Looking for the best views in NYC at night?

There’s no denying that New York City is incredible at any time of day. From early morning sunrises over the East River to those Hudson River sunsets, there’s always something to see in the five boroughs.

That being said, evenings are when New York really sparkles.

The city lights at night are really something to see and a sight you don’t want to miss if you’re visiting for the first time.

There are as many ways to take in a stunning New York City night view. From lavish observation decks to trendy rooftop bars to lush riverside parks, you can enjoy the vista on any budget — even for free!

Keep reading to discover some of the best free NYC views, written by a local New Yorker!

Quickt tip: There are loads of local tours that help you experience the best views in NYC after dark. A few recommendations include a Bateaux New York Premier Dinner Cruise, a New York City at Night Bus Tour, a New York at Night Bike Tour, and an NYC After Dark Photography Tour.

Want to book a hotel that offers epic skyline views at night? My top recommendations include 1 Hotel Brooklyn (DUMBO), The William Vale Hotel (Williamsburg), citizenM New York Bowery Hotel (Lower East Side), and The Langham (Midtown).

Best Views In NYC At Night

Not sure where to start?

Here are 21 of the most beautiful views of New York City at night. Check them out the next time you’re exploring the city!

The list is separated by borough, allowing you to plan a scenic trip to NYC no matter where you’re staying.

Note: This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners we think you’ll love!

One quick tip before we dive into the experience:

Grab my free Ultimate Travel Planning Kit — which also includes a Google Map of a scenic New York City itinerary.

Add the map to your phone to have it ready to go!

Need help capturing the best views in NYC — with you in the photos? Book one of our Private Photo Journeys, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or step your game up even further with an NYC Influencer Shoot or Custom New York Shoot. Email info@nycphotojourneys.com with inquiries.

Best Views In Manhattan At Night

1. Take in historic views at One World Observatory.

No trip to New York City would be complete without a visit to One World Trade Center — one of the top NYC photo spots and the best place to see NYC skyline at night.

A major highlight is the observation deck at the top, which offers more than just incredible panoramic views of Manhattan and the five boroughs.

A trip to One World is a full multimedia experience where you’ll learn about the history of New York City and see the city transformed from a quiet island to the metropolis it is today.

At the top, learn more about the city from Licensed Tour Ambassadors or savor a delicious cocktail at ONE Dine.

It’s a great spot to explore whether you’re visiting New York for the first time or call the city home. Moreover, it’s a top attraction whether you’re exploring in a group or are looking for fun things to do in NYC by yourself.

2. Enjoy a classic view at the Empire State Building.

The Empire State Building may have a reputation for being a tourist trap; but, one advantage it has over the other Manhattan observation decks is its hours. Plus, it offers a fantastic New York view at night.

While most other observation decks close around 7pm, ESB’s elevators run until 11pm, giving you plenty of time to catch some nighttime views of the NYC skyline.

Plus, if you visit after dark you’ll get to see the building’s colorful tower lights dancing up close for one of the best NYC views at night!

Prefer to have a view of the Empire State Building itself? Consider a limousine tour of New York City, many of which include photo ops of popular local landmarks!

3. Have your own 30 Rock experience at Top of the Rock.

Want great views of Central Park and NYC’s most famous skyscrapers?

Head to the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza to experience Top of the Rock!

This is one observation deck you can visit any time of year.

Enjoy unobstructed indoor views from the building’s 67th and 69th floors, or head all the way up to the 70th floor for the open-air roof deck.

After your visit, explore the rest of the iconic Rockefeller Center area, featuring great restaurants, shops, and more iconic views.

You can also click here to view a list of interesting Rockefeller Center tours!

4. Test your fear of heights at The Edge.

Be one of the first to check out the newest addition to the Manhattan skyline at The Edge — one of the best places to take pictures in NYC!

This observation deck is not for the faint of heart.

Rising 1,100 feet over the city, this skydeck juts out from the rest of the building, making you feel like you’re on top of the world.

There’s even a glass floor at the center of the deck where you can see 100 stories straight down to the streets below!

Need to take the edge off after that harrowing experience — pun intended? Or to muster up the courage to tackle the glass floor? Head to the Champagne Bar for cocktails with a beautiful Manhattan night view.

By the way, if you want to continue exploring beautiful views and buildings, check out these top-rated New York City architectural tours and Manhattan skyline tours!

5. Shop with a view at The Shops at Columbus Circle.

One reason why NYC is so popular is its fashion culture and numerous shopping opportunities.

This high-end shopping destination in the Time Warner Building is home to some of the best indoor views of Manhattan you can access for free.

The center’s floor to ceiling windows look out over the iconic Columbus Circle as well as the southwest corner of Central Park.

Head up to the third floor for some of the best views!

Planning to travel to NYC in the winter?

Escape the crowds of nearby Times Square and enjoy the views here with a nice hot beverage.

6. Check out the sunset on The High Line.

Pass through some of New York’s hottest neighborhoods with a walk on the High Line, one of the most unique things to do in NYC.

This park, built out of an old elevated train line, stretches from the Meatpacking District to Midtown and offers great spots to view Manhattan’s west side from a new angle.

The entrance and exit point at 34th Street offers particularly great views of the Hudson River.

Stop by in the early evening for some of the best sunset views in the city.

7. Sip a cocktail steps from Times Square at Dear Irving on Hudson.

Rooftop bars are a staple of Manhattan’s culinary scene and offer some of the best views of NYC at night.

Located just steps from Times Square, Dear Irving on Hudson offers plush interiors, delicious handcrafted cocktails, and amazing views of Manhattan’s west side.

By the way, the Balto Old Fashioned is a must-sip, featuring local single-barrel bourbon, barrel-aged apple liqueur, maple, and Angostura Bitters.

Hungry?

The bar also offers small plates to share like wild mushroom croquettes, avocado toast, and rock shrimp tempura.

8. Experience Lower East Side cool at The Crown.

Rising above Lower Manhattan is The Crown, a rooftop bar with incredible Manhattan skyline views.

The Crown, located atop the Hotel 50 Bowery, offers both a spacious outdoor deck and a modern indoor lounge so you can take in the views no matter the weather.

Enjoy a classic cocktail or celebrate an occasion with The Crown’s wide selection of sparkling wines. This is great spot to enjoy the fun of being out in NYC at night.

9. Watch the sunset over the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in Central Park.

For a more grounded view of NYC at night, head to the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, located toward the northern end of Central Park from 86th to 96th Streets.

Standing on the east side to take in a dramatic view of the Upper West Side skyline — including stunning art deco luxury buildings like The Eldorado and its notable matching towers — against a beautiful fountain in the center of this 40-foot-deep lake.

If visiting NYC in spring, you’ll have the added bonus of taking in the beauty of 200 Yoshino cherry trees.

10. Fly high above the East River on the Roosevelt Island Tram.

You may know this little red tram as one of the best ways to get to Manhattan’s next-door neighbor, Roosevelt Island. But did you know that it’s one of the best ways to take in an incredible New York view late at night?

The Roosevelt Island Tram runs every seven to 15 minutes until 2am — or 3:30am on Fridays and Saturdays — so you can soar above the East River until the wee hours of the morning.

This aerial tramway offers some of the best views of the bridges connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn and Queens, a sight that’s even more breathtaking after dark.

Local tip:

When visiting Long island City in Queens, it’s fun to walk over the Queensborough Bridge into Manhattan and then take the tram to Roosevelt Island. The experience offers an incredible combination of views!

11. Get up close to the Empire State Building at Refinery Rooftop.

This bar atop the Refinery Hotel in Midtown is right at the heart of it all.

It offers some of the best close up views of the Empire State Building and other Midtown landmarks that look even more spectacular at night.

And with both indoor and outdoor seating options, it’s one of the best spots for a drink under the stars any time of year.

12. Get some fresh air at Randall’s Island Park.

Governors Island may get all the love when it comes to New York City’s islands, but Randall’s Island — sandwiched between Manhattan, Queens, and The Bronx — offers some of the best views in the city year-round.

Hop on a bus or take a walk across the pedestrian bridge from Manhattan’s Upper East Side to enjoy 480 acres of open space, greenways, and athletic fields.

Best of all, the park is open until midnight, giving you plenty of opportunities to catch some great views of Manhattan and Queens at night. It’s truly one of my favorite Upper East Side hidden gems!

Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book a Private Photo Journey, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email info@nycphotojourneys.com with inquiries.

Best Views In Queens At Night

13. Snap photos next to landmarks at Gantry Plaza State Park.

You’ll find some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline at night right across the East River in Queens!

Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City is one of the top attractions in Queens. It’s quickly become a favorite spot of both New Yorkers and visitors alike for its amazing views, iconic landmarks (like the famous Pepsi-Cola sign), and many spots to relax and chat with friends.

Looking for a great evening photo spot?

The park is open from dawn until dusk!

14. See some glow-in-the-dark art at Hunter’s Point South Park.

Looking for a little more space to roam?

Be sure to check out Hunter’s Point South Park, also located in Long Island City.

Along with showcasing the NYC skyline from Queens, Hunter’s Point is home to “Luminescence,” a permanent art installation by local artist Nobuho Nagasawa featuring domes that portray the phases of the moon.

Night is the best time to check out this installation, as the domes absorb light and glow in the evening!

15. Get your Simon & Garfunkel on at Queensbridge Park.

Feelin’ groovy?

Head to Queensbridge Park and check out the bridge that inspired one of Simon & Garfunkel’s biggest hits!

Situated right under the 59th Street Bridge, Queensbridge Park offers great views of Upper Manhattan and Roosevelt Island as well as the mighty East River.

Stop by at sunset to get some unforgettable views of NYC at night.

Best Views In Brooklyn At Night

16. Walk across a piece of history at the Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or just visiting for a few days, you must take a walk across the historic Brooklyn Bridge at some point! This night view in New York is worth seeing.

The bridge is a landmark in and of itself but a walk across it offers great views of Manhattan, Brooklyn and New York Harbor.

It essentially offers a virtual tour of the city in one spot!

While you’re on the Brooklyn side of the bridge, spend some time in Brooklyn Bridge Park, which may just offer the best free view of the NYC skyline. It’s also one of the top spots for taking Brooklyn Bridge photos.

No Brooklyn travel guide would be complete without mentioning it, as the park showcases skyline views as well as plenty of photo opportunities with the Brooklyn Brooklyn as well as the Manhattan Bridge.

Pro tip:

Both the Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge Park are popular stops on a private NYC Photo Journey of NYC Influencer Shoot!

17. Enjoy tacos under the stars at Domino Park.

Nestled up against the East River in Williamsburg is one of Brooklyn’s newest parks.

Built on the site of a former Domino Sugar refinery, Domino Park offers gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline and Williamsburg Bridge as well as an elevated walkway so you can see both from different angles.

While you’re enjoying the view, stop by Tacocino for cocktails, tacos, and other Mexican-inspired treats.

Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book a Private Photo Journey, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email info@nycphotojourneys.com with inquiries.

