7 of the most underrated destinations for solo travellers in Europe
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Europe is one of my favourite continents to travel solo – in fact, I’ve travelled to over 20 countries independently as a solo traveller and most of them in Europe. The continent is diverse, rich in history, and easy to navigate. There are plenty of budget friendly options in different parts of Europe and, most importantly, it’s considered a safe option for solo travellers. This is why Europe is so popular with backpackers and solo travellers, which also makes it a great option to meet other adventurers along the way. Of the places I’ve been, these are my favourite underrated destinations for solo travellers in Europe.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
If I had to describe Ljubljana in one word, it would be “unique”. This city blends old-world charm and youthful energy. As you wander through its car-free streets; over its bridges that arch over the tranquil Ljubljanica; down the cobblestone streets lined with pastel-hued buildings; you’ll notice that while a medieval castle watches over the city its a place of innovation and sustainability.
Things to do & see:
- Old town
- Ljubljana Castle
- Tivoli Park
- Triple Bridge
- Dragon Bridge
- There are so many day trip you can do from your Ljubljana base (Lake Bled, Vintar Gorge, Triglav National Park, Predjama Castle, Postojna Cave)
Pros for solo travelling here:
- Ljubljana is a very safe city (in fact, according to the Global Peace Index, Slovenia is the 8th most peaceful country in the world). As a rule, always take general safety precautions.
- It’s a very walkable city – there’s no need for any transport for getting around Ljubljana.
- The city has friendly locals – many of which speak English very well.
- It’s not as touristy as other European destinations.
- It’s not as expensive as other European destinations.
- It’s a quirky, unique city.
- The city has a huge, noticeable focus on sustainability – I was really impressed!
Other things to keep in mind:
- It’s a small city so there only so many days that you’d be able to spend in the city itself
- While the city has a youthful vibe, the nightlife is not as lively as other cities
- And, you’re probably wondering how to pronounce the city’s name? It’s said “loo-blyah-nuh” according to locals, which is definitely not how I was saying it at first!
Where I stayed:
Hostel Tresor, which unfortunately no longer seems to be available to book. You can browse other Ljubljana accomodation on Booking.com or HostelWorld.com.
Viator Tours:
Bari, Italy
Nestled on the Adriatic coast of Italy, Bari is often an overlooked coastal destination by solo travellers. Â Bari is rich in art, history and culinary tradition and, for those who wish to explore the Puglia region, Bari is the perfect base. From the colourful laundry hanging from balconies to its bustling fish market, Bari offers an authentic glimpse into Italian life.
Things to do & see:
- Bari Vecchia (or old town)
- Piazza Mercantile
- Piazza del Ferrarese
- Basilica di San Nicola
- Basilica Cattedrale Metropolitana Primaziale San Sabino
- Bari Lungomare
- Pane e Pomodoro beach
- Castello Svevo di Bari
Pros for solo travelling here:
- It’s safe for female solo travellers – as always, take general safety precautions.
- It’s a walkable city – no need for public transport
- It’s not as touristy as other Italian cities
- It’s not as expensive as other European destinations.
- Because it’s off-the-beaten-track, it has a very authentic feel compared to bigger cities that are accustomed to tourists.
- It’s really easy and affordable to take day trips from Bari due to the train network.
- There are so many day trip you can do from your Bari base (Matera, Poglinano de Mare, Alberobello, Locorotondo Monopoli, Trani, Lecce).
Things to keep in mind:
- Siesta is a tradition practised in Bari and the days trip areas, which means that many of the restaurants and shops are closed from 1/2 pm until 5 pm.
Cons for solo travelling here:
- As a port city, it may get busy at certain points of the day when cruise ships land.
- While English is spoken in Bari, it may not be widely spoken amongst older generations, so you may encounter some language barriers.
Where I stayed:
Olive Tree Hostel, which can be booked on HostelWorld.com or Booking.com. This was very simple accomodation, but clean and had all the basic facilities needed. it’s very conveniently located.
