Top destinations for solo travel in 2023

With #solotravel videos garnering close to four billion views on TikTok, solo travel has become a cultural phenomenon across the globe, Explore Worldwide has revealed this year’s trending destinations for solo travel. 

By analysing Google search data from the last two years, Explore’s research has determined the places that are seeing the biggest uplift in solo travel online searches.

The study uncovers the locations surging in popularity among those itching to see the world on their own, with the research revealing the top solo travel destinations on the Australian continent, as well as the emerging hot spots for solo travel worldwide.

World’s Trending Cities For Solo Travel

1. Hanoi: Topping the list as the world’s trending city for solo travel is the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi. Interest in solo travel for Hanoi has climbed a massive 946% on last year’s searches and it’s not hard to understand why this city is the ‘one to watch’ for a solo adventure. Aesthetically pleasing and filled with ancient architecture, Hanoi presents itself as a place that’s rich in culture with plenty of activities for solo travellers to enjoy, from browsing food markets and visiting historic temples, to simply wandering the colourful streets.

2. Bangkok: Bangkok places second with an 816% rise in solo travel searches, with a plethora of activities that are perfect for independent travellers. Thailand’s capital city is rich in history with many temples that yearn to be explored. There are many opportunities to get involved with the renowned local cuisine too, with plenty of cooking classes on offer for amateurs looking to impress their friends when they arrive back home. All the while you can manoeuvre about the city with ease thanks to the iconic Tuk Tuk transportation.

3. Taipei: Taipei lands in third place among the world’s trending solo travel cities, with a search increase of close to 700%. The capital of Taiwan boasts much in the way of both modern architecture as well as serene nature trails and hikes. Foodies looking for amazing dining experiences are in luck: Taipei is home to 175 dining recommendations by the Michelin food guide, so no solo traveller will go hungry!

4. Seoul: South Korea’s Seoul winds up in fourth place with a search increase of 533% for ‘Seoul solo travel’ in comparison to last year. Fans of K-pop in particular will be delighted to visit K-star Road, featuring entertaining statues of famous K-pop idols.

5. Phnom Penh: The city of Phnom Penh rounds out the top five with a 500% increase in searches when compared to the previous year’s data. There is an abundance of history to absorb for solo travellers who wish to expand their minds in the Cambodian capital, with an array of boat tours, temples and national monuments displaying elements of the country’s complex history.

Closer to home

Australia ranks as the most popular trending territory for solo travel with seven entries in the top 10. Perth has seen a massive 400% rise in online solo travel searches, with its colourful markets, artsy neighbourhoods, outdoor adventure opportunities, cultural museums and wildlife all attracting people looking for an independent adventure.

Perth is followed by Sydney, which has seen 270% more online searches by people interested in visiting this iconic city on their own. When a break from the hustle and bustle of Bondi Beach, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge is needed, head to the Royal Botanic Garden for a peaceful retreat, before joining the crowds again in the Rocks district which offers a glimpse into Sydney’s past with its cobbled laneways and historic pubs.

Fiji places third, with solo travellers 234% more interested in visiting these South Pacific islands compared to last year. Home to the world-famous Coral Coast, solo adventure-seekers can explore some of the most stunning coral reefs in the world. With plenty of opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving, the islands are perfect for water-lovers, with boat tours taking visitors to uninhabited islands, hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches.