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Bucket-list European country named best in the world for solo travellers

Jemima Skelley
Jemima Skelley

Updated . First published at

Woman traveler standing in Piazza Vecchia town square, enjoying sunlight and historic urban atmosphere during summer holiday in Citta Alta, Bergamo, Italy
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Solo travel is no longer just a trend, with more and more people of all ages choosing to venture out on their own to explore the world. The perks are endless - you get to move at your own pace, set your own itinerary, and are more likely to feel fully immersed in the local culture. US News has released its annual ranking of the best countries for solo travellers for 2026 - read through to see which spots made the list.
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Man walking on the boardwalk at Cook's Meadow. Yosemite National Park. USA.
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15. USA. Whether you base yourself in a major city like LA and New York or you rent a car and head out to explore the far-flung states and glorious national parks of the US, there's so much adventure to be had, even if you're flying solo.
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Museum of Louvre and pyramids in Paris, France
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14. France. This is a perfect country for solo travellers. Here, they celebrate the art of the flâneur - the joyful act of aimlessly strolling and observing life at your own pace.
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The cobblestoned street of a Bavarian town in Germany
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13. Germany. This varied country has something for everyone, from fairytale architecture to its underground techno scene. It also has very reliable public transport and most locals speak English, so it's great for solo travellers.
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solo traveler in tower bridge area of london reading a map
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12. United Kingdom. The lack of a language barrier and an extensive national rail network are the winners here. The UK is so relatively small that it's easy to go from a busy city to a quiet countryside village in just an hour or two.
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A person sitting on a bench in front of a snowy expanse looking at the sky which is lit up with green lights - aurora
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11. Finland. Routinely named the happiest country in the world, Finland is peaceful and beautiful. See the northern lights, soak up the authentic lakeside sauna culture, and enjoy the arty districts of downtown Helsinki.
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 View of Oslo between city and typical nordic cottage
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10. Norway. For a peaceful and solitary trip, with plenty of outdoor exploration, you can't beat Norway. It's also a great cruise destination, which is an easy way to travel solo.
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Luxembourg city - a street with the Clock tower and Adolphe bridge and a tram
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9. Luxembourg. Aside from its exceptional safety, the biggest drawcard here is that Luxembourg has made all public transit nationwide completely free. Solo travellers can explore every corner of the tiny country without spending a cent on tickets.
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Locals enjoying food from a Hawker Center in Singapore
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8. Singapore. Consistently ranked among the safest cities on Earth, the city's English signage and efficient subway system make it the perfect test-drive destination for a first-time solo traveller. And the food is so, so good.
Attribution: iStock
Female hiker in red jacket stood looking over Lake Moraine in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
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7. Canada. From exploring cities like Toronto and Vancouver to canoeing through the turquoise waters of Banff, the sheer variety here is stunning. Canadians are notoriously polite and welcoming, which is a big plus for anyone who's on their own and wants to make friends.
Attribution: iStock

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