Has it ever happened to you that you really wanted to go somewhere, but had nobody to go with? Everyone’s busy, everyone already has plans, or they keep saying “maybe next year”. At some point, you either keep waiting around… or you book the trip anyway. You get complete freedom, meet new people, and experience places in a totally different way. If you’re thinking about taking your first solo trip, Europe is the perfect place to start.

1. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is one of those cities where you can arrive alone and still feel comfortable straight away. It’s safe, easy to walk around, and there’s always something to see, whether it’s hidden streets, cosy pubs, or incredible viewpoints. It’s also great if you don’t want to spend loads of money. There are plenty of free things to do, from visiting museums to walking through Dean Village or hiking up Arthur’s Seat for amazing views over the city.

Another big bonus is the day trips. You can head into the Highlands of Scotland, visit the fishing villages of Fife, explore Outlander filming locations, or join Harry Potter tours and experiences nearby. It’s the kind of place where you can easily fill an entire week without getting bored.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has such an easy-going atmosphere that solo travel feels natural there. The city is full of colourful streets, local cafés, rooftop bars, and viewpoints where people just sit and watch the world go by.

It’s also one of the more affordable European capitals, which makes it perfect if you want a trip that doesn’t completely destroy your budget. And if you stay in a hostel, chances are you’ll meet people almost immediately.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is ideal if you enjoy exploring without rushing around. The canals, bike rides, little cafés, and relaxed vibe make it a really enjoyable city to experience alone. There’s always something happening, but it never feels overwhelming. One minute you’re in a museum, the next you’re sitting by the canal with a coffee just people-watching for hours.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague feels like a city straight out of a movie. The old buildings, bridges, and narrow streets make every walk feel special, especially at night when everything lights up. It’s also much cheaper than many other European cities, so it’s great for solo travellers trying to keep costs low while still getting that “wow” factor.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is perfect if you want somewhere calm, clean, and easy to navigate. It’s one of those cities where life feels slower in the best possible way.

You can spend the day cycling around, relaxing by the waterfront, or stopping in coffee shops without feeling pressured to constantly be doing something. It’s peaceful, friendly, and very safe for solo travellers.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is great if you want a bit of everything. Beaches, nightlife, food, culture - it’s all there.

During the day you can explore the city’s famous architecture or relax by the sea, and at night the city completely changes atmosphere with busy bars and late dinners. It’s also very social, so meeting other travellers is usually easy.

7. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is perfect if you want somewhere scenic and a little slower-paced. The Old Town is beautiful to wander around, and the coastline is honestly stunning.

A lot of solo travellers come here just to relax. You can take boat trips, find quiet beaches, or spend hours walking around the stone streets without really having a plan.

Solo travel can seem intimidating before you do it, but it’s also one of the most rewarding ways to travel. You become more confident, more independent, and more open to experiences you probably wouldn’t have had otherwise. And who knows - the trip you almost didn’t book could end up being your favourite one yet.

Explore our city break deals or get in touch with our team on 014081999 we’ll help you find the perfect trip, whether you’re travelling solo, planning a weekend escape, or looking for something completely different.

Frequently Asked Questions about solo travel in Europe

1. Is Europe safe for solo travellers?
For the most part, yes. Europe is considered very safe for solo travel, especially in cities like Edinburgh, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Prague. Like anywhere, it’s just about staying aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist spots.

2. What is the best European city for first-time solo travellers?
If it’s your first time travelling alone, cities like Edinburgh or Lisbon are great places to start. They’re easy to get around, welcoming, and have plenty of things to do without feeling overwhelming.

3. Which European cities are cheapest for solo travel?
Prague, Lisbon, and parts of Croatia (like Dubrovnik) tend to be more budget-friendly compared to cities like Paris or Copenhagen. You can usually find affordable food, accommodation, and activities without sacrificing experience.

4. How do solo travellers usually meet people while travelling?
It’s actually easier than most people think. Hostels, walking tours, cafés, and group activities are all great ways to meet others. Cities like Barcelona and Lisbon are especially social, so you’ll rarely feel alone unless you want to be.

5. Can e-travel.ie help me find flights and things to do?
Yes - and it can make the whole process a lot easier. e-travel.ie can help you compare flights and put together a trip that suits your budget and style. Whether you’re looking for the best flight deals or ideas for what to do once you arrive, it’s a handy starting point for planning your next solo adventure.