How To: Smart Solo Travel Tips

Traveling alone in Europe is an incredible experience—whether you're wandering through historic cities, relaxing in cozy cafés, or discovering hidden gems off the beaten path. Solo travel allows you to explore at your own pace, meet new people, and step out of your comfort zone.

1. Choose Your Destinations Wisely

Some European cities are easier and more welcoming for solo travelers than others. Cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Vienna, and Lisbon are known for their safety, great public transport, and friendly atmosphere. If you’re new to solo travel, start with places that have a strong backpacker or expat scene, where it’s easy to meet others.

2. Stay in Hostels

Meeting people can make solo traveling even more fun. Hostels with communal spaces offer easy opportunities to connect with other travelers alike. Many hostels in Europe organize group activities, pub crawls, and city tours, which are perfect for making friends.

3. Pack Light 

Europe’s notorious cobblestone streets and endless stairs (looking at you, Paris Metro!) make carrying luggage a nightmare. Stick to a carry-on or a small backpack if possible. Not only will this alleviate your body from carrying heavy luggage but, it can also save you money when booking flights.

4. Take Advantage of Public Transport 

One of the best things about Europe is its train and bus networks. The Eurail pass is great for flexible, multi-country trips, while budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet make it easy to hop between cities cheaply. For local travel, metro systems in cities like London and Berlin are very reliable and safe.

5. Don’t Be Shy, Dine Alone 

Eating alone can feel uncomfortable at first, but Europe has plenty of solo-friendly dining options. Sit at the bar, opt for a casual café, or enjoy a picnic in a scenic spot. Food markets like Borough Market (London), Mercado da Ribeira (Lisbon), and Naschmarkt (Vienna) are perfect for solo travelers who want to try different foods in a relaxed setting.

6. Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language 

While English is widely spoken in major European cities, knowing a few key phrases in the local language helps a lot, especially in smaller towns. Try learning:

• "Hello" and "Thank you" (a must!)
• "How much does this cost?"
• "Can I pay with a card or only cash?"

7. Join Free Walking Tours 

Walking tours are an amazing way to explore a city and meet other travelers. Many cities offer free walking tours where you tip the guide at the end. You can also join cooking classes (pasta-making in Italy, anyone?), wine tastings, or group excursions to meet people with similar interests.

8. Stay Safe & Trust Your Instincts 

Europe is generally safe for solo travelers, but it’s always good to be cautious. Some quick safety tips:

• Avoid flashing valuables in public.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Stick to well-lit streets at night and have a plan for getting home.
• Share your location with a friend or family.
• Keep your phone charged
• Purchase an anti-theft bag - pickpocketing is Europe's top petty crime as theft rose by 17.9 % in 2022.

9. Give Yourself Flexible Plans

One of the best things about solo travel is the freedom to change your plans on a whim. My tip is to leave room for spontaneity—maybe you’ll meet people who invite you on an unexpected dinner, or you’ll fall in love with a city and want to stay longer.

Solo travel is an opportunity to fully embrace your independence. Whether you want to spend hours in a museum, take a last-minute train to another country, or simply sit in a café and people-watch, this is your trip—make it yours!

Trust me, with the right mindset and a little preparation, you’ll have the time of your life.