Solo travel is on the rise as travelers seek more freedom and independence. However, taking a trip alone comes with challenges and risks, and choosing the right destination is crucial.
From finding things to do on your own to staying safe on your adventures, there are many things to consider when deciding where to go. The Hungarian airline Wizz Air has compiled a ranking of the best European cities for solo travelers in 2023.
They analyzed reviews from solo travelers on TripAdvisor to determine which destinations offered solo travelers the most positive experiences.
Rhodes is the best city for solo travelers in 2023
The Greek city of Rhodes on the island of the same name has topped the rankings. Over 75% of solo traveler reviews on TripAdvisor gave the destination five stars.
Of these, the city’s attractions received the majority of five-star reviews (79%), along with 73% reviews for restaurants located within the city.
If visiting on your own, explore the pristine beaches for a peaceful afternoon, stroll through the medieval old town to discover stories of crusaders and knights, and admire the colorful mosques in the Hora neighborhood.
Visit Split for an ancient palace full of life
THE Croatian the city of Split came in second place, with 73% of solo travelers giving the destination five-star reviews.
Visitors were particularly enthusiastic about the city’s attractions: 81% received five-star reviews, while 66% of restaurant reviews achieved the highest rating.
Split is full of historical sites that are a pleasure to wander around alone. The historic center is dominated by Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most spectacular Roman complexes still in existence.
This is no relic though. Between large colonnades and imposing temple facades, you will find bustling bars and restaurants on every corner.
Trip to Faro for the birdlife and baroque churches
Faro ranked joint third among solo travellers. Just over two-thirds of solo traveler reviews gave the Portuguese five star city.
Reviews of the city’s attractions were 74% five-star, while restaurants were slightly lower at 59%.
If you spend time alone in Faro, don’t miss the colorful old town surrounded by medieval walls. For some serious bling, head to the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, a baroque church with stunning gilded interiors.
For a nature excursion, escape to Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a 18,000-hectare paradise of lagoons and salt marshes teeming with birdlife.
Eat your way through Istanbul’s stellar food scene
Joining Faro in third place it is Istanbul, the lively metropolis of Türkiye. Two-thirds of solo travelers gave the city a five-star review.
The city’s attractions received a whopping 64% five-star reviews, while the restaurants excelled with 71% giving the highest rating.
It might be intimidating to eat alone, but Istanbul is the perfect place to try dining solo. You can get delicious street food from the countless kebab stalls or an infamous fish sandwich (balık ekmek) from the vendors along the banks of the Bosphorus.
You won’t feel uncomfortable during a sit-down meal either, as you can sit at a sidewalk table for people-watching in trendy neighborhoods like Çukurcuma.
Immerse yourself in the beauty in the galleries of Florence
Fourth place in the standings went to Florence whose reviews were 66% five stars.
The northern Italian city received 71 percent five-star reviews for its attractions and 61 percent for restaurants.
It’s a pleasure to stroll alone through the historic center, full of grand Renaissance buildings and pretty squares, giving you plenty of time to admire its statues and fountains.
Art lovers can lose themselves in silent contemplation in the extraordinary Uffizi Gallery with world-famous works by Raphael, Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci.
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