12 European Cities That Are Perfect for Solo Travelers
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Solo traveling across Europe can be exhilarating but scary at the same time. The first step to having a rewarding solo trip is selecting secure cities that offer vibrant experiences, have hospitable locals, and are easy to tour. This article explores 12 European cities that provide friendly environments for solo travelers.
From low crime rates to well-developed tourist infrastructure and intricate public transportation networks, these cities are ideal for touring alone. Read on to discover your next solo journey among these European gems.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is an easy-to-tour city, thanks to the compactness of its city center. A majority of the must-see sites are near or within the city center. You can quickly get around on public buses, trams, and the metro. Budapest offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including historic landmarks like Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and the Hungarian Parliament Building, all of which are easily accessible to tourists.
The city is also way more secure than most prominent Western European cities. While you still must be vigilant during your trip, your chances of getting pickpocketed or scammed are way lower in Budapest.
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Read also: Historic Castles in Europe
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most hospitable big cities, making it easy for tourists to tour and interact with locals. The city is also bike-friendly, making sightseeing easier and even more worthwhile. You could also take advantage of the city’s well-advanced public transport like the ferries, metro, buses, and trams. All the major attractions are very easily accessible by these public transport means.
Also, a majority of the Dutch people are fluent in English. While learning some essential Dutch phrases is a great idea, English-speaking solo travelers will have an easier time communicating with locals. The crime rate is also considerably lower in Amsterdam. Don’t miss the tulips in Keukenhof if you are visiting in spring; just a short ride from Amsterdam.
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Berlin, Germany
Berlin is known for its diverse culture and inclusivity. It is typically a safer place for solo tourists from all walks of life. The city is ideal for everyone, whether you are looking for a budget-friendly or luxury trip. While German is the national language, English is also widely spoken and understood in the city.
The city’s top attractions, such as the TV Tower, Berlin Zoo, Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, Berlin Cathedral, and Holocaust Memorial, are within the city center and can be accessed by the public transportation system. There are always maps offered in their subway stations, allowing tourists to familiarize themselves with the city quickly.
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Prague, Czech Republic
Renowned for its fairytale-like cityscape, charming streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, Prague is an ideal destination for solo exploration. Its also a very walkable city. There are a lot of walking tours that go to Old Town Prague. You can hop on these free walking tours as they are always an excellent opportunity to tour the city and meet other solo travelers.
From the iconic Prague Castle and Charles Bridge to the stunning Old Town Square and Astronomical Clock, solo travelers can comfortably enjoy Prague’s fascinating charm.
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Read also: Best Budget European Cities To Visit
Stockholm, Sweden
Known for its hospitality, visiting Stockholm is the perfect opportunity to experience the city’s stunning architecture, scenic waterways, and vibrant cultural scene. There is much to do; solo travelers to Stockholm are always spoilt for choice.
From world-class museums such as Vasa and ABBA Museum, boat rides around the islands, fashion touring in the Södermalm neighborhood, to outdoor activities such as kayaking and sailing, there is so much a solo traveler can endlessly indulge in and meet new people while at it.
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Read also: Charming Small Towns in Europe
Vienna, Austria
With its grand palaces, classical music heritage, and cozy coffeehouses, Vienna allows solo travelers to immerse themselves in a rich cultural history. The city has numerous art galleries, museums, cozy cafes, and historical spots; you will have an endless list of activities to do in Vienna. The city’s walkable and safe streets offer a perfect opportunity to easily tour sites such as St Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Belvedere.
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Read also: Romantic European Destinations
Edinburgh, Scotland
Full of history and surrounded by stunning landscapes, Edinburgh offers solo travelers a captivating mix of medieval charm and natural beauty. Edinburgh is easily navigable, making it convenient for travelers to tour its landmarks, historic streets, and attractions. The Old Town and The New Town are UNESCO World Heritage Sites with stunning architecture and alleys. Walking through these will be worthwhile, even when you do it solo.
The city also hosts many festivals, including the world’s largest art festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which attracts many solo travelers. Edinburghers are also very friendly, making it ideal for travelers looking to strike up conversations, make friends, and get recommendations from locals.
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Read also: Incredible Europe City Breaks
Lisbon, Portugal
With its colorful streets, historic neighborhoods, and scenic viewpoints, Lisbon is a secure destination for solo travelers to explore its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning coastline. The city’s charming districts, such as Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado, are perfect for strolls and exploration. While it can be difficult to go uphill, the stunning view of Lisbon will always be rewarding. From luxurious hotels to very cheap hostels, every traveler can easily get a safe space within their budget in Lisbon.
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Read more: Best Things To Do in Lisbon
Copenhagen, Denmark
A city known for its progressive mindset, beautiful parks, and world-renowned culinary scene, Copenhagen offers solo travelers a safe and enriching experience filled with Danish charm and hospitality. Many of the city’s main attractions, such as Tivoli Gardens, Little Mermaid Statue, Nyhavn, and the Amalienborg Palace, are within walking distance of each other.
Copenhagen has also been ranked as one of the friendliest and most secure cities. It is also one of the cities that is bike-friendly, making it easier to go sightseeing.
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Barcelona, Spain
While it may not be the most secure city on this list, Barcelona is still a great place for solo travelers. All the significant tourist spots, from the Sagrada Familia, La Barceloneta Beach, La Pedrera (Casa Mila), La Casa Batllo, and Park Guell, among others, are all along major bus and metro lines. This makes navigating Barcelona very easy.
Also, Barcelona is a very touristy city. You will meet a lot of tourists at these famous attractions. This way, you do not have to worry about taking photos or finding people to help you find your way around. While studies have shown the high crime rate in Barcelona has sharply decreased, it is still ideal for you to be safe rather than sorry.
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Paris, France
Paris has a lot of iconic attractions. However, it stands out as a solo traveler-friendly destination because of its advanced public transportation. On top of this, most of the top tourist attractions can be visited together. For instance, after taking in the views from the Eiffel Tower, you can wind up by taking the boat rides on the Seine, which is right by the tower.
Then, tour The Arc de Triomphe and wind up by walking along the iconic Champs-Elysees. The same applies to the Montmartre neighborhood, which is home to many must-see spots such as the Sacre-Coeur, Place du Tertre(have your portrait drawn here), Le Consulat, Maison Rose, Musee de Montmartre, and so many others. However, just like Barcelona, you must be extra vigilant in Paris.
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Dublin, Ireland
Ireland has consistently been voted the most hospitable country in Europe. Irish people are very welcoming and can help make your solo trip to Dublin even more worthwhile. Conversing with locals in their must-visit pubs, cafes, and tourist attractions can be easy.
Besides, many of the city’s top attractions, such as Trinity College, Temple Bar, and Dublin Castle, are within proximity to each other. There is so much more to see in Dublin; you will unlikely run out of things to do. Be sure to experience the Guinness Storehouse, the National Museum of Ireland, and the Kilmainham Gaol Museum. And almost everyone in Ireland speaks English.
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Read also: Awesome Hidden Gems in Europe
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She has been featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