18. Jam out with craft cocktails at Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge.

Located on the 10th floor of 1 Hotel Brooklyn, Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge offers delicious Asian-inspired eats, unique cocktails, and impeccable views of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

With both indoor and outdoor dining and sipping spaces, Harriet’s is available to enjoy year round.

Sip Mezcal Palomas late into the evening while local DJs spin custom tunes. You’ll feel extremely Brooklyn Cool.

Harriet’s just may offer the best view of Manhattan from Brooklyn!

19. Do some stargazing at WNYC Transmitter Park.

Opened in 2012, this riverside park pays tribute to a New York media institution, WNYC.

The park was once home to the radio station’s transmission towers and now offers plenty of space to enjoy a Manhattan skyline view.

Transmitter Park is also a great spot for stargazing and many amateur astronomers set up their telescopes in the park.

Best Views In Staten Island

20. Go for a budget-friendly cruise on the Staten Island Ferry.

One of the best ways to see New York City is by boat, and the easiest way to do that is to hop on the Staten Island Ferry. It also offers a different New York City view at night!

This free ferry between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island is a great way to see New York landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and One World Trade on the cheap.

Bonus:

You can bring alcoholic beverages onboard! Stop by the shops in Whitehall Terminal to grab some drinks and snacks for your ride.

A glass of wine paired with epic Staten Island ferry views at night is a great way to enjoy one of the best cheap things to do in NYC.

Best Views In New Jersey At Night

21. Check out symbols of freedom at Liberty State Park.

Want the Hudson view of New York City?

Head across the river to Liberty State Park to take in the best view of the NYC skyline from NJ.

While not in NYC itself, this waterfront park offers incredible views of Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island, and is also home to the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal.

The best part?

The park is open until 10pm, giving you plenty of time to get in your evening views of the city.

New York Night View Tours & Experiences

Looking to book a tour that lets you take in the NYC skyline at night?

Don’t miss…

• Private NYC Photo Journey
• NYC Influencer Shoot
• Professional NYC Photoshoot
• Evening Skyline Tour Of New York City
• New York City At Night Bus Tour
• New York City Lights & Skyline Cruise
• New York Helicopter Tour: NYC Skyline & Lights Experience

Click here for a full list of NYC tours.

Best Hotels In New York

Looking to stay overnight in NYC? There are so many hotels offering epic skyline views at night, like 1 Hotel Brooklyn (DUMBO), The William Vale Hotel (Williamsburg), citizenM New York Bowery Hotel (Lower East Side), and The Langham (Midtown).

Click here for a full list of New York City hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals! 

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Like the idea of hotel living? There are also many live in hotels in NYC that offer extended stays.

Frequently Asked Questions about Views of New York at Night

Q) How can I see the New York skyline at night?

You can get some of the best views in NYC at night from One World Observatory, the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock.

Q) Where is the best free view of the skyline in New York?

Some of the best free skyline views in New York are Governor’s Island, Brooklyn Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge Park.

What would you add to this list of best views in NYC at night?

Enjoyed this post on seeing the NYC skyline at night? Pin it for later!

Love true short adventure travel stories or are you eager to discover thrilling experiences to have while traveling?

Then you’re in the right place!

I reached out to some of my favorite travel bloggers and asked them to share stories about their most epic adventures around the world.

While some of the following anecdotes showcase crazy travel stories or even travel fails, others offer up inspiring travel experience stories that were smooth sailing (or camping or hiking!) the whole way.

That being said, all of these stories have one thing in common: they share a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will inspire your travels.

Keep reading to discover these adventure travel tales. And feel free to add your own in the comments below!

Where Should Your Next Travel Adventure Be? [Free Quiz]

But first, before we dive into our list of the best adventure short stories, I invite you to take my free travel personality quiz.

Answer a few easy (and fun!) questions to discover your perfect travel destination based on your personality. Each suggestion aims to offer a unique experience that you wouldn’t easily find in a guidebook.

Feel free to even pause to take the quiz and then let me know your results in the comments below.

Then when you’re back continue reading to dive into the most epic adventure stories online that you can find!

True Short Travel Adventure Stories In Real-Life

If you’re looking for true short adventure stories to read online, these are my favorites:

1. Trekking Nepal’s Mohare Danda Route

My adventure short story takes place in Nepal where I did the Mohare Danda Trek — which is no easy feat; however, in my opinion it is truly one of the best hiking trails in the world.

But, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me explain. A few years back, I was invited on a press trip by the Nepal Tourism Board to experience some of the incredible experiences the country has to offer.

There were a number of itineraries to choose from, including doing a safari in the popular Chitwan National Park or doing the popular Poon Hill Trek. While both looked enticing, there was one itinerary, the Mohare Danda Trek, that looked less traversed — which helped to pique my interest.

The Mohare Danda is one of Nepal’s newest treks, opened in 2010 as an eco-trek to help support and develop the Parbat and Myagdi districts.

It’s a stunning hike, though my first day got off to a difficult start as I found myself violently ill.

Ascending higher and higher, sweat pouring down my face and my backpack threatening to pull me to the ground, I stopped constantly to gag and vomit — until we reached the high altitude teahouse where we’d be staying the night.

While the group went in for tea, I laid on the ground, nearly crying from the physical pain (from the challenging hike) and discomfort (from the sickness). In that moment, I truly didn’t think I could do it.

But then I opened my eyes to the beauty that surrounded me — the type of beauty you truly can’t find anywhere else — and realized that if I gave up now I’d never forgive myself.

And luckily, after skipping dinner and sleeping for 12 hours, the sickness subsided and I felt eager to experience this Himalayan hike.

Here is a quick overview of this amazing trek:

You’ll hike the rough but stunning terrain of the Annapurna Himalayas for five days, visiting high-altitude villages, passing yak and buffalo, and staying in homestays and small family-run hotels with squat toilets, spiders, and, for the most part, no showers.

The accommodations are rough to say the least, but as you gaze upon the high Himalayan peaks, interact with locals, and take in the nature that surrounds you, it’s hard not to feel immense gratitude for such a rugged and beautiful adventure.

This is particularly true when you reach the top of Mohare Danda at 3,313 meters (10,869 feet) and realize just how far you’ve come.

For an immersive look into what this adventurous trek is like, check out my video:

Tips: In terms of travel tips for this trek, I recommend looking for alternatives to popular travel adventures. While popular experiences and attractions are popular for a reason, seeking lesser-known activities often leads to more local and unique experiences.

Additionally, from a sustainable tourism standpoint it can help dispense tourism dollars to places that may need it and can help curb overtourism.

Also, bring medication for upset stomach and altitude sickness! I was vomitting on Day #1 and was grateful to have medication. Moreover, I had a throbbing headache when we reached the summit and was happy to have tiger balm with me.

2. Hiking in Georgia’s Greater Caucasus Mountains

Love uplifting travel stories? Then this one is for you, because it shares how an adventure changed my outlook for the better.

Because here’s the thing:

I’ve never thought of myself as an adventurous traveler. I’m definitely not one for hiking – usually, the only thing that can get me to embark on a trek is the fear of missing out.

On my first trip to the Republic of Georgia, every traveler I met spoke about a hike in the Greater Caucasus mountains that I absolutely couldn’t miss.

The trek from Kazbegi town to Gergeti Trinity Church is a short one, but based on the church’s location atop a mountain, I knew it was going to be a tough climb – especially after six weeks of traveling around and living off khachapuri, the country’s famous “cheese pie”.

I arrived in Kazbegi on a cold, foggy afternoon and reluctantly woke up early the next day with the idea to hike to the church that morning. Luckily, a chance encounter over the breakfast table at my guesthouse saved me.

I got chatting with a couple who had done the hike the previous day and had a crucial tip for me: Don’t follow the main trail, but instead, take the path on the left side of the mountain.

As it turned out, the main route -– the trail everyone else was taking -– was impossibly steep, but the lesser-walked path was a gentle, ambling trail along a mountain stream.

Had I tried to take the main path, I never would have finished the walk; however, following this gentler route, I experienced something totally foreign: A hike I actually enjoyed! I felt so accomplished by the time I reached the church.

I’ve since moved to Georgia and have challenged myself to many other hikes in the Greater Caucasus. But if it weren’t for that first introduction to trekking in Georgia, I don’t think I would have had the courage to attempt any other trails.

“Adventure” means something different to everyone, but I think there’s an adventurous traveler inside all of us. Often it takes one positive experience to prove to yourself what you’re really made of.

Tip: When hiking in Georgia, always ask for advice from travelers on the ground. Trails and conditions change from year to year depending on the weather so it’s very important to gather first-hand information.

– Emily from Wander-Lush

3. Hitchhiking in Kazakhstan

My adventure trip story takes place in Kazakhstan! On my trip to Central Asia in 2019, I spent a couple of days in Kazakhstan exploring offbeat places such as Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, Kolsai Lake, and so on.

As Kazakhstan is a relatively under-developed country, there is no good public transportation system once you move out of Almaty City.

However, one great thing about Kazakhstan is that hitchhiking is quite common, meaning it’s easy to get a lift to your destination.

During my 25-day stay in this country, there was a stretch of four-to-five days when I hitchhiked continuously and met some wonderful people.

I covered a stretch of over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) hitchhiking and had the chance to meet different people on the way. From a group of Russian friends who helped me reach the highway to army personnel who helped me reach my desired destination, I met so many people with different stories and backgrounds on this trip.

Most of the people with whom I hitchhiked were friendly and excited to know about my Indian heritage since they loved India. And this is how I fell in love with hitchhiking and had my faith in humanity restored in a foreign country.

An amazing thing about Kazakhstan is that it is a hitchhiking-friendly country, so anyone can travel around by hitchhiking; however, do keep in mind that you will find more options during the summer than the winter season when the roads are covered with snow and most of the lakes are frozen in this region as well. 

Tip: Start your day early as there are more vehicles available for hitchhiking during the morning than in the afternoon or night.

– Rachita from MeanderWander

4. Swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura, New Zealand

Many of my most adventurous travel stories come from my time living in New Zealand.

In November 2018, I decided to live life to the fullest and say yes to all of the adventures that came my way in the country.

This travel story is one of my favorite adventures: swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura.

I woke at 4am to a pitch-black hostel room, my eight roommates all still sound asleep at the early hour.

I snuck out on tiptoes to change, crammed a cheese roll in my mouth, and dragged the suitcase holding a year of my life to the Kaikoura dolphin-watching tour office.

With just a few hours of sleep in my system and more adrenaline than I had jumping out of a plane, I tugged on my insulated wetsuit in a blur.

The moment we dove off the water, I was shocked awake. No amount of coffee, tea, or sugar has ever given me such an intense wake-up. It turns out, the ocean is freezing at 5 am, before the sun has risen and in early-spring.

Don’t be scared off by the temperature, though, because 5am is when the dolphins are most playful!

For five seconds, I struggled to breathe through the cold. Then, the wetsuit flooded with water and I was warm.

A moment later, I was face to face with a wild dusky dolphin, one of the smallest species of dolphin in the world! Swimming with it, the dolphin twirled at the surface of the water while it spun in spirals beneath me.

