You’ve finally decided to pack your bags, grab your passport, and venture out on a solo trip to Europe. Exciting, right? But, wait—where do you even start? Europe has plenty of incredible destinations, each more tempting than the last.
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of setting off on an adventure with nothing but your backpack, your curiosity, and the open road (or sky) ahead of you. But when you’re flying solo, choosing the right destination can make all the difference between a trip you’ll rave about for years and one that might have you wishing you’d stayed home binge-watching Netflix.
But don’t worry! This article is here to guide you through the best European countries for solo travel. And trust and believe, by the end of this, you’ll feel like an expert ready to take on the world—one European city at a time.
Table of Contents
14 Best European Countries for Solo Travel
1. Spain
Spain! Every corner here is bursting with life, and the energy is as infectious as the Spanish sunshine. If you’re looking for the best European countries for solo travel, Spain should be high on your list.
Spain is super friendly, the locals are warm and welcoming, often going out of their way to make you feel at home. Plus, many people speak English, especially in tourist hotspots, which makes getting around that much easy.
Spain is a playground for solo travelers and there’s plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re visiting Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville, you’ll never run out of things to do and every experience will leave you spellbound.
This country is very safe for solo travelers, but you still need to keep an eye on your personal stuff, especially in really crowded areas. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville are well-equipped with public transportation, so its really easy to get around.
2. Netherlands
The Dutch have mastered the art of work-life balance, and their easygoing lifestyle makes the Netherlands one of the best places in Europe to travel solo. The country is small and super easy to navigate, which is great news for solo travelers.
Nearly everyone speaks English fluently, so you’ll have no problem having conversations or asking for directions. Amsterdam, with its really gorgeous canals and world-renowned museums, is an absolute gem. The Dutch capital is also bike-friendly, so you can pedal your way through the city like a local.
Amsterdam is a dream come true for solo travelers who love to explore. There’s the Anne Frank House Van Gogh Museum, perfect places to get lost in history. But don’t just stick to Amsterdam—venture out to cities like Utrecht or Rotterdam for a taste of Dutch life beyond the capital.
The Netherlands is one of the safest countries in Europe, and it’s perfect for solo trips in Europe. The public transportation system is reliable, and the locals are incredibly helpful.
3. Portugal
Portugal is like that hidden gem you didn’t know you needed in your life until you found it. It’s one of the best European countries for solo travel, offering a mix of vibrant cities, beautiful coastlines, and a cultural heritage that will make your solo trip unforgettable.
Portugal has it all—amazing food, beautiful landscapes, and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to enjoy the moment. The locals are friendly, and while Portuguese is the official language, English is widely spoken as well, especially in tourist areas.
Lisbon, the capital, is a great starting point. The hilly streets, the trams, and amazing viewpoints (called miradouros) will keep you entertained for days You can explore the neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, visit the very notable Belém Tower or take a day trip to Sintra, a fairy-tale town filled with palaces and gardens. If you’re a beach lover, there’s the Algarve, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Then, there’s Porto, in the north, which is famous for its wine cellars and the stunning Dom Luís I Bridge.
As a solo traveler, you’ll never have a shortage of things to do. And Portugal is very safe, with a low crime rate, making it one of the best places in Europe to solo travel. Public transportation is very efficient, and the locals are welcoming and helpful.
4. Greece
Greece is the stuff of legends—literally. It is incredibly diverse and you can lose yourself in the ancient history of Athens, sail the clean waters of the Aegean Sea, or relax on a sun-soaked beach, there’s just so much to do here. This country is really safe and has a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to travel solo.
The Greeks are famously hospitable, and while Greek is the official language, English is spoken in certain areas.
In Athens, they have the Acropolis and the Parthenon, both must-sees for any history lover. The Cyclades is where islands like Mykonos and Santorini will take your breath away. Each island is unique, whether it’s the nightlife of Mykonos or the gorgeous sunsets of Santorini.
The public transportation system is decent, and getting around the islands by ferry is a fun experience in itself. Just be mindful of your belongings in busy areas, and you’ll have an amazing time.
