5 Best Places to Solo Travel in Europe

Hey there, fellow introverts and adventure seekers! 🌍 I’m sitting here by my window, watching the first hints of spring trying to break through the cloudy February sky. It’s that weird in-between season where winter is technically still on the calendar, but tiny green shoots are making brave appearances. Perfect time to plan your next solo adventure, right? I’ll share with you my 5 Best Places to Solo Travel in Europe.

The Best Places to Solo Travel in Europe for the Independent Woman

Let me tell you a secret – I was once that introvert who would literally feel my heart racing at the thought of asking a stranger where the bathroom was (yes, even in my hometown!). But something magical happens when you book that first solo flight. Europe became my classroom, therapist, and adventure playground all rolled into one.

Those perfectly walkable cobblestone streets, trains that actually arrive on schedule (well, mostly), and locals who patiently nodded while I butchered their language before switching to perfect English – they created the perfect training wheels for this anxious girl’s solo journey. Looking back, I can hardly recognize that person who once hid behind guidebooks and pretended to check Google Maps just to avoid asking for directions!

The best places to solo travel in Europe combine safety, beauty, and that special something that makes you feel both welcome and wonderfully independent. After years of exploring the continent both as a tour guide and a solo wanderer, I’ve compiled my absolute favorites.

Ready to discover cities where you can embrace solitude without feeling lonely? Places where you can wander historic streets, sip coffee at charming cafés, and create memories that belong entirely to you? Let’s move on!

How I Choose the Best Solo Travel Destinations

Before we jump into my top picks, let me share how I evaluate cities for solo travelers, especially those of us who prefer quiet moments over wild parties:

• Safety: Can I walk around comfortably after dinner? Are locals helpful if I look lost?
• Walkability: Can I explore the main attractions without complicated transportation?
• Beauty: Will I be inspired by my surroundings?
• Solo-friendly activities: Are there museums, cafés, and parks where I can enjoy my own company?
• Budget: Will I need to sell a kidney to afford a week here?

Now, let’s explore the cities that have stolen my heart over the years!

1. Rome, Italy – A Timeless Adventure

I still remember that crisp April morning in Rome last year – my jet-lagged body actually did me a favor by waking me at 5:30 AM. Still in my comfy pajama pants (hastily covered with a semi-respectable jacket), I stumbled toward the Trevi Fountain with sleep-crusty eyes and messy bun. For twenty absolutely magical minutes, it was just me, my travel journal, and this breathtaking monument. I dipped my fingers in the cool water (probably not allowed, oops!), watched the first sunlight make the marble glow, and had that movie-perfect moment where I thought, “THIS is why I suffer through delayed flights and overpriced airport coffee!”

3 Must-See Tourist Attractions

The Colosseum – Confession: I’m usually the girl who avoids touristy spots like they’re playing bad karaoke, but this ancient wonder pulled me in like a magnet. Pro tip from a former tour guide: book your ticket online and arrive when they open! Standing inside, I closed my eyes and swear I could hear the ghostly roars of crowds and gladiators from 2,000 years ago (or maybe that was just my stomach growling for gelato).

Vatican City – The Sistine Chapel literally made me gasp out loud (earning me a stern “Silenzio!” from a guard). I spent nearly an hour with my neck craned awkwardly upward, completely mesmerized by Michelangelo’s masterpiece. I rotated slowly in circles like a human lazy Susan, ignoring the strange looks. Worth every second of the neck pain that followed!

Trevi Fountain – My absolute favorite people-watching spot in the world! One afternoon, I brought my dog-eared paperback and a cappuccino, finding a little perch nearby. I’d read a page, then peek up to watch strangers experience their own little moments of wonder, tossing coins with hopeful smiles. Pure, unfiltered magic.

Best Time to Visit

Rome absolutely shines in spring (April-June) and fall (September-October). The summer crowds thin out, the heat becomes bearable, and you can actually enjoy your carbonara without sweating through your carefully planned travel outfit (been there, done that, have the unflattering photos to prove it).

Safety for Solo Female Travelers

Rome feels generally safe, but has definitely taught this small-town girl to be street-smart. Pickpockets LOVE tourist hotspots like the Spanish Steps and crowded metro cars. My strategy? Cross-body bag hugged against me like it contains the nuclear codes, zero flashy jewelry, and my “don’t mess with me” walk (which mostly just looks like I need to find a bathroom urgently).