I hummed strange Dory-esque whale noises to draw the attention of more members of the pod, including a tiny baby dolphin no bigger than my calf. He seemed most interested in the strange bug-eyed thing that kept getting tangled in her own flippers.

The sun rose, warming my back as I continued to flounder amongst the most elegant animals in the ocean. It was the most beautiful sight, watching as the dark blue of the ocean turned a sunny turquoise, brightening our swimming companions for the first few hours of dawn.

The practice of swimming with wild dolphins is banned in the North Island, where the species of Hector’s dolphins are in decline. But in Kaikoura, the practice is thriving and actually helping to restore the dolphin populations.

By supporting this adventurous experience, you’re supporting dolphin conservation.

– Nina of Nina Out and About

5. Canyoneering near Zion National Park 

One of my favorite adventure activities was canyoneering near Zion National Park in Utah, USA. The entire area around the national park has slot canyons, and these narrow canyons are often not much more than tubes carved by flash floods over the years.  

Many of them descend in a series of “steps” with sheer, tubular drops between short walks in the narrow canyons. Canyoneering is the adventure of rappelling on a rope down these drops and hiking from one to another.

This was my first time canyoneering, so I hired a guide, who had all the equipment and gave me detailed instructions on what to do. 

I’m not going to lie: the first was scary! Backing up to a sheer drop, putting your weight on a rope attached to an anchor, and then inching your feet over the edge requires a leap of faith. 

Then you make an actual leap and step down off the level ground and swing your feet against the vertical cliff face. Before you know it, you’re walking down a cliff! 

The first drop was 30 feet and it seemed a very, very long way down when peering over the edge from above.  By the end, I had traversed 12 drops in total, including one that was 200 feet deep! I soon overcame my fear and truly had one of the most fun days ever!

Tip: The best time to do this is in the fall when the summer heat has subsided but the winter snows haven’t set in. There are several outfitters in Springdale — the gateway to Zion National Park — that offer guided canyoneering trips.

By the way, if you’re interested in trekking, here are some of the best hiking trails in Utah (a number of which are in Zion!).

-James Ian from Parks Collecting

6. Hiking without a guide to Dzukou Valley of Nagaland, India

Looking for real life adventure stories in India? Then this one is for you!

At 8,000 feet above sea level, Dzukou Valley is located in the northeastern state of Nagaland in India.

Having dreamed of visiting the valley since 2012, it was finally fulfilled in 2019, when I along with three other friends from Kerala and Uttar Pradesh went backpacking. 

We refrained from watching any videos or travel guides to make sure we embraced the journey in its purest form. When reaching Kohima — the capital of Nagaland — we ended up choosing the shorter and steeper Jakhama Trail for our Dzükou Valley Trek.

Beside a gushing river and the view of the highest of Jakhama Hills engulfed by the clouds, we marched ahead. Following the marked directions on the rocks, we ventured into a dense tropical evergreen forest. Splashing our face with the cold waters of a stream, we met a local who was descending the hill. 

He confirmed that we were on the right trail and motivated us with a picturesque description of the valley. Tuning in to the sereness of the forest, we would lay on the boulders and sing. I bet among the 500 bird species found in Nagaland, a few of them did sing back to us. 

The higher we hiked the steeper the trail became and once it turned 5pm, the hills turned darker.

Stepping on the narrow uneven precipitous trail with little left strength, we reached the top of Jakhama Hill to witness majestic reddish skies and the slumbering valley. We concluded the day dancing around the fire under the starry moonlit sky at the campsite.

The best thing about traveling without a guide or travel company was the fact that we could spend our time according to our will. We explored the valley for two consecutive days — walking into the unknown, dipping into the shivery waters of the Dzukou River, and sometimes only watching the valley for many hours from the top of a cave. 

To have experienced the beauty of Dzukou Valley both under murky and sunny skies, and the romanticism of clouds with the hills of the valley at night was magical.  

Tip: For flowers and views of the lush green valley against the clear blue skies, May to September is the best time to visit the Dzukou Valley. It snows from December to February, too.

– Joydeep from The Gypsy Chiring

7. Whale watching in New Zealand on a scenic flight

Who doesn’t love reading short adventure stories? This one will make you want to fly to New Zealand!

Being an admirer of our ocean and the marine life in it, I have always found whales and other beings very fascinating. During the whale migratory season every year, I usually take the whale watching boats to go see them in the water. 

I have seen them mostly either by boat or from land during my coastal walks; but when I visited Kaikoura in New Zealand, I was pleasantly amazed to learn about the whale watching scenic flight experience. The pictures and videos were exciting and very convincing.

Air Kaikoura runs this experience from a local airport at Kaikoura and the 20-minute flight costs NZD150 — and is completely worth it, as you follow migrating spem whales and see them from a bird’s eye view.

The experience of seeing such a huge mammal in its natural habitat as if you were a fly on the wall is something that can only be felt.

During the flight journey, one can also see other marine animals such as rays and dolphins — and, in fact, I saw many dolphin pods during my ride. Undoubtedly, this has been one of the coolest things I have done in New Zealand.

Tip: Even though the experience can be done throughout the year, the best time is in the winter season between the months of June and August. You’ll absolutely go home with some amazing adventure travel stories to share with friends after this experience! Whether you’re traveling solo in NZ or with friends, definitely add this to your itinerary.

– Raksha from SoloPassport

8. Climbing Mayan Pyramids in Yucatan, Mexico

For a truly adventurous Mexico travel experience, head to the Yucatan Peninsula to climb some Mayan pyramids.

While there are ancient ruins all over Mexico, they are somewhat spread out; however, in the Yucatan, there are many not far from one another.

Located in the center of the Yucatan, the colorful, colonial city of Merida is a great home base to explore ruins. There are so many things to do in Merida including a visit to the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins, the closest ruins to the city which are located in a Mexican national park.

Besides Dzibilchaltun (pronounced zee-bee-shall-tune), there’s Chichen Itza — one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though you can’t climb any pyramids there, Chichen Itza is still a highlight for many.

A bit more off the beaten path, there’s also Uxmal (pronounced yoush-mall), a UNESCO World Heritage Site similar in scale and importance to Chichen Itza, though you can climb the pyramids there.

Not far from Tulum, the Coba Ruins site is another great option. Located in the Yucatan jungle, Coba is a complete Mayan city where many rent a bike for the day to explore it all. The main pyramid, called Nohoch Mol or Ixmoja, is the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan that you can climb.

Another great Tulum day trip is to visit the nearby Ek-Balam Ruins. With elaborate stone carvings of giant masks throughout the site and pyramids you can climb, this is among the best off-the-beaten-path ruins sites in Mexico.

With about 200 public Mayan archeological sites throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, there are other great less-visited sites. These include Kohunlich Ruins near Bacalar Lagoon, Mayapan Ruins near Merida, Becan Ruins in Campeche, and the San Miguelito Ruins in Cancun.

Tip: Arrive at the ruins as early as you can! Many Mexico archeological sites have been cleared of trees and have no shaded areas, so it gets very hot. Arriving early means not climbing pyramids in the midday sun and also avoiding the crowds.

-Shelley from Travel to Merida

9. Horseback riding on a black sand beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Vieques, a tiny island off the east coast of Puerto Rico, is known for having some of the best beaches in the world; however, on the south shore of Vieques, a unique-looking beach with black sand exists.

There are only two ways to get to this secluded beach — hiking through the bushes following the muddy stream or horseback riding through the lush tropical forest down to Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach).

The Viequenses love their Paso Finos — a breed of horse prized for their gait. The moment you exit the airport, the horses are the first to greet you and you will see them roaming freely all over the island.  

The gait of the Paso Fino is smooth, comfortable, and perfect for all riding levels, including kids. And horseback riding allows for adventure, fitness, fresh air, and sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone.

Moreover, it also allows you to travel off the beaten path and go to places inaccessible by car or foot. 

So, what is adventure travel?

Well, I can say that riding through the lush tropical forest past sugar mill ruins down the trail to Playa Negra is only the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. 

Once your horse steps off the path onto the beach, you’ll take in the panoramic view of the crystal blue Caribbean ocean. The golden sand mixed with shiny black volcanic material with the backdrop of a rocky cliff is shocking and dramatic, and you will feel like you are at the end of the earth.

Riding the Paso Finos is mainly slow and steady but occasionally speeds up to a moderate speed called Paso Corto. But, if you are a more advanced rider, there is no better place in the world to experience cantering on horseback down the beach.

Tips: Here are a few pieces of advice for planning your Paso Fino experience on Playa Negra in Vieques.

• Reserve through Esperanza Riding Company — the tours are perfect for inexperienced riders, kids, and experienced equestrians, too.
• With temperatures averaging between 73 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, the perfect time to ride is anytime.
• Wear closed-toed shoes. Long pants are great, too, but not necessary.
• Plan on getting a little wet and maybe muddy.
• Know that helmets are mandatory.
• Use sunscreen and bug repellent.
• Bring your camera; you won’t want to miss the photo opportunity of a lifetime.

– Jenny from TravelingPartyof4

10. Completing the 9-day “O” trek in Torres del Paine

Once upon a time, a naive group of budget travelers thought it’d be cool to hike the famous “O” Trek in Torres del Paine in southern Chilean Patagonia. The trek takes nine days (give or take) depending on your experience. 

We had no experience. 

In fact, my wife had never even hiked, slept in a tent, or even been camping in her entire life. She had no idea what I had signed her up for.

As good budget travelers do, we cut costs wherever possible. Instead of renting backpacking gear as most people do, I thought my regular travel backpack would suffice.

Instead of paying extra for expensive lightweight backpacking meals, we bought cheap tuna, pasta, and other heavy canned goods. 

And our biggest mistake, instead of calculating how many meals we needed to fuel four long-distance hikers for nine days (which, if you’re wondering, is 4 people x 3 meals x 9 days = 108 meals), we just filled up our grocery cart and called it good.

Thanks to improper gear and heavy food, our backs were killing us on the first few days. Our genius solution?

Throw common sense to the wind and eat like kings to lighten the load!

This brilliant idea came back to bite us around Day 5 when the food “magically” disappeared. At our lowest point, our lunch — the meal meant to fuel an afternoon of heavy hiking — consisted of a handful of plain mashed potatoes and an apple…

…split between four people!

Fortunately, some of the camps on the last days of the trek sold food, so we survived. Still, it was a rough couple of days, and I swear I saw my wife eyeing my meaty thighs and licking her lips at one point.

Despite our struggles, it was an adventure of a lifetime, and I wouldn’t trade our experience for the world.  

So, while I love the saying, “Adventure starts where plans end,” when it comes to the O trek (or any multi-day trek) some planning is probably a wise move.

Tips: For one, if you don’t have a real backpacking backpack, rent one. Don’t be cheap like I was — your body will thank you for it.

Second, don’t just take what you think looks like a lot of food. Instead, calculate every meal. And again, don’t be cheap like I was. Even if the dried backpacking meals are pricey, they are 100% worth it. Turns out, cans of tuna and beans aren’t fun to lug around on your back for days at a time. 

