Traveling solo is one of the most empowering ways to discover the world. In 2025, more people than ever are choosing to travel solo, thanks to improved safety measures, affordable travel options, and growing backpacker communities.
If you’re planning your next adventure, here are the best countries to travel solo in 2025, rated by safety, affordability, and overall solo experience.
Why Choose Solo Travel in 2025?
- 🌐 Easier digital connections: Travel apps, language translators, and navigation tools make traveling alone smoother.
- 🛂 Visa-friendly policies: More countries are opening up to long-term travelers through digital nomad visas.
- 💰 Budget opportunities: Hostels, rideshares, and food delivery apps keep expenses low.
- 👭 Solo communities: Dedicated solo travel groups, hostels, and meet-ups help travelers connect.
Also Read – How I Traveled Across Asia for 6 Months on $3,000 — My Story, My Lessons
Best Countries to Travel Solo in 2025
1. Japan – Safe, Modern, and Culturally Rich
- Safety Score: ★★★★★
- Affordability: Moderate (daily budget $60–$100)
- Best Time to Visit: March–May (cherry blossoms) and September–November (autumn colors)
Japan remains one of the world’s safest destinations for solo travelers. From neon-lit Tokyo streets to peaceful Kyoto temples, it offers the perfect mix of modern convenience and cultural depth. With reliable public transport, polite locals, and 24/7 convenience stores, solo travelers feel secure at all times.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Explore Kyoto’s historic shrines alone at sunrise
- Experience capsule hotels for budget-friendly stays
- Visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial for reflection
- Budget Tip: Buy a Japan Rail Pass to save on intercity trains, and enjoy cheap but delicious meals at ramen shops and 7-Eleven.
2. Portugal – Affordable & Friendly for Solo Explorers
- Safety Score: ★★★★☆
- Affordability: Budget-Friendly (daily budget $40–$70)
- Best Time to Visit: April–June and September–October
Portugal has become a top choice for solo travelers in Europe because it’s affordable, walkable, and filled with friendly locals. Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods, Porto’s riverside charm, and Algarve’s golden beaches make it an all-round destination. English is widely spoken, and public transport is easy for solo explorers.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Take a tram ride through Lisbon’s Alfama district
- Taste port wine in Porto
- Relax at Algarve’s stunning coastline
- Budget Tip: Stay in hostels like Selina or Hub Lisbon, which often host social events for solo travelers.
3. Thailand – The Backpacker’s Paradise
- Safety Score: ★★★★☆
- Affordability: Super Cheap (daily budget $25–$50)
- Best Time to Visit: November–March (cool & dry season)
Thailand has been the heart of Southeast Asia’s backpacking culture for decades. With world-famous islands, vibrant street food culture, and a massive solo traveler community, it’s an easy and exciting destination. Even first-time solo travelers find it stress-free due to affordable accommodation, great transport, and endless activities.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Island-hopping in Krabi & Koh Phi Phi
- Exploring temples in Chiang Mai
- Shopping at Bangkok’s night markets
- Budget Tip: Street food is delicious, safe, and costs as little as $1–$2 per meal.
4. New Zealand – Adventure for Nature Lovers
- Safety Score: ★★★★★
- Affordability: Moderate (daily budget $60–$90)
- Best Time to Visit: December–February (summer)
Known as one of the world’s safest countries, New Zealand is paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Solo travelers can easily meet others while hiking, camping, or joining adrenaline activities. Locals are extremely welcoming, and hitchhiking is even common in some areas.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Visiting Hobbiton movie set
- Bungee jumping in Queenstown
- Budget Tip: Rent a campervan for ultimate flexibility and cost savings on accommodation.
5. Iceland – The Safest Country in the World
- Safety Score: ★★★★★
- Affordability: Expensive but Worth It (daily budget $80–$120)
- Best Time to Visit: June–August (long days) or December–February (Northern Lights)
Consistently ranked as the safest country in the world, Iceland is a dream for solo travelers. The natural wonders — glaciers, geysers, hot springs, and volcanoes — make it one of the most unique places to visit. Travelers rarely face crime, and locals are welcoming to foreigners.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Blue Lagoon geothermal spa
- Golden Circle road trip
- Chasing Northern Lights in winter
- Budget Tip: Book group tours and cook meals in hostels to manage Iceland’s high costs.
6. Vietnam – Affordable & Easy to Explore Alone
- Safety Score: ★★★★☆
- Affordability: Extremely Budget-Friendly (daily budget $20–$40)
- Best Time to Visit: March–April & September–November
Vietnam is one of the cheapest destinations for solo travelers in 2025. From the buzzing streets of Hanoi to the lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An, it’s a country full of culture and adventure. With cheap food, easy transport, and a backpacker-friendly vibe, Vietnam is ideal for both first-timers and experienced travelers.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Cruising through Ha Long Bay
- Motorbiking across Ha Giang loop
- Eating endless street food in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
- Budget Tip: Overnight buses are an affordable way to travel between cities, and street food costs less than $2 per meal.
7. Spain – Culture, Beaches, and Vibrant Solo Scenes
- Safety Score: ★★★★☆
- Affordability: Moderate (daily budget $50–$80)
- Best Time to Visit: April–June & September–October
Spain is a classic solo travel destination in Europe, offering a mix of art, history, beaches, and nightlife. Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville are packed with hostels where it’s easy to meet other travelers. English is widely understood in tourist areas, and Spain’s efficient trains make solo travel stress-free.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Tapas tasting tours in Barcelona
- Flamenco shows in Seville
- Relaxing at Costa Brava beaches
- Budget Tip: Eat at local tapas bars (menu del día lunch deals) and use BlaBlaCar (rideshare) for cheap intercity travel.
8. Canada – Safe, Friendly, and Scenic
- Safety Score: ★★★★★
- Affordability: Moderate to High (daily budget $70–$110)
- Best Time to Visit: June–September (summer) or December (for winter sports)
Canada is known for its safety, friendly locals, and vast natural beauty, making it perfect for solo travelers. Whether you love cities like Toronto and Vancouver or outdoor adventures in Banff and Jasper, Canada offers something for everyone. Public transport is reliable, and crime rates are low.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Hiking in Banff National Park
- Exploring multicultural Toronto
- Whale watching in Vancouver Island
- Budget Tip: Use budget airlines like Flair or Swoop for domestic travel, and book hostels in advance since Canada can be pricey.
9. Indonesia – Tropical Paradise for Solo Backpackers
- Safety Score: ★★★★☆
- Affordability: Budget-Friendly (daily budget $25–$50)
- Best Time to Visit: May–September (dry season)
Indonesia, especially Bali, is a backpacker favorite for solo travelers in 2025. It combines affordability with rich culture, yoga retreats, and stunning beaches. The expat and digital nomad community in Bali makes it easy to meet like-minded travelers. Beyond Bali, islands like Lombok and Flores offer quieter solo adventures.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Surfing in Canggu
- Yoga and meditation retreats in Ubud
- Island-hopping around Komodo National Park
- Budget Tip: Rent a scooter to get around cheaply, and stay in homestays or co-living hostels for a social experience.
Also Read – Is Bali Still Worth Visiting in 2025? A Solo Traveller’s Perspective
10. Mexico – Culture, Food, and Budget-Friendly Travel
- Safety Score: ★★★☆☆ (safe if you stick to tourist-friendly regions)
- Affordability: Very Budget-Friendly (daily budget $30–$60)
- Best Time to Visit: November–April
Mexico is an amazing solo travel destination in 2025, offering colorful culture, delicious food, and affordable prices. While some regions require caution, popular destinations like Mexico City, Oaxaca, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are safe and packed with solo travelers. Affordable buses and hostels make it easy to explore.
- Top Solo Experiences:
- Street food tours in Mexico City
- Exploring Mayan ruins in Chichén Itzá
- Relaxing on the beaches of Tulum
- Budget Tip: Use ADO buses for safe and cheap intercity travel, and stick to well-reviewed hostels in central areas.