Best Destinations For Solo Travelers In 2023 - 5 Top Choices

Traveling solo has many benefits. You can explore a new destination without planning around anyone else’s itinerary and move to your next destination whenever you want. Plus, you can meet like-minded travelers or helpful locals all over the world. However, you should start by choosing one of the best destinations for solo travelers.

The best destinations for solo travel are safe, friendly, easy to navigate, and full of friendly people. In any of these places, you can find great restaurants, cozy coffee shops, co-working spaces for remote work, and tons of opportunities to meet new people. Here are 5 of the best destinations for solo travelers in 2023.

Best Destinations For Solo Travelers In 2023

1. Porto, Portugal

Portugal has become renowned as a hotspot for solo travelers. Aside from its incredible food scene, vibrant nightlife, and friendly people, Portugal is exceptionally easy and cheap to get around by car, bus, or train. While many people head straight to the buzzing capital of Lisbon or the beaches of the Algarve, Porto is one of the best places for solo travelers in 2023.

Compared to the busy vibes of Lisbon, you’ll find Porto much more laid-back. Solo travelers can spend days walking along the scenic waterfront or exploring the many cafés, bars, and restaurants among its cobbled streets. With plenty of hostels, co-working spaces, and guided tours, you won’t find it hard to meet new people.

Even if you decide to spend time by yourself, you’ll love waking up with a shot of ginjinha or grabbing a world-famous pasteis de nata at one of Porto’s many bakeries. Lisbon is just a 2.5-hour train ride away and you can also take day trips to Braga, Matosinhos, and the Douro Valley.

2. Toronto, Canada

Toronto is another one of the best destinations for solo travelers in 2023. The Greater Toronto Area is home to over 5.9 million people, and you’ll find most within the wide and bustling city center. It’s home to digital nomads, international students, and wandering travelers from all over the world, so you’ll feel at home no matter where you’re from.

You can spend days exploring the many neighborhoods in the city. From Little Italy to Greektown to Koreatown, you’ll find areas dedicated to all kinds of cultures. This also makes it one of the best places in the world to try new cuisines. You’ll also find great cafés, bars, and restaurants in popular spots such as Queen St. West, King St. West, and Downtown Toronto.

With a massive international airport, it’s easy to fly into Toronto. You can then choose to stay in the city center or venture a couple of hours away to Niagara Falls. You can also explore Toronto Islands, Woodbine Beach, and Scarborough Bluffs for a fix of nature. However, many travelers find that there’s so much to do in the city center that you can fill your travel itinerary without needing to travel further.

3. Malaga, Spain

Spain is a top place to visit for warm weather, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking cultural and natural sights. Many travelers venture to Barcelona for their fix of Spanish beachside relaxation, but Malaga is arguably a better destination for solo travelers. This Andalusian city is one of the best places for day trips, hikes, and historical sites.

Malaga’s coastline is full of scenic beaches. Playa de la Malagueta is often packed with tourists, but you only need to walk a little further along the coach to find quieter spots. Alternatively, you can ignore the beaches and head to world-class museums and galleries, including the Picasso Museum, Pompidou Centre, and Contemporary Art Center of Malaga (CAC).

You’ll also find plenty of places to grab a coffee, tapas, or some delicious Spanish seafood throughout the city. You also can’t miss the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle. These historical gems are cheap to enter on weekdays and free on Sundays. As for day trips, Ronda, Granada, Seville, and the astonishing Caminito del Rey are all within a few hours by train or bus.

4. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok has long been one of the best destinations for solo travelers, especially as it offers an exciting gateway to Southeast Asia. The city has a huge international airport and you can often find affordable flights here from Europe and America. Once you get there, you’ll find tons of things to explore.

The city of Bangkok is known for its amazing Buddhist temples, massive shopping malls, and exciting night markets such as Asiatique and Jodd Fairs. You can also take day trips to the Historic City of Ayutthaya or the beaches of Pattaya. Alternatively, enjoy the cheap nightlife of Sukhumvit or the swanky rooftop bars of Silom.

Bangkok is a great place to start in Thailand, especially as it’s full of affordable hotels and hostels. If you get bored of the city, you can grab a cheap flight to one of Thailand’s stunning beach destinations such as Koh Samui, Phuket, or Krabi. You can also head to Chiang Mai for more nature and culture.

5. Split, Croatia

Whether you enjoy hiking, swimming, climbing, or eating and drinking, Split is easily one of the best destinations for solo travelers in 2023. Split is the second biggest city in Croatia. However, compared to the capital Zagreb, most travelers will find its seafront Mediterranean vibes much more enjoyable.

You can’t visit Split without visiting Diocletian's Palace. This ancient Roman palace has been repurposed as a modern city center full of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. You should also walk along the Riva - the bustling waterfront that’s full of places to grab gelato, drinks, and souvenirs.

Marjan Forest Park is another must-see in Split. You can spend hours here running, cycling, or simply walking and enjoying the views. You should also visit the beaches and swim in the pristine-clear water. If you want to venture further out, cheap ferry trips are available to various islands or even to Dubrovnik.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an exciting solo travel destination in 2023, these are five of the best choices. Whether you’re looking for a lively metropolis or a relaxed beach location, there’s something for everyone. Of course, you can also consider other hotspots such as Budapest, Mexico City, Lima, Bali, and Gran Canaria.

Wherever you go, make sure you’re well-equipped with a secure travel daypack and all the travel accessories you need. For a range of high-quality, eco-friendly travel bags and accessories, visit ALPAKA.