– Mitch Glass from Project Untethered

11. Hiking Mount Etna 

One of our top-pick short story travel adventures takes place in Mount Etna, Italy.

Hiking Mount Etna has to be high on any bucket list when road tripping Sicily. Etna is the largest and most active of Italy’s three live volcanoes and last erupted in February 2021!

But don’t let that put you off! The volcanologists who monitor the site always know when Etna is planning to let the world know she’s still got it!

This is not a hike for the faint-hearted — you don’t need any special skills but you do need determination and a degree of fitness to get to the top at 3,350 meters (10,991 feet).

That being said, you don’t need to climb all that way from sea-level — from the main car park at Rifugio Sapienza you’ll take the cable car to a station half-way up the volcano. Once there, you’ll hop on a specially designed 4×4 bus which takes you even higher. 

The final leg that you have to hike will take a couple of hours and you’ll gain about 400 meters (1,312 feet) in elevation. You’ll spend a lot of time traversing over ash and old lava fields, with heat from deep in the earth radiating up around you. 

The summit surrounding the main crater is like a moon-scape; you’re above the clouds here and it’s eerily quiet, other than the long, low rumbles of magma coming from the craters, of which there are five!

You may also feel really cold at the top — there is often some snow and ice year-round, so even though you’ve got the world’s most efficient heated floor under you, the air can be freezing due to the altitude.

Standing on the edge of the crater looking down is pretty awe-inspiring. This opening into the earth is vast, full of sulphur gas swirling, heat rising, and magma spitting. As you look in, take a moment to appreciate just how insignificant you are compared to Mother Nature!

Coming down is easier but just as interesting, as you’ll walk between two crater edges on a narrow path, take huge leaps through soft ash, and finally arrive back at your 4×4 bus ready to take you back down to civilization.

Tip: You must book a guided hike if you want to get to Mount Etna’s summit. There are no signed routes or marked paths, and the best way up can change daily as the mountain moves. 

Sulphurous gasses are also a danger, especially on windy days and Etna’s guides are trained to help you stay safe as you head for the summit of one of Europe’s top hikes.

-Phil and Izzy from The Gap Decaders

12. Backcountry camping in Zion National Park

Hiking and backcountry camping along the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park continues to stand out as one of the best outdoor adventures my husband and I have shared together.

The natural beauty, breathtaking views, and opportunity to feel completely alone in one of the United States‘ most popular national parks really solidified the entire experience for us.

Starting at the Grotto trailhead along the main road in Zion, our hike involved climbing 6.6 miles to the top of the western plateau of Zion Canyon and gaining 3,100 feet of elevation. 

Our route passed through the notoriously difficult Walter’s Wiggles and went far above Angel’s Landing. It was a challenging, muscle-burning, and overall exhausting climb — especially with all of our camping gear, food, and water loaded up in our backpacks.

However, the higher we climbed the better the views became, and the more we felt that the effort was worth every step. By the time we reached the top, the West Rim Trail had completely exceeded all of our expectations. 

The incredible views overlooking Zion’s magnificent canyons, the unique desert rocks, landscapes, and wildlife –not to mention the magical feeling of being on top of the world while standing at the rim of the plateau — made us forget about all the sweat and exertion it took to get to the top.

In total, it took us six hours to reach our campsite and we arrived with just enough time to set up our tent, prepare some instant noodles for dinner, and watch the sunset from the rim of the plateau. 

We spent the remainder of the night relaxing and watching the sky transition from brilliant orange to multiple shades of deep, dark blues and gazing at the stars in the clear sky. It was the perfect way to end the day.

Tips: The West Rim Trail can be hiked as a backpacking overnight or as an out-and-back day hike depending on your experience and fitness level.

For anyone looking to hike the West Rim Trail, we highly recommend stopping at the ranger stations for updates on trail conditions, weather, and advice before heading out on the trail.

If you’re planning to camp overnight, you’ll also need to stop at Zion’s backcountry office to secure your backcountry permits in advance of your trip!

-Stephanie from Travanie Travels

13. Hiking the Binongan Trail in the Philippines’ Abra Province

The Binongan Trail is a three-to-four day hike from Vira — the main town in Tineg — to the village of Poblacion in the Lacub municipality summiting two mountains along the way. The Binongan River is one of the main river arteries in Abra.

Leaving Vira behind we began hiking through the grasslands of the Apao Rolling Hills, following trails that have been used for centuries by the local villagers.

Our destination: the village of Apao, where we stopped for lunch before an exhilarating climb to the summit and campsite of Mt Pisusok at 1,124 meters (3,688 feet). Here, we had wonderful 360-degree views of Abra. 

Rising early for sunrise and the traverse hike to Mt Bangseg, known locally as the Black Rock Mountain, we had our first sight of the meandering Binongan River below. 

Upon reaching the river — which we had to wade across sometimes waist-deep — the cool water was so inviting that once we safely reached the other bank we swam and played around for a while before continuing on our way.

Our target for the day was the village of Lablabinag, a three-hour hike away, where we arrived just before dark.

Lablabi Nag is a very small village, more of a hamlet really, with just 11 houses. The village chief welcomed us and showed us an empty house where we would be staying for the night, while the women prepared our evening meal.

The next morning the village chief invited us to join their golden carp fishing party. January is the best time to be around for this as the carp make their way back downstream to spawn.

Every man had a role to play. There were “spotters” high up on the rocks whose job was to spot the golden carp and yell the location to the fishermen in the water. With their spear guns in hand, they quickly dove into the clear waters and most times came up triumphantly. 

They were exceptional swimmers and it was fascinating watching their expertise.

For me, this really was the highlight of the trip and an insight into the lives of villagers in a remote area of the Philippines.

We were treated to a delicious golden carp lunch before sadly leaving the kind people of Lablabi Nag behind and hiking three hours along this gorgeous river to Lacub where our Jeepney was waiting.

To this day, this is one of my favorite adventure short stories to share.

Tip: The best time to hike this trail is during the cooler months from November to February. You will pass through several small villages along the way. Pack a few bags of sweets to share with the children and you will make instant friends!

The most important thing is to enjoy the hike, do it slowly, and appreciate the wonderful scenery and people along the way.

-Dave from Silver Backpacker

14. Camping in Australia’s Outback

There is no bigger adventure than going on a camping trip in the Australian Outback.

Only the coastal areas of Australia are densely populated. The center is mostly a desert region that mainly consists of vast farmlands and bare regions. 

The roads are mostly unsealed and in some areas, there is absolutely nothing for hundreds or even thousands of kilometers. 

Crossing the Outback is not an easy task and taking the appropriate gear is extremely important. 

In 2017 we drove from north to south in Australia driving across thousands of kilometers of desert land. Instead of a Four Wheel Drive truck, we were driving a 1994 Toyota camper van with a broken AC and a dodgy battery. 

If you drove more than 50 kilomters-per-hour the side mirrors would flap in because the wind was too strong against the old screws of the van. Since there was no AC we had to drive with the windows down — but in the desert that means lots and lots of sand. 

Every night we’d have to clean out the entire inside of the van and the sand got so bad that the lock of the back door would jam and would have to be disassembled so it could open again.

It took more than a week to cross the Outback and we saw more kangaroos, emus, dingos, and camels than you can imagine. It was a magical trip. The landscapes of the Australian Outback are absolutely fascinating and so different than anything most tourists experience.

The people living in these remote areas are very sociable and welcoming towards travelers. I made so many friends during this time who I will never forget.

Tip: A trip through the Australian Outback is no joke though and shouldn’t be underestimated. Always make sure you have the right equipment and are carrying enough food and water to sustain yourself for at least a week in case you break down. It’s a dangerous landscape so don’t take any risks.

-Victoria from Guide your Travel

15. Hiking the Iceland Interior

The very name “Iceland” emanates adventure and beckons the explorer in all of us.

As soon as you leave Reykjavík you are in a boundless wonderland of rugged coasts, dramatic cliffs drenched in waterfalls, and a wilderness at once inviting and foreboding. 

The reality is, Iceland has been subdued to a large extent to accommodate a growing number of visitors each year. And while even the tourist attractions are worth a visit, some of us want a little more adventure. 

Fortunately, Iceland has that covered, too. While the outer edge of the island is conveniently connected by well-paved roads, Icelanders have left generous portions unpaved and untamed. 

The result is the Highlands in Iceland’s Interior. Cut off from the rest of the island by a foreboding river crossing, only the skilled guide or the foolhardy traveler would dare cross. 

Either way, you’ll be in great company if you make it. 

Beware that your insurance won’t cover your normal car rental in the river, so cross at your own risk. A much drier and more economical way across is to have a guide pick you up in a Land Rover.

Barreling down the two-track you seem to be heading further into the badlands. Surrounded now by towering volcanoes, the tracks disappear into a raging river. 

Just when you think there is no way you are going in there, your driver locks into 4WD-Low Range and points the nose into the river. 

As the water climbs higher, you begin to realize just how deep this torrent is. You can see it’s over the bumper, then the tires. You look out the side door and the water is just cresting at the bottom of the window. Talk about an adventurous trip story!

At this moment you are depending on the little contact of your four wheels to keep your grip, a small snorkel to keep the engine running, and the hope that you got the right driver. Even though he’s smiling, you can’t help but feel uneasy. 

Soon enough though he has adeptly maneuvered the truck through the current and you are now on the other side. Or rather, in the middle of two rivers. 

But I will tell you, the second crossing is even more fun! Now you’re all smiling, on your way to what was calling you in the first place: a backcountry adventure. 

Soon you arrive at your destinati: a small compound with the conveniences of a hostel, the luxuries of glamping, or a campground you can settle into for a couple of days. 

Days that you will spend hiking among some (hopefully) dormant volcanoes including Katla, Eldgjá, Vatnafjöll, Laki, and Eyjafjallajökull, which last erupted in 2010.

Among the volcanoes, you will find a labyrinth of trails. You are at the intersection of two main hiking arteries: the Fimmvörðuháls and the Landmannalaugar trails.

Both of these are long-distance trails and offer an alternative to driving in. Which is an adventure in its own right. But why would you want to miss that river crossing?

Tips: If you are inspired to try this yourself, go-between mid-September and late October. These months offer the best of all worlds: smaller crowds for more seclusion and longer nights for more chances of seeing the Northern Lights. 

And the earlier sunset gives you an excuse to knock off early after an exhilarating but exhausting day exploring the Highlands of Iceland. 

– Steve from Maps Over Coffee

16. Hiking the Tongariro Crossing in winter

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the best hikes in New Zealand. Located on the country’s North Island in Tongariro National Park, this trail intersects an awe-inspiring landscape of mountain peaks, dazzling lakes, and active volcanoes.

It’s no wonder that the Lord of the Rings film franchise chose this location for Mordor, and you can spot Mount Doom — or Mount Ngauruhoe as it’s more formally known — rising up like a rocky gatekeeper. 

In summer, the Tongariro Crossing is a popular trail for hiking enthusiasts, but in winter, it’s a different ball game. The highest points of the trail are covered in a blanket of snow. It’s an otherworldly scene that makes you think you’re on the surface of the moon. 

