The world’s full of places to go and people to meet, and travelling solo gives you the freedom to explore it all at your own pace. But whether you’re a serious planner or you prefer to go with the flow, knowing where to begin your trip is the starting point of a great adventure. We’ve compiled a list of the absolute best, must-see destinations tailored to solo travellers. Each of these destinations is safe, affordable, and most importantly – fun!
Read on to find out the best places to go solo travelling…
China
China is an enchanting destination for solo travellers, especially for those seeking solo travel tours in China. Thanks to its vast size, you’ll find an amazing diversity of activities, cultures and hidden gems as you travel through this fascinating country. Here are some must-try experiences:
Great Wall of China
No trip to China would be complete without visiting the Great Wall. One of the most iconic landmarks in the world (and designated one of the new Seven Wonders of the World in 2007), it stretches for thousands of miles, offering breathtaking views. Now sure, you can visit it – but if you want something different, joining a group tour to camp on the Great Wall gives you a truly unique experience that no one else has.
Seeing Pandas in Chengdu
If you head to Chengdu, you’ll find that it’s home to China’s famous giant pandas. Visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding offers a closer look at these adorable creatures, and you can even get the chance to help out the centre looking after them. This experience is a must for wildlife lovers travelling solo! Here’s a tip: if you’re only stopping by quickly, it’s best to visit in the morning when the pandas are most active.
Exploring Shanghai
Shanghai is a vibrant metropolis where East meets West – from the futuristic skyline of Pudong to the traditional streets of the Old City, there’s plenty for you to explore. What’s more, it’s easy to navigate the city, making it perfect for solo travellers looking to taste-test street food or indulge in a spot of shopping along Nanjing Road.
Zhujiajiao Water Town A short journey from Shanghai lies the picturesque water town of Zhujiajiao, known for its canals and ancient bridges. It’s a peaceful escape from the urban rush, perfect for solo travellers seeking a more peaceful experience. If the hustle of the city ever gets a little too much, be sure to head out here for a true slice of old-world Chinese culture.
Cycling the Xi’an City Walls
Xi’an might be famous for the incredible UNESCO Terracotta Army World Heritage Site, but that’s far from all you can get up to on a trip there. If you’re a fan of an adventure – and a good view – cycling the 14km route along the well-preserved city walls offers a different perspective. How much can you spot while you’re up there?
Bamboo Rafting in Yangshuo
Yangshuo, with its karst mountains and winding rivers, is a diamond destination for nature lovers – and those travellers with the love of a good photograph. It’s a place that’s perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature, with lots of traditional cultural experiences for you to try out as well. A favourite of our team’s is a bamboo rafting trip down the Li River, which is an ideal solo adventure.
South Korea
A solo trip to South Korea is a great choice. It’s known for its welcoming people and efficient transport system, making it easy to navigate South Korea’s vibrant cities and stunning landscapes whether you’re on your own or with a group.
Hiking in Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park offers some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in Korea – and it’s perhaps not the image of Korea that you’d immediately expect. Solo travellers can join a group hike or navigate the trails independently, and there’s plenty of range in difficulties – so everyone can join in. With its autumn foliage and spring blossoms, Seoraksan is a year-round favourite for nature fans.
Buddhist Monk Experience at Golgulsa Temple
For a truly unique experience, solo travellers can dip into the peace of monastic life with an overnight stay at Golgulsa Temple. Not complete with a simple visit, however, joining a group tour means that you’ll also get the chance to try Sunmudo martial arts training, meditation classes, and traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal.
Yacht Tour Around Jeju Island
Jeju Island offers volcanic sweeps, beaches, and waterfalls – so it’s known as the Hawaii of South Korea for a reason. While you’re there you’ll find beautiful blue seas, and solo travellers can enjoy a yacht tour around the island – if you’re more comfortable on dry land, you might want to hike the famous Olle Trail. Alongside spectacular views, you’ll also see incredible wildlife and, depending on the season, beautiful flowers in bloom.
Exploring Seoul
Seoul is a beautiful contradiction of old and new, fusing ancient palaces with state-of-the-art skyscrapers. Thanks to the fantastic transport links, including the very efficient subway system, it’s easy for solo travellers to navigate the city in search of landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, and Namdaemun Market. If you’re after a real taste of modern K-culture, a trip to Seoul also offers you the chance to try your hand at K-Pop dance classes!
