Solo Travel – Travel alone without the stress!
You’ve wanted to visit that one city for ages – but it’s been on your to-do list for years because none of your travel companions are coming along? We reckon you shouldn’t wait for anything or anyone to explore the world! Quite the opposite: many cities reveal a completely unique side to you when you explore them on your own. And all by yourself, you can really do exactly what you fancy – without any compromises!
So pack your bags and get ready for our top 3 solo travel cities.
Copenhagen – Hygge and off we go!
Fancy a bit of hygge? The people of Copenhagen are true masters when it comes to cosiness. So if you fancy switching off completely and just going with the flow, Copenhagen is the place for you!
What is there to do in Copenhagen?
Speaking of going with the flow… Why not experience Copenhagen from the water?
At Kayak Republic (SUP rental Copenhagen - KAYAK REPUBLIC), you can hire a kayak or SUP for yourself or as part of a guided group tour and explore the harbour on warm days.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, the best way to discover Copenhagen is at your own pace on a hire bike. Cycling has long been part of the culture here, so you can also explore the more out-of-the-way corners.
For photographers and social media enthusiasts, there are so many photo opportunities that even three-hour photography tours are offered. One thing nobody should miss is Nyhavn (New Harbour) with its colourful, crooked little houses. It is quite rightly one of Copenhagen’s most popular photo spots and blends perfectly with the city’s relaxed, maritime atmosphere. Many other sights are just a short walk away, so it can get quite busy here during the day.
Our tip, therefore: it’s best to come early in the morning and marvel at the harbour at sunrise.
On your tour, be sure to let the aroma of world-famous Danish pastries lure you into the trendy cafés. Here you can feast to your heart’s content, read, chat with the locals (yes, in English) or simply enjoy the city’s laid-back vibe.
What should I bear in mind?
Copenhagen is one of the safest cities in Europe. However, it can unfortunately get quite expensive here quite quickly. That’s why it’s best to research your activities in advance and plan them wisely. The good news: there are also plenty of things you can do for (almost) free. If you want to save money on food (and soak up the good vibes), head to the industrial-style Reffen district (Reffen Copenhagen Street Food). With over 50 street food trucks, regular markets, leisure activities and concerts, there’s something for everyone there.
Why is Copenhagen a great choice for a solo trip?
No neon lights, no big-city vibes… Instead, rocking boats and friendly locals. The Danes are among the happiest people in the world, and if you come on your own, you can fully immerse yourself in their hygge lifestyle. For us, Copenhagen is therefore the city where you can rediscover your sense of cosiness. And you certainly won’t get bored, because Copenhagen has its colourful side too!
London – From the Gherkin to graffiti
Whether it’s a street art paradise, a journey back to the Victorian era, a foodie hotspot, a shopping capital or a cultural hub… As a solo traveller, you can experience London however you like!
What’s there to do?
Modern London boasts one of Europe’s most impressive skylines. In true British humour, many of the skyscrapers have wonderfully quirky nicknames such as The Cheesegrater, The Gherkin or The Walkie Talkie. If you’re interested in modern architecture, take the time to explore the City of London, Canary Wharf and South Bank.
It’s particularly fun for solo travellers to wander through the streets here with eyes wide open, capturing lines, reflections and contrasts. Amidst glass façades and surprising sightlines, you’ll find countless subjects for stunning photos.
If you’d like some canine company on your tour, you can even go for a walk with a real London pooch via BorrowMyDoggy (BorrowMyDoggy – Local Dog Walking, Sitting & Holiday Care). This not only brings joy but often leads to charming encounters with locals. For a green break, there are plenty of lovely parks in the city. Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens or the small green spaces along the Thames are perfect for a quick breather.
Our tip: end your tour with a view. The sunset high above the city is particularly atmospheric. For example, at the Sky Garden with its free 360° view or from The Shard.
Victorian London
But London can also be quite different: nostalgic, literary and a little dramatic. Clock towers, historic stations, artful pubs and the scent of tea bring the Victorian era to life. You can journey back into London’s past on one of the many immersive tours or on your own.
If you plan your own route, you can let your imagination run wild, read or write along the way, and fully savour the atmosphere. Spend your morning, for example, undisturbed at the Tea House Theatre, where, alongside an English breakfast (and tea, of course!), a dose of Victorian flair and theatre is served. Stay as long as you like at Leadenhall Market, exploring the traditional shops and cafés. Browse antiques and curiosities in Cecil Court or alight at St Pancras station and admire the historic station concourse.
Anyone wishing to experience London with a nod to the past should also make time for a stop at a pub. The Red Lion, The Blackfriar or Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, for instance, are particularly atmospheric. Here, you’re sitting right in the heart of London’s history.
Alternative London
What many people don’t know: London is a street art and alternative paradise. Alongside a thriving skate scene, there are plenty of hip corners where the unusual, the unexpected and the creative are right at home.
Leake Street Tunnel is famous for its living walls. The 300-metre-long, colourful graffiti stretch beneath Waterloo station is never quite the same as you last saw it. Here, artists from all over the world leave their mark. If you take your time, you’ll discover little surprises time and again amongst the tags, murals and messages.