Winter also makes the trail more intrepid. The weather is unpredictable and without the right equipment or knowledge, it can get dangerous. 

I was coming to the end of my New Zealand trip and decided to do the Tongariro Crossing as a last hurrah. But there was a problem. It was winter and I wasn’t an experienced hiker. 

I arrived at the nearby town of Taupo and told my hostel of my intentions. They said they could set me up with a specialist group tour guide that would give me the equipment I needed and take me across the trail. I just needed to wait for good weather to make sure it was safe.

Luckily, I had some flexibility. 

A few days later, it was time. I was picked up and kitted out. We began our ascent through the park, passing lava flows and wheezing up the steep Devil’s Staircase until we reached snow-topped craters. 

We learned how to catch ourselves with ice axes — fun, and necessary in case you slipped off the edge — and hoicked ourselves up wind-blasted ridges with crampons strapped to our feet until at last, we made it to the top. We stopped for lunch before following the trail to the end where refreshments were waiting. 

Hiking the Tongariro Crossing in winter wasn’t easy, but it was certainly an experience I will never forget. The scenery alone was jaw-dropping, to say the least. It was just you and the elements up there. 

Tip: To do this hike in winter, I recommend giving yourself some flexibility as you might have to wait for the weather to be safe enough. Always go with a reputable tour guide too. 

– Francesca from Little Lost Travel

17. Exploring the backcountry of Algonquin Provincial Park

After having graduated from high school, I wanted to spend a week exploring the backcountry of Algonquin Provincial Park. This region of Ontario in Canada is famous for its tranquil lakes, stunning forests, and diverse wildlife. 

I had decided to go on this trip by myself because I wanted to spend some time alone to reconnect with nature.

So, I got out my 60L Osprey backpack and filled it to the top with my tent, my sleeping bag, camping stove, hiking shoes, and lots of food. The plan was to hike the 70-kilometer (44-mile) Western Upland Backpacking Loop in seven days, which is pretty manageable.

I wanted to get more distance at the beginning when my legs were still fresh. On the first day, I hiked for 22 kilometers (14 miles) and everything went well.

Although I was optimistic, I was also a bit skeptical because something always goes wrong on trips like these — plus I was hiking alone. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case and I had a total blast.

The sky was clear and the sun was out that entire week. One thing I always like to do is camp near a lake so I can swim in the afternoons — which is why I also packed a pool noodle!

Actually, I hiked through the loop so quickly that the last few days I barely had any distance left. This meant I got to relax with a book by myself while immersed in nature.

There was a lot of doubt from my parents as to whether or not I could backpack by myself, but I think I proved to them that I could do it. It was an unforgettable experience and I will definitely return to Algonquin for more.  

Tip: Having said that, if I were to redo the same trip again, I would definitely go in the fall. When I did my hike in early June, the bugs were quite annoying in some places. I have seen photos of the gorgeous Algonquin fall foliage before so I can only imagine what they’d look like in person.

-John from Your Destination is Everywhere

Adventure Tourism Travel Insurance

When embarking on an adventure, make sure to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Bonus Short Travel Stories Collections:

25 Crazy Travel Stories You Need To Read To Believe

23 Inspiring Travel Stories Sharing The Kindness Of Strangers

16 Short Funny Travel Stories That Will Make You Laugh Out Loud

38 Inspiring Travel Love Stories From The Road

21 Travel Horror Stories Sharing Scary Travel Experiences

8 Crazy NYC Subway Stories That Will Make You Hail A Cab

A Host’s Perspective: My Worst Airbnb Horror Stories

11 Epic Travel Fail Stories From The Road

18 Scary Travel Stories From Haunted Hotels To Creepy Cabins

What true short adventure travel stories would you add to this list?

Enjoyed this list of travel adventure stories in English? Pin it for later!

If you dream of Sierra Nevada hiking, particularly climbing Mount Whitney in one day, then you’re in the right place.

Conquering the highest peak in the lower 48 is totally possible, as long as you have the right amount of preparation and knowledge.

And the best part:

You can do it in just a day!

High in the Eastern Sierras sits the snow-capped Mount Whitney that towers at 14,505 feet above sea level.

In recent years, Mount Whitney has become incredibly popular among hikers who want to earn the bragging right of summiting the highest mountain in the continental USA.

And although it’s a challenging hike, you don’t need any mountaineering skills.

Pro tip: Before going hiking, make sure to download the AllTrails app to have trail guides, maps, photos, and reviews right at your finger tips. You can also sign up for a free trial of AllTrails+ to download offline maps, get alerts for wrong turns, find trails by distance from you, and more!

Climbing Mount Whitney In One Day: What You Need To Know

Taking on the famous hike to Mount Whitney — one of the best hikes in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and one of the best treks in the world —requires a permit.

Permits are awarded on a random basis through a special lottery that takes place every year and costs $15 per person to apply.

Thousands of people apply for a permit, however, only a small number of hikers are allowed to be on the Mount Whitney trail per day, as officials try to spare it from overcrowding.

You can apply for a permit online during a specific time frame. It opens early February and closes late March.

Want to try your luck and get on a trail without a permit?

I don’t recommend it. If you get stopped by a ranger, you will be fined and asked to turn around.

Rangers patrol the trail regularly, so make sure to display your permit at all times by affixing it to your clothing.

You can find out more about Mount Whitney permits here.

You can pick up your permit a day or two before your Mount Whitney hike.

Important note:

You can do it only at Eastern Sierra InterAgency Visitor Center located at the intersection of Highway 395 and State Route 136 just south of Lone Pine, the gateway to Mount Whitney.

The center is open from 8am to 5pm daily; however, if you are running late, you can call ahead of your visit and ask them to leave your permit in the night box near the office.

After you get your Mount Whitney permit, it’s time to start planning your adventure.

Where is Mount Whitney?

Mount Whitney is located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains along Highway 395 in the middle of the arid Owens Valley. It’s actually a popular stop on many road trips in the USA and is a fun addition to a California road trip.

The closest town to Mount Whitney is Lone Pine, California. Here you’ll be reminded more of the rugged American West than of the Pacific Coast that makes California so famous.

Lone Pine is a gateway to Mount Whitney and attracts a lot of hikers and mountaineers because the entire area is an outdoor adventure paradise.

For this reason, hotels in Lone Pine are often booked up for months, so make your reservation early if you plan on climbing Mount Whitney in one day.

Click here to search for available hotels in Lone Pine.

Or use this widget:

Besides summiting Mount Whitney, popular things to do in Lone Pine include rock climbing in the iconic Alabama Hills, taking photos of the gorgeous alpine lakes throughout Owens Valley, and enjoying some of the best Sierra Nevada hiking.

As you can see, this is a hotspot for active adventures.

But, here’s the shocker:

Although Mount Whitney sits along a popular travel route, many who visit California are unaware of this gem.

Just to give you an idea, the popular Death Valley National Park is located just over 100 miles from Lone Pine.

While many travelers make their way from Las Vegas to Death Valley and further for a trip to Yosemite National Park (home to the stunning Sentinel Dome to Glacier Point trail, Mist Trail hike, and the Columbia Rock Trail), Sequoia National Park (where you’ll find the stunning Lakes Trail), and San Francisco, few of them know that you can hike a portion of the Whitney Portal National Recreation Trail that does not require a permit.

This 5.6-mile roundtrip hike culminates at the stunning Lone Pine Lake that sits among the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada.

The trail begins at the Whitney Portal parking lot and climbs over 1,000 feet in a short 1.5 miles. It’s a good way to get a taste of the Mount Whitney adventure if you weren’t lucky enough to get a permit.

Just remember:

Going past Lone Pine Lake does require a permit, which is important to keep in mind if you plan a shorter hike to Lone Pine Lake via the Whitney Portal National Recreation Trail.

The Best Time To Climb Mount Whitney

Because of its location high in the mountains, there are only a certain number of months when you can hike Mount Whitney.

In terms of the best time to hike Mt Whitney, consider this:

Even early in the summer season, the trail might have snow and ice on it, so it’s better to plan your trip for August or even early September.

That’s when you have the best chance to avoid dealing with snow and ice on a trail.

Mount Whitney Hike Preparation

Now let’s get to some serious stuff:

Hiking Mount Whitney in a day is not the same as walking in your local park, so there are a few things that you need to know before you embark on your adventure.

As the trail has become very popular in recent years, it has been attracting hikers of all levels, not all of whom are well prepared or equipped for this challenge.

Unfortunately, there have also been a few fatalities on Mount Whitney, as ill-equipped hikers try to make their way to the top through the ice and snow or keep going up despite exhibiting symptoms of altitude sickness.

With that in mind, here is what you need to do if you plan on hiking Mt Whitney in one day:

1. Get training at a high elevation

If you have never hiked at a high altitude, you must get your bearings on it before you attempt hiking Mount Whitney in one day.

Your level of preparation can make the difference between getting to the top of Mount Whitney and having to turn around, so you need to take it seriously.

For starters, try to do some cardio. Use a treadmill or a StairMaster to train your body for this strenuous hike. Exercise regularly ahead of your hike, and you will have a better chance of getting to the summit.

If you want to get a bit more serious with your training, try to summit a couple of high altitude peaks.

Or, if you live in a place that doesn’t have any mountains, you can take a trip to a place like Colorado — home to the highest number of 14ers, or mountains with an elevation higher than 14,000 mountains — and attempt some of the hikes there to see how your body adapts to it.

For instance, if you’re looking for things to do in Vail there are a number of 14ers within driving distance, as well as near to Aspen, Colorado. Moreover, a good option when you’re visiting Denver is Grays Peak, located about two hours from the capital city.

If you need some advice on what places to visit in Colorado for your training, check out this local bucket list guide.

2. Bring plenty of water and food on your hike

I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to hydrate during this strenuous hike.

The Mount Whitney day hike is challenging not only physically but also emotionally, as you will have to conquer your fears and your doubts.

This Sierra Nevada trail will be a real test for your physical fitness, as you may want to turn around after your legs start to feel like they are about to give in and your head gets dizzy from the heights below you.

As you keep going up, your body will lose a lot of water, so you should have more than enough water in your backpack.

Pro tip:

It’s important to make frequent stops along your way to hydrate and eat snacks. If you need information on how much water you should consume while hiking, you might want to read this article.

If you don’t want to lug all the water to the top, there are plenty of spots to refill it along the way. You can use a refill bladder — like this one or like this one —  to make it easier to carry.

3. Listen to your body

Sometimes, you have to turn around. Yes, it’s disappointing, but it can save your life.

Above I mentioned that there have been some deaths on the trail up Mount Whitney. This typically happens when hikers overestimate their abilities and keep pushing themselves to the top, even when they have all signs of altitude sickness.

There have also been instances of hikers needing to be flown out by medical helicopters. This is not cheap and you don’t want to become part of that statistic.

That’s why it’s important to listen to your body.

Don’t try to run fast ahead of everybody, only to be completely beat by the time you get to the middle of the hike.

Instead, take it easy. Altitude sickness is a serious thing and it can happen at an elevation as low as 8,000 feet. Whether you prep or not, altitude sickness can affect you, and unfortunately, it can also be lethal.

