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Travel advice

Top 10 destinations for solo travellers

18th January, 2019

There is a real beauty in travelling to a destination as a solo passenger. For some, it’s a preference in order to experience an uncompromisingly indulgent holiday. For others, being without a travel companion is not a choice, but as many discover, there are many new like-minded friends to be made.

Whatever your reason for going solo, our singles holidays have been lovingly put together to welcome the independent traveller and where possible, avoid unfair penalties like single supplements. In fact, we take care of all the holiday details, leaving you free to simply decide on one thing – where to go!

If you’re struggling to decide on a destination for your forthcoming holiday, our top 10 picks for solo travellers should give you a good steer.

1. Greek Islands

The Greek island of Rhodes

The Greek islands are some of the most spectacularly beautiful islands in the world. They all boast stunning beaches, turquoise waters and ancient historical sites, yet individually they each offer something different.

Travel between each island is short, which means you can maximise your time on land, soaking up the Greek culture and meeting the locals – some of the most welcoming people on the planet.

Visit the Islands of the Aegean for a tour of the islands east of mainland Greece.

2. Danube River Cruise

Breathtaking Budapest

The Danube is an experience that must not be missed, especially for those who appreciate its rich history. It’s a long river that snakes its way through 10 countries, providing an outstanding variety of landscapes. The only way to take in its magnitude is by a river cruise.

Danube river cruises are one of our most popular holidays, especially for solo travellers.

3. Israel

Jerusalem’s iconic sights

Israel is a popular destination for those wanting to embark on a religious pilgrimage and discover ancient Biblical and archaeological sites. Religion is something that is very personal and therefore it’s understandable that travellers like to travel to Israel as a solo traveller.

Our Journey into Israel tour is the perfect holiday for single travellers who want to embrace their beliefs and experience its sacred treasures.

4. Australia

Clownfish swimming amongst anemones in the Great Barrier Reef

It may be on the other side of the world, but Australia has long-been a popular destination for the solo traveller. From lonesome backpacking missions, to organised package tours, Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many travellers like to tick off their bucket list.

5. Cadiz

The Cadiz seafront and Cathedral

Cadiz is a wonderful alternative to the more common Spanish destinations. A port town based in the south-west of beautiful Andalusia, it has a breath-taking coastline and numerous national parks to explore. The city is very laid back, with quaint cobbled streets and lively squares.

If you like your walking, Cadiz is the place to come for a walking holiday. Take a guided walking excursion or plot your own hiking route.

6. Vancouver

Vancouver's skyline at dusk

The Canadians are known globally as being very friendly people and Vancouver is testament to the this. Vancouver is described as New York with mountains, yet it’s cleaner and safer than its American cousin.

A visit to Canada wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Rocky Mountains. Our Vancouver and the Rockies holiday is a great option for singles.

7. Thailand

Wat Benchamabophit Temple in Bangkok

A far-flung destination indeed, but certainly gaining popularity as a haven for the single traveller. Whether your aim is to tour the many temples of Bangkok, trek with elephants in Chiang Mai or relax on one of the remote islands, Thailand is place of exotic discovery.

Discover the royal kingdoms of Thailand with Saga.

8. Bournemouth

Bournemouth's sandy beached seafront

You don’t have to leave the country to find great singles holidays. Holidays in the UK offer up their fair share of great destinations and nothing meets that brief more than Bournemouth on the Dorset coast. With its seven miles of award-winning sandy beaches, luscious green parks and art galleries, it’s the perfect place for a solitary mooch and a spot of relaxation.

Furthermore, music lovers can visit Bournemouth for a special jazz programme, including four concerts, jazz talks and a special jazz host.

9. Croatia

The rugged coastline of Dubrovnik

Croatia is well worth a visit for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. It packs dramatic mountains, green forests, crystal clear lakes and a rugged coastline into one small country, meaning you won’t be short of things to see.

It’s still a relatively young tourist destination – affordable to visit and not yet spoilt by tourism. It makes for a perfect, serene place to visit as a single traveller.

Discover the Jewels of Croatia, with a solo all-inclusive holiday.

10. Japan

A pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park
Visits to Japan are on the rise due to the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the 2020 Olympics. But take these major sporting events out of the equation and Japan is worthy of a visit for its unique culture, its city lights and its delicious cuisine. Outside of the cities, rural Japan is a quite the contrast, with charming villages and luscious green mountains.

Many people visit Japan to see the infamous cherry-blossom, which is in bloom during the spring. The even have a cherry blossom festival in celebration.

Book to see the Land of the Rising Sun.

For more inspiration on destinations for solo travellers, browse our handpicked holidays, including special interest holidays, hotel stays, tours and cruises.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.

The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.