After dark, I stick to well-lit streets and busy areas. Trust your instincts – if a street feels sketchy, it probably is.

Cost Breakdown

• Food: $10-$20 per meal (look for “aperitivo” deals where you buy one drink and get access to a buffet)
• Accommodation: Hostels start at $30+, while mid-range hotels run $100+
• Transport: A day pass for public transport costs around $7

Things to Do Solo

• Join a walking tour on your first day to get oriented and maybe meet other travelers
• Spend a quiet morning at a local café with a perfect espresso, watching Romans rush to work
• Get lost in Trastevere’s winding streets and discover hidden courtyards

Useful Links

Italy’s official tourism website: italia.it, offers comprehensive information about Rome’s attractions, events, and practical travel information.

Rome’s official tourism portal: turismoroma.it, includes updated event calendars and practical city information that complements your personal experiences.

The Vatican Museums website: museivaticani.va, provides essential information about ticket options, opening hours, and dress code requirements.

2. Florence, Italy – Art and Tranquility

After the sensory overload of Rome, Florence felt like a gentle hug. During my 2023 Italy trip, I spent five days here, and it quickly became my happy place. The city’s walkable size makes it perfect for solo exploration. Yep, it’s another place for solo travelers in Italy.

3 Must-See Tourist Attractions

Uffizi Gallery – I’m not usually a museum person, but the Uffizi changed me. Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus” in real life? Worth every minute in line. Pro tip: book a timed entry ticket online to skip the worst of the queues.

Ponte Vecchio – This ancient bridge lined with jewelry shops is beautiful at any time, but especially magical at sunset. I spent an hour just leaning against the railing, watching the Arno River flow beneath me.

Piazzale Michelangelo – The uphill walk nearly killed this out-of-shape blogger, but the panoramic view of Florence’s terracotta rooftops made me forget my burning calves. Perfect spot for solo sunset viewing!

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall win again! I visited in April, and the weather was perfect for walking – warm days, cool evenings, and flowers blooming everywhere.

Safety for Solo Female Travelers

Florence feels even safer than Rome. The historic center is well-lit and usually full of people. I felt completely comfortable walking back to my hotel around 10 PM. Just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded markets.

Cost Breakdown

• Food: $12-$25 per meal (try the local specialty, bistecca alla fiorentina, if you’re a meat-eater)
• Accommodation: Budget stays from $40, mid-range hotels $100+
• Transport: Florence is wonderfully walkable, but occasional bus rides cost under $2

Things to Do Solo

• Take a solo picnic to the Boboli Gardens and spend an afternoon reading
• Visit small artisan workshops in the Oltrarno district to watch craftspeople at work
• Find a quiet corner in Piazza della Signoria and people-watch for hours

Useful Links

Florence’s official tourism website: destinationflorence.com, offers comprehensive visitor information, including details about museums, events, and local transportation.

Uffizi Gallery’s official website: uffizi.it, provides direct access to ticket booking, helping to avoid the long lines you mentioned.

3. Antalya, Turkey – The Perfect Blend of Culture and Relaxation

Antalya lives in my heart. Those summers of 2014 and 2015 when I guided tourists through its sun-drenched streets weren’t just jobs. They were chapters of my life story unfolding in real time. And this is a great destination for solo travellers.

This Mediterranean gem! I still dream about turning corners to discover views that made me gasp out loud (and occasionally walk into things because I wasn’t watching where I was going). The magic of Antalya is how it blends everything I adore: ancient stones that whisper centuries-old secrets, nature that shows off at every opportunity, and food that had me inventing excuses to eat “just one more” serving.

3 Must-See Tourist Attractions

Old Town (Kaleiçi) – These winding streets were my daily commute for two summers. The ancient harbor, Ottoman-era houses, and hidden courtyards make it easy to step back in time. My favorite memory? Finding a tiny courtyard café where an old man played traditional saz music every evening as I sipped çay and pretended I could understand the lyrics (spoiler: I couldn’t, but my heart did!).

Düden Waterfalls – When the summer heat became unbearable and my makeup started having other plans, I’d escape to these magnificent waterfalls. The lower falls crash directly into the Mediterranean with such drama – like nature’s own theatrical performance. I used to bring my journal here, but honestly spent more time daydreaming than writing!

