If you're planning to travel on your own, check out these 10 safe and solo-friendly destinations packed with amazing attractions.

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Exploring the world solo can be one of the most freeing and fulfilling experiences. It lets you set your own pace, discover yourself, and meet people along the way. But as exciting as it is, safety often looms large in the minds of solo adventurers.

The good news for your go-it-alone getaway? There are destinations that not only dazzle with beauty and culture but also prioritize safety for those exploring on their own. To help you plan your next adventure, we’ve rounded up ten of the best solo travel destinations for a safer vacation.

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is not only Iceland’s capital but also one of the safest cities worldwide. Known for its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere, Iceland ranks consistently high on global safety indexes — making it one of the safest countries to travel solo.

In this compact and walkable city, you can feel comfortable enjoying colorful streets, cozy cafes, and unique landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church on your own. Plus, Reykjavik is the gateway to Iceland’s stunning natural wonders, from lava fields to the Blue Lagoon.

2. Oslo, Norway

As a solo traveler, you’ll love Oslo’s clean streets and proximity to nature. The city’s low crime rates, high standard of living, and respectful culture make it one of the safest urban hubs for setting off on your own.

Explore world-class museums like the Viking Ship Museum or take a ferry to the picturesque Oslofjord. You can even wander through the Aker Brygge waterfront for a safe, bustling atmosphere with fresh seafood and passing ships.

3. Zurich, Switzerland

You can’t go wrong with spectacular mountain views, quaint coffee shops, and the beautiful architecture of Zurich. Switzerland’s largest city is incredibly safe and well-suited for solo travelers with its seamless public transportation, clean streets, and low crime levels.

Stroll happily on your own along the Limmat River, visit art galleries, or hike the nearby Uetliberg mountain. Zurich is also famous for its efficiency and welcoming environment, making it easier to explore alone.

4. Wellington, New Zealand

New Zealand ranks high on the list of best solo travel destinations for women and all adventurers. Known for its friendly locals and casual vibe, you’ll feel right at home in Wellington.

This cultural hub is surrounded by nature, so you can hike to the summit of Mount Victoria, stroll along the scenic waterfront, and sunbathe on beautiful beaches. Plus, Wellington is a great site for exploring Māori culture or enjoying street art and live music on Cuba Street. If you’re a film enthusiast, don’t miss touring Weta Workshop, the creative studio behind the visual effects and props for movies like “The Lord of the Rings” and “Avatar.”

5. Bali, Indonesia

Thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, budget-friendly options, and diverse activities, Bali is one of the best solo travel destinations. The island’s friendly locals and thriving traveler community make it easy to connect with others or enjoy peaceful solitude.

In Bali, you’ll find stunning temples like Uluwatu and Besakih, breathtaking beaches such as Seminyak and Nusa Dua, and opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture at traditional dance performances and bustling markets. With its mix of spirituality, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife, you can soak in Bali safely when you travel solo.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Offering a vibrant mix of culture, stunning architecture, and seaside charm, Barcelona makes our list of the best solo travel destinations in Europe. The city is highly walkable, and its efficient public transportation makes getting around a breeze. Locals are friendly and welcoming, adding to the city’s warm and inclusive atmosphere.

With attractions like the iconic Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the sunny Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona’s effortless combination of culture, relaxation, and adventure can make for an unforgettable solo trip to Spain.

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen feels like it was designed with solo travelers in mind. This bike-friendly, eco-conscious city scores high in safety and happiness. With relaxed, welcoming vibes, it’ll be easier for you to settle in and enjoy as an independent adventurer.

Take in some hiking, visit the popular amusement park at Tivoli Gardens, or sign up for a guided cycling tour around the city. From Copenhagen’s iconic wooden ships to its vibrant Nyhavn district, there’s no shortage of sights to see in its safe environment.

8. Kyoto, Japan

Japan is renowned for its safety, and Kyoto ups the charm with its iconic temples and picturesque gardens. Its mix of ancient tradition and modern safety make it a haven for those seeking serenity — and one of the best solo female travel destinations.

Whether you’re exploring the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or strolling along the Philosopher’s Path, you’ll find Kyoto to be as calming as it is captivating. The city is perfect for exploring by foot or bike, and its efficient public transit makes it easy to get around without worry. If you need help while traveling in Japan, locals are polite and will often offer assistance if needed.

9. Munich, Germany

Known for its orderly vibe and warm Bavarian culture, Munich is one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe. The city’s low crime rates and welcoming community make it especially reassuring if you’re traveling alone in Germany.

You can enjoy walks through the dreamy English Garden, tours of impressive castles like Nymphenburg, and the vibrant energy of Rathaus. Whether you’re into rich history, tasty food, or outdoor adventures, Munich has something for every solo explorer.

10. Dublin, Ireland

Easy to explore on foot and brimming with lively culture, Dublin is a great choice for solo adventurers. The famed Irish hospitality means you’ll receive a warm welcome wherever you go, and the friendly English-speaking locals are always happy to help.

From the literary walking tour of the UNESCO City of Literature to the gorgeous architecture of Dublin Castle, there’s plenty to offer for the lone explorer in Ireland. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse, enjoy live Irish folk music, or walk through St. Stephen’s Green.

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From the four levels of travel advisory to how it compares to a travel alert, let’s break down the difference so you can better understand potential risks during your trip.

International travel is exciting — but also comes with certain risks. Sometimes these risks can be as simple as the street taco that didn’t agree with your stomach or encountering a language barrier when trying to find a tourist hot spot.

But sometimes there are certain high-risk safety concerns that must be considered before you choose to travel abroad — or even while you’re already there. Advanced preparation and arming yourself with knowledge can go a long way toward reducing potential life-threatening risks and enjoying a safer vacation. Knowing the facts about travel alerts and travel advisories is a good place to start.

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What’s the difference between an alert and an advisory when it comes to my vacation?

The U.S. Department of State issues both travel alerts and advisories to help keep American travelers safer abroad.

Here are the main differences between the two:

  • Travel alerts are shorter-term and issued for more urgent and specific risks like a natural disaster or instance of political unrest.
  • Travel advisories are longer-term and updated on an ongoing basis. They offer general information about safety and security risks in a specific country, so you can make smarter decisions before and while traveling.

What’s a travel alert?

The U.S. government uses travel alerts to identify a short-term danger posed by an event, such as a health concern, weather event, or mass protest. This “heads-up” information is released for temporary situations in a specific country that could potentially lead to a travel advisory.

It’s wise to pay attention to travel alerts that may impact a country you’re visiting. Watch to see if an alert turns into a longer-term concern — a travel advisory. You can receive travel alerts in a variety of ways, including the @TravelGov social media accounts and Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

If you enroll in the free STEP service, you’ll register your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. With this, you receive important information about safety in your chosen country, enable the embassy to contact you in case of emergency, and provide family and friends with the ability to get in touch with you.

Did you know: If you have a Travelex policy, our Travel On app can send you real-time safety alerts for your destination and list risk details for crime, weather events, and more. You can also find specific events that may affect your Travelex coverage on our travel alerts page.

What's a travel advisory?

Travel advisories provide more specific, longer-term, and higher-risk safety and security information about every country in the world to help U.S. citizens plan and prepare.

Those planning to travel internationally can easily view the four-level ranking system created by the U.S Department of State. It’s updated daily and outlines why the country was given a particular ranking.

What are the four levels of travel advisory?

The travel advisory for your destination will be assigned one of the following levels:

  • Level 1: Exercise normal precautions.
  • Level 2: Exercise increased caution.
  • Level 3: Reconsider travel.
  • Level 4: Do not travel.

The U.S. government also uses one-letter codes to explain why the advisory was issued:

  • C is for crime
  • T is for terrorism
  • U is for civil unrest
  • H is for health risks
  • N is for natural disasters
  • E is for short-term events like an election that may pose safety risks
  • K is for kidnapping or hostage-taking
  • D is for wrongful detention
  • O is for another reason apart from those above

How do I find out my destination’s travel advisory level?

You can look up your specific destination or view the U.S. State Department’s color-coded travel advisory map to see which advisory is assigned to the country you’re considering for your next trip.

What’s a worldwide caution?

Another advisory to be aware of is the U.S. Department of State’s worldwide caution. They’re official notices for Americans about continuous global threats that could affect them while traveling.

These cautions aren’t specific to a certain country or area, and they give you general information about things like terrorism and health crises. Worldwide cautions also include specific recommendations on how to prepare and stay informed regardless of your destination.

If I’m already traveling and a travel alert or advisory is issued, what do I do?

If the government posts an alert or advisory for your destination while you’re already there, follow the instructions issued with the announcement so you can stay safe.

If you’re traveling with a Travelex policy, call our 24/7 assistance provider to help support you with next steps and safety procedures.

Knowing the difference can make a difference: Stay safer on vacation

Terrorist attacks, political violence (including demonstrations), criminal activities, and other security incidents often take place without any warning. It’s important that you stay informed and aware while you’re traveling abroad.

Knowing how a travel alert compares to a travel advisory is only the beginning. Get all the facts before you choose to visit a high-risk country and know how to get help in case of an emergency abroad.

Travel.State.Gov is a helpful starting point and provides everything from international travel checklists to advice for U.S. volunteers abroad. When you diligently plan and prepare, you can travel with confidence anywhere you go.

Want extra confidence when you travel internationally?

Our travel insurance is here for you with broad, reliable coverage and 24/7 travel assistance. Get a quote now.

Do you ever have anxiety about traveling? Discover our expert advice on how to help ease or mitigate symptoms of anxiety before, during, and after your next trip.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Joel Lockwood MD, FRCPC, Regional Chief Medical Officer at Zurich Travel Assist, our 24/7 assistance provider.

There’s a lot to love about travel, from discovering foreign countries and experiencing different cultures to embarking on new adventures and taking a break from your everyday life. While leaving your comfort zone on vacation can be exciting, does it sometimes make you feel anxious?

New travel experiences may leave you feeling overwhelmed. If you’re worrying about scenarios both in and outside of your control before or during your trip, you might be feeling travel anxiety symptoms.

“From navigating the barrage of security, customs, and passport control at the airport to the stresses of a cramped plane and unfamiliar environments after landing, there are many stress points for travelers,” explains Dr. Joel Lockwood MD, FRCPC, Regional Chief Medical Officer at Zurich Travel Assist, our 24/7 assistance provider.

Don’t let the fear of travel keep you from embarking on a wonderful adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or yet to get your first passport stamp, our helpful guide can show you how to deal with travel anxiety by helping you understand why anxiety about traveling occurs and how to manage it yourself before your next trip.

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What's anxiety?

Generalized anxiety is a common mental health condition that can affect the way you think, feel, and behave. “Often related to an event with an uncertain outcome, anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or apprehension, which is the body's physical response to a threat or perceived threat,” explains Dr. Lockwood.

What's travel anxiety?

Travel anxiety is the feeling of fear or stress caused by travel. It may occur before traveling, during a trip, or after you’ve returned home. Even if you don’t have a history of anxiety or suffer from generalized anxiety, you may still find aspects of travel stressful and suffer from travel anxiety symptoms.

What causes travel anxiety?

There are a lot of unknown factors involved in traveling, which can lead to people feeling anxious on vacation.

“Symptoms often worsen in uncertain situations — and traveling only exacerbates this,” notes Dr. Lockwood. “But it’s not only generalized anxiety sufferers who will notice increased levels of uneasiness when traveling … other travelers may experience anxiety, too.”

Dr. Lockwood says the causes of travel anxiety symptoms can vary from person to person: “Being in a confined space on a plane, crowded airports, unfamiliar environments, or even traveling through non-English speaking countries where signage and communication may be difficult to understand are all potential stressors.”

3 stages when travel anxiety can happen

Travel anxiety can strike at any time during your trip — even in the early planning stage.

1. Before your trip

As you begin to research your intended destination, the sheer number of options, such as where to go, what to do, and the best places to stay — plus the logistics of getting from A to B — may be overwhelming and cause travel anxiety symptoms to arise.

2. During your trip

There are many moments during your trip where you could feel anxious about traveling. Regardless of how well you’ve prepared for your trip, things may not always go according to plan. Flights can get canceled or rescheduled, you might miss your tour bus, or you may get sick and unable to leave your hotel.

3. After your trip

You may be home safe and sound, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re immune from travel anxiety. Jet lag, returning to your regular routine, or dealing with the aftermath of things going wrong while traveling can all affect your mental health once you get home.

What travel anxiety symptoms should I watch out for?

Everyone experiences stress or anxiety differently. However, there are some common signs to be aware of.

“People suffering from anxiety may notice physical symptoms, like nervousness or restlessness, feelings of panic or ‘impending doom,’ rapid breathing and pulse, difficulty focusing, and increased sweating,” says Dr. Lockwood.

Five common symptoms of travel anxiety

1. Feelings of uneasiness

2. Panic attacks (a sudden onset of intense fear or anxiety)

3. Rapid heart rate

4. Decreased concentration

5. Sweating

“If you experience any of these symptoms that you cannot manage before leaving home, speak to your doctor,” advises Dr. Lockwood. “They’ll be able to provide expert medical advice and additional support if needed.”

If you’re already traveling and need medical assistance, contact your travel insurance provider’s emergency assistance team. If you’re a Travelex policyholder, you can tap the assistance button in our Travel On app to reach 24/7 assistance services quickly and easily.

How to deal with travel anxiety

The good news is travel anxiety doesn’t have to get in the way of you enjoying your trip

“The key to reducing anxiety while traveling is spending time preparing for all eventualities,” suggests Dr. Lockwood. “Think of what could trigger your anxiety or cause nervousness about an upcoming journey and write down a plan before your departure to better manage any triggers.”

If you’re feeling anxiety about traveling, try Dr. Lockwood's expert tips:

Before you go:

  • Speak to your doctor or another suitable medical professional to discuss your symptoms and concerns.
  • Pack at least three days before your journey to help avoid feeling rushed or worried that you forgot something once you’ve left home.
  • Check the weather at your destination and your planned activities and make sure you’re organized and have packed accordingly.
  • Ensure you book travel plans you’re comfortable with. For example, if you have a fear of flying, land journeys or cruises may be a more enticing option for you and allow you to enjoy your adventure.
  • If you’re traveling away from loved ones, ensure they have a copy of your plans so they’re aware of travel times and where you'll be.
  • Use a prebooked airport transfer service to reduce the stress of traveling to the airport.
  • Get familiar with your travel itinerary. Know which airport terminal you’re going to, your check-in time, and your boarding time to make sure you can arrive at the gate in advance.
  • Have your full set of documents easily accessible, such as your passport, travel insurance policy details, travel assistance provider contact numbers, credit cards, and copies of your vaccination record if applicable.
  • Put medications in your carry-on with a doctor’s letter, and include written instructions, if necessary.
  • Pack activities to reduce stress (like a puzzle book) and bring noise-reducing headphones to listen to podcasts, music, etc.

During your trip:

  • Keep hand sanitizer and/or bacterial wipes with you at all times.
  • Use a guided meditation app if you start to feel anxious.
  • Be mindful of your destination’s time zone and try to sleep at appropriate times to prevent jet lag.
  • Make your hotel room feel safer or more comfortable by playing calming music.
  • Stay in touch with friends and family back home to avoid feeling alone and isolated.

After you’ve returned:

  • Regulate your sleep to minimize jet lag and excessive fatigue. 
  • Eat healthy foods to help ensure you stay well. 
  • Try to return to your pre-travel activities within a realistic time frame — there’s no need to push yourself.

How we can help support anxious travelers

When you experience travel anxiety away from home, it helps to know you’re not alone and can get support fast. If you protect your trip with one of our Travelex plans, you get access to our 24/7 travel assistance services via the phone, email, or our Travel On app. Although our plans don’t offer financial coverage for anxiety-related medical costs, our assistance provider can help you find medical care, get prescriptions, and more.

“If you know travel can leave you feeling anxious — or if you suffer from generalized anxiety that can be exacerbated by travel — don’t forget to visit your doctor or local medical professional before traveling so you can talk through your symptoms and any concerns to help reduce any on-trip issues,” suggests Dr. Lockwood.

Ease your travel anxiety with travel insurance

While you can’t control everything that comes with traveling, protecting your trip with travel insurance can help minimize your concerns about flight delays, cancellations, and more. Get a quote online now.

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Material on this webpage is provided for informational purposes only and is correct at the time of writing on May 28, 2025 but may change at any time or from time to time. It is general information only and any discussion about medicine, health and related subjects may not apply to you as an individual and is not a substitute for your own doctor’s medical care or advice. The words and other content provided on this website, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, they should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other healthcare worker. Nothing contained on the website is intended to establish a physician-patient relationship, to replace the services of a trained physician or healthcare professional, or otherwise to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and opinions expressed on this website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice, or other institution with which the authors are affiliated. Never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical care because of something you have read on or accessed through this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

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