14 Best European Countries for Solo Travel

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. 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.

14 Best European Countries for Solo Travel

1. Spain

This country is like a giant fiesta that never stops, and you’re invited. The energy is absolutely contagious—like catching the Spanish sunshine in a bottle. If you’re on the hunt for an epic solo adventure, Spain needs to be at the top of your list.

People here are ridiculously friendly. Seriously, the locals will chat you up like you’ve been neighbors for years. And if you’re worried about a language barrier, don’t be—tons of people speak English, especially in spots packed with travelers, so getting around is a breeze.

Spain is basically a playground for solo travelers, with endless stuff to do. One day you’re getting lost in Barcelona’s colorful streets, the next you’re eating your weight in tapas in Madrid, and before you know it, you’re dancing the night away in Seville. It’s the kind of place that keeps surprising you—in the best way.

It’s a great place for solo travelers, but, of course, keep an eye on your stuff, especially in busy areas (pickpockets are out here practicing their magic tricks).

2. Netherlands

The Dutch have totally cracked the code on work-life balance, and honestly, they make it look effortless. Their chill, no-rush vibe is just one of the many reasons the Netherlands is an amazing spot for solo travelers. The country is small, easy to get around, and packed with cool things to do—what more could you ask for?

And if you’re worried about a language barrier, don’t be! Pretty much everyone speaks English, so you won’t have to fumble through a Google Translate disaster when asking for directions.

And then there’s Amsterdam—hello, stunning canals and world-famous museums! The city is basically a dream, and since it’s super bike-friendly, you can zip around like a true local (or at least try to without crashing into someone).

Amsterdam is the perfect playground for solo adventures. History buffs? You’ll want to check out the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum. But don’t just park yourself in the capital—Utrecht and Rotterdam are just as cool, with their own unique vibes and tons to explore.

Safety-wise, the Netherlands is one of the best places in Europe to do your own thing without stressing. So if you’re thinking about a solo trip, this is your sign to book that ticket and experience the magic of the Netherlands for yourself!

3. Portugal

Portugal is one of the best places in Europe for solo travelers—laid-back, ridiculously beautiful, and packed with adventures just waiting to be had. If you’re looking for a country that has good food, great views, and zero stress, welcome to your next trip.

Lisbon is where you might want to start, the city is full of neighborhoods that feel like their own little worlds—Alfama, with winding alleyways and fado music floating through the air, or Bairro Alto, where the energy is contagious, and the nightlife is next level.

If you’re the type who packs a swimsuit just in case, the Algarve is about to be your happy place—golden sand, water so clear you’ll double-check if it’s real, and cliffs that make every beach feel like a secret hideaway.

Then there’s Porto, up in the north, casually sitting there being all gorgeous. It’s famous for its wine, which means you have to visit a wine cellar (yes, even if you don’t think you’re a wine person—just try it).

This place is a whole vibe. The landscapes are stunning the food is unreal, and the people are some of the nicest you’ll meet. Portuguese is the official language, but you’ll get by just fine with English, especially in touristy areas. The best part is you can do as much or as little as you want, and it still feels like a trip well spent.

Check out this article on the 10 Best Places to Visit in Portugal.

4. Greece

Greece absolutely unreal. Like, step-off-the-plane-and-immediately-feel-like-you’re-in-a-movie kind of unreal. You’ve got ancient ruins that make you feel like you accidentally time-traveled, the bluest water you’ve ever seen, and beaches that basically demand you kick back and do absolutely nothing. If that’s not a dream solo trip destination, I don’t know what is.

Greece is super safe, and the people? Oh, they will feed you. A lot.

Greeks are famously warm, and even if you don’t speak a word of Greek (besides maybe gyro—which, by the way, you’re probably saying wrong), you’ll get by just fine in most places since English is spoken in touristy areas.

Athens is where the history buffs will lose their minds. The Acropolis? The Parthenon? These are the kinds of places that remind you that people were out here building massive temples while you struggle to put together IKEA furniture. And then there’s the islands—Mykonos is where you’ll dance until sunrise, Santorini is where you’ll take a hundred sunset photos, and every other island has its own personality just waiting to be explored.

Getting around is pretty easy. The public transportation is decent, but the ferries? Now that’s an experience you’ll be sipping coffee on the deck of a boat while hopping from one dreamy island to another.

5. Denmark

This country is all about good vibes, good people, and good times. No stress, no chaos—just clean cities, friendly locals, and a happiness level so high it might just rub off on you.