Konyaaltı Beach – Perfect for solo beach days and introvert recharging! The long, pebbly stretch means you can always find a quiet spot away from crowds. I spent countless off-duty hours here with a good book and the sound of gentle waves, occasionally looking up to watch families living their vacation dreams.

Best Time to Visit

Want my honest travel bestie advice? Aim for those magical shoulder seasons – April-May or September-October when Antalya shows her absolute best self.

The Mediterranean sun kisses rather than scorches, and you can actually explore without your makeup melting faster than ice cream on a hot sidewalk! Trust me on this one – during my guide summers, the thermometer regularly climbed to a brutal 100°F (38°C), and let’s just say those cute outfits I’d planned? Reduced to sweat-soaked disasters by lunchtime. Nothing quite like explaining Byzantine architecture while secretly wondering if your deodorant has officially surrendered! 

The autumn light hitting those ancient stones though? Pure magic worth traveling halfway across the world to witness. I’ll never forget sitting at a café in October, comfortable in just a light cardigan, thinking “this is what paradise feels like.”

Safety for Solo Female Travelers

Antalya’s tourist areas feel very safe, even for solo women. As a female tour guide, I walked around the old town at all hours without issues, often getting lost in my thoughts and the beauty around me. That said, I recommend dressing a bit more modestly outside resort areas and using registered taxis after dark – my little safety ritual that never failed me.

Cost Breakdown

• Food: $5-$15 per meal (Turkish cuisine is both affordable and incredibly delicious)
• Accommodation: Hostels from $20, mid-range hotels from $60
• Transport: Public transport costs under $1 per ride

Things to Do Solo

• Explore traditional bazaars and practice your bargaining skills (start at 50% of the asking price!)
• Take a boat tour along the stunning coastline – I always met fellow travelers this way
• Treat yourself to a traditional hammam spa day – there’s nothing like having someone else scrub away your travel stress!

Useful Links

Turkey’s official tourism portal: goturkiye.com, provides current visa information, travel advisories, and cultural insights.

4. Warsaw, Poland – A Budget-Friendly Cultural Gem

I visited Warsaw in spring 2019 with low expectations and left completely enchanted. This underrated city combines fascinating history, incredible food, and prices that won’t make your bank account cry.

3 Must-See Tourist Attractions

Old Town Market Square and The Royal Castle – Walking through this vibrant square, it’s almost impossible to believe it was completely destroyed during WWII and lovingly reconstructed brick by brick. I spent a dreamy afternoon wandering through the Royal Castle’s ornate chambers, completely losing track of time as I admired the original paintings and furniture. The view from the castle’s terrace gave me a perfect Instagram moment that captured all the colorful baroque buildings below.

Łazienki Palace and Park – When Warsaw’s urban energy became too much for this introvert, Łazienki Park became my sanctuary. I still smile thinking about how the resident peacocks strutted around like they owned the place (honestly, they kind of do!). The Palace on the Water is absolutely magical – I arrived early one morning to catch that perfect moment when the classical building reflects in the still lake waters, creating a symmetry that had me filling my camera roll embarrassingly quickly.

Palace of Culture and Science – This controversial Soviet-era skyscraper offers panoramic views of the city. I went up at sunset and watched the city transform from day to night.

Best Time to Visit

Spring brings Warsaw to life with flowers and outdoor cafés. I visited in May and enjoyed perfect walking weather and festive atmosphere.

Safety for Solo Female Travelers

Warsaw surprised me with how safe it felt. Well-lit streets, helpful locals, and excellent public transportation made solo exploration stress-free. I never thought twice about walking around in the evenings.

Cost Breakdown

• Food: $5-$12 per meal (Polish cuisine is hearty and affordable – try pierogi!)
• Accommodation: Budget stays from $25, mid-range hotels from $70
• Transport: Daily public transport pass around $4

Things to Do Solo

• Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum to understand the city’s resilient spirit
• Explore the trendy Praga district’s street art scene
• Find a cozy café and try Polish sernik (cheesecake) with a coffee

Useful Links

Poland’s official travel website: poland.travel, offers valuable information about Warsaw.

