There are many, many enticing prospects in terms of choosing your next European destination. Especially if you are a solo traveler; the allure of Paris, the elegance of Barcelona and the poetic romance of Venice.
Don’t get me wrong, those are all very fascinating, historic cities. For those who are looking for a different vibe, a different type of holiday, you have come to the right place!
Full disclosure – This list is based solely on my opinion and experience in each city. In your journeys, I can almost guarantee that you’d make one or two discoveries of your own. However, the aim of this article is to make recommendations on the European cities where I had some great experiences, made friends easily and of course, travel expenses and safety were put into consideration.
I will also suggest the ideal amount of time required to make the most of each city, but in the end, your length of stay is completely up to you.
You can also find a gallery on each country on the list by clicking Around The World
So, let’s get this party started now, shall we?
Here are my top 6 European destinations for solo travelers:
Most people think of Santorini, Athens (been to both) or Mykonos when you mention Greece. However, Crete, the largest island in Greece and the 5th largest in the mediterranean is a destination that every solo traveler should consider.
In comparison to most European islands, Crete is probably the most affordable of the lot. Dining, nightlife, shopping and hotel accommodation aren’t ridiculously overpriced as in Milan or Copenhagen.
The average price for a 3 star hotel in Crete is $50 per night and $10 will get you a nice meal at a decent restaurants. If you love seafood, you’re in the perfect place.
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That being said, here are suggestions on what to do on this awesome island:
Visit Heraklion – The capital of Crete, Heraklion is home to the world famous Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Minoan Ruins and the Koules Fortress.
Tourism in Heraklion is quite advanced, despite the economic situation of Greece. It stands as the 6th best city in the country and holds the busiest air and sea ports on the massive island of Crete.
Because of its endless treasures and archeological sites, adventure in Heraklion is not restricted to the main town.
In as much as your options for nightlife in Heraklion are limitless, I highly recommend you check out Jailhouse Rock Bar. As a solo traveler, this is where you want to be. I never go to Heraklion without stopping by. Ask for Marinos and Kostas. Also check out Guernica. The bartenders are simply awesome.
Balos Beach – On the western end of the island lies this absolutely magnificent beach. Its white sands and light blue water add to its already gorgeous outlook. It is accessible either by boat or an extremely grueling hike. At the entrance to the hiking trails, you might find Donkeys for rent but the new laws place a weight restriction on all renters.
As painful as the hike is, there will be absolutely no regrets when you finally make it to the beach. Its waters are quite shallow and safe for swimming. You might want to get there as early as you can.
Day Trip To Santorini – If you have an entire day to spare, Take a three-hour ferry ride from Heraklion to Santorini. If you’re one for epic sunsets and colorful structures, Oìa is the part of the island to be. To maneuver around Santorini, there are numerous companies with 4 wheelers for rent. It is the most efficient way to get around the island.
Suggested amount of days in Crete – Between 5 to 7 days.
Oh, Budapest…I cannot emphasize my love for this city enough. Beautiful landscape, insane nightlife, some of the friendliest people in the world and the legendary Danube River flows right through it – it separates the city of Buda from Pest. Even cooler, a 19th century suspension bridge connects both cities. As a solo traveler in Budapest, you are in for a great time!
Famous for its parliament, thermal baths and Unicum – a herbal liquor of more than forty herbs, Budapest offers a very unique experience to every visitor. There’s a reason why its regarded as the Paris of the East.
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So, below are some recommendations on how to make the most of your time in Budapest:
Danube Boat Cruise – For extremely stunning panoramic view of Budapest, take a boat cruise of the Danube River.
Castle Hill District – Take an individual walking tour of the castle district. You will stumble on the 19th century Buda Castle, now home to the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. You will also find numerous world class restaurants and a shopping district in Castle Hill. Budapest’s most famous lookout point (located behind Matthias Church) is a must see in this area.
Traditional Hungarian Food – Many restaurants in and around the city offer traditional meals, but Central Market Hall, the largest indoor market in Budapest comes highly recommended for its authenticity.
Parliament of Hungary – From the famous lookout point in the castle district, the parliament in all its magnificence can be easily distinguished from surrounding architecture . It is even more imposing up close. Ranked as the largest building in Hungary and the tallest in Budapest, this majestic building lies at the bank of the Danube on the Pest side of the city.
Anker’t Budapest – You didn’t think i’d forget the nightlife, did you? This is one of the city’s best ruin bars. It is located in the courtyard of an abandoned building on a random side street in the city’s nightlife district, Pest. It consists of about three or four sections playing different music genresand a restaurant that serves some pretty good burgers, pizza, etc.
