Best Solo Travel Holidays from the UK: Top Destinations and Safety Tips for 2026

Solo travel has never been more popular among UK holidaymakers. Whether you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, the chance to meet like-minded travellers, or simply a break from the routine without waiting for someone else’s schedule to align, travelling alone opens up a world of possibilities. From cultural city breaks in Europe to far-flung adventures in Southeast Asia, solo travel can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

The key to a great solo trip is choosing the right destination and planning smartly. This guide covers the best solo travel destinations for UK travellers in 2026, practical safety tips, and how to get the most out of your trip without the stress of doing everything yourself.

Solo traveller exploring a scenic destination — Photo by The Lazy Artist Gallery on Pexels

Why Solo Travel Is Growing Among UK Holidaymakers

Recent research shows that solo travel bookings from the UK have risen by over 40 per cent since 2022. The reasons are varied: some travellers are between relationships, others have different holiday preferences from their partners, and many simply value the independence of exploring alone. The rise of remote working has also made extended solo trips more accessible, with digital nomads combining work and travel in destinations across the globe.

Solo travel does not mean lonely travel. Group tours, hosted small-group departures and social hostels make it easy to meet people, while having your own itinerary means you can choose when to socialise and when to enjoy your own company. A personal travel consultant can build a trip that balances both perfectly.

Best Solo Travel Destinations for UK Travellers in 2026

Portugal — Consistently voted one of Europe’s safest countries, Portugal is ideal for solo travellers. Lisbon’s vibrant food scene, Porto’s riverside charm and the Algarve’s stunning beaches are all easy to navigate independently. English is widely spoken, and the country offers excellent value for money. Read our full Portugal holidays guide for more details.

Japan — Japan is one of the safest countries in the world and remarkably easy to travel solo. The rail system is efficient and punctual, accommodation ranges from capsule hotels to traditional ryokans, and the culture of respect means solo diners and travellers are warmly welcomed everywhere. See our Japan holidays guide for more.

Iceland — Perfect for adventure-loving solo travellers, Iceland offers self-drive ring road itineraries, group excursions for glacier hiking and whale watching, and a population so safe that crime is virtually non-existent. The Golden Circle route is ideal for a 3 to 5 day solo road trip.

Traveller exploring a beautiful coastal path — Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels

Thailand — A classic solo travel destination with a well-established backpacker infrastructure. Thailand suits all budgets, from luxury beach resorts in Koh Samui to budget-friendly islands like Koh Lanta. The country is easy to navigate, locals are friendly, and the food is among the best in the world.

New Zealand — Incredibly safe with world-class scenery, New Zealand is built for self-drive adventures. The country attracts solo travellers of all ages and the tourism infrastructure makes it easy to join group activities like bungee jumping, kayaking and wine tours.

Croatia — Dubrovnik, Split and the islands of Hvar and Korcula offer a fantastic mix of history, beaches and nightlife. Solo travellers love the walkability of Croatian cities and the ease of island-hopping by ferry. Joining a sailing week is a great way to meet other travellers.

Morocco — For solo travellers seeking something more adventurous, Morocco offers a sensory overload of colours, flavours and experiences. Marrakech’s souks, the Sahara Desert and the blue city of Chefchaouen are all highlights. Organised small-group tours are a smart choice for first-time visitors.

Essential Safety Tips for Solo Travellers

Travelling solo is overwhelmingly safe when you take sensible precautions. These tips will help you stay secure and make the most of your trip:

Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member and check in regularly
Research your destination thoroughly before you go, including local customs, dress codes and areas to avoid
Keep digital copies of your passport, travel insurance and booking confirmations in cloud storage
Use reputable transport — book airport transfers in advance and use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, leave. Your safety always comes first
Book ATOL-protected holidays to ensure your money is protected if anything goes wrong with your travel provider

Solo traveller with backpack at a viewpoint — Photo by Xuân Thống Trần on Pexels

Solo Travel on a Budget vs Luxury Solo Trips

Solo travel works at every budget level. Budget travellers can take advantage of hostels with private rooms, free walking tours and street food, while those after a more premium experience can enjoy adults-only resorts, private guided tours and boutique hotels that cater specifically to solo guests.

Many tour operators now offer dedicated solo traveller departures with no single supplement, making luxury group trips far more affordable for those travelling alone. A travel consultant can find you the best deals and negotiate on single supplements that would otherwise inflate your costs.

How a Travel Consultant Can Help Solo Travellers

One of the biggest advantages of using a personal travel consultant for solo trips is the peace of mind it brings. Your consultant will handle all the logistics, recommend tried-and-tested accommodations that suit solo guests, and be available if anything goes wrong during your trip. They can also connect you with local guides, arrange airport transfers and build in group experiences where you want them.

For solo travellers who want structure without losing independence, tailor-made itineraries combine the best of both worlds. Your consultant designs the route, books the hotels and arranges experiences, but you explore at your own pace each day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is solo travel safe for women?

Yes, millions of women travel solo every year and have wonderful experiences. Choose destinations with strong safety records like Portugal, Japan, Iceland and New Zealand. Use the same common-sense precautions you would at home and research local customs before you go.

How do I avoid paying single supplements?

Many tour operators now offer no-single-supplement departures. A travel consultant can identify these options and negotiate on your behalf. Alternatively, some cruise lines and resorts have dedicated solo cabins or rooms at reduced rates.

What is the best first solo travel destination?

Portugal and Japan are excellent choices for first-time solo travellers due to their safety, ease of navigation and welcoming culture. European destinations like Croatia and Iceland are also great starting points because they are close to the UK and have excellent tourist infrastructure.

Should I book a group tour or travel independently?

It depends on your personality and the destination. Group tours are ideal for places where logistics are complex, like Morocco or India. Independent travel works brilliantly in countries with excellent public transport, like Japan or Portugal. A mix of both is often the perfect balance.

Ready to take the leap? Our travel consultants have helped hundreds of solo travellers plan unforgettable trips. Contact a Travel Consultant today to start planning your solo adventure for 2026.