Top 3 European Cities for Solo Travel in 2026

Insurance company Quotezone has identified the best European cities for solo travel in 2026 based on safety, transportation, and affordability. Find out which three cities topped the Solo Travel Index and why they are ideal for solo travelers

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Solo travel offers a true sense of freedom: your own pace, spontaneous changes of plan, and a complete immersion in a city without compromise. But not every city in Europe is equally welcoming to solo travelers. The insurance company Quotezone published the results of the 2026 Solo Travel Index, analyzing the best destinations for solo travel across Europe.

Read also: A trip to the seaside with a dog — which cities should tourists choose?

How the ranking was compiled: what did the analysts consider?

During the study, experts took several key criteria into account: safety levels, public transportation accessibility, the number of hostels, and even internet speed. Safety, however, took center stage.

“A sense of safety is the top priority for solo travelers and can significantly impact the enjoyment and confidence of exploring a new city on one’s own,” noted the Quotezone team.

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Madrid — The Best City for Solo Travel in 2026

The Spanish capital confidently took the top spot in the ranking. Madrid stands out for having the highest number of hostels among all cities on the list, as well as affordable and well-developed public transportation and fast internet. But its main asset is its cultural richness: museums, galleries, parks, and a lively street scene. All of this makes Madrid ideal for those who want to explore a new city at their own pace and never get bored, even when traveling alone.

Prague — safety, affordability, and an atmosphere for solo walks

The Czech capital took second place in the ranking. Prague received high marks primarily for its safety and the comfort of exploring on your own at any time of day — even late at night. Added to this is one of the lowest cost-of-living levels among major European cities, making Prague attractive for those traveling on a limited budget. Numerous historical landmarks and an active social life are two more arguments in its favor.

Lisbon — Landmarks, Tours, and Affordable Accommodation

Third place went to Lisbon, Portugal. The city scored highly thanks to its abundance of cultural attractions, affordable tours, and wide selection of hostels. For solo travelers who want to soak up as many experiences as possible without breaking the bank, Lisbon is an excellent choice.

Other cities included in the ranking

In addition to the top three, seven other cities made the Solo Travel Index 2026 ranking: Paris, Reykjavik, Budapest, Athens, Vienna, Florence, and Oslo.

Each received a score based on various criteria and can be a worthy alternative depending on the traveler’s interests and priorities.

If you’re planning a solo trip to any of these cities, don’t forget to get travel insurance — it’s mandatory or at least highly recommended for travel in Europe. You can do this quickly and online through Visit Ukraine.

We remind you! Due to the security crisis in the Middle East, tourists are flocking to Asia in search of summer vacation alternatives. Read about which five coastal destinations have become the most popular this season, according to data from the Agoda platform.

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