Suggested amount of days in Budapest – Between 3 to 4 days
I’ve been to Prague a few times yet I find myself always wanting to go back for more. Despite being invaded during both World Wars, the city survived, rebuilt itself and has maintained its allure over the years. The city’s beer, gorgeous architecture and numerous Gothic churches make it one of the most well-loved destinations in Europe.
P.S. For the perfect accommodation in the perfect location, look no further than Prague Castle Apartment. I highly recommend this Airbnb because I know the owner, Dusan personally and can vouch for his personality. Find the link below: http://www.airbnb.cz/rooms/33519372
Here are some suggestions on how to enjoy the city of Prague as a solo traveler.
Petrín Park and Tower – Petrín Park is an enormous hill smack in the middle of Prague. The hill consists of numerous recreational spots that are very popular among locals. At the peak of the hill lies the famous Petrín lookout tower.
Loosely modeled after the Eiffel Tower, its peak offers a stunning 360 degree view of Prague. If you live for views, surely you want to check this out. For a small fee, you can climb the 299 steps that lead to its peak or pay a little extra to use its elevators. If you do take the stairs, don’t forget to reward yourself with a local beer or ice cream at the base of the tower.
Old Town, Prague – Almost everything worth seeing and doing is located in and around Old Town Prague; the Astronomical Clock, Old Town Square, the Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments and many more. Old Town is host to many top class restaurants, neo-Gothic churches and the famous Charles Bridge.
Charles Bridge – This Gothic bridge is one of the most visited and most popular sights in Prague. Built to connect Old Town and Lesser Town over the Vltava River, it is always bustling with activity. Here, you’ll find some very talented street musicians and artists who paint your caricature for a fee. Also the view on both sides of the bridge is simply magnificent.
John Lennon Wall – On the Lesser Town side of Charles Bridge, approximately 5 minutes of walking will lead you to the John Lennon Wall. Once a normal, random wall, it is covered in colorful graffiti as a tribute to the late singer. O the wall, you’ll find lyrics to some lyrics from The Beatle’s songs.
See Prague By Boat – The cool thing about some of the tour ferries is that they contain restaurants and bars. So picture yourself on a boat, enjoying different perspectives and views of the city all while having a nice meal or one too many cocktails. If that doesn’t sound enticing, I don’t know what will.
La Bodeguita del Medio – As a solo traveler, I have a lot of time to thoroughly assess bars and restaurants that I go to. In terms of ambience and customer service, La Bodeguita is up there on my list. It is an authentic Cuban-style bar/restaurant with live music, dance floor and most importantly, fantastic drinks.
Suggested amount of days in Prague – One Weekend
One of the things that make Larnaca quite remarkable is how it maintains the equilibrium between urban, metropolitan culture and traditional island culture. Located on the southern part of the mediterranean island of Cyprus, it is the country’s 3rd largest city. The city’s gorgeous beaches, ever buzzing bar/club district (some have ocean views), historical sights and shopping district are guaranteed to keep any solo traveler entertained. Most importantly, you don’t have to save a ton of money for vacation in Larnaca.
Click here for awesome and affordable skip the line tickets for activities in Larnaca. I use GetyourGuide to maximize my experience in every city.
So here are some suggestions if you ever get the chance to visit Larnaca:
Mackenzie Beach – Named after some Scottish dude who opened a bar at the beach after WWII, Mackenzie Beach is one of Larnaca’s most beloved spots. Calm waters, numerous surrounding bars, restaurants, beach sports (speed boats, jet skis, windsurfing) and outstanding cleanliness are some of the things that characterize the beach.
Larnaca Boardwalk – You’ll find the boardwalk in the marina district of Larnaca. Here is where you’ll find some boat cruises, shops that sell handmade souvenirs and of-course, a ton of restaurants offering different specialty meals. You can either walk around or just find a spot to chill and watch the world go by.
The Pirate Cruise Flisvos – Go on an adventure with the Pirates of The Mediterranean on this awesome ‘pirate’ cruise. The cruise stops at every seaside attraction in Larnaca. You’ll find its captain at Larnaca Harbor.
Recommended duration in Larnaca – 3 – 4 days
A city often overshadowed by its Bavarian neighbor, Munich, the city of Nuremberg is truly one of Europe’s hidden gems. For every self proclaimed beer connoisseur and foodie, this city is paradise. From spring till early fall, you can expect to find many traditional beer festivals in and around the city. And with great beer comes great food in Deutschland. I can guarantee you that.