And let’s talk about Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark—aka solo traveler heaven. It’s small enough to explore without getting lost for hours, the public transportation is a breeze, and the streets are beyond safe. You could probably drop your wallet in the middle of the city and find it sitting untouched hours later (but, like, let’s not test that theory).

And if safety is on your mind—Denmark is one of the safest places in Europe. Crime rates are low, and walking around alone at night feels completely normal. Basically, it’s the kind of place where you can relax, wander around, and enjoy being in the moment without worrying about a thing.

So if you’re looking for a solo trip that’s easy, fun, and full of feel-good energy, Denmark is waiting.

Other articles you may find helpful:

• Cheap Solo Travel Hacks You Need To Know
• Budget Accommodation Hacks for Solo Travelers
• Tips For Introvered Solo Travelers
• Tips For First Time Solo Travelers

6. Germany

If you’re traveling solo, Germany is a dream. It’s one of the safest countries in Europe, and getting around is ridiculously easy. The trains run like clockwork (mostly), buses are everywhere, and even if you get lost, there’s probably a bakery nearby to make it all better with a pretzel the size of your face. Plus, a lot of Germans speak English—especially in the big cities—so if your German vocabulary stops at “Bratwurst,” you’ll be just fine.

Now, let’s talk about Berlin. The art scene here is wild, the nightlife is endless, and the history? Basically everywhere. You’ve got the Brandenburg Gate, the remnants of the Berlin Wall, and museums for days.

But Germany isn’t just about the capital. Munich has major main-character energy too. You can stroll through Nymphenburg Palace, spend the afternoon in a massive beer garden (because why not?), and then take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle—the real-life inspiration for every castle you doodled as a kid.

As for the locals, they might seem a little serious at first, but don’t let that fool you. Germans are actually super friendly once you crack the surface. Bonus points if you throw in a “danke” or “bitte” when ordering your next pastry—they’ll appreciate the effort.

7. Italy

This country is not just a destination; it’s a delicious, dramatic, ridiculously beautiful experience. If you’re a solo traveler, buckle up, because Italy is about to sweep you off your feet.

Each region feels like its own little world. Rome is basically an open-air time machine, Florence is an art lover’s paradise, Venice is straight-up magical (and slightly confusing to navigate), and the Amalfi Coast? Let’s just say it’ll have you rethinking your entire life so you can move into a cliffside villa and spend your days eating seafood pasta with a view.

The Italians are as passionate as they come. You’ll never feel alone because someone’s always ready to chat—whether it’s a barista handing you an espresso, a nonna insisting you eat more, or a stranger helping you figure out the train system (which, by the way, is surprisingly easy to use once you get the hang of it).

As for safety, Italy is pretty solid for solo travelers. Just keep an eye on your stuff in busy spots, and maybe don’t trust the guy trying to sell you a “real” Prada bag for ten euros. Other than that, prepare for an adventure, endless plates of pasta, and a whole lot of “I can’t believe I’m actually here” moments.

8. Austria

Austria has it all: jaw-dropping mountains, dreamy cities, and a love for cake that I fully support. If you’re traveling solo, congratulations, you’ve just found one of the best places in Europe to do it.

First things first—Austria is super safe, which means you can focus on enjoying your trip instead of constantly checking over your shoulder. Public transportation is a dream. Trains, buses, trams—everything runs smoothly, so you can hop from city to city without a headache.

Austrians are generally friendly (especially if you mention Mozart or coffee), and since English is widely spoken, you won’t have to resort to a game of charades every time you need directions.

If you’re an outdoorsy type, the Austrian Alps are basically nature’s playground, packed with hiking trails and ski slopes that make winter feel a lot more exciting.

Basically, if you’re looking for a mix of culture, adventure, and pastries that could change your life, Austria is waiting for you.

9. Ireland

If you’re looking for a solo travel destination where the people are just as fun as the adventure, Ireland is it. This place is basically a solo traveler’s dream—easy to get around, packed with incredible sights, and full of locals who are so friendly, you’ll start wondering if they’ve mistaken you for a long-lost cousin.

Seriously, the Irish have mastered the art of making strangers feel like family. Walk into a pub, and there’s a good chance someone will start a conversation before you even order your first pint. Stroll through a small town, and you might end up chatting with a granny who’s got stories for days.

And you don’t have to worry about the language barrier—English is the official language, so you won’t have to rely on questionable hand gestures to ask for directions.