Viator Tours:
Sliema or Valletta, Malta
On the beautiful coast of Malta, Sliema and Valletta offer the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration and history – in fact, Valletta is a UNESCO World heritage site. Sliema and Valetta are just across the harbour from one another so staying in either place will allow you to explore both towns. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, indulging in delicious cuisine, or simply basking in the beauty of the coast, Sliema and Valetta are both great options for solo travellers who are looking for a destination with plenty to do that’s a little more laidback than bigger cities.
Things to see & do:
- Sliema Promenade (S)
- Marsamxett Harbour (S)
- Manoel Harbour (S)
- Victorian Pools (or Roman Baths) (S)
- Fond Ghadir Beach (S)
- Tigne Beach (S)
- St John’s Cathedral (V)
- Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens (V)
- Triton Fountain (V)
- The Valetta Waterfront (V)
- There are also day trips you can do from your Sliema base. (Mdina, Gozo, Popeye’s Village, Comino Blue Lagoon)
Pros for solo travelling here:
- It’s safe for female solo travellers (still always take general safety precautions)
- Both Valetta and Sliema are very walkable
- Public transportation is affordable and easy to use (also see cons)
- English is one of the country’s official languages.
- It’s not as touristy as other European destinations, but more popular than some of the others on this list.
- It’s not as pricey as other popular coastal European destinations.
Cons for solo travelling here:
While public transportation is affordable and easy to use, I also found it a little unpredictable.
Other things to keep in mind:
- Malta can get quite busy in peak season (June – August), so keep this in mind when booking your trip.
Where I stayed:
Two Pillows Boutique Hostel, which can be booked on HostelWorld.com or Booking.com. One of my favourite hostels I’ve stayed in. It is beautifully designed and styled. It had a very homey, coastal feel to it! It’s in a great location – and couldn’t fault the staff during my stay.
Viator Tours:
Menton, France
The first thing I’ll say about Menton is that this town is one of the most picturesque places I’ve travelled. Located on French Riviera, Menton is a hidden gem that solo travellers (if they’re anything like me) will instantly fall in love with. With its pastel-coloured buildings, fragrant lemon trees, and stunning sea views, Menton is a dream destination for travellers who simply enjoy wandering through pretty little streets, relaxing on the beach and exploring at a relaxed pace of life. Being laidback is something that definitely defines this idyllic, sleepy coastal town.
Things to see & do:
- Old Town
- Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange
- Plage des Sablettes (beach)
- Plage du Fossan (beach)
- Plague du Rondelli (beach)
- Jean Cocteau Museum
- Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh (gardens)
- Jardin Serre de la Madone (gardens)
- Fete du Citron (Menton Lemon festival held annually in February)
Pros for solo travelling here:
- It’s safe for female solo travellers, but I highly recommend taking general safety precautions.
- It’s a fairly walkable city
- It’s a laidback and relaxed city
- Great for a picturesque, coastal getaway
- More affordable than some of the neighbouring cities
- There are also day trips you can do from your Menton base. (Monaco, Nice)
Things to keep in mind:
- While most people speak English in major establishments (hotels and restaurants), the staff in smaller markets and shops spoke mostly in French.
Where I stayed:
Hôtel Miléade L’Orangeraie – Menton, which can be booked on Booking.com. I stayed in a single room during my stay, which was very small and basic but really that was all I needed. The hotel itself was really beautiful – blends old and modern elements into the hotel’s design and styling. Friendly staff and the location of the hotel was very central.
Viator Tours:
Chania, Greece
Located on the northwestern coast of the Greek island of Crete, Chania is another picturesque place known for its rich history, Venetian and Ottoman architecture, and stunning natural beauty. Chania is another destination that’s great for travellers who want to slow down and relax, while still being able to explore at leisure.
