The world's best cities for solo travel - as Manchester is named the UK's top-ranked destination

Solo travel is no longer out of the ordinary – more and more people from all walks of life are opting in.

But not all destinations are equally well adapted for lone travellers, with some far safer and better-prepared than others.

Walking tour company GuruWalk has analysed bookings made on its platform over the last 12 months to identify which destinations attract the highest proportion of solo travellers.

The result is a ranking of 50 cities that reveals where people choose to travel alone.

In the United Kingdom, Manchester is the standout destination for solo travellers, placing 36th in the global ranking with 34 per cent of its free tour bookings made by solo visitors.

Here’s a rundown of the world’s best cities for solo travel to inspire your next trip…

1. Toronto, Canada

Taking the gold medal as the best spot for solo travel is Toronto, Canada

At the top of the ranking, Toronto leads with more than one in two bookings made by solo visitors.

It’s regularly considered safe and accessible, with plenty of sights within walking distance of one another.

The city has a vibrant buzz with plenty going on, and much to explore, across animated neighbourhoods such as Kensington Market, Distillery District and Chinatown.

2. Santa Ana, El Salvador

In second place, taking the silver medal, is Santa Ana, El Salvador

El Salvador isn’t the first place that springs to mind when planning a solo trip – but that’s a mistake.

The city of Santa Ana is a true gem, home to one of the most impressive neo-Gothic cathedrals in Central America, and is neither overcrowded nor deserted – plus, it’s easy to explore on foot.

With 50 per cent of its travellers visiting solo, the destination is best for those who like to discover something new.

3. São Paulo, Brazil

Taking the bronze medal in the full list is São Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo, Brazil, is next, with 49.5 per cent of its travellers visiting the vibrant hub on their own, according to the GuruWalk study.

With independent spaces, galleries and street art galore, the city is one of the key cultural hubs in Latin America.

The city’s colourful Municipal Market, originally the city’s first grocery market, is now known for rare fruit offerings like jackfruit, sapoti and jabuticaba, along with its bustling food court – a key highlight among travellers, both solo and otherwise.

4. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei, Taiwan is the fourth city to make the list, known for its scenery combined with modern high-rise buildings

Up-and-coming Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, might not come to mind immediately when considering your next trip.

But there’s so much to see and do here, from The Four Beasts mountains to the Taipei 101, the city’s gargantuan skyscraper.

Follow in the footsteps of other city walkers – the study reveals almost half of travellers tour on their own.

5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, scoops up the fifth place award

Night markets, a city centre that never sleeps and authentic cultural attractions all lure tourists in their hordes to Kuala Lumpur.

It might seem a city that’s complex to navigate, but plenty of factors make this an attractive prospect for backpackers and solo travellers, such as a real sense of travel community and plenty of hotels and hostels to choose from.

Be warned, Kuala Lumpur is hot – and has a reputation for high humidity and pollution, but it’s a destination not to miss.

6. La Paz, Bolivia

Next up is La Paz, Bolivia, with 48.5 per cent solo travellers

La Paz is the world’s highest capital city – and should be high on your list of solo travel destinations.

It is generally considered safe, although discretion should be exercised, especially when it comes to pickpockets – and a major appeal of the city is its budget-friendly nature.

While visiting, make sure to check out the witches’ markets, cable car ride and animated streets.

7. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is the next country to join the list, known for entertainment, shopping and culture

When solo travelling, you might skip Hong Kong in favour of alternative Asian destinations loved by backpackers, such as Thailand. But perhaps that’s a mistake.

Hong Kong is a popular spot on multi-stop itineraries due to its excellent transport links, making it a great gateway to other Asian destinations.

As well as being a business hub, it is known as a ‘shoppers’ paradise’ and is famous for its food scene.

8. Skopje, North Macedonia

Skopje in North Macedonia comes in eighth place on the ranking

Next up is Skopje – an ideal solo travel destination with prices that won’t break the bank, a rich history and plenty to do.

It’s home to Skopje Street Food Festival, an underrated foodie attraction in the lesser-known city.

Plus, Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is one of the cheapest cities in Europe for beer, with pints for £1.63.

9. Singapore

In Singapore, 44 per cent of GuruWalk customers were solo travellers

Singapore is home to iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.

It is also known for its modern architecture, lush greenery and diverse cuisine – and it’s great for solo travel, too.

The safe and clean city is ideal for exploring without hassle. It’s also a popular connecting point for travellers exploring nearby countries, due to its world-class airport.

10. Belgrade, Serbia

Rounding out the top 10 in the list is Belgrade, Serbia

With direct flights now available from the UK, Belgrade in Serbia is on the up in terms of popularity – and its budget-friendly status adds to its appeal for solo travellers.

Belgrade is renowned for its nightlife and brutalist, communist-era architecture, on display in New Belgrade at spots such as the Genex Tower and Palace of Serbia.

It’s also great for strolling along the river and soaking up culture at museums such as the Nikola Tesla Museum and Museum of Science and Technology.

11. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul in South Korea has become a chic travel destination in recent years

Next up is Seoul, in South Korea, an increasingly popular tourist destination, especially among solo travellers, making up 43 per cent of visitors in GuruWalk’s study.

It has a reputation for being safe and efficient, with plenty of easy transport connections and areas you can explore on your own without stress.

Plus, it has a vibrant feel, with markets, cafes and a thriving K-pop scene.

12. Bangkok, Thailand

Taking position number 12 in the solo travel list is Thailand’s Bangkok

Bangkok, famous for its buzzing food scene, thriving city and chaotic ambience, is a favourite among solo travellers, with no shortage of entertainment everywhere you look.

Asian cities, such as Bangkok, are also some of the world’s most affordable when it comes to its vibrant nightlife and street food, adding to their appeal among solo visitors.

If beaches, temples and food are your top requirements, check out Thailand, and in particular Bangkok, for your next holiday.

13. Shanghai, China

Shanghai, full of markets, skyscrapers and luxurious malls, is up next

Shanghai, often associated with glitz and glamour, is the 13th best spot for solo travellers.

There’s lots to do in the city, from the Bund (Waitan), a famous 2.6 km long waterfront promenade in central Shanghai along the Huangpu River, to the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower, which has a glass-bottomed observation deck.

To reach China’s biggest city and global financial hub, you can fly from the UK directly with airlines such as Air China and China Eastern.

14. Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala takes position 14 in the GuruWalk rankings

Antigua Guatemala is a well-preserved colonial historic centre, surrounded by imposing volcanos that contribute to its impressive beauty.

It’s easy to explore solo, too – not always a given in this part of the world.

That’s down to its small size, walkable streets and the welcoming international community living here.

15. Quito, Ecuador

The 15th best global destination for solo travellers is Quito, Ecuador

Quito has a charming UNESCO-listed old town, and the sort of cobbled streets and walkable centre that are popular among solo travellers.

One Tripadvisor review read: ‘I spent a lot of time wandering around Quito on my own using my Lonely Planet guide book with self-guided walking tour suggestions and Google Maps. It was amazing to take in the city, visit numerous cathedrals, museums, markets, discover hidden gems, and appreciate the beautiful architecture.’

They do, however, warn: ‘It’s not a good idea to wander around at night as a solo female traveller regardless of what neighbourhood you’re in. That said, I never felt unsafe as I was generally back in my hotel by 7.30pm-8.00pm.’

16. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Coming in 16th place in the ranking is Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is the most consistently recommended budget solo destination in southeast Asia, popular among backpackers.

Night market meals cost under $2 (£1.50), co-working spaces are everywhere, and the hostel scene means it’s easy to get social contact without huge amounts of effort.

Known as the ‘Rose of the North’, a visit here will likely see you come into contact with fellow solo travellers.

17. Vilnius, Lithuania

Lithuanian capital Vilnius takes 17th place in the complete ranking

Vilnius in Lithuania comes in next, attractive for solo travellers with its great prices including £2.12 for coffee, £11.87 for a 48-hour travel card and many attractions with free entry, according to Post Office Travel Money.

Low prices make it appealing as a destination – as does the city’s authentic appeal, with Vilnius being ranked last year as one of Europe’s most authentic.

With a beautiful old town and history to explore, it’s a great way to avoid overtourism while enjoying a city break on the cheap.

18. Beijing, China

Beijing, China places 18th with 40 per cent solo bookings (pictured, the Temple of Heaven)

The second destination in China to make the list, Beijing is filled to the brim with fascinating history to uncover.

Highlights include the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall and the various skyscrapers in the city centre.

It’s safe and accessible, with one solo traveller writing on Reddit: ‘When you arrive you’ll go through customs and register your face. Cameras are everywhere and have facial recognition. It sounds creepy at first, but it actually makes the city very safe. You can walk down any street alone at night and be fine. Honestly wish we had this in the United States.’

19. Santiago de Chile, Chile

Santiago de Chile places 19th with 40 per cent solo bookings

Santiago de Chile was not always the safe haven for solo travellers it is now – but it’s been revamped, with an envy-inducing food scene and tourist infrastructure supporting travel.

Chile’s capital and largest city is a great base from which to explore the historic centre, as well as the Andes mountains.

Areas in the city such as Lastarria and Barrio Italia have become very in vogue, attractive for those travelling alone.

20. Melbourne, Australia

Rounding out the top 20 is Melbourne, one of the trendiest spots in travel now

Finally, Melbourne comes in 20th place, beating its Australian rival Sydney.

Many visitors highlight the city’s abundance of culture as a key reason for its success and popularity among solo visitors.

There’s so much to see and do here, from the National Gallery of Victoria to the Royal Botanic Gardens and Queen Victoria Market.

50 best destinations for solo travel

1. Toronto, Canada

2. Santa Ana, El Salvador

3. São Paulo, Brazil

4. Taipei, Taiwan