Got the travel itch, but all your travel buddies are busy? Don't postpone your vacation; take a solo trip! Traveling alone can be one of the most freeing experiences. You get to take your time at destinations. You get to choose the dining you prefer. You can sleep in late or wake up early without worrying about coordinating your schedule with your companions.
There are plenty of destinations that are perfect for solo travel. Whether you're looking for places to relax and unwind or a location filled with things to do, there's an ideal travel spot for your next trip alone.
01 Enjoy a Caribbean paradise in the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are known for their idyllic landscape and friendly locals. This popular tourist destination is extremely low on crime, which makes it a great spot for solo travelers.
Snorkeling is a perfect activity to do by yourself, and there's plenty of it available, thanks to the crystal clear ocean. Explore the waters off Seven Mile Beach, and you'll spot stunning coral and colorful tropical fish. You can even join a diving trip to check out the Kittiwake Shipwreck, which is filled with marine life like grouper fish, barracuda, eels, and sea turtles.
Fun fact: the Cayman Islands is referred to as the "culinary capital of the Caribbean," so every meal is a chance to delight your taste buds. If you're feeling adventurous, try tasting their unique options like lionfish, cracked conch, or cassava cake.
02 Relax in the solitude of Iceland
Iceland is considered one of the safest countries in the world, making this otherworldly destination perfect for a reflective solo trip. Soak your worries away when you sink into the steaming water of a thermal bath at Blue Lagoon. You can spend the afternoon immersed in your thoughts in the serene pool and then treat yourself to a spa treatment for ultimate relaxation.
Iceland is truly ethereal when the Northern Lights are shining. Take an adventure to a remote area like the Grótta nature reserve, where you can view this phenomenon from September to April.
But don't just look at the coastline when you're in Iceland; set sail! Hop on a whale-watching tour, where you'll see remarkable marine life like humpback whales, orca whales, or even dolphins.
03 Unwind in Sedona
Take some reflective time in nature when you check out the towering red rock formations at Red Rock State Park. Set out on a hike or a Jeep tour, where you can take your time and learn more about the area's history and geology from expert guides.
Sedona is renowned for its spas and wellness centers, and there are plenty of options for you to book a treatment to help you feel renewed after a day of adventure. Take advantage of restorative activities like yoga, aura readings, and meditation, and you'll leave Sedona feeling like a new self.
04 Explore the bay in San Francisco
Obviously, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see location. Bring your favorite foods in a picnic lunch to the West Bluff Picnic Area, where you'll have a breathtaking view of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and Angel Island.
Alcatraz is also an essential sightseeing spot filled with fascinating exhibits about the history of this small but infamous island.
San Francisco is also an easy drive to some of the nation's best and most breathtaking national parks if you seek more outdoor adventure. Hop in a hot rod and take a joy ride to check out incredible views at destinations like Yosemite National Park.
05 Entertain yourself In Las Vegas
Las Vegas might bring bachelor parties and debauchery to mind, but it's also a great spot for solo travel. This mesmerizing location has tons of fun-filled activities beyond gambling in casinos.
Hot air balloons don't have much room, making it a great activity when traveling alone. Hop on a hot air balloon ride for a unique view of the Las Vegas skyline and the surrounding desert landscape. It's also an easy drive from Las Vegas to view the stunning Grand Canyon West Rim.
Vegas is home to so many incredible shows that you could probably spend your entire trip at the theater! Since you don't have to agree with a group on what to see, you'll be able to grab tickets for all the shows you're interested in. Check out one of the Cirque du Soleil shows or a magic show with the iconic David Copperfield.
Walk down Fremont Street, and you'll find 24-hour entertainment — from neon lights to casinos to shopping, there's plenty to explore.
06 Get away in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
A solo trip to Gatlinburg is a great way to reconnect with yourself and nature. There are many cabins to rent near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can wake up to watch the sunrise over the vast mountain peaks. Another great option is to stay at a hotel on the main strip, which is filled with restaurants and activities.
There are plenty of things to do that will keep you busy during your solo trip. Stop and see a show like the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show or the Comedy Barn.
If you're feeling brave, visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, where you'll ride to the top on a SkyLift and then walk across the glass panels on the SkyBridge as you take in the mountain views.
When you're ready to get in touch with nature, take a solo hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; it's the most visited national park in the United States!
07 Enjoy time alone in Tokyo
Tokyo is a great spot for solo travelers. Not only is it another one of the safest destinations in the world, but eating alone is a norm in Japan, and capsule hotels are also common.
Enjoy unique Japanese cuisine and make a stop at Ichiran, a restaurant chain specifically created for individual diners! Ichiran believes people eating alone helps them focus on their food, so you can take advantage of their "flavor-concentration booths" for single diners.
Make a stop at the Tokyo Skytree, a 2,080-foot tall tower where you'll see a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the city.
For a relaxing stroll through a traditional Japanese garden, stop by the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This 144-acre park is especially impressive during cherry blossom season.
08 Sink your toes in the sand in Sarasota
For a stateside beach vacation, make a stop in Sarasota, Florida. This city is home to the world-renowned Siesta Key Beach, which features white quartz sand and crystal clear waters. Spend a day relaxing in the sand, and then explore some of the many attractions in the city.
The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is a great spot to learn more about the local marine life. They even have a massive, 100,000-gallon shark tank!
Make a stop at the Ringling Museum of Art, which is filled with over 10,000 different art pieces through 21 galleries.
Myakka River State Park is also a must-see destination. Hop on an airboat ride or rent a kayak to explore the Myakka River and the wildlife that lives there.
09 Dive into nature in Denver
There are tons of things to do solo in Denver, especially for outdoor recreation lovers. Take a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, which is filled with stunning views of mountains, lakes, and wildlife.
For a nature walk closer to civilization, check out the Denver Botanic Gardens. This 24-acre park is an oasis filled with themed gardens and rotating art exhibitions. You can take your time and check out the diverse plants from around the world, some you may never have seen before!
Adventure is around every corner in Denver. You can join a white water rafting trip and have a thrilling afternoon down the river. If the raging waters aren't your speed, rent a bike and explore one of the more than 100 bike trails in the area!
10 Fall in love with Paris
Paris isn't just for lovers; it's for solo travelers too! Paris is perfect for solo exploration thanks to mass transit and plenty of places to visit. Take a guided tour to the Paris Catacombs or Versailles, or hop on a river cruise to see the city from the water.
Paris is filled with art museums like the Musee d'Orsay, Musee de l'Orangerie, and the iconic Louvre. While the museums are filled with incredible works of art, the buildings' architecture is just as stunning. The buildings in Paris are filled with history – like walking the same halls as Louis XIV – making these museums a must-see experience in Paris. The best part of solo travel is that you'll be able to take as much time as you want to admire the destination.
No trip to Paris is complete unless you visit the Eiffel Tower. Make your way to the top and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city. For another stunning view, head to the Arc de Triomphe and climb the steps for a spectacular view of Paris.
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