Winter brings and entirely different perspective to the city. You just might have heard of its world famous Christmas Market. Have a look at my full blog post on the city for more details at https://www.wethewanderers.org/gosolotonuremberg/
You can find a list of food tours and activities (including price and review) here at GetyourGuide
Here are a few suggestions on what to do if you are ever in Nuremberg as a solo traveler:
Lorenzkirche – (St. Lawrence Church): One of the most beautiful Gothic architecture in Germany, this medieval church was severely damaged during WWII and later restored. Official construction commencement dates as far back as 1250 and was not completed till 1290. It boasts a three-aisled basilica and by 1477 the church added a Gothic Hall Choir section. The church is open to visitors everyday except for during regular services.
Imperial Castle of Nuremberg – Also known as Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Castle is the emblem of everything the city represents. Earliest mention of the Kaiserburg dates as far back as the 12th century. Many additions and modifications have been made over the years, especially after significant damage in WWII. Tired from walking up the hill? There’s a beer garden at the entrance to the castle .
Fränk’ness – I don’t know a lot of German celebrity chefs but Fränk’ness is owned by one. The restaurant not only offers top, top quality food (everything is made from scratch) but great ambience as well. Your options include, pizza, pulled-pork sandwiches, burgers, and vegetarian options. Try the home-made beer called Hausbier. It’s great.
Kettensteg – When you have the opportunity to walk across Europe’s oldest surviving chain bridge, you simply take it. It is even more beautiful at night.
Kloster Bar & Mata Hari – Tired of from all the tourist action and want to make a local connection? I highly recommend these two bars. Especially Kloster Bar. You will always find a close-knit group of people led by either Nuremberg’s coolest person and photographer Vivian, or Rapha the free spirit.
Landbierparadies – Literally translates to ‘Home Country Beer Paradise’, Landbierparadies is a biergarten (beer garden) that is almost exclusive to locals and the menu consists solely of traditional Franconian/Nürnberger items. Not only is the ambience fantastic but so are the beer and food. Try the Schäuferle (pig’s shoulder meat) and Schwarze Anna beer. Thank me later.
Recommended number of days in Nuremberg – One weekend
This is the ultimate destination for every Game of Thrones fan. Welcome to the fictional King’s Landing. The contradiction that unfolds the moment you step foot in old town is simply remarkable. Old stone buildings occupied by 21st century merchants, cave bars, and ultra expensive hotels. And then there’s the street of Cersei Lannister’s famous walk of shame. The mediterranean island of Dubrovnik is simply magnificent.
Have a look at the affordable tours and skip the line tickets here with GetyourGuide.
Here are a few things you could do if you are a solo traveler on the island
Game of Thrones Walking/Boat Tour – Tour King’s Landing by boat or a walking tour around Old Town – the choice is yours. You’ll find many tour company representatives at the city gates. One of the walking tours takes you all the way to the castle, every filming location and some history lessons along the way. You even get to sit on an Iron Throne for photos at the end.
Old Town Restaurants – Walk into any of Old Town’s restaurants and try the seafood pizza. I guarantee its the best you’ll ever have . Although some of the restaurants are ridiculously overpriced, especially in peak season, make it a point to try some of the traditional dishes as well. Majority of the restaurants accept major credit cards too.
Pub Crawl Dubrovnik – I’ve always maintained that as a solo traveler, the best way to discover a city’s nightlife is to participate in an organized bar and night club hopping event. Pub Crawl Dubrovnik – Ziggy Star is highly recommended. It includes stops at two or three bars, free entry shot at each and the night ends at one of the island’s most famous nightclubs. Plus, it is affordable too.
Explore Beyond The City Gates – Exploring Old Town in peak season can be extremely stressful and at times quite overwhelming. So why not take a day, get outside the city gates and discover New Town. Here is where you’d find the beaches, beach bars and water sports. For cocktails and drinks, check out Buza Bar. Cable car rides to the peak of the island are available in New Town.
Since Dubrovnik is surrounded by many of Croatia’s 1,000 islands, why not jump on a chartered boat and see as many as you can.
Day Trip to Montenegro – Check with your hotel if you’re interested in visiting neighboring Montenegro. Through partnerships with various tour companies, many hotels have high discount rates for this service. Because of travel regulations, it is important that you check the visa requirements for your country before you embark on the trip.
Recommended duration in Dubrovnik – 4 days.
If or when you visit any of these cities, don’t forget to make a local connection. It is one of the reasons why we wander.
Cheers
