’s easy to navigate.
    
  • Safe and friendly for visitors.
    
  • Stunning scenery perfect for solo photography.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Walk the city walls at sunset.
    
  • Take a cable car up Mount Srđ for panoramic views.
    
  • Swim in the clear Adriatic waters.
    
• What to keep in mind: Dubrovnik can get very crowded during cruise ship season. Visiting early in the morning or in the off-season makes the experience more peaceful.

10. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a city with layers—it’s historic, creative, gritty, and endlessly fascinating. For solo travelers, it’s a place where you’ll never feel out of place, no matter your style.

• Why it’s great for solo travelers:
  
  • Welcoming to people from all walks of life.
    
  • Excellent public transport.
    
  • Countless museums, markets, and neighborhoods to explore.
    
• What to do:
  
  • Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial and East Side Gallery.
    
  • Explore Museum Island.
    
  • Join a street art or history walking tour.
    
• What to keep in mind: Berlin is huge. Each neighborhood has a different vibe, so don’t try to see it all in one trip. Pick a few areas and dive deep.
  

Final Thoughts

Traveling solo in Europe is more than just checking places off a list—it’s about discovering yourself while discovering new cultures. Each of these top 10 best solo travel destinations in Europe offers something unique: Lisbon’s charm, Copenhagen’s safety, Prague’s fairytale streets, Barcelona’s energy, Edinburgh’s history, Budapest’s affordability, Amsterdam’s canals, Vienna’s elegance, Dubrovnik’s views, and Berlin’s creativity.

Solo travel isn’t always easy. There will be moments of loneliness or uncertainty. But in these cities, you’ll find comfort, connection, and experiences that remind you why you chose to travel alone in the first place.

So, pack your bag, trust yourself, and take the leap. Europe is waiting for you—with open streets, endless stories, and maybe even a few friends you haven’t met yet.