If that’s not enough for you: Brick Lane and the neighbouring Shoreditch district are the epicentre of London’s street art scene. Here you’ll find not only graffiti, but an immersive world of hipster cafés and creative restaurants. Fancy a spot of vintage shopping? Then the colourful Camden Town is definitely worth a detour! Be sure to visit God’s Own Junkyard too. With its colourful neon signs, vintage signs and quirky artworks, this surreal gallery is a paradise for photographers and anyone who loves London’s flamboyant side.
What should I bear in mind?
The British love their capital. London and the weather are perfect conversation starters in pubs, cafés and tea houses, and are sure to reveal the warmth of the British people to you.
However, especially in a big city like London, you should still keep a close eye on your valuables. Particularly on the Underground, at stations and in busy areas, you shouldn’t carry your mobile phone, camera or wallet loose or in plain sight.
As for road safety, in the UK they drive on the left. It’s easy to forget this in everyday life, especially when crossing the road, at zebra crossings or when you hire a bike. So it’s best to look right and left one more time.
Why is London a great destination for a solo trip?
Everyone knows Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge and the like. But London’s character really comes to life in its narrow streets, markets and special moments. As a solo traveller, that’s precisely the luxury: staying spontaneous and following your own curiosity.
Our tip: Grab your mobile or camera and turn London into your own photo project. Go hunting for scenes that showcase the city’s different eras and styles. Try to capture them in different light and from unexpected angles. By the end, you might not only have lovely memories, but your very own little London coffee-table book.
Barcelona – Carefree happiness on the beach
Coffee in the morning, then the beach, a little siesta at lunchtime, followed by culture and nightlife? In Barcelona, you let the day unfold spontaneously and take each moment as it comes. No wonder, given all the colourful things the city has to offer.
What is there to do in Barcelona?
Barcelona is teeming with museums and architectural gems, and you don’t have to compromise on anything. Stay for as long as you like and soak up the city’s culture to the full. How about a day in the surreal Park Güell? If you prefer to explore off the beaten track, you’re sure to find some of architect Gaudí’s works scattered throughout the city for free, such as Casa Batlló or the Hospital de Sant Pau. Are you also interested in mammoths, aliens, chocolate or perfume? Whatever it is, Barcelona probably has a museum for it!
Speaking of sand and sea, Barcelona’s beaches are picture-perfect. Stroll, jog or skate along the Barceloneta promenade, sunbathe with a book in hand or cool off in the blue water. It’s entirely up to you to create your perfect day at the beach. If you fancy some company, you can also join in the spontaneous beach volleyball games.
As the sun goes down, the action moves to the bars. No one feels lonely here, because the relaxed atmosphere means even introverts can get to know other travellers or the chatty locals in no time. The Spanish know how to party and their good humour is quite infectious. Marvel at flamenco dancers in the Gothic Quarter, treat yourself to a vermouth in the authentic bodegas of Gràcia, or join a spontaneous game of table football with other bar-goers in the party district of Poblenou. You can get a beer in Barcelona from as little as €2, and it even comes with delicious tapas. Olives, chorizo… What more can we say?
If you don’t want to go out on your own, we recommend joining a bar crawl. These are offered as party-focused but also authentic and culture-oriented tours through the old town districts. This way, you can get to know the nightlife in your own way whilst always being in relaxed company.
What should I bear in mind?
Barcelona is popular with female solo travellers, but you should always keep an eye on your valuables, as pickpocketing can occur in crowds. You should be particularly on your guard on the city’s main tourist street, La Rambla.
Why is Barcelona a good choice for a solo trip?
Just set off and see where your instincts take you. You can only really do that on your own. Barcelona’s laid-back atmosphere greets you the moment you step out of Motel One Barcelona, where narrow alleyways and Gaudí’s surreal buildings invite you to stroll, feast and make unexpected acquaintances.
FAQs – What you need to know about travelling alone
Is travelling alone dangerous?
Travelling alone isn’t automatically any more dangerous than travelling with others. You’re simply more on your own. Good preparation, a healthy dose of common sense and a bit of caution go a long way.
Our tip: Check online or at our reception in advance to see if there are any areas of the city you should avoid.
Is travelling alone expensive?
Not necessarily. Because you decide entirely for yourself what you want to spend your money on. Many solo travellers actually travel more cheaply because they plan more spontaneously, eat street food and tend to enjoy the atmosphere rather than chasing the next sight. So, with a bit of planning, you can travel solo on a budget too.
What if I feel lonely?
Almost everyone has this worry before their first solo trip. And yes, there may be moments when you feel lonely. At the same time, something surprising often happens: you strike up conversations with people more easily, get to know other travellers, or suddenly find yourself consciously enjoying the peace and quiet.
What do I need to pack specifically when travelling alone?
As well as the usual travel essentials, our clear number one for solo travel is the power bank! When you’re travelling alone, you rely on your mobile even more. You use it for navigation, communication, digital tickets, music, photos, and so on… That’s why it’s absolutely vital that you can charge it on the go to avoid stressful situations.
Don’t forget to pack some emergency cash and a small first-aid or self-care kit. We’re also big fans of headphones, as they’re the perfect protection against noise or boredom. If you enjoy photography but don’t like asking strangers to take photos for you, we recommend taking a tripod for your camera or smartphone.
What does travelling alone actually do for you?
Quite a lot! You learn to make decisions on your own, overcome challenges and trust your own intuition more. Many people come back not only with lovely memories, but also with greater self-confidence, a sense of calm and the feeling that “I can do this.”
