Travelling alone can be one of the most rewarding and freeing ways to explore the world. With no itinerary to follow but your own, solo city breaks offer the chance to discover places on your terms and at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to relax, meet new people, or simply soak up the sights, there’s no shortage of things to do when you’re venturing into a new city solo.
Join a Walking Tour
One of the best ways to get to know a city is on foot, and walking tours are a solo traveller’s best friend. Most cities offer a range of options, from free historical tours to themed experiences like street art walks, food tastings, or ghost tours.
These tours often provide a great mix of local insight and social interaction. You’ll not only learn interesting facts about the city but also meet fellow travellers. For solo explorers, it’s an easy way to feel part of a group while still maintaining independence. If you’re not one for crowds, self-guided audio tours can be downloaded to your phone, letting you explore on your own terms while still gaining context.
Visit a Local Casino
If you’re in the mood for some excitement during your solo city break, a visit to a local casino can be a thrilling and entertaining option. Many cities have well-established casinos that offer everything from table games and slot machines to live entertainment and on-site dining. Whether you’re experienced or just curious, it’s a fun way to soak up some local nightlife without needing company.
Casinos often have a sociable atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy a game of roulette or blackjack while chatting with fellow players. However, if you’d rather stay in after a busy day of sightseeing, there’s always the option to unwind in your hotel room and enjoy a few rounds on a reputable online casino site. From slots to live dealer tables, many online platforms offer the same variety and excitement, with the bonus of playing in your pyjamas. There are a variety of sites available to at-home bettors, including domestic sites in the UK that follow GamStop rules and international platforms that skip these rules. The best non GamStop casinos 2025 has to offer have gained immense popularity, especially with bettors who value flexibility and convenience, because of the unique benefits that they offer, like generous bonus offers, a large variety of quality games, and varied payment methods.
Whether you prefer visiting a casino in person or wagering from the comfort of your room, playing a few rounds can be a fun and engaging activity for solo travellers visiting a new city.
Visit a Local Market
Markets are a great place to feel the energy of a city. Whether it’s a farmers’ market, a flea market, or a weekend artisan fair, wandering through stalls gives you a taste of what the locals buy, eat, and value. It’s also a budget-friendly way to enjoy a bite, pick up souvenirs, or just people-watch.
In places like London’s Borough Market, Barcelona’s La Boqueria, or Marrakech’s bustling souks, the sensory overload is part of the charm. For solo travellers, markets offer a low-pressure, vibrant environment where you can blend in with the crowd while soaking up authentic atmosphere.
Spend Time in a Museum or Gallery
One of the joys of solo travel is doing things at your own pace—and there’s no better place for this than a museum or gallery. Whether you’re into fine art, history, science, or niche collections, visiting museums alone lets you linger in front of what interests you and skip what doesn’t.
Major cities across the UK and Europe offer world-class institutions, often with free or discounted entry. Many also offer audio guides or mobile apps so you can deepen your understanding as you go. For a more local flavour, smaller neighbourhood museums often provide insight into the city’s lesser-known history or culture.
Try a Local Class or Workshop
Solo travel is the perfect time to try something new. Many cities offer drop-in workshops or classes for visitors, ranging from cooking and painting to yoga, dancing, or photography. These sessions offer the chance to learn a skill, connect with others, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
If you’re visiting Italy, consider a pasta-making class. In Japan, try your hand at calligraphy or tea ceremonies. Even if you’re not in a far-flung location, most cities have Airbnb Experiences or local meetup apps that make it easy to find something fun and engaging.
Take Yourself Out for a Meal
Dining solo can feel intimidating at first, but it quickly becomes one of the most empowering things to do while travelling. Choose a spot that looks inviting—whether it’s a bustling café, an elegant restaurant, or a relaxed food truck park—and settle in for a good meal.
Bring along a book, a journal, or your phone to play a game or catch up on a show while waiting. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask the staff for recommendations or go for the local speciality. This quiet time is a perfect chance to reflect on your trip and enjoy the freedom of choosing exactly what you want to eat.
Explore a Park or Botanical Garden
Every great city has a few green spaces that offer a break from the urban pace. Whether it’s Hyde Park in London, the English Garden in Munich, or the Tuileries in Paris, parks provide space for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or simply a rest on a bench with a good view.
Pack a blanket, some snacks, and your favourite leisure activity. You could bring a book to get lost in, or a device to stream a show, play video games, or even try a few rounds of an online casino game if that’s your thing. For solo travellers, parks offer calm, comfort, and often some beautiful photo opportunities.
Attend a Local Event or Performance
Checking out what’s on while you’re in town can lead to a memorable evening. Look for theatre shows, live music, outdoor cinema, poetry nights, or even local sporting events. These activities give you a taste of what the city’s residents enjoy.
Going solo to a show might sound intimidating, but it’s more common than you think—especially in cities with vibrant arts scenes. Buy a single ticket, find your seat, and enjoy the experience with no distractions.
Take a Scenic Route—By Tram, Bus, or Bike
Sometimes, the best way to get to know a city is by simply wandering or taking the scenic route. Many cities have tram lines or bus routes that double as informal sightseeing tours. Hop on, take a window seat, and let the city pass you by.
If you’re comfortable on a bike, some cities have safe cycling routes and bike-sharing schemes that let you explore in a relaxed way. This kind of roaming gives you the chance to spot hidden gems and soak up the everyday rhythm of the place.
Wind Down with an Evening Stroll
There’s something incredibly peaceful about a solo evening walk in a new place. As the city quietens down, the lights come on, and the air cools, walking with no particular destination can feel meditative.
Stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially if it’s a city you’re unfamiliar with. Some places offer evening walking routes, lit-up bridges, or riverside paths that make for safe and scenic strolls to end your day.
