Travelling on your own can be exhilarating – you can set your own pace, explore what you want, and meet fantastic people along the way. If you live in the UK, you’ve got some of the world’s most exciting cities just a short flight away. Europe is full of destinations that are easy to explore, safe, and perfect for a quick getaway.

Here are our top 5 European city breaks for solo travellers – places that mix culture, charm, and the chance to make some unforgettable memories.

1. Barcelona, Spain – Sunshine, Style & Tapas

Barcelona is one of those cities that has it all – beaches, incredible architecture, great food, and a buzzing atmosphere. Spend your mornings wandering the Gothic Quarter, your afternoons by the sea, and your evenings enjoying tapas and sangria. It’s vibrant, walkable, and perfect for meeting new people.

Why solo travellers love it:

  • Easy to get around

  • Lively café and bar scene

  • Loads of group tours and activities

2. Lisbon, Portugal – Laid-Back & Full of Colour

Lisbon is warm, welcoming, and ridiculously pretty. Think pastel streets, tiled buildings, historic trams, and a relaxed pace of life. It’s also easy to do day trips to places like Sintra or Cascais if you want to see more.

Why solo travellers love it:

  • Friendly locals and safe streets

  • Affordable food, drink, and accommodation

  • Sunshine for most of the year

3. Prague, Czech Republic – Like Walking Into a Fairy tale

Prague feels magical, with its cobbled lanes, castle, and stunning old town. It’s a city that’s small enough to see in a long weekend, but full of character and atmosphere. From walking tours to cosy beer halls, there’s always a way to connect with others.

Why solo travellers love it:

  • Great value for money

  • Rich history and stunning architecture

  • Easy to navigate on foot

4. Rome, Italy – History on Every Corner

Rome is one of those cities you can visit over and over. From the Colosseum to the Vatican, the history here is mind-blowing. But it’s not just about the sights – it’s the food, the coffee, and the joy of sitting in a piazza watching life go by.

Why solo travellers love it:

  • Packed with world-famous landmarks

  • Fantastic food (and plenty of gelato)

  • Loads of guided tours and social activities

5. Budapest, Hungary – Relax & Party in the Same Trip

Budapest offers the best of both worlds – thermal baths by day, ruin bars by night. You can explore historic buildings, enjoy the views from Fisherman’s Bastion, then relax in a spa before heading out to enjoy the nightlife.

Why solo travellers love it:

  • Very affordable compared to other capitals

  • Great mix of relaxation and fun

  • Friendly and easy to get around

Why These City Breaks Are Perfect for Solo Travellers

Each of these destinations is packed with things to see and do, easy to get around, and welcoming to visitors exploring alone. Whether you’re looking for culture, nightlife, relaxation, or a bit of everything, they tick all the boxes.

And if you’d rather not travel completely alone? You can join one of our hosted group holidays for solo travellers – giving you the freedom of going solo, but with a ready-made group of friendly faces to share it with.