Why solo travel is worth it

Solo travel is as much about the outward journey as the inward one. Your experience becomes your own to control. You decide when to wake up, what to see, and how fast (or slow) to explore. You’re not negotiating itineraries or compromising on preferences. More than that, solo travel teaches resilience, builds confidence, and introduces you to parts of yourself you may not get to explore in everyday routines.

Whether you want to visit a historic city, take a road trip through scenic landscapes, or spend time journaling on a quiet beach, traveling solo gives you the space to tune into the rhythm that’s right for you.

It also offers the rare opportunity to become truly present. Without the distractions of company or obligations, you notice more—conversations, details, colors, sounds. Time slows down, and you begin to travel more intentionally. You don’t just pass through places; you truly experience them.

Best destinations for a first-time solo trip

Lisbon, Portugal

Safe, walkable, and full of charm, Lisbon is ideal for solo travelers. The city’s vibrant neighborhoods, pastel-colored buildings, and historic trams offer endless photo ops. Enjoy a custard tart in a sunny plaza, visit the Belém Tower, or take a day trip to Sintra—all without needing a fixed plan.

Interested in exploring the coast or countryside at the beat of your own drum? Pick up a rental car in Lisbon and head south to the Algarve or north toward Porto.

Paris, France

The City of Light isn’t just for couples. Paris is one of the world’s best cities for solo exploration. Enjoy a museum morning at the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay, then spend your afternoon with a book in the Luxembourg Gardens. There’s no pressure to fill every moment—just follow your instincts.

You can rent a car with Europcar in Paris and enjoy day trips to the Champagne region, Versailles, or even the fairytale town of Giverny.

New Zealand

For a true escape into nature, New Zealand is one of the most solo-friendly countries you can visit. Locals are welcoming, roads are easy to drive, and the natural landscapes are breathtaking. Whether you’re hiking in the South Island or visiting geothermal wonders in the North Island, the freedom of a rental car is unbeatable.

Check out car rental options in New Zealand for flexible vehicles that suit your adventurous spirit.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Effortlessly cool and culturally rich, Amsterdam is a great place to go solo. The canals are soothing, the art scene is world-class, and you can explore the city easily on foot, by bike, or by boat. For a countryside break, rent a car in Amsterdam and visit the tulip fields, windmills of Zaanse Schans, or nearby cities like Utrecht or The Hague.

Barcelona, Spain

For solo travelers looking for a blend of beach, culture, and energy, Barcelona is an unbeatable option. From Gaudí’s whimsical architecture to the food markets of El Raval, this city offers constant stimulation—and relaxation. Rent a car in Barcelona to explore the Costa Brava coastline or the mountains of Montserrat.

Tokyo, Japan

Though far for many, Tokyo is one of the safest and most fascinating cities for solo travelers. It’s a singular composite of tradition and futurism, serenity and neon buzz. Solo diners are common, public transport is seamless, and every neighborhood offers a different flavor of the city. Combine your urban discovery with countryside escapes by renting a car in Japan to visit Mt. Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, or Nikko.

Safety tips for solo travelers

While solo travel is generally safe, especially in the destinations listed above, taking a few extra precautions can make a big difference:

• Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.
• Check in regularly, even if it’s just a message every couple of days.
• Keep copies of important documents like your passport, ID, and insurance.
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.
• Stay aware of local customs, dress codes, and social norms.
• Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, change your plan.

Choosing transportation you control—like renting your own car—adds another layer of autonomy and safety. With Europcar, you can choose vehicles that include GPS, roadside assistance, and extra insurance options.

What to pack for your solo trip

Packing smart is key to a smooth solo travel experience. Here’s a suggested list of essentials:

• Lightweight luggage or backpack (you’ll be the only one carrying it!)
• Travel-size first aid kit
• Portable charger and international adapter
• Reusable water bottle and snacks
• A versatile scarf or shawl (for warmth, style, or modesty when needed)
• Digital and physical copies of bookings and documents
• Notebook or journal to capture memories
• A good lock and luggage tag for your bags
• Layers of clothing for unpredictable weather

Add comfort items that matter to you, whether it’s a favorite book, noise-canceling headphones, or a travel pillow for long drives. Solo travel often involves longer waits or transit time, so a bit of entertainment goes a long way.

Driving solo: road trip ideas and advice

Renting a car during your solo trip opens up a world of freedom. No need to follow rigid train timetables or carry your bags through crowded stations. With Europcar, you can drive through scenic routes, visit small towns, and change plans on the fly.

Top solo-friendly road trip ideas:

• The Romantic Road in Germany – medieval towns, vineyards, and castles.
• The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland – rugged cliffs and giant legends.
• The Pacific Coast Highway in California – surf towns, redwoods, and ocean views.
• Andalusia in Spain – Moorish palaces, olive groves, and whitewashed villages.
• Provence, France – lavender fields, hilltop villages, and Mediterranean charm.
• The Scottish Highlands – serene lochs, historic trails, and castle ruins.

Driving tips when solo:

• Use a mount for your phone if relying on GPS.
• Fill up when half full—some rural areas have limited stations.
• Take breaks every 2 hours.
• Have music playlists or podcasts ready as company on long drives.
• Park in well-lit, busy areas at night.

Whether you need a compact model or a comfortable SUV, Europcar offers a wide range of vehicles for solo travelers who want to hit the open road.

Making connections (when you want to)

One of the greatest misconceptions about solo travel is that it’s lonely. The truth? You’re never really alone—unless you want to be. In fact, traveling solo often leads to more social experiences than traveling in a group.

To meet people along the way, try:

• Staying at boutique hostels or guesthouses with common areas.
• Joining local tours or classes (cooking, art, walking tours).
• Volunteering or taking a language course.
• Using travel forums or apps that connect like-minded travelers.
• Attending cultural festivals or community events.

The beauty of solo travel is that you control the social dial. Craving solitude? Head into nature. Want conversation? Sit at a café bar or join a local experience.

How Europcar makes solo travel easier

One of the most empowering tools for solo travelers is mobility. Europcar makes it easy to plan a trip on your terms. Whether you need a city car, a long-distance hybrid, or a model with extra luggage space, the right vehicle can elevate your experience.

Benefits include:

• One-way rentals, perfect for linear road trips
• 24/7 customer support in case of unexpected issues
• Flexible booking and cancellation options
• Eco-friendly models for sustainable travel
• GPS and connectivity features for solo navigation ease

Choose a pickup location that suits your arrival point—whether that’s Paris, Barcelona, or Dublin.

Embracing slow travel when alone

Solo travel is the perfect opportunity to practice slow travel—an intentional approach that favors quality over quantity. Rather than rushing through a checklist of sights, allow yourself to savor each moment. Spend a whole afternoon at a single café. Wander without a plan. Take an entire day to do nothing but observe and breathe.

This deeper form of travel can be incredibly enriching. You’ll notice the rhythm of daily life, learn local expressions, and make more authentic connections. And with your own vehicle, you can chase your own tempo—speeding up when curiosity strikes or slowing down to soak it all in.

Final thoughts: you’ve got this

Your first solo trip might feel like a big leap—but once you take it, the world opens up in ways you never imagined. You’ll come home with not just stories and photos, but with more self-confidence, clarity, and joy.

And remember: solo doesn’t mean unsupported. With the right planning, a reliable set of wheels, and a sense of curiosity, you’re more than ready.

With Europcar, your journey starts when you say so. Take the keys, take the road—and trust yourself to take it all in.