Solo Female Traveler's Guide: Europe's Best Solo Destinations (And the Overrated Spots to Skip)

If you're eager to venture out Europe For the first time but have not made a reservation since you're awaiting the availability of possible travel partners, here’s some guidance from an experienced traveler.

"Packing up and going solo—take the journey!" advises Christina Ford, who lives as a single individual in Canada. London as well as a dedicated traveler who enjoys solitary vacations.

Christina tells The Independent That "waiting around isn’t all that worthwhile."

Uncertain about where to head or feeling anxious?

In this segment, Christina shares her top advice to ensure your solo experience becomes unforgettable. European holiday, covering top destinations you shouldn’t miss along with locations best avoided. It also offers tips for easing anxiety when traveling solo, such as ways to enjoy dining alone confidently rather than feeling uncomfortable.

She says, 'Let’s set you off on your journeys, ensure your safety, and maybe even help you enjoy being alone.'

Christina's top solo European destinations

Croatia is first out of the blocks on Christina's top solo European destinations list, with the traveler highlighting the "easy island hopping" and the numerous Game of Thrones filming locations, such as Split and Dubrovnik.

The car-free Greek island of Hydra is also a recommendation. There, says Christina, you'll discover "poetry-inspiring beauty".

The five "charming" coastal villages that make up Cinque Terre in Italy are also an itinerary must. Christina says that the area is "ideal for solo hikers who like a glass of wine and a bowl of linguine vongole at the end of their trek".

Two additional Italian locations feature on this list — Rome and Florence. Rome is highlighted for its "rich history, ancient ruins, excellent shopping, and some of the most incredible gelato you'll ever taste." Meanwhile, Florence stands out as an ideal spot for both art enthusiasts and historians, boasting "fantastic shopping," such as "an outstanding open-air leather market."

Lisbon and Porto in Portugal get the thumbs up, too. They're "light-filled cities with charm, affordability and friendly locals", says Christina.

She also urges first-time solo travelers to explore Spain – but to "skip Barcelona". Instead, she recommends Malaga, Seville and Ronda. " Spain is great value and offers more than you think," Christina stresses.

Places Christina avoids

Mykonos is beloved by the party-set, but it's one to steer clear of in Christina's opinion. She criticizes the Greek island as "overpriced, influencer-heavy and unwelcoming to solo travelers".

Read more: American Airlines' Premium Cabin business class will make its first appearance in June on this route.

Coming up next is stunning Santorini. Shocked? Christina acknowledges that it’s “stunning” yet cautions that the Cycladic island is “packed with honeymooners,” and notes that “prices everywhere are sky-high.”

Istanbul is also included in the list of places to avoid where many might be surprised. Christina clarifies, "It’s stunning, yet I wouldn’t recommend it as an ideal spot for women traveling alone. It’s better enjoyed accompanied by friends."

Ibiza should be skipped if you're going solo. As Christina puts it, "Skip it if you're not into partying."

Tips for nervous first-time solo travelers

Christina encourages individuals who travel alone to arrange group tours, as these provide "a organized way of exploration along with opportunities to connect with fellow travelers who have similar passions."

And AI should be "used to your advantage".

Christina shares: "My connection with ChatGPT is becoming quite intense, and rightfully so. Artificial intelligence can serve as your all-in-one personal travel advisor, translation helper, executive secretary, historical chronicler, and culinary tour guide."

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The following is a prompt she shares to assist in narrowing down her subsequent destination:

As someone over 50 years old, I adore delving into European history, dining at affordably-priced Michelin-starred eateries, and exploring lively neighborhoods with safe walkways. My ideal night out would be an upscale scene without the crowd of social media influencers posing for pictures of green-apple martinis. While I aim to skip peak tourist times yet relish good climate conditions, I’m looking forward to spending five evenings away. Starting off from (insert city) with a direct flight, I desire a destination where culture sparks passion within me. Oh yes—let’s not forget about some retail therapy too!

Ways to turn solo dining into a delightful encounter

"Dining alone can feel awkward or intimidating, especially at dinner," says Christina. "But it doesn't have to be."

She recommends solo adventurers choose restaurants with a bar – "they're more social" – and to avoid romantic or family style places.

"No one wants to be next to a proposal or a toddler meltdown," Christina states.

Lastly – put your phone down

Christina says: "Be open to the world around you. Strike up a conversation with someone. You'll be surprised what happens."

She continues: "So head out. Embark on the journey. Lose your way slightly. Savor the pastry."

To see more from Christina, check out her Instagram profile ( @abroad.inlondon ), TikTok account ( @insearchofmrdarcy ) and blog ( a-broad-in-london ). Her award-winning book Looking for Mr Darcy: Insights Gained in the Quest for Eternal Happiness can be found at every main store.

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