You wake up on a Saturday, make your own breakfast, and think: Why not just go somewhere—on my own? Not out of loneliness, but because the freedom to go where you want, when you want, sounds… kind of perfect.
If solo travel is on your mind, two destinations stand out not just for their beauty, but for how incredibly friendly, walkable, and inspiring they are when you're exploring solo. One offers poetic peace; the other buzzes with coastal charm. Let's take a closer look.
Kyoto, Japan: Peaceful, Polished, Perfect for One
You don't need a travel buddy to enjoy Kyoto's calm. This is a place where silence is part of the scenery. With centuries-old temples, mossy stone paths, and tea houses that welcome solo visitors, Kyoto is designed for thoughtful exploration.
What to see:
Fushimi Inari Shrine – Home to 10,000 vermilion torii gates winding up a forested hill.
• Cost: Free
• Best time: Arrive before 7:30 AM for fewer people and golden morning light
• Getting there: 5-minute walk from JR Inari Station, included in JR Pass
Gion District – Wander cobblestone streets where kimono-clad locals and the occasional geisha add to the timeless charm. No ticket needed, just curiosity.
Nijo Castle – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens and squeaky “nightingale floors.”
• Ticket: ~$6.60
• Hours: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Tuesdays in Jan, July, Aug, Dec)
Transport tip:
Get the Kyoto City Bus + Subway Pass ($6/day). Buses require you to pay upon exit—cash or IC card only.
Where to stay:
• Ryokan Genhouin: Peaceful traditional guesthouse ($85+/night for solo room)
• Len-Kyoto Kawaramachi: Chic hostel with a café and private room options (from $40)
Why it's solo-friendly:
• Safety is top-tier. You can walk at night with ease
• Eating alone is normal—many spots have bar seats or single-person booths
• Locals are polite, and while English isn't fluent everywhere, signs are clear and helpful
Best months to go:
• March–May: Cherry blossoms in bloom
• October–November: Fiery fall leaves, crisp air
Lisbon, Portugal: Warm, Walkable, Wonderfully Solo
If Kyoto is about introspection, Lisbon is about connection—sun-drenched hills, ocean views, spontaneous chats with locals, and music drifting through the air. You won't feel like a stranger here.
What to see:
Belém Tower – Once a fortress, now one of Lisbon's iconic photo ops.
• Ticket: ~$7
• Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM (closed Mondays)
• How to get there: Tram 15E or bus 728 from the city center (~$2)
Tram 28 Ride – Hop on Lisbon's most famous yellow tram for a ride through historic districts.
• Tip: Go early (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds.
• Fare: ~$1.90 (with Viva Viagem card)
LX Factory – A revamped industrial complex turned artsy paradise. Solo travelers love it for café time, journaling, or picking up quirky gifts.
Transport tip:
The Lisboa Card ($24 for 24 hours) offers unlimited public transport + free entry to top attractions like Jerónimos Monastery and the MAAT museum.
Where to stay:
• Selina Secret Garden: Colorful hostel with coworking and rooftop views ($35–$60 for a solo traveler)
• Lisbon Poets Hostel: Central and creative with both dorm and private room options ($25–$55)
Why it's solo-friendly:
• Locals are outgoing and English is widely spoken
• Cafés, bakeries, and tram rides feel tailor-made for one
• Nightlife includes Fado music shows where listening alone is the norm
Best months to go:
• April–June: Warm but not too hot
• September–October: Fewer crowds, perfect sunsets
So, Which One's Calling You?
Are you in the mood for a quiet garden stroll in Kyoto or a lively tram ride through Lisbon's hills? Both are solo gold for different reasons—one soothes, the other energizes. And maybe that's the beauty of it. Solo travel isn't just about seeing new places. It's about seeing yourself in them. Whether you crave stillness or spark, it's time to follow your own lead.
Have you ever traveled solo? Tell us what your favorite destination was—or which one you're saving for this year. We'd love to hear how you make the most of your me-time abroad.