And in case you’re wondering—yes, Ireland is one of the safest places to travel solo. If you ever get lost, just ask a local. They’ll probably not only help you but also recommend five more places you need to see and insist you stop for tea while you’re at it.

10. Sweden

With its top-notch quality of life, stunning landscapes, and cities that balance modern vibes with old-school cool, Sweden is the kind of place you’ll want to explore for days.

Let’s talk safety—Sweden’s got it. One of the safest places around, and the locals are totally friendly, always ready to help out. Plus, Sweden is one of the most progressive spots in Europe, which makes it even cooler.

And then there’s Stockholm—it’s like the ultimate city crush. It’s got this perfect mix of hip modern spots and old-world charm, with a bunch of islands that make exploring the city feel like a mini adventure.

If you’re a nature lover, get ready! Sweden’s wild outdoors are screaming your name—epic hikes, camping under the stars, and if you’re lucky, catching the Northern Lights putting on a show.

The public transportation? IS basically foolproof, and getting around solo? Easy peasy!

11. Switzerland

With jaw-dropping mountains, clear lakes, and cities so clean you could eat off the sidewalks (but, like, please don’t), Switzerland is a dream solo travel spot. Everywhere you turn, it’s like nature just flexing—gorgeous snowy Alps, lakes so smooth and clear, and cute little towns.

The Swiss are famously polite and efficient, so expect everything to run like clockwork (literally). Sure, Switzerland isn’t cheap, but the upside is you get what you pay for—top-tier trains, safe streets, and a stress-free solo trip.

Zurich is the capital and the kind of city that lets you have it all—modern and sleek with a side of old-school charm. There’s the Kunsthaus for all the art lovers, Bahnhofstrasse if you’re in the mood to window-shop your way past luxury brands.

12. Belgium

Belgium might be tiny, but wow, does it know how to pack a punch! This place is like a little treasure chest filled with cool things to see, do, and—most importantly—eat. The locals are super friendly and casually multilingual, which means you won’t have to awkwardly mime your way through ordering fries.

Since a lot of people speak English, especially in the bigger cities, that makes getting around super easy. And speaking of getting around—Belgium’s so small that you can hop from city to city faster than you can decide which waffle topping to get.

Brussels is where you’ll find the famous Atomium (it’s like a giant shiny molecule that somehow became a national landmark), the Grand Place, and some of the best chocolate on the planet.

The best part is you don’t even have to choose one city to visit! Belgium makes it ridiculously easy to hop between these cities, which means you can eat your way through multiple chocolate shops, waffle stands, and fry carts in just a couple of days.

13. Croatia

Croatia is the hidden gem of Europe—beautiful, a bit off the beaten path, and full of surprises. It’s gorgeous, full of personality, and slightly under the radar—which makes it perfect for solo travelers looking for something different.

There are stunning beaches, ancient cities that look straight out of an epic movie (because, well, Game of Thrones), and the kind of warm, friendly locals who’ll happily help if you look even slightly lost. Croatia has this mix of Mediterranean vibes and Slavic culture, so you get the best of both worlds—delicious food, fascinating history, and some of the bluest water you’ve ever seen. Seriously, the coastline is unreal.

And if you’re worried about safety? Don’t be. Croatia is one of the safest places to travel solo, with a low crime rate and a whole lot of friendly faces.

Dubrovnik is the spot if you love old cities with massive stone walls, winding streets, and views that will make you forget about your phone (well, at least until you have to take 500 photos).

But if nature is more your thing, Plitvice Lakes National Park is absolutely worth a visit—it’s basically a real-life fantasy world with waterfalls, wooden walkways, and clear lakes that somehow look fake because they’re that pretty.

14. Czech Republic

This place? Absolute gold for solo travelers. A country packed with history, culture, and just the right amount of adventure.

Safety? Check. Stunning capital city? Double check. Prague is hands down one of the coolest places to explore, and the best part is that you won’t feel lost or out of place because English is pretty common.

Prague alone is a dream to wander through—Old Town, the famous Charles Bridge, Prague Castle—so much to see. Using public transport is super easy. And if you’re up for a little side adventure, hopping over to other cities and towns is just as simple.

Conclusion

Venturing on a solo trip to Europe is more than just a journey—it’s a personal adventure where every city, every random alleyway, every spontaneous café stop, and every hilarious “I have no idea what I just ordered” moment is about to become part of your personal adventure. Europe is basically a giant playground for solo travelers, packed with places that are fun, exciting, and ridiculously easy to explore on your own.