Some of the common signs of altitude include:

• swelling,
• headache,
• diarrhea,
• and lightheadedness.

You don’t want to keep pushing forward, as these symptoms can get significantly worse with the higher altitude.

4. Get proper Mountain Whitney hiking gear

If climbing Mt Whitney in one day is your goal, proper gear — whether you decide to purchase or rent travel gear — is a must!

Start by putting enough sunscreen on your face. The sun is no joke at high altitudes.

Next, get comfortable hiking clothing and put on some layers. While it may be chilly early in the morning when you begin your hike, you will likely want to take off your jacket later in the day as you keep going up and get hot.

But at the summit, the weather is often cold and windy. Hats, gloves, sunglasses, and hoodies will come in very handy!

Good hiking boots with a nice grip is ultimately the part of your outfit that can make the biggest difference.

You want to wear comfortable shoes that fit you well and prevent you from slipping. Some hikers also bring poles and ice axes if they hike during months when the ice and snow still cover the trail.

One major essential for this hike:

A headlamp.

When set on the trail early in the morning, you’ll be hiking in complete darkness, making it tough to stay on the trail without any light. Make sure to do some test hiking with your headlamp before attempting it.

So to re-cap some Mountain Whitney hiking essentials, with links to quickly grab the necessary gear from Eastern Mountain Sports, a top adventure retailer:

• A quality headlamp
• Sunscreen
• Layers — click here for base layers for women and click here for base layers for men
• A hat — click here for hats for women and click here for hats for men
• Gloves
• Sunglasses
• A sweatshirt — click here for sweatshirts for women and click here for sweatshirts for men
• Quality hiking boots
• Hiking poles (optional)
• Ice axes (necessary if hiking when the Mount Whitney trail is covered in ice)

5. Get a bag for your waste

You need to pack your waste — as in, your poop — in a bag.

Yes, I’m serious. There are no bathrooms or port-a-potties on this trail and to keep it clean for everybody, you have to clean up after yourself, plain and simple.

When you pick up your permit, a special bag that’s intended exactly for this will be attached to your permit. Or you can buy one in a store ahead of your visit.

6. Check the weather

As I said above, snow is not uncommon on this trail even in the summer season.

And when it happens, you have to wear spikes or crampons and have the proper gear. That’s why it’s important to check weather conditions and ask a ranger before the hike.

What To Expect Hiking Mount Whitney In One Day

Most hikers try to do the 22-mile round-trip hike to Mount Whitney in one day. With the right amount of resources and preparation, the round-trip hike will take you between 13-16 hours.

During the hike, you’ll likely be exhausted and your legs will feel like they are about to give out, but you will have an incredible sense of accomplishment that will greatly boost your morals and help you keep going.

So let me give you a couple of details on where the trail starts and what to expect.

Because the hike takes a long time to complete, most people start it around 1am or 2am. This gives you plenty of time to get to the top, enjoy sweeping views of the Sierra Nevadas, and make your way back by 6pm or 7pm.

However, if it’s too early for you, you can also start your hike around 3pm or 4pm.

The biggest advantage of starting early is the opportunity to watch an incredible pink sunrise over the Sierras. It’s a truly majestic sight!

Some hikers camp at the Whitney Portal campground before their hike, while others stay at hotels in Lone Pine. Again you can click here to search available hotels in Lone Pine.

From where the trail begins at the parking lot of the Whitney Portal, the Mount Whitney elevation gain is over 6,100 feet throughout the entire hike. It’s a pretty significant altitude gain, so invest some time into building up some stamina before hiking Mount Whitney in a day. 

After passing the gorgeous Lone Pine Lake about 2.8 miles into the hike, you will traverse through lush forest before arriving at the spot where many travelers camp overnight. 

The hardest part of the hike is the grueling 97 switchbacks that can seriously drain your energy.

During this part, you may want to quit many times, because although switchbacks span only 2.2 miles, they climb the astounding 1,600 feet. That’s where many hikers start feeling really severe altitude sickness.

That being said, the hike to the top is worth the effort. When you get to the summit, you’ll be able to enjoy the unparalleled views of the High Sierra and finally scratch climbing Mount Whitney off your bucket list!

Reaching the Mt Whitney summit is the ultimate challenge! I know I certainly felt proud to tell others about my adventure, and I trust you will, too.

Bonus Sierra Nevada Trekking Suggestion

Mount Whitney day hike is an adventure in itself, however, if you are looking for the ultimate multi-day challenge, consider hiking the famous John Muir Trail.

This long-distance trail begins at Yosemite National Park, traverses through the Sierra Nevada in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks before ending at Mount Whitney.

Making your way to Northern California? Another recommendation is to hike the James Irvine Trail to Fern Canyon for truly spectacular scenery!

And if you’re heading south, it’s recommended to spend some time in Joshua Tree National Park to do hikes like the Lost Horse Mine Trail and Hidden Valley Nature Trail!

Renting A Car In California

The best way to explore all that California and the Sierra Nevadas have to offer is by car.

My recommendation:

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% using their tool!

California Travel Insurance

When visiting California — or anywhere else in the world — make sure to get travel insurance.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Top California Hikes

Looking to explore other California hiking trails? A few not-to-miss trails include:

Lost Horse Mine in Joshua Tree National Park

Hidden Valley Trail in Joshua Tree National Park

Ryan Mountain in Joshua Tree National Park

Mount Whitney in the Sierra Nevadas

The Lakes Trail in Sequoia National Park

One Day In Sequoia National Park: The Perfect Itinerary

James Irvine Trail to Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Sentinel Dome to Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park

Columbia Rock Trail in Yosemite National Park

Frequently asked questions about the Mt Whitney hike

Q) Can I hike Mt Whitney in a day?

Yes, it is possible to hike Mt Whitney in a day.

Q) What is the elevation of Mount Whitney?

The elevation of Mount Whitney is 14,505 feet (4,421 m).

Q) When is the best time to hike Mount Whitney?

The best times to hike Mount Whitney are from late July to early September.

Do you have any advice on completing the Mt Whitney hike in one day?

Looking to experience Rome solo travel for yourself, but need some help with the planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

Rome can be a beguiling city. It’s big, bustling, and buzzing activity. As the second-most popular destination in Europe (after Paris), Rome is brimming with tourists every summer who come to feast, explore, and live la bella vita.

The Italian capital is ancient, home to numerous iconic monuments and offering layers upon layers of history.

According to legend, the city was founded in 753 BCE by the twin brothers Romulus and Remus. The pair, who were raised by a she-wolf, decided to build a city together… until Romulus killed his brother in an argument and claimed the city for himself (hence the name “Rome”).

Around 10 million people visit the Eternal City every year, which means the city is more than familiar with travelers of every interest and budget. As part of such a well-worn tourist trail, Rome is a perfect destination for solo travelers. There’s a ton to see and do (and eat) here — all of which you can enjoy on your own.

This guide to solo travel in Rome will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this amazing metropolis. It’s based on my own experience visiting Rome countless times, and I’m excited to share my favorite places and best tips with you.

Let’s dive into this solo travel Rome guide!

Rome Solo Travel Top Picks:
Short on time? Here are some recommendations for your solo trip to Rome:

Accommodation:
–The Beehive
–Hostel Trastevere
Click here for a list of hotels in Rome

Experiences:
–EatWith (for food tours & culinary experiences)
–Ancient Rome at Twilight Walking Tour
–Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel Guided Tour
Click her for a full list of tours in Rome

Safety: While Rome is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials. One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves.

Confidently Enjoy Rome Solo Travel [Free Course]

But first, before we discuss how to have an amazing trip traveling to Rome alone, here is an invite to grab a seat in Jessie’s free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course.

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• Tips for taking amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve grabbed your seat, read on to dive into the solo travel guide.

Where Is Rome?

Italy is a large boot-shaped peninsula that juts out into the Mediterranean Sea. The Adriatic Sea lies to the east and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west. The northern border is marked by the Alps, which stand sentry against Switzerland and Austria.

Rome is situated in central Italy. It’s the capital of Lazio, an under-appreciated region that offers amazing cuisine and charming medieval hill towns. Rome is not technically a seaside city, but it’s only about 15 miles from the coastline.

Why Rome Is A Great Destination For Solo Travelers

Is solo travel fun? Is Rome good for solo travel? Absolutely! There’s so much to see and do in Rome. History buffs, foodies, language students, partiers, and art lovers will all find plenty of unforgettable experiences.

The city sees millions of visitors each year, so it’s easy to navigate and get off the beaten path as a solo traveler.

Rome is also very safe. Of course, you should be mindful of petty theft and always keep your valuables secure and out of reach to avoid pickpockets, but visitors don’t need to be perpetually on guard.

A little common sense goes a long way, making it a fun and safe choice for travelers (including women looking to have a Rome solo female travel experience).

Arriving In Rome

Almost every visitor to Rome arrives via the Termini Railway Station — not just because nearly every Rome-bound train stops here, but because the one to and from the main airport, Fiumicino (or, more officially, Leonardo Da Vinci), goes to Termini. The 32-minute ride — called the Leonardo Express — costs 14 EUR. Trains leave every 30 minutes.

If you want to save money, there are also several buses that go from Fiumicino to Termini, costing 5-9 EUR for a one-way ticket. Keep in mind, though, that the travel time is highly dependent on traffic and can take up to an hour during busy periods.

On the other end of the spectrum, a taxi from Fiumicino has a fixed rate of 48 EUR, which isn’t cheap if you’re traveling solo so I’d avoid this option if you’re on a budget.

Rome’s other airport, Ciampino, is mostly served by European budget airlines. If you’re arriving there, you can get to Termini via the Ciampino Airlink train. The signs for it will lead you to a bus, which will then take you to the train. The entire journey takes about an hour and only costs 2.70 EUR.

The flat rate fare for a taxi from Ciampino costs 30 EUR, which again, is a lot if you’re not splitting it with someone.

Getting Around Rome As A Solo Traveler

Public transportation – Rome has an extensive public transportation network consisting of buses, a subway (metro), trams, and trolleys.

The metro is the fastest way to get around town. There are three lines; a single-journey ticket that’s valid for 75 minutes costs 1.50 EUR. You can pick up tickets from local tobacco shops, newsstands, and vending machines at the stations.

One of the issues with the subway in Rome, however, is that the lines essentially avoid the city center. If you’re going to a central location, you’re going to have to walk or take a taxi or bus for part of the journey, the latter of which are susceptible to constant traffic jams. Like the subway, bus tickets are also 1.50 EUR.

If you’re going to be using public transportation a lot, you can purchase a one-day pass for unlimited travel on all forms of public transit for 6 EUR. A one-week pass costs 24 EUR and you can also get a three-day tourist pass for 16.50 EUR.

Taxis – Taxis are very expensive here, so I don’t recommend taking them for Rome solo travel. The meter starts at 3 EUR during the day and 6.50 EUR at night. It then goes up 1.20 EUR per kilometer. Avoid them at all costs!