Visiting the DMZ
A trip to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea provides an informative trip that provides an eye-opening education on the region’s history and politics. If you’re a solo traveller looking to visit the DMZ in Korea, consider joining a group tour to ensure a secure, well-organized trip.
Vietnam
Vietnam is a paradise for solo travellers, offering affordable accommodation, friendly locals, and an adventure round every corner. Whether you’re learning about the country’s history, capturing the beautiful scenery, or joining one of the many Vietnam group tours, the country has something for everyone.
Halong Bay Cruise and Kayaking
Halong Bay’s limestone karsts and emerald waters are rightly labelled a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the best way to explore them is from the water. Solo travellers can join a group boat cruise, where you’ll stop overnight on the water and explore the hidden caves and lagoons by kayak come morning.
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s Nightlife
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is known the world over for its thriving nightlife, and it’s here that you’ll find everything from swanky rooftop bars to bustling street food markets. For solo travellers with a taste for the more social side of globetrotting, this is a great place to meet other travellers and enjoy the local culture.
Lantern Making in Hoi An
Hoi An is a riverside town known for its colourful lanterns, making it the perfect place to explore if you’re a traveller with a taste for tradition. While you’re there, solo travellers can take part in a lantern-making workshop, where you’ll learn about the town’s history while crafting your own souvenirs.
Biking and Caving in Phong Nha
Phong Nha is home to some of the largest caves in the world, including the famous Son Doong Cave, so if you’re a solo traveller who craves adventure you’ll want to make sure this place is on your list. If you’re keen to see the area, you can rent a bike to explore the verdant countryside or join a group tour to head deep see what lies inside the muddy caves.
India
India is one of the best places to go solo travelling for those seeking a completely new cultural experience. Whether you’re after ancient temples or colourful cities, sandy beaches or sandy deserts, there are also a variety of India group travel packages available for those who prefer to explore these must-see destinations with others.
Ghat Boat Tour in Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the holiest cities in India, and a boat tour along the ghats of the Ganges River provides a uniquely spiritual experience for many travellers. If you join us on a group tour to area, we’ll take you out onto the river at sunrise, where you’ll get the most incredible views of the city from the water.
Sunrise at the Taj Mahal
Now, there’s seeing the Taj Mahal – and then there’s seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Levelling up on the classic bucket list experience, solo travellers can avoid the crowds by joining an early morning group tour, where the monument is bathed in a soft, golden glow.
Camping in the Thar Desert
For a truly one of a kind experience – one that not just any solo traveller can say they did – why not try camping in the Thar Desert? While you’re staying in Jaisalmer, solo travellers can join a group tour to enjoy a camel safari that takes you out onto the sand, get the ultimate campfire experience, and sleep under the stars.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a gem for solo travellers, offering beautiful views, wildlife experiences, and warm hospitality. Its compact size makes it easy to explore, and group tours to Sri Lanka help ensure you don’t miss out on the best spots.
Safari in Udawalawe National Park
Sri Lanka is home to some of the most amazing wildlife in Asia. A safari in Udawalawe National Park gives solo travellers the chance to see elephants, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitat – and if you want an extra adventure, join us and we’ll throw in an overnight camping experience too.
Ella to Kandy Scenic Train
It might seem strange to say that one of the highlights of a trip abroad is a train journey – but believe us, it is. The scenic train from Ella to Kandy is one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world, and when you jump on board you’ll cruise past lush tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountain views.
Hiking the Knuckles Mountain Range
For those who love the outdoors, hiking the Knuckles Mountain Range offers breathtaking views of Sri Lanka and the chance to tick stunning slopes off your list. Solo travellers can join guided hikes to explore this remote and rugged terrain, which’ll make sure that you stay safe while you take in this incredible landscape.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller or beginning your first journey alone, Asia holds some of the best places to go backpacking. From the cultural treasures of China to the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, these destinations offer truly unforgettable experiences. But if you decide that you’d rather see the world with a bunch of fun fellow travellers, our group solo tours around Asia guarantee that you’ll get the freedom of solo travel but the structure and friendship of a group tour, ensuring your adventure is both exciting and hassle-free.