Being alone often gets a bad rap. But take it from me, when you choose solitude—as millions of solo travellers are doing—it can be a powerful tool for growth, calm, and connection. Here’s what the research says about being (and traveling) alone.

Budapest charmed me in many ways: its efficient public transit, public art, the friendliness of English-speaking locals, and of course, its thermal baths, which lived up to their reputation as a must-do experience. Three days here gave me the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and discovery.

Fall might just be the perfect time to explore Europe. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is mild, and the autumn colors add a golden glow to city streets and countryside alike. Whether you’re into food, music, culture, or just soaking up the atmosphere, these destinations come alive in the fall—with festivals that give you an authentic local experience.

Here are five of the best places to visit in Europe this fall, each with a special event to enjoy while you’re there.

Have you ever come home from a trip to a big city feeling more drained than delighted? Between the crowds, the noise, and the fast pace, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why more and more solo travelers—especially women over 50—are embracing a new travel trend called townsizing.

If you’re visiting Madrid and looking for an easy overnight escape, Toledo is the perfect destination. Just a short ride away by high-speed train, this historic city offers winding medieval streets, stunning architecture, and delicious regional specialties. I recently spent two nights in Toledo with my friend and fellow solo traveler Linda.

If you're spending time in Madrid and looking for an easy and rewarding day trip, consider visiting Segovia. This charming city is packed with history, beauty, and excellent food—and its three main attractions can comfortably be seen in a single day.

As a solo traveler, you get to choose what interests you most. Are you fascinated by royal scandals, war history, or ancient art? There’s a walking tour for that. You’ll not only learn more about the places you’re visiting, but you might also strike up conversations with fellow travelers who share your curiosity.

Solo travel has so many rewards—freedom, self-discovery, empowerment—but it’s also important to acknowledge that it isn’t all sunsets and serendipity. Traveling on your own can come with challenges that are worth preparing for, especially if you’re just starting out or planning a longer trip. Recognizing the hard parts doesn't mean you shouldn't go—it just means you can be better equipped when they show up.

When headlines turn alarming—like the recent U.S. military action in Iran—it’s natural to wonder: Is it still safe to travel? Especially if you’re a U.S. citizen traveling solo, this question can feel even more pressing.

I’ve heard from many of you in the Adventuring Alone community who are worried about what’s happening in the world and how it might affect your travel plans. This post is here to offer clarity—not panic. Europe remains a beautiful, diverse, and largely safe continent to explore. But being informed is key.

Let’s walk through how to assess risk, stay up to date, and make confident choices about where and when to travel.

If you’re planning a trip to Spain or elsewhere in Europe this summer, you may come across more than just beautiful architecture and charming cafes—you might also see signs of growing frustration among locals. In cities across Spain, Portugal, Italy, and beyond, residents have taken to the streets to protest what’s being called “overtourism.” The signs say things like “Tourists go home” and “This isn’t Disneyland.” But what’s behind these protests, and what can you do as a traveler to be part of the solution, not the problem?

Every June, cities across Europe come alive with rainbow flags, vibrant parades, and a spirit of celebration as Pride Month unfolds. For LGBTQ+ travelers—especially those venturing solo—Europe offers a welcoming blend of history, culture, and community. Whether you're looking to join the festivities, explore queer history, or simply travel somewhere you can be yourself, Europe has something for everyone.

Getting comfortable with public transportation can feel like a small victory—and a big step toward feeling confident navigating a new city on your own. With a little preparation and a sense of adventure, you'll be riding the metro or hopping on a tram with ease.

Traveling solo through Europe can be a liberating experience. While trains and buses are great, sometimes renting a car is the best way to see remote villages, coastal drives, or scenic countryside. If you're used to driving in North America, though, there are some important differences to be aware of before you hit the road in Europe.

Food experiences are more than just a way to eat well—they’re a gateway into a culture, a chance to meet people, and a confidence-boosting activity for any solo traveler. On your next European adventure, leave room in your itinerary (and your stomach!) for a cooking class or food tour.

You don’t have to be a hardcore cinephile to enjoy visiting filming locations. These sites add a sense of familiarity and fun to your travels, giving you a playful lens through which to explore Europe’s rich cultures and histories. Best of all, these destinations are ideal for solo travelers—they're walkable, welcoming, and well-loved by visitors of all ages.

Exploring lesser-known museums and galleries offers more than just fewer crowds—it gives you a richer, more personal connection to the places you visit. As a solo traveler, these are often the places where you’ll have the most meaningful, memorable experiences.

If you've ever found yourself wishing you could understand the menu, ask for directions confidently, or simply connect more deeply with locals while traveling in Europe, a short-term language immersion course might be just the ticket. These experiences go beyond classroom learning—they let you live the language and culture while making new connections with fellow learners from around the world.

Planning a trip to Europe or beyond? While you can certainly get by with English in many places, learning a few key phrases—or even taking a short language course—can make your travel experience much richer.

After living in Spain for the past six months, I recently returned to the U.S. for a visit, spending time in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Chicago, and Dallas. While I was excited to reconnect with friends and family, I was also struck by the many differences between life in Spain and life in the U.S.—some of which I had expected and others that surprised me.

For many people, the easiest time to take a long trip abroad is in the summer.  Summer in Europe offers endless opportunities to explore charming cities, coastal escapes, and cultural gems. But summer is tourist season in Europe, so destinations can also be quite busy. The key to planning an enjoyable trip is to pick some less-frequented locations, while recognizing that you will have to navigate some crowds. Here are some of the best European spots for women and nonbinary travelers over 50 to consider this summer.