Uber is available in Rome, and it’s usually cheaper than taxis. That said, it’s still not super cheap, so skip Uber too!

Bike rental – Bicycling around Rome may seem a little scary, what with the high volume of traffic (and the hills), but there are bike lanes around the city center that make it doable. Bike rentals start at 14-20 EUR per day.

Scooter-sharing programs – There are a handful of new scooter-sharing programs in Rome if you want to take the risk. Find a scooter on the street, download the app for that particular company, register, and then scoot your way around town. It usually costs around 1 EUR for the scooter and then .15 EUR per minute.

Car rental – The traffic in Rome is absolutely terrible, so I would avoid renting a car here. Even if you’re leaving the city, it will still be a nightmare to get around and find parking. Skip the car rentals!

Where To Eat In Rome As A Solo Traveler

In a culture that embraces eating together, going to a restaurant alone can be an alienating experience.

But there’s hope, because if you go to a crowded, sought-after restaurant in Rome, servers will often put you at a table with other diners. This is a great way to meet people for travelers not comfortable just showing up and eating solo.

A classic example is Da Enzo. This restaurant in Trastevere is so good that, while it used to be mostly patronized by locals, now it’s pretty much in every guidebook.

Every night there’s a queue of mostly foreign tourists, so if you’re dining solo here, you’re pretty much assured that you’re going to be sharing a table with other diners. If you want to meet other travelers, swap travel stories, share dining recommendations, or whatever, eating at a place like Da Enzo should be on your list.

Another good solo dining tip is to hit the aperitivo (an Italian version of happy hour) in the early evening. This started in Venice and then spread to other northern Italian metropolises like Milan, Turin, and Bologna before working its way southward. In the last decade or so, it’s hit Rome too.

At participating bars in the early evening — usually starting around 7pm — patrons buy a glass of wine or a cocktail (at slightly inflated prices), which opens the door to a room filled with an all-you-can-eat bounty of Italian deliciousness: huge wheels of cheese, mountains of sliced salumi, bowls of olives, baskets of fresh bread. Some places even serve pasta. All for the price of one drink!

Best Places To Stay In Rome For Solo Travelers

There are a couple of nice neighborhoods in Rome that are particularly well suited for the solo traveler.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Rome for solo travellers:

Trastevere

Literally translated as “Across the Tiber River,” this ancient neighborhood is ambience to the nth degree.

The narrow, curvy lanes are flanked by atmospheric cafés, bars, and restaurants. For as long as anyone can remember, it’s been one of the best places to go out once the sun descends upon the horizon.

Its nightlife makes this a great area for the solo traveler to stay in. It’s safe, central, and there are always people out on the streets. And it’s relatively easy to meet other travelers here too (if that’s what you’re looking for).

Hostel Trastevere is my favorite hostel in this part of town. It offers a cheap buffet breakfast, fast Wi-Fi, and AC when it gets hot. The bunks are basic, and some of the top ones don’t have railings; however, they’re comfy enough, and the dorms don’t feel crowded. There’s a bar on-site too, and the hostel is close to grocery stores and public transit.

San Lorenzo

If you want to stay somewhere with a student vibe, head to San Lorenzo, near the Sapienza University and walking distance east of the city center. The neighborhood was bombed heavily in World War II and was never rebuilt quite as well as other areas, but what San Lorenzo lacks in prettiness it makes up for with fun.

There are lots of shopping options both for new Italian fashion and vintage clothes, tasty cheap pizza, and cool bars. Head to the Via dei Volsci and Via dei Sabelli to see where the young people of Rome enjoy a night out.

The Beehive is my favorite hostel for Rome solo travel. It’s super chill and laid-back, with a mix of dorms and private rooms, and the owners go out of their way to make you feel welcome. There’s a café on-site that serves an organic breakfast (not included) with homemade bread, homemade croissants, and fresh bagels. The hostel also organizes weekly events (like cooking classes) and communal dinners (for a donation) using seasonal produce, to make it easier to socialize.

For more hostel suggestions, here is a list of the best hostels in Rome.

And for a list of the best areas to stay in Rome.

Top 5 Things To Do On A Solo Trip To Rome

If you are wondering what to do in Rome alone, you will be glad to hear that there are many things to see and do. You could literally spend years here and still not see everything. That said, there are a few highlights that every solo traveler will want to see during their visit:

The Colosseum

At nearly 2,000 years old, the iconic and photogenic Flavian Amphitheater was built around 70 CE and was the largest amphitheater in the entire Roman Empire (it could hold 50,000 people).

Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the Forum and Palatine Hill — but the lines are long.

To beat the crowds, head to the kiosk at nearby Palatine Hill. It’s far less busy so you can buy your ticket here and then stroll past the herd of people in the Colosseum queue.

There are also tours that include the Colosseum, many of which allow you to skip the line.

The Vatican

While technically a different city than Rome (in fact, its own country), the Vatican shouldn’t be missed. Stop by to see the home of the Pope, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel. Even if you’re not religious, it shouldn’t be missed. Tickets are 17 EUR.

Keep in mind that tourists begin lining up at 7am for the 9am opening and the line eventually winds through the streets.

To beat the crowds here, go explore other parts of Rome in the morning, have a nice lunch somewhere and then, around 2pm, head to the Vatican museums. There will be no ticket line, and you can walk right in.

Sure, you’ll only get a few hours of viewing (it closes at 6 pm) but that’s more than enough time to see many of the treasures the Vatican has to offer.

Alternatively, there are a number of tours and fast-track tickets you can purchase beforehand for an increased price.

The Pantheon

Emperor Hadrian built this temple around 1,900 years ago, over Agrippa’s earlier temple. It was later converted to a Catholic church and today, it’s by far one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in the world. Entry is free.

Trevi Fountain

The 18th-century Trevi Fountain is one of Rome’s iconic sights — which is why it’s always crowded. The best time to see this beautiful fountain is before breakfast, when the crowds are thin. That way, you can snap photos without the hordes. It’s free to view.

The Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps, built in the 1720s, are a long and grand staircase, with the Piazza di Spagna at its base and the Trinità dei Monti church looming at the top.

While the Spanish Steps were once a social hub on which you could hang out and people-watch, sitting on them is no longer allowed. This is part of new preservation measures enacted in 2019, intended to ensure that the monument will be around for generations to come.

While you can’t linger on the steps, you can still climb them to get to the top.

Other Things To Do & See When Traveling Rome Alone

The above-mentioned attractions aren’t the only fun things to do when you travel to Rome alone. Here are some other suggestions:

Visit The Museums

Looking at art is more or less a solitary experience, so if you enjoy art museums, Rome will not disappoint.

There are a ton of great ones here, several of which are some of the highest-ranking in the world. The Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Moderna is a good starting point, as it is home to numerous Italian masterpieces.

The Galleria Borghese is also excellent, as it boasts a garden villa filled with Bernini sculptures and artwork by Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, and other masters. This collection was originally commissioned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese.

For something different, check out MAXXI, Rome’s first national museum devoted entirely to contemporary art.

Take A Cooking Class Or Food Tour

One fun (and delicious) activity for solo travelers in Rome is to take a cooking class or a food tour. Both connect you with a lot of other like-minded travelers while you learn more about the city’s cuisine.

I like Take Walks, as they offer some of my favorite cooking classes, while Devour Tours runs excellent food tours that last around three hours and are super insightful. You’ll not only have fun but learn a lot too.

Prices vary, but expect to spend around 80 EUR.

Eat In A Local Home

If you’re still hungry after your tour, a guaranteed way to meet people as a solo traveler in Rome is to book a dining experience in a local home. One company that offers this is EatWith, which provides culinary tours, classes, and experiences.

Go On A Free Walking Tour

Free walking tours are perfect for solo travelers — I start all my trips to new cities with one. It’s a nice way to get to know Rome, especially for first-time visitors.

The one catch is that while the tours are advertised as “free,” you’re expected to tip the tour guide. So make sure to throw down a few euros for the guide’s time and knowledge.

Try Free Tour Rome, which offers a few different types, or Free Tours by Foot, which also offers a handful, including tours of the Vatican, Trastevere, and the city center, as well as food tours.

Tour Castel Sant’Angelo

This structure was built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian at the end of the first century. Over the years, it’s also served as a papal residence and a prison.

As you may know from The Da Vinci Code, there’s a passageway here that runs into the Vatican, designed as an emergency escape for the Pope (it was actually used by Pope Clement VII in 1527).

The Terrace of the Angel has some amazing city views. Admission is 14 EUR, or you can click here to peruse guided tours of the attraction.

Take In The Pace Of Local Life

People-watching is another great solo activity, and admiring stylish, animated Romans never gets old.

There are countless piazzas and parks in Rome that are great for this, but Piazza Navona especially is one of the most beautiful public spaces in Rome.

It’s home to Bernini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, with its stunning statues representing the great rivers of the world. The entire oval-shaped piazza is lined with restaurants, gelaterias (ice cream parlors), shops, and the Museo di Roma. Pull up a chair at a sidewalk café and take it all in.

Nearby, you’ll find Via della Pace, one of the city’s most photogenic streets. Definitely add it to your Rome solo travel itinerary.

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Rome?

While Rome is modern and safe, travel insurance is still needed. I never leave home without it — no matter where I’m traveling. This is one of the most important solo travel tips to keep in mind when exploring alone.

It may seem like an unnecessary expense (and a boring topic to read about), but it provides a vital safety net when you’re abroad. Illness and injury, canceled flights, damaged electronics, lost luggage, the death of a family member back home — these unexpected unfortunate events are all covered by travel insurance.

In fact, on one of my first trips traveling Italy solo, I ended up falling into the sea, which ruined my camera. Travel insurance reimbursed me for the cost.

In a nutshell, travel insurance is an all-purpose emergency safety net. It’s the single most important thing you should get for your trip and something I strongly, strongly advise travelers to never leave home without.

I’ve seen it help so many people over the years — people who would have been out thousands of dollars otherwise.

Myself included.

I used it for a doctor in Argentina, when my eardrum popped in Thailand, and when my luggage was stolen in South Africa.

Each time, I was reimbursed for my expenses and was made whole again.

Super frugal travelers can get cheap plans from SafetyWing that cover all the basics (and they offer great travel insurance for digital nomads). Those wanting a more comprehensive plan can check out policies from World Nomads.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel In Solo

Q: Is Rome safe?

Rome is a very safe place to backpack and travel; however, petty theft can be a problem, so keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Pickpockets are very active around Rome’s main attractions, such as the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Square.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

Q: Is solo female travel in Rome safe?

Rome is safe for solo female travelers. That said, the standard precautions and solo travel safety tips that apply in any city also apply here. This includes but is not limited to, not accepting drinks from strangers, keeping an eye on your drink at the bar, and never walking around alone at night intoxicated.

Q: Is Rome expensive?

Rome is one of the more expensive cities in Southern Europe. Expect to spend at least 55 EUR per day if you’re a budget solo traveler. On a mid-range budget, you can see Rome for around 140 EUR per day.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Rome?

The tap water is safe in Rome, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your single-use plastic footprint. My go-to bottle is LifeStraw.