Things to do & see:
- Old Town
- Church of St Nicolas
- Grand Arsenal
- Giali Tzamisi Mosque
- Old Venetian Port of Chania
- Lighthouse of Chania
- Firkas Castle
- Municipal Garden of Chania
- Archeological Museum of Chania
- Nea Chora (beach)
- Kladissos Beach
- Maritime Museum of Chania
- Municipal Market of Chania
Pros for solo travelling here:
- You can discover most of Chania’s Old Town by foot
- Safe destination for solo female travellers, but as always, take general safety precautions.
- English is widely spoken by locals
- Relaxed and easygoing vibe
- There are plenty of things to do around 30 minutes by car from Chania’s Old Town that could occupy a few hours to half a day (Botanical Park and Gardens of Crete, Archaeological Site of Aptera, Starvos Beach, )
- There are also day trips you can do from your Chania base. (Elafonsi Beach, Voulisma Beach, Val Beach, Samaria Gorge, Balos Lagoon, Phalasarna Beach, Loutro, Lake Korunas, Heraklion, Rethymno)
Things to keep in mind:
- There’s quite a lot to do, however, a lot of places are not easy to get to without a car or tour.
- Research places before you land so you understand where they are and how many days you’ll need to see everything you want
Where I stayed:
Cocoon City Hostel, which can be booked on HostelWorld.com or Booking.com. Another amazing hostel with really lovely staff and a welcoming vibe. It has a modern design with brightly lit, open common spaces. It’s very clean and well maintained. The location was also excellent, with plenty of small supermarkets close by.
Viator Tours:
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
I’ve saved the best until last as this is one of my all-time favourite cities – and (in my opinion) one of the most underrated destinations for solo travellers in Europe. Mostar is a place of raw beauty and profound history. For solo travellers who are all about exploring lesser-known gems, this one is really quite special. The beauty of Mostar, aside from the stunningly natural wonders all around, is losing yourself in the narrow cobblestones streets, taking a moment to indulge in Bosnian coffee at a local café, and experiencing the sheer pride of the locals as they share stories of their resilient city.
Things to do & see:
- Stari Most bridge (or “Old Bridge”)
- Kriva Cuprija (or “Crooked Bridge”)
- Old Town
- Old Bazaar
- Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque
- Museum of Herzegovina
- Museum of War and Genocide Victims
- There are a variety of day trips that can be taken from your base in Mostar (Kravice Waterfalls, Blagaj, Sarajevo, Medjugorje, Pocitelj, Spilt)
Pros for solo travelling here:
- You will meet some of the friendliest locals.
- You’ll have opportunities to have rich cultural experiences.
- Mostar is a pretty affordable.
- Mostar is safe for solo travellers. (Still always taking general safety precautions.)
- The hospitality is warm and welcoming – I felt like part of the family at Hostel Mirror especially! (On my departure day, they drove me to the airport with a packed breakfast!)
Cons for solo travelling here:
- It can get busy near the Stari Most bridge during peak times as it’s often a stop for lots of group tours.
- While it’s a popular tourist destination, Mostar is not necessary equipped with the same tourist infrastructure as other bigger cities.
- English is not widely spoken amongst older generations in Mostar, so you may encounter some language barriers.
- Cards are not always accepted at restaurants.
- Internet access can be limited.
Other things to keep in mind:
- It’s a small city so there only so many days that you’d be able to spend in the city itself
- While the city has a youthful vibe, the nightlife is not as lively as other cities
- Bosnia and Herzegovina is a predominantly Muslim country so it is important to be respectful and mindful of local customs and culture.
Where I stayed:
Hostel Mirror, which can be booked on Booking.com. This hostel is unlike many others I’ve stayed in because it was family-run and you could really tell by their warm hospitality – it had a truly welcoming, you-part-of-the-family feel to it! I felt well looked after here. Everything was clean and tidy – the room I stayed in had colourful, very groovy decor. The location of the hostel is really well situated and you don’t have to walk far to reach the main attractions.
Viator Tours:
