September 24, 2025
Small towns rank among the best places to visit for solo travel destinations. Their secluded atmosphere, charming local culture, and slower pace really have a way of making you feel at home while exploring on your own.
Whether it’s your first solo trip and you’re kinda nervous, or you’re a seasoned solo traveler looking for a new adventure, these quiet small towns offer the perfect luxury escape. Solo travelers come in all shapes and sizes, so this list includes something for everyone, from outdoorsy types to culture lovers and everything in between!
Pula, Croatia
Right on the tip of Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula lies Pula, a coastal city where ancient Roman arches frame a lively harbor. Its long, complex history is etched into the stone of its walkable old town, creating a laid-back vibe that’s both culturally rich and perfectly peaceful. If you’re traveling solo, it’s known to be one of the safest places for solo female travelers, with a secure and welcoming atmosphere day and night.
Take your time wandering through ancient streets, checking out the massive Arena amphitheater, exploring the underground Zerostrasse tunnels, and kicking back on the pebbled beaches in Verudela, just south of town. For a bit of luxury, stay at the Grand Hotel Brioni, with its ocean views and gorgeous terraces. I’d say go in late spring or early fall. The weather’s great for hiking or kayaking, and it’s not as crowded!
Halls Gap, Australia
Halls Gap is a charming small town burrowed right in the heart of the Grampians National Park in Australia. It feels like a peaceful mountain village, where you can spot wild kangaroos at dusk, yet it offers all the upscale comforts you could ask for. This unique blend of raw natural beauty and quiet luxury makes it one of Australia’s top solo travel destinations.
Spend your days hiking to majestic lookouts like Boroka or witnessing the powerful MacKenzie Falls, all within minutes of the town center. After exploring, relax at a local brewery or sample regional wines. I recommend staying at the Aquila Eco Lodges for the stunning views and private spa baths. And don’t forget to stargaze at the Grampians National Park, one of Australia’s designated Dark Sky Reserves!
If you’re into eco-friendly travel, glamping is the way to go! Check out my blog: Experience the Great Outdoors in Style with These High-End Glamping Destinations.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is where Lao culture and French colonial history come together, and it’s pure magic. This UNESCO gem is tucked right between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Its streets are serene and walkable, lined with golden temples and old buildings that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Whether you’re strolling or cycling, it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak in the culture.
While you’re here, make sure you hike up Mount Phousi for sunset views, explore the stunning turquoise tiers of Kuang Si Falls, check out the Night Market, and observe the morning alms-giving ceremony. For a luxurious retreat, the Rosewood Luang Prabang offers a stunning riverside setting with private pool villas. The town’s intimate scale and welcoming community of travelers and locals also make it easy to make new friends. Backpacker culture is thriving in Luang Prabang!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Channel your inner Viking in Reykjavik, where colorful rooftops meet vast sea and mountain views. Despite its status as Iceland’s largest city, it maintains a small-town feel with a whimsical, creative energy. Its compact, walkable downtown is perfect for solo exploration, making it one of the most appealing solo travel destinations for those seeking safety and a relaxed pace.
Explore the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, chase the Northern Lights on a guided tour, or soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. In the evening, the city comes alive with a thriving arts scene and plenty of live music in cozy venues. Book a room at The Reykjavik EDITION, which offers stunning waterfront views and impeccable service. With such a surreal backdrop, your solo trip is sure to be unforgettable!
La Passe, Seychelles
La Passe is a laid-back village on La Digue Island in the Seychelles, off the coast of East Africa. This is a place where time moves to the rhythm of bicycle wheels and ocean waves, with no traffic lights and very few cars. The vibe is really as chill as it gets, centered around a small ferry port, a handful of local shops, Creole cafes, and lush green hills by the sparkling Indian Ocean.
Here, the entire island is your playground, best explored by rented bicycle to reach world-famous beaches like Anse Source d’Argent. Evenings are quiet, focused on stunning sunsets and fresh seafood. Stay at Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort & Spa, set on a picturesque hillside with a tranquil spa. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect solo travel destination to unwind and embrace the charm of island life.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, United States
Visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea solo is like stepping into a storybook village. Nestled along California’s rugged Monterey Peninsula, this one-square-mile town enchants with its fairytale cottages, hidden courtyards, and art galleries, all just a short stroll from a windswept, white-sand beach. The deliberate lack of streetlights and addresses enhances its allure, making it feel worlds away.
The whole village is super walkable, making it perfect for solo travelers to explore at their own pace. Spend your days browsing galleries, hiking the trails at Point Lobos, or sunbathing at Carmel Beach. The food scene here is incredible, with cute wine tasting rooms and fine dining restaurants to enjoy. If you’re looking to treat yourself, L’Auberge Carmel is a great pick. It’s a warm, elegant hotel with outstanding service, perfect for a restful solo getaway.
Travel the World, Your Way
Solo travel is pretty special, right? You have the freedom to move at your own pace, the space for self-reflection, and the thrill of crafting an adventure entirely for yourself. Sure, the popular spots are great, but it’s the quieter, less touristy solo travel destinations that offer the deepest sense of immersion and connection. These hidden gems let you experience a place authentically, on your own terms, and return home feeling truly renewed.
If you’re dreaming of a trip that’s both meaningful and luxurious, I’m here to help make it happen. At BonVoyage Christine, I’ve turned my lifelong passion for thoughtful travel into crafting personalized escapes for curious travelers like you. Whether you’re nervous about language barriers, stepping outside your comfort zone, or just want every detail perfectly planned, I’m here to guide you.
Let’s create a journey that’s as profound as it is pampering. Book a consultation with me today to start planning your next luxury getaway!