Q: When is the best time to visit Rome?

June to August are the most popular months; however, these are also the busiest. The city can be crowded (especially in July and August), and it’s also very, very warm.

If possible, go during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to beat the crowds. The weather is still nice, and prices will be a little lower as well.

Q: Is English widely spoken in Rome?

The tourist areas of the city, English is widely spoken; though, if you get off the beaten path, you may want to learn a few Italian words and phrases, just in case. It’s make it much easier to interact with and meet locals while traveling.

Q: What are the best neighborhoods to stay in in Rome?

If it’s your first-time visiting Rome, stay in Trastevere. If you’re looking to party and enjoy the famous nightlife, stay in Tridente. Monti and San Lorenzo are two of the best areas for budget travelers.

Q: What are the best weekend trips from Rome?

There are many great weekend and day trips from Rome, a few of which include Pompeii, Florence, and Naples.

Final Thoughts On Solo Travel In Rome, Italy

Boasting centuries of history, incredible cuisine, and a rich culture, it’s well worth savoring.

Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, night owl, or culture junkie, the Eternal City never disappoints. Brimming with activities, it’s a perfect getaway for solo travelers and a destination I never get tired of.

What tips would you add to this Rome solo travel guide?

About The Author

Matt Kepnes runs the award-winning travel site nomadicmatt.com, which helps people travel the world on a budget. He’s the author of the NYT best-seller How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and the travel memoir Ten Years a Nomad. His writings and advice have been featured in The New York Times, CNN, The Guardian, Lifehacker, Budget Travel, BBC, Time, and countless other publications. You can follow him everywhere at @nomadicmatt. When he’s not on the road, he lives in Austin.

Enjoyed this guide on solo travel to Rome? Pin it for later!

While offering time to in-person and volunteer abroad projects can be worthwhile, there are also ways to make a difference without leaving home.

Below is a list of virtual volunteer opportunities that allow you to have a positive impact while sitting on your couch in your pajamas.

53 Easy Ways To Volunteer From Home

1. Use your crafting skills to provide comfort to shelter pets

The Anti-Cruelty Society has a DIY Donations page listing opportunities to create needed items like pet toys, beds, kitty sachets, and more.

Don’t worry if you don’t have crafting experience, as they offer a number of tutorials to help you create the perfect project. It is one of the best volunteer from home ideas.

2. Proofread to make books accessible to the masses

Distributed Proofreaders uses the power of proofreading in large groups to quickly and effectively turn Public Domain books into e-books for everyone to enjoy.

Finished works are submitted to the Project Gutenberg archive, which currently has over 61,000 free e-books.

3. Help create jobs in communities where they’re needed

An easy online volunteering project is Bpeace. You can use your business skills to help entrepreneurs (particularly women) in underserved communities create and grow their small-to-medium-sized businesses and become financially independent.

4. Expose human rights violations through virtual volunteering

The human rights NGO Amnesty International offers virtual volunteer opportunities through their Decoders program.

Anyone with a smartphone or laptop can get involved by helping researchers go through photos, data, and documents that can help lead to justice.

For instance, Decoders helped to analyze hundreds of thousands of Tweets sent to female Indian politicians. This effort led to uncovering an appalling scale of abuse.

5. Add your voice to the meaningful volunteer work of climate change fighters

NRDC is on a mission to protect the earth, and you can help them through virtual volunteering by joining their Activist Network, which is linked on this page along with current online opportunities.

Some sample actions might be contacting congress, opposing bills that are harmful to the environment, and sharing important messages on social media.

6. Use your creativity to help at-risk communities

Volunteering from home can’t be easier with Enchanted Makeovers. It has a number of community projects that allow remote volunteers to create hand-sewn items that would benefit women and children in shelters.

Some of their current projects include sewing pillowcases, capes for kids, dolls, and patches.

7. Lift the spirits of a child with cancer by sending an e-card

St. Jude is a world-renowned children’s hospital.

One way you can take part in virtual volunteer work while supporting their mission to help children battling cancer and pediatric diseases is to send an e-card to a patient.

Their online card maker allows you to easily choose a design based on artwork created by children in their care. From there, choose a message or enter your own and send it in.

8. Help people in need by crocheting garments

Add this to the list of awesome volunteer opportunities!

Warm Up America! is a nonprofit that has been helping people in need to stay warm since 1992.

Those looking for ways to volunteer at home can support their mission by crocheting and knitting blankets, clothing, and accessories.

9. Use your voice to protect the earth

Friends of the Earth is committed to changing economic and political policies and systems that lead to injustice and that harm nature.

You can check this page for easy ways to volunteer by taking simple actions, like telling congress to save the bees and contacting food companies to demand natural ingredients.

Friends of the Earth makes it easy to add your voice to a cause, too, as each campaign features a form with a built-in message that you can edit if you’d like and send with one click.

10. Virtually mentor high school kids

iCloudBe’s mission is to empower at-risk middle and high school students to stay in school and reach their goals with the help of an online community of mentors.

You can take part in meaningful volunteer work online by becoming an eMentor, which entails mentoring a student and helping them prepare for their dream career for one hour per week during the school year.

11. Scan & proofread books to make reading accessible to all

Bookshare, an e-book library dedicated to making reading easier for all, is always on the lookout for remote volunteers to scan and proofread books for their collection.

Their library features books that are customizable for people with reading disabilities.

12. Help a family in need to buy holiday gifts for their children

Camp Dreamcatcher offers complimentary therapeutic and educational programs for youth whose lives have been affected by HIV/AIDS.

Along with their in-person camp, which also recruits volunteers, those looking for ways to volunteer from home can take part in the Adopt A Family program.

This program involves adopting a family and assisting them in purchasing holiday gifts from their child’s wish list. You’ll be able to see the wish list before signing up.

13. Record bird sightings to benefit science and conservation

eBird, which is run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, is “the world’s largest biodiversity-related citizen science project” — with over 100 million bird sightings recorded by their community annually.

Their site offers numerous resources for spotting and identifying birds, as well as making bird-watching more enjoyable.

You can contribute to their project by submitting your own bird sightings here, whether you see them at a park, in your own backyard, or somewhere else.

14. Offer virtual support to help end sexual assault

RAINN, the USA’s largest anti-sexual violence organization, offers virtual volunteer opportunities through its web-based hotline.

You’ll be trained to offer support to sexual assault victims and help intervene when there is a crisis using The National Sexual Assault Online Hotline’s instant message-style chat.

15. Set a portion of your shopping spend to benefit a cause

If you’re looking for easy ways to volunteer from home, it doesn’t get much simpler than swapping your regular Amazon browser for AmazonSmile.

AmazonSmile has the same inventory and pricing as Amazon.com; however, the difference is that when using AmazonSmile 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible products gets donated to the charity of your choice.

16. Send a care package to a solider

Through Soldiers’ Angels, you can send a care package to a deployed soldier, either as a one-time gift or ongoing through their deployment.

Moreover, on their Deployed Support page you’ll see other opportunities, as well, like sending cards, writing letters, and more.

17. Use your talents to empower women through virtual volunteering opportunities

InHerShoes works hard to help women feel more courageous at all stages of their journey through life.

There are numerous ways to get involved with this non-profit, from teaching workshops to mentoring to helping with social media and beyond.

18. Use online volunteer opportunities to advocate for children

The American Society for the Positive Care of Children works to improve the lives of children in the United States.

In terms of volunteer opportunities from home, there are a number of ways to take action, like being a child advocate on social media using the #ItsTime hashtag to help their message go viral.

Moreover, if you have a story that may help others stand up against abuse, neglect, and injustice then you may consider sharing it on their platform.

19. Take a quiz to help end hunger

Talk about easy ways to volunteer from home!

World Hunger Education Services’ Hunger Quiz opportunity definitely deserves a spot on this easy ways to volunteer from home list.

In fact, you simply need to read some educational material about world hunger and then answer a series of questions. When you complete a quiz, the organization donates $0.02-$0.10 to help feed hungry people.

20. Join remote volunteers in knitting to help children in need

Project Linus is a non-profit keeping children warm with quilts and blankets of all kinds.

In terms of volunteer opportunities from home, you can get involved by donating your knit, sewn, and crocheted creations. Their website has loads of patterns and inspiration, too!

21. Virtually volunteer to support cancer patients

ZERO, whose mission is to end prostate cancer, has a MENtor program where they invite cancer survivors to virtually support cancer patients.

Through the program, volunteers offer support and guidance via phone or video communication.

22. Donate your voice to people with speech impairments

For a long time, those living with speech impairments who relied on synthetic voices to help them speak had very limited options when it came to the sound of the voice they could choose.

Not anymore, thanks to VocaliD’s Human Voicebank, which champions the diversity and power of the human voice with over 25,000 individuals contributing their unique vocals.

Donating your voice is as simple as recording yourself saying sounds and sentences to be used by VocaliD’s technology.

23. Find a virtual volunteer project that suits your unique skills & schedule

Catchafire.org is a platform listing numerous awesome volunteer opportunities showcasing different projects posted by nonprofits and social enterprises.

Each project has its own unique time and talent requirements, so you can choose what works best for you, whether that be helping with social media auditing, brand asset creation, website development, analyzing data, or something else.

24. Donate your vision to those with impaired vision

Be My Eyes is a free app that allows people who are blind or have vision impairments to connect with others who can help them see.

As a volunteer, you’ll provide visual assistance through the app’s live video call feature. Some examples of ways you may help others include assisting with reading instructions or expiration labels, choosing grocery items, or getting around an unfamiliar place.

25. Help humanitarian organizations overcome language barriers

Do you speak another language fluently?

Then this virtual volunteer opportunity is for you.

Translators Without Borders is a nonprofit working to bridge language gaps that can keep humanitarian organizations from doing important work.

Once approved as a volunteer, you can search through the open virtual volunteering opportunities to find where you can best help. A few opportunities may include doing a voiceover in Tigrinya, translating a document into Tagalog, offering medical interpreting support in Italian, and more.

26. Plant a row to feed the hungry

If you have gardening skills, this simple volunteer from home opportunity allows you to use your talents for good.

Plant A Row For The Hungry (PAR) is an initiative started by GardenComm. Simply put, you can plant an extra row of food in your garden and donate the produce to your local food bank.

27. Support people with cancer by being an Angel

Chemo Angels is an organization of volunteers that support people with cancer in a variety of ways.

For instance, Traditional Chemo Angels are assigned a patient and are encouraged to offer emotional support through giving small gifts, cards, and uplifting messages.

Other opportunities include being a Card Angel and sending weekly cards and notes to your paired patient, or a Prayer Angel to help serve the spiritual needs of patients and volunteers.

Note: As these remote volunteer opportunities revolve around building supportive relationships, you should be ready to make a long-term commitment.

28. Offer emotional support to those who need it

Become a virtual volunteer for 7 Cups, an on-demand emotional health service and online therapy provider, and lend your ear to those needing support via online chat.

Once accepted as a volunteer, 7 Cups will train you to ensure you’re fully equipped to help people.

29. Help those going through a crisis

Crisis Text Line volunteers