Historically, Europe has been the capital of travel.
With so many different cultures all plotted into the same continent, getting around and experiencing new doesn’t take long. Europe is the central continent that is connected to Asia, Africa and many nationalities, like Americans and Australians, come from afar. Yet, Europe doesn’t really have any specific well-trodden trails that put you in line for solo travel.
If you think of other traveler friendly spots in the world such as Southeast Asia, the old Banana Pancake trail is what most solo travelers embark on. Europe, because of how broad it is and with over 50 countries, still hasn’t developed one solid route that everyone takes.
That’s why it’s important that if you’re doing a solo travel, you know where the top destinations are to meet others!
Lisbon, Portugal
The capital of Portugal is a great idea for solo travelers as it’s safe and offers a mixture of food and culture. The main reason for people visiting Lisbon is the social aspect this city creates. Although it has moved from in the shadows to a trend over recent years, the amount of solo travelers pouring into the city has risen up.
Check out Bairro Alto, the hilly neighborhood in Lisbon, home to the most bars per square meter than anywhere else on the continent. There’s definitely time to meet fellow solo’s here.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is often many travelers first stop when traveling around Europe. With International Schiphol Airport, flying everywhere it seems, Amsterdam is the logical place to visit for solo travel. With laws here a little loose, English widely spoken and a large range of museums, there’s no shortage of solo travelers here.
As a solo traveler in Amsterdam, you can discover many of the parks where you can meet people. Whether you’re wandering around the famous Red Light District or taking in Amsterdam’s beautiful canals, look around you, there are solo travelers everywhere.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is renowned for its pulsating social scenery that ranges from never-closing nightclubs to the quirkiest dive bars on every corner. Due to the city being stacked with history such as fragments from the infamous Berlin Wall, it’s a popular city for visitors.
Whether you’re roaming the streets with your cultural cap on or partying the night away in a club, you’ll bound to meet fellow solo travelers here.
eDreams Tip: Still in Germany, but in Munich is the annual Oktoberfest Festival from every September – October. With giant stein beers, German songs and extravagant of lederhosen’s, this epic event isn’t just for the locals, it’s for everyone.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest has become a state of its own for solo travel in recent years and it’s easy to forget the country it is in, Hungary. The nightlife in Budapest is absolutely wild, so there’s no way you won’t bump into a fellow solo traveler here; just get ready to party along the way!
You can enjoy the ruin bars to meet other people just like you. It’s impossible not to meet fellow travelers and enjoy the craziness of the nightlife in Budapest.
Prague, Czech Republic
Similar to Budapest, Prague is mistaken as an independent state rather than being the capital of the Czech Republic. Prague is a safe city and fairly easy to navigate. Not only does it attract numerous stag parties, but also many solo travelers make Prague a place to visit too.
As most Eastern Europe cities, Prague has that unique medieval factor that warrants taking multiple photos. Throw in affordable prices Prague has turned into one of Europe’s most popular destinations for all kinds of travelers.
eDreams Tip: Try out cool spots like Café Bar Propaganda or Bar No. 7 to meet fellow solo travelers.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has a bit of everything. It has culture, food, football, beaches, nightlife and a unique Catalan persona. Yet, over-tourism is a problem in Barcelona, with the popular Catalan city a mainstay for tourists over the last decade. Like it or lump it, you can’t move without passing by a traveler here today. But if you are experiencing solo travel, this is definitely useful and can be used to your advantage because you’ll always meet someone wandering through this iconic city.
Whether you’re by the La Barcenoleta beach, or the pulsating La Ramblas, Barcelona has something going on and you won’t be the only one to see it.
Reykjavik, Iceland
The tourism boost in Iceland has been nothing short of sensational in recent years, with millions visiting each year. When you compare this to the whole nation’s population of only 330,000, it tells you simply Iceland is a hotspot travel destination.
Especially for travelers looking for road trip, explore the world-class rugged terrain and indulge in adventurous activities, Reykjavik is the starting point. Many solo travelers now visit Iceland so get down to the Blue Lagoon spa and make some friends!
London, UK
No-one who travels to the UK does without a visit to the capital. In fact, it’s where most travelers ONLY visit. Still, London is all about the iconic history and the multi-cultural vibes. There are always travelers in London, a bit like Amsterdam, either starting or ending a trip.
Many say London is the capital of Europe, so check in somewhere, have a cup of tea and find a pub in Shepherds Bush to meet a fellow wanderer.
Galway, Ireland
If you’ve ever watched the music video to Ed Sheeran ‘Galway Girl’ you’ll see that Galway looks a whole lot of fun.
Quay Street is a popular spot for travelers and locals alike especially solo travelers. With the old Irish charm that lights up at night, this place is definitely a spot to meet fellow wanderers of the world. Once voted as ‘The Most Friendliest City in the World’ Galway boasts good vibes and a high energy amongst everyone especially if you like to socialize.
