When you are travelling alone, you might think it is better to steer clear of some of the world's more romantic cities. However, you would be mistaken. Now, Europe's top solo travel destinations for 2026 have been revealed. One of the best spots is a location you would expect to rank more highly in the 'couples holiday' category.
The Solo Travel Index 2026 by Much Better Adventures was compiled by a panel of experts based on factors such as safety, meal affordability, and visa accessibility. The list highlights where solo travellers can explore with confidence. While far-flung Kyrgyzstan was ranked the best outright solo adventure travel destination for 2026 globally, a host of European settings also made the cut.
Europe's Top 10 Solo Travel Destinations for 2026
1. Italy
Italy is now officially the best destination for solo travel in 2026. Vineyards, world-class wine, spaghetti you can slurp a la Lady and the Tramp, and picturesque al fresco dining might sound like the makings of a quintessentially romantic holiday. However, the home of pizza and tiramisu, often considered one of the world's best destinations for couples, is actually the winning spot for a solo trip. As the highest-ranking European destination, Italy offers travellers the perfect combination of cuisine, affordable rail networks, and beautiful landscapes. Marta Marinelli, trip designer for Much Better Adventures, says: 'Whether you are hiking in the Dolomites, cycling through olive groves in Tuscany, or walking coastal trails in Liguria, Italy offers that rare mix of adventure and culture that keeps you wanting to come back. You will not see it all in one go, but that is what makes it so special: every region has its own striking landscapes, food, and way of life. It is like multiple countries in one.'
2. Portugal
Italy was closely followed in the ranking by Portugal, which offers a coastal adventure with a laid-back edge. Portugal is one of Europe's most accessible adventure destinations, known for its safety and infrastructure. Defined by its Atlantic coastline, it offers everything from rugged hiking routes to whale watching in the Azores, or exploring scenic wine trails. Luis Coelho, a Portuguese destination expert, says: 'It is all about getting people off the beaten path and trying to sustain people.' He recommends travellers explore areas beyond Lisbon and the Algarve to authentic networks like the Fisherman's Trail, which offers a safe, welcoming environment ideal for solo exploration.
3. Spain
In third place is Spain, an all-time favourite among Brits. Sunny Spain is often a go-to country for a solo holiday. There are some quieter spots to visit if you want to avoid the crowded coastlines of Palma and Barcelona. The country's least-visited beaches lie on the Cantabrian coast, in Marina Lucense in Galicia. City breakers might swap out Barcelona or Madrid for Murcia, with tourism officials pushing the south-eastern coastal city, the least visited of Spain's biggest urban destinations.
4. Norway
For those seeking raw, untamed landscapes, Norway is a country that does not do things in half measures, with 291 peaks, 1,190 fjords, and more than 50,000 islands waiting to be explored. While pricier than its southern European counterparts, it ranks highly for both safety and biodiversity, making it a standout for nature-focused solo travel. Kayaking through the Unesco-listed Nærøyfjord or taking the Oslo-Bergen railway offer immersive, bucket-list experiences, and unique ways of exploring the country's snow-capped mountains and majestic waterfalls, all while seals watch on from the grassy banks of the fjords. Jan Nielsen, a kayaking guide on the fjords, says: 'I think that a lot of people who come here have had Norway on their radar for years, but most people are still surprised by the beauty. The whole spirit of the area is serene, and very pretty. Even our airport pick-ups are very, very scenic.'
5. Slovakia
Rounding out the top five is Slovakia, which has hidden gems to explore such as Kosice city. Next up is Slovakia, perhaps one of the destinations less likely to spring to mind when considering a solo trip. Lonely Planet says: 'Right in the heart of Europe, Slovakia is a land of castles and mountains, occasionally punctuated by industrial sprawl.' The old town of its capital Bratislava is well worth a visit, but it is the outdoorsy parts that truly shine, with trails in the High Tatras the real crown jewel.
6. Albania
Albania is one of the best places for beaches and beauty, often dubbed the 'Maldives of Europe'. From the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the Accursed Mountains to the sun-drenched shores of the Ionian Riviera, Albania is a land full of wonders, and one that is perfect for solo travellers. While beach hotspots such as Ksamil draw in crowds with their white sands and turquoise waters, countless undiscovered landscapes lay in wait. This hidden gem country has white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and bargain prices. Flights from the UK to Tirana start from as little as £27 with Wizz Air.
7. Iceland
Next up is Iceland, ideal for nature enthusiasts or those seeking adventure. The Land of Fire and Ice would be a 'good' destination for 'anyone solo', suggests Reddit user 'DeirdreBarstool', and it is no surprise the spot comes in seventh place. They say: 'It is super safe, Reykjavik is compact and there is loads to do for a solo traveller. Nobody bats an eyelid in restaurants and bars. On my solo trip, I went whale watching and did a day tour to the glacial lagoon. In the evenings I watched live music in the bars and chatted to locals and some other tourists.'
8. Greece
In eighth place is Greece, and given the safety of the country, it is easy to understand why. Whether you are seeking an island-hopping break or a weekend away in cities such as Athens, Greece will have something for all tastes and all kinds of solo travellers. The Greek city of Rhodes was even voted as the best European city for solo travel, with 76 per cent of its solo-traveller user reviews rated with five stars, according to a Wizz Air study.
9. Slovenia
Slovenia is one of the most under-the-radar spots on the list, but still makes the cut. It has been described as 'gorgeous' by social media user 'Beardpapasenjoyer', who recommends it as the best destination for solo travel. They say: 'People were very nice and were fine to speak English with me, unlike in Paris. Streets were clean and roads were mostly great to drive on. Relatively affordable compared to my home country (Singapore) and western Europe.' Meanwhile, 'RelativelyRidiculous' claims Slovenia has 'all the things you want from the best road trip of your life'.
10. Romania
Rounding out the top 10 is Romania, one of eastern Europe's most budget-friendly spots. Romania, one of Europe's cheapest destinations, is the final spot to make the list. Budget flights can start from as little as £30, making it appealing for solo travellers seeking an easy getaway.
Sam Bruce, co-founder of Much Better Adventures, said: 'Adventure in 2026 is not just about how far you can travel, it is about travelling smarter and with more confidence. There is a growing desire for 'purposeful soloing': finding destinations that offer a sense of security and community without sacrificing the thrill of the unknown. For many, travel confidence comes from knowing they can be in a different world, like exploring the fjords of Norway or cycling the coastal trails of Portugal. It is about testing the waters while still feeling connected and supported, all with incredible landscapes and cultures to explore, and our 'Solo Travel' research shows you do not need to cross the globe to find that perspective, with some of the most transformative experiences right here in Europe. By focusing on safety, ecological richness, and local connection, we are helping travellers navigate the world with more certainty. And if you are still looking to book that bucket-list trip, 2026 is the year to stop waiting and start reclaiming the joy of discovery.'