5. Denmark
Denmark is like a breath of fresh air—the clean cities, friendly locals, and a culture that values happiness above all else, it’s no wonder Denmark is one of the best European countries for solo travel. It is one of the happiest countries in the world, and that vibe is contagious.
Copenhagen, the capital, is heaven for solo traveler’s, with its samll size, easy-to-use public transportation, and safe streets. The Danes are incredibly friendly as well, and nearly everyone speaks English, so you’ll have no trouble making new friends or asking for directions.
In Copenhagen, you’ll find the iconic Nyhavn harbor, the Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, and a definite must-see, especially if you’re traveling during the holiday season.
Denmark is extremely safe, with a very low crime rate, making it one of the best places to travel alone in Europe.
6. Germany
Germany is like that friend who’s always full of surprises—just when you think you know everything about it, you discover something new. You can experience the fast-paced life of Berlin, with cutting-edge art scene and and a very lively nightlife.
Germany is one of the safest countries in Europe, with an excellent public transportation system that makes getting around a breeze.
The Germans are known for their efficiency, so you’ll find it easy to navigate the country, and English is widely spoken, especially in larger cities.
Berlin is a must-visit for any solo traveler. The city is a hub of creativity, with a rich history that’s evident in landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall. For a change of pace, there’s Munich, with the beautiful Nymphenburg Palace, the famous beer gardens, the castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenzollern.
The locals might come across as reserved, but they are very helpful and approachable, especially if you try to speak a few words of German.
7. Italy
Italy—where every meal is a feast, every city is a museum, and every street is a runway. This country is not just a popular destination; it’s a dream come true for solo travelers looking to dive into history, art, and, of course, pasta!
Italy is diverse, and each region offers something very unique. Rome’s ancient ruins, Florence’s Renaissance art, Venice’s romantic canals, and the Amalfi Coast’s breathtaking views are just the tip of the iceberg.
Italians are passionate and expressive, making it easy to connect with locals, whether you’re asking for directions or engaging in lively conversation over a cup of espresso.
The Italian train system is extensive and relatively easy to navigate, making it convenient to travel between cities.
In Rome, you’ll find the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and the Trevi Fountain. Florence is a haven for art lovers, with the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David waiting to be admired. For solo travelers who enjoy a more relaxed vibe, the Amalfi Coast has some incredibly amazing coastal views and villages like Positano and Ravello. Venice, with its labyrinth of canals, is perfect for getting lost in—literally and figuratively.
Italy is safe for solo travelers, though it’s wise to be cautious in crowded tourist spots.
8. Austria
Austria is like the classical music of Europe—timeless, elegant, and utterly captivating. From the majestic Alps to the imperial palaces of Vienna, Austria is one of the best places in Europe for solo travel if you’re looking for a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness, because you’ll find all of it here.
Austria is one of the safest countries in Europe, and its well-organized public transportation system makes it easy to travel solo.
The Austrians are generally friendly, and English is widely spoken, so its easy to navigate the country. If you’re into outdoor activities, Austria’s alpine regions offer some of the best hiking and skiing in Europe.
Vienna, the capital, is known for its imperial history, classical music, and café culture. Here you’ll find the Schönbrunn Palace and a plethora of classical music concerts in one of the city’s historic venues. Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a beautiful city that feels like stepping back in time. There’s the Austrian Alps, a playground for hiking, skiing, and taking the gorgeous scenery.
9. Ireland
The Emerald Isle is one of the best places to travel solo in Europe, especially if you’re looking for a destination where the people are as charming as the landscape. Ireland is famous for its friendly locals, and that’s no exaggeration. Whether you’re sipping a pint in a pub or walking through a nice village, you’ll find the Irish to be some of the most welcoming people in the world.
English is the official language, so you’ll have no trouble communicating. Plus, Ireland’s small size makes it easy to explore, whether you’re sticking to the cities or venturing into the countryside
Dublin, is the capital, where you’ll find the historic Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells, and Temple Bar district. The Ring of Kerry has some picturesque villages, rugged mountains, and stunning lakes. And let’s not forget about Galway, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and traditional Irish music
Ireland is one of the safest places in Europe for solo travel, the locals are always willing to help if you need directions.
10. Sweden
Sweden is like a cool breeze on a summer day—refreshing, clean, and effortlessly stylish. Known for its high quality of life, beautiful landscapes, and modern cities.
Sweden is incredibly safe, with a reputation for being one of the friendliest and most progressive countries in Europe. Stockholm, the capital, is a blend of modern and historic, with a network of islands that make it a unique city to explore. English is widely spoken, so you’ll have no trouble getting around or making new friends.
If you’re into nature, Sweden’s vast wilderness offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and even spotting the Northern Lights. As well as Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, which has a more relaxed vibe and beautiful coastline.
Sweden has a well-organized public transportation system that makes it easy to travel solo.
11. Switzerland
Switzerland is like a perfectly crafted watch—precise, beautiful, and always reliable. With its gorgeous alpine scenery, clean cities, and a culture that values order and efficiency, Switzerland is definitely one of the best places in Europe for solo travel.
It offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, the glassy lakes.
The Swiss are known for their politeness and professionalism, so you’ll feel welcome wherever you go. While the cost of living is high, the quality of services and infrastructure is top-notch, making your solo trip in Europe as smooth as possible. It is also one of the safest countries in Europe
Zurich is a great city for solo travelers to explore, it offers a mix of modern urban life and historic appeal. There’s the Kunsthaus art museum, the Bahnhofstrasse (one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets), and Lake Zurich. And you can’t forget the Swiss Alps, they are a dream come true.
12. Belgium
Belgium may be small, but it’s packed with things to see and do. The locals are friendly and often multilingual, with many speaking English, especially in larger cities. Brussels, the capital, is a melting pot of cultures, you’ll find everything from historic landmarks to really popular cafes. Belgium’s small size means you can easily explore multiple cities in a short amount of time.
Belgium is safe for solo travelers and has a reliable public transportation system that makes it easy to get around.
In Brussels, is where you can find the notable Atomium, with the Grand Place, and some of the best chocolate in the world. Bruges, has a more medieval architecture and some beautiful canals, feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Ghent offers a more relaxed vibe, with beautiful buildings, vibrant street art, and a lively student population. And all these amazing places are great for solo travelers.
13. Croatia
Croatia is the hidden gem of Europe—beautiful, a bit off the beaten path, and full of surprises. With a stunning coastline, historic cities, and warm hospitality, Croatia is truly one of the best European countries for solo travel, especially if you’re looking to explore somewhere a bit different.
Its a mix of Mediterranean charm and Slavic culture. The locals are warm and friendly, and English is widely spoken in a lot of areas. Croatia’s coastline is dotted with beautiful towns and stunning beaches, making it a great destination for solo travelers who love the sea. Inland, you’ll find historic cities, national parks, and a rich cultural heritage.
Croatia is a very safe place for solo travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals who are often eager to help.
Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a must-visit for any trip to Croatia. There are ancient city walls, the historic Old Town, and Mount Srđ, which has some incredible views. For solo travelers into nature, Plitvice Lakes National Park is worth checking out, its a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful waterfalls.
14. Czech Republic
Last but certainly not least on the best European countries for solo travel, Czech Republic, a country with a lot of history and culture, an ideal destination for solo travelers.
The country is incredibly safe, and Prague, its capital, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. English is spoken in most areas, so you’ll have no trouble getting around or making a friend (or two).
In Prague, there’s much to explore, like Old Town, the iconic Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle. Public transportation in Prague is efficient and easy to navigate, and it is easy and convenient to explore other cities and towns.
Conclusion
Venturing on a solo trip to Europe is more than just a journey—it’s a personal adventure where every city you visit, every street you walk down, and every new friend you make adds a chapter to your own travel story. And as mentioned above, Europe does offer an endless array of destinations perfect for solo travelers.