Warsaw Tourism Organization: wot.waw.pl, provides updated event information and city guides.

5. Vienna, Austria – Elegance and Quiet Luxury

My most recent solo adventure took me to Vienna in May 2024, and it was love at first sight. This city feels like it was designed for sophisticated introverts who appreciate beauty, culture, and excellent cake. And guess what? Vienna is one of the safest places to travel alone.

3 Must-See Tourist Attractions

Schönbrunn Palace – I spent an entire day exploring this former imperial summer residence and its gardens. The yellow palace against blue skies made for perfect photos, and the maze garden brought out my inner child.

Belvedere Museum – Seeing Klimt’s “The Kiss” in person was a bucket list moment. I stood in front of it for so long that a security guard asked if I was okay! The palace grounds are equally stunning.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral – The intricate Gothic architecture took my breath away. I paid the extra fee to climb to the top and was rewarded with spectacular views of Vienna’s rooftops.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring (May-June) offers pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens. I visited Austria in May and couldn’t have asked for more perfect conditions.

Safety for Solo Female Travelers

Vienna feels incredibly safe. The public transport runs like clockwork, even late at night, and the city is well-lit and well-maintained. As a woman walking alone in the evenings, I never felt uncomfortable.

Cost Breakdown

• Food: $10-$30 per meal (splurge on at least one slice of Sachertorte at a historic café)
• Accommodation: Budget options from $40, mid-range hotels from $120
• Transport: Daily public transport pass around $5

Things to Do Solo

• Attend a classical music concert – even as someone who knows nothing about classical music, I was mesmerized
• Spend hours in a traditional Viennese coffeehouse with a book and endless refills
• Visit the Naschmarkt food market for solo food adventures

Useful Links

Austria’s official tourism portal (austria.info) and Vienna’s dedicated tourism website (vienna.info) offer comprehensive planning resources.

Why These Are the Best Places to Solo Travel in Europe

These five cities share qualities that make them perfect for every solo traveller, even without travel experience:

• They balance tourist infrastructure with authentic local experiences
• They offer both busy attractions and quiet retreats
• They’re visually stunning (hello, Instagram content!)
• They feel safe for solo exploration
• They offer activities where being alone feels natural, not awkward

The beauty of solo travel is that you can tailor each day exactly to your mood. Want to spend three hours in a museum looking at one painting? No one’s rushing you. Need a mid-afternoon nap after too much pasta? No judgment. Feel like changing plans last-minute because you discovered a cute café? That’s the solo traveler’s prerogative!

Final Thoughts on Solo European Adventures

Solo travel in Europe has taught me more about myself than years of self-help books ever could. There’s something magical about navigating a foreign city alone, solving problems as they arise, and creating memories that belong entirely to you. Each country is different, and magical on it’s own way.

Whether you’re contemplating your first solo adventure or looking for your next destination in Europe, I hope this guide helps you find the perfect European city for your travel style. Remember, the best souvenirs aren’t things – they’re the moments of pride when you successfully order in a foreign language or find your way back to your hotel without Google Maps.

Have you visited any of these cities solo? Or do you have other European favorites? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy wandering!

Miss Simplitty 💕

P.S. Looking for fashionable yet practical travel outfits for your European adventure? Check out my guide to Packing Light Without Sacrificing Style.

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FAQs About Solo Female Travel in Europe

Is Europe safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Europe is generally very safe, but normal precautions apply. Keep valuables secure, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. I’ve found that appearing confident (even when I’m not) reduces unwanted attention.

What are the best solo travel tips for introverts?

Choose walkable cities, book accommodations with private rooms if hostels feel overwhelming, and plan “recovery” days between major attractions. I always pack noise-canceling headphones and a good book for café breaks.

How can I meet people while traveling solo?

Join walking tours, stay in social (but not party) hostels, or use apps like Bumble BFF. Some of my favorite travel memories come from conversations with strangers in museum cafés or park benches.

Which European city is the cheapest for solo travel?

Warsaw offers incredible value, with affordable food, accommodation, and activities. Eastern European destinations generally stretch your travel budget further than Western Europe.

What’s the best way to get around in these cities?

All five cities are walkable and have excellent public transportation. I usually get a multi-day transport pass upon arrival and supplement with occasional taxis when needed (especially late at night).