For many, dipping your toes into a sea a million miles from home or standing in a crowded museum surrounded by strangers can be cathartic, especially if you’re heartbroken. Just like Julia Roberts in Eat, Pray, Love and Diane Lane in Under the Tuscan Sun, travelling after a breakup can feel instinctual – it’s a chance to run away and break out of your comfort zone. While no solo trip is a guaranteed cure, this list is your travel guide for when you need to escape and be on your own.
Lisbon
If your perfect getaway includes crisp, blue beaches and hiking hills, then Portugal’s capital can’t be beaten. This colourful city offers endless activities to comfortably do on your own, while also being one of the cheapest cities in Europe.
Top recommendation: Put in your headphones, listen to your favourite audiobook or podcast, and take a long stroll through Monsanto Forest Park while you revel in the great skylines of the city.
Oaxaca
If food is all you want to think about, there’s no better trip than one to Oaxaca. This charming city in the south of Mexico is filled with restaurants serving up delicious tacos, mole and Oaxacan cheese. And if you’re a foodie who also loves a fun drink, the city happens to be the birthplace of mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave. You can visit one of their many distilleries for a tour all about the beloved spirit.
Top recommendation: Take an Oaxacan cooking class, where you can meet new people while learning traditional cultural dishes like tortillas and quesadillas.
Copenhagen
Scandinavian cities are a solo traveller’s dream, and Copenhagen is no exception. From strolling the cobblestone streets and cycling along the canal to shopping among the endless boutiques and Danish pastries, you’ll never be bored in this colourful oasis.
Top recommendation: Explore Rosenborg Castle, where you’ll learn Danish royal history and see the famous Danish crown jewels.
Dubrovnik
When frantic sightseeing isn’t the cure you’re looking for, a beach getaway will do the job just fine. Croatia is known for its wondrous beaches, and Dubrovnik is the perfect destination for hours of sunbathing. You can spend your days tanning by the water and your evenings eating delicious seafood by the docks.
Top recommendation: Embrace your independence and go on the X-Adventure kayak tour.
Melbourne
Want to get as far away as possible? Melbourne could be your answer. Known for its diverse food scene, chic boutiques, and world-class coffee, this Australian city will keep you distracted and busy. You’ll also be surrounded by breathtaking nature, with easy access to hiking trails and beaches for relaxing.
Top recommendation: Take advantage of both a good hike and the beach by walking through the Bay Trail.
Reykjavik
Grab your puffer and gloves and venture to Iceland for the ultimate winter holiday. The country’s capital offers a perfect mix of outdoor excursions and an eclectic city centre. Turn your phone on do not disturb and enjoy the spectacular Arctic nature as you hike up mountains, volcanoes, and glaciers. If you’re keen to meet new people, Reykjavik is also known for its vibrant nightlife and is abundant with pub crawls.
Top recommendation: Learn about the wonders of Iceland at the Perlan Museum.
Sedona, Arizona
If you’re a fan of spirituality, astrology, or meditation, your healing journey might as well begin in Sedona. This desert town in the middle of Arizona is surrounded by red-rock mountains with trails for hiking, running, biking, and climbing. But Sedona is arguably most known for its ‘energy vortexes’, which are believed to be centres of energy that promote healing, meditation, and spiritual growth.
Top recommendation: Meditate at the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park.
Kyoto
Whether you’re gazing at the cherry blossoms in the spring or revelling in the orange and red autumn leaves, Kyoto will feel like you’ve been transported to a magical paradise. If you’re keen to have as many new experiences as possible, time spent in this beautiful Japanese city will easily accomplish that goal.
Top recommendation: Visit the Kinkaku-ji temple and zen all your stress away.