These 7 European destinations are perfect for a solo trip

I will probably board the plane with trembling knees, but a solo trip is high on the bucket list. Being able to decide for yourself what to do while discovering the most beautiful spots. It is, especially the first time, mega exciting, but luckily you don't have to go too far from home right away. Lonely Planet made a list of the best European destinations for solo travelers.

Sicily (Italy)

If there is one country I want to see from front to back, it is Italy. And Sicily is high on the list. According to travel experts, the island is an ideal destination for a solo trip because it is so versatile. With mountains, seas, (active) volcanoes, and of course the fantastic Italian cuisine, you will definitely keep yourself busy. You will probably have such a full schedule that (too many) travel companions will only distract you. Whether you want to make an adventurous trip to Etna or prefer to quietly explore the market squares and beaches , Sicily has it all. Andiamo!

Naxos (Greece)

Forget Kos and Zakynthos, Naxos is the Greek island where you must be as a solo traveler. With white sandy beaches, it is the ideal place to relax. If you are looking for a bit more adrenaline, you can also windsurf here; another item off your bucket list. To really feel like a local, you can visit one of the many farms. Here you can get to know the locals and help make the traditional arsenic cheese. Naxos is located in the middle of the Cyclades island group and is therefore very suitable for island hopping. This way, you can easily discover more of Greece and (if you want, of course) meet fellow (solo) travelers.

Aix-en-Provence (France)

Although it is nice to be among people during a solo trip, you certainly don't want to drown in mass tourism. If you have your eye on southern France, experts say you should go to Aix-en-Provence. This town is less than three-quarters of an hour's drive from Marseille, so a day trip to the big city is still possible. Aix (as it is also called) is a real art city, with many educational institutions and the Musée Granet where you can admire works by Picasso and Monet, among others. And with the ancient hot springs, you can also enjoy a spa day. If you want to see as much of the city as possible, you can take a (bike) tour along all the fountains. There should be about a thousand of them, so you can plan ahead.

Palma de Mallorca (Spain)

At Mallorca you might think of partying youth. But don't worry, they are in El Arenal and not in Palma de Mallorca. The capital of the island is therefore perfect for a (quiet) solo trip. Although you can also enjoy a nice sangria in one of the Spanish bars in the evening. For the best food, you are also in the right place. In addition to the many tapas bars, you can visit the many markets like Mercat de Santa Catalina with all kinds of local products. During the day, you can relax on the beach or seek some culture in the historic Banys Àrabs. And all that under the Spanish sun, nice right?

Cluj-Napoca (Romania)

According to experts, Cluj-Napoca has everything that sometimes chaotic Bucharest lacks. It is a real student city with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. You will definitely feel at ease here as a solo traveler. Thanks to the architecture from the Austro-Hungarian era, you will feel like you are in a different time for a moment. If you are as much of a film lover as I am, you should book your trip in July. The Transylvania International Film Festival is held then. All festival lovers can also put Cluj-Napoca on their list. Every year, Electric Castle and Untold Festival take place here. Just be sure to start planning early, as many hotels fill up quickly due to all these events.

Vipava Valley (Slovenia)

We stay a little longer in Eastern Europe. In Slovenia you will find the Vipava Valley. A perfect place to visit alone, especially because you will never feel lonely here. For the locals, it is quite normal to share their homemade wine with strangers, including tourists. In the many family cellars, you are more than welcome to come and taste. For an even more unique experience, you can join the wine train. A five-hour ride through various local villages and vineyards. If you go around September, you can help with the grape harvest. This way, you really become part of the local families. A trip to never forget.

Faroe Islands

This group of islands is located precisely in the triangle of Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. The close-knit community has been welcoming solo travelers with open arms for years. They invite volunteers who want to help on their farms or stay in their homes. That's something different from a standard Airbnb. The islands are closely connected, making it easy to island hop here as well. This way, you can enjoy the unspoiled nature full of emeralds, sheep, and puffins in different places. Among the many rocks, fjords, and waterfalls, it really feels like you have stepped into another world. Don't you want that?

Source: Lonely Planet