We compare millions of holidays from the UK’s leading travel companies
Solo holidays are a great option for travellers who want complete freedom to explore at their own pace. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach break, a cultural city escape or a last-minute getaway, travelling alone gives you the flexibility to shape your holiday exactly how you want it.
Solo travel holidays are increasingly popular with people of all ages, from first-time solo travellers to experienced explorers looking for independence. With a wide range of destinations, flight options and accommodation styles available, solo holidays abroad can be as sociable or as peaceful as you choose — all while enjoying the confidence of booking through trusted travel partners.
Bali is one of the world’s most popular destinations for solo travellers, offering a mix of stunning beaches, cultural experiences and a welcoming atmosphere. Many solo beach holidays in Bali combine relaxation with opportunities to explore temples, rice terraces and coastal towns. The island is well set up for solo travel, with excellent transport links, a wide choice of accommodation and plenty of organised activities such as yoga retreats, snorkelling trips and guided tours. Bali’s friendly local culture and established tourism infrastructure make it especially appealing for those travelling alone for the first time.
Thailand is a classic choice for solo travel holidays thanks to its affordability, variety and ease of getting around. From lively beach resorts to quieter islands, solo travellers can choose the experience that suits them best. Thailand’s beaches are ideal for relaxing days, while nearby towns offer markets, cafés and excursions that make it easy to fill your time. Solo holiday deals to Thailand are widely available, and the country’s popularity with independent travellers means you’re rarely far from organised activities or social spaces if you want company.
Mexico combines beautiful beaches with rich history, making it a versatile destination for solo holidays abroad. Coastal areas offer long stretches of sand, clear waters and a wide range of hotels, while inland excursions provide opportunities to explore ancient ruins and local culture. Mexico is well suited to solo traveller holidays thanks to its established resorts, organised tours and diverse accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Mexico offers flexibility and variety for travellers going it alone.
Barcelona is a popular choice for solo city breaks thanks to its walkable layout, reliable public transport and mix of culture and relaxation. Travelling alone makes it easy to explore the city’s neighbourhoods at your own pace, from historic streets and museums to cafés and coastal areas. Many solo travellers enjoy the balance Barcelona offers, combining sightseeing during the day with relaxed evenings in lively but welcoming areas. With a wide choice of accommodation and plenty of organised tours and attractions, it’s a city that suits both first-time and experienced solo travellers.
Lisbon is well suited to solo travel holidays, offering a friendly atmosphere, compact city centre and excellent value for money. Solo travellers can explore historic districts, viewpoints and waterfront areas without needing a strict itinerary. The city’s tram system and walkable streets make getting around straightforward, while cafés and public spaces provide natural places to pause and people-watch. Lisbon’s laid-back pace appeals to those travelling alone who want a city break that feels relaxed rather than rushed, with plenty to see and do without feeling overwhelming.
Rome is ideal for solo travellers who enjoy history, culture and independent exploration. Travelling alone allows you to move freely between landmarks, museums and neighbourhoods, spending as much or as little time as you like at each stop. Rome offers a strong tourism infrastructure, making it easy to join guided tours or explore independently. From historic sites to local food spots, the city suits solo city breaks where flexibility is key, giving travellers the chance to experience both famous attractions and quieter corners at their own pace.
Travelling alone offers a level of freedom that’s hard to match. You can choose where to go, how long to stay and what to do each day without compromise. Many solo traveller holidays also encourage personal growth, helping you build confidence while discovering new cultures and experiences.
Solo travel can be surprisingly social too. From group excursions to shared transfers and communal hotel spaces, it’s easy to meet like-minded travellers if you want to. For those seeking downtime, solo holidays are ideal for switching off — whether that means reading by the pool, exploring independently or enjoying flexible dining options. With more holidays for single travellers now available across popular destinations, travelling alone has never been more accessible.
When planning solo holidays, it’s important to stay informed. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the National Travel Health Network and Centre provide up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad.
For the latest FCDO travel advice — including information on security, local laws, passport requirements and visas — visit gov.uk/travelaware. You can also sign up for FCDO travel advice email alerts to receive automatic updates for the destinations you’re interested in.
Popular destinations for women travelling solo often include places with strong tourism infrastructure, good transport links and a welcoming culture. Countries such as Thailand, Bali and parts of Europe are frequently chosen thanks to their safety records and range of organised activities.
A solo trip can include anything from guided excursions and cultural sightseeing to beach days and wellness activities. Many solo travellers enjoy a mix of independent exploration and organised experiences, which makes it easy to balance freedom with social interaction.
Some travel packages are priced per room rather than per person, which can result in a single supplement for solo travellers. However, solo holiday deals and flexible accommodation options can help reduce this cost.
The minimum age to travel alone depends on the airline, accommodation provider and destination. In most cases, travellers must be at least 18 years old to book independently.
Safety can vary by region, but destinations with established tourism industries and clear travel guidance are often considered safer for solo travellers. Always check official advice before travelling.
European hotels almost always have a doctor on call. Ensure you have your GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) and private travel insurance saved on your phone.
Look for hotels that offer "Activity Programmes" (like aqua aerobics or wine tasting). Day trips and excursions are also the easiest way to meet people naturally without the pressure of forced "mingling.
Yes, in the right areas. Stick to well-lit, central tourist zones. We recommend using official taxi apps (like Uber, Bolt, or FreeNow) rather than hailing cabs off the street late at night so your ride is tracked.