Solo Travel: The Best Destinations & Tips for Your First Time

Traveling solo is an exciting and eye-opening experience. Whether you have never traveled abroad, or if you’re a seasoned traveler looking for a new experience, it’s important to choose a safe but fascinating destination for your first solo trip.

Riverdale Travel, a premier travel agency in Minnesota, has some tips for the best destinations for solo travel and tips for your first time traveling alone. When you’re ready to plan your solo trip, Riverdale Travel can help you plan your adventure. 

1. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan, is an excellent destination for solo travelers who love food and culture. It offers a rich blend of traditional Japanese culture and incredible food choices. While traveling solo in Kyoto, you can explore tranquil tea houses, serene temples, and the vibrant street markets without feeling overwhelmed. 

If you’re a foodie interested in Japanese cuisine, you should check out the Nishiki Market, which is a must-visit for authentic Japanese street food. If you’re looking for a traditional multi-course meal, you can visit Kaiseki for culinary delights. 

Some highlights of Kyoto include: 

• Fushimi Inari Shrine (the iconic red torii gates)

• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

• Kiyomizu Temple

• Gion District (Geisha culture)

2. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavík, Iceland, has exploded as a popular tourist destination now that there are very affordable airline tickets to the small island country. Reykjavik is a beautiful place to visit, particularly if you are a nature lover. Iceland is also one of the safest countries for solo travelers. 

While visiting Reykjavik, you can explore the country’s stunning natural beauty, such as geysers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and the Northern Lights. If you’re looking for some solitude and soul-searching, Iceland is the perfect, pristine destination. 

Some highlights include: 

• Golden Circle Tour (includes Geysir, Gullfoss, Thingvellir National Park)

• Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

• Northern Lights Tours

• Hiking around Mount Esja

3. Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy, is a haven for solo travelers who are interested in history and art. As a hub for Renaissance culture, this small, compact city is easy to explore on foot. Spend the day on a walking tour to see world-class museums, historical landmarks, and beautiful architecture. While you’re there, it’s essential to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine by visiting many cafes and restaurants. Hanging around in piazzas makes it easy to meet other fellow travelers or to enjoy people watching. 

Some highlights in Florence, Italy, include: 

• Uffizi Gallery (Renaissance masterpieces)

• Florence Cathedral and its famous dome

• Ponte Vecchio (historic bridge)

• Accademia Gallery (to see Michelangelo’s David)

4. Cusco, Peru

 If you’re an adventurous spirit with a love of history, you can take a solo trip to Cusco, Peru. This city is the gateway to the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu and is a great destination for hiking and indigenous history. The town of Cusco offers a blend of Incan and Spanish colonial history, and the surrounding Sacred Valley provides stunning treks through ancient ruins and mountains. 

Some highlight of Cusco, Peru, include: 

• Machu Picchu (one of the New Seven Wonders of the World)

• Sacred Valley (ancient Incan ruins)

• Sacsayhuamán (Incan citadel)

• Rainbow Mountain trek

Tips for First Time Solo Travelers

If this is your first time traveling alone, Riverdale Travel has some important tips for first time solo travelers. With the right preparation, solo travel can be a very rewarding experience. 

• Start with a small trip in a nearby country or city to get a feel for solo travel.

• Thoroughly research your destination, including how safe it is for solo travelers, language, customs, transportation, and currency. 

• Choose safe and solo-friendly destinations such as Japan, Iceland, and New Zealand for your first time. 

• Pack light and smart, choosing a backpack or small suitcase, which are easier to manage on your own. 

• Pack essentials like first-aid kit, portable phone charger, and your medications. 

• Stay connected with friends and family throughout your trip, informing them of where you’re going and checking in to let them know you’re safe. 

• Learn basic local phrases such as “hello,” thank you,” and “help.”

• Stay in a social accommodation, such as a hostel, guesthouse, or boutique hotel, which can help you meet other travelers. 

• Trust your instincts. 

• Plan your first few days in advance so you have a plan. After that, feel free to embrace spontaneity. 

• Blend in with the locals by dressing appropriately for the local culture and avoid flashing your valuables. 

• Stay aware of safety tips and local emergency numbers. 

• Invest in travel insurance to protect your trip. 

Plan Your First Solo Trip with Riverdale Travel

If you want assistance planning your first solo travel adventure, reach out to Riverdale Travels. Our travel consultants are experts in many different destinations and can provide additional tips and information for navigating the local customs and traditions. We can help you coordinate everything from your airline, hotel stays, transportation, or guided tours. Let us help you thoroughly plan your first solo trip today. Let the adventure begin!

Give us a call at 763-323-3665 or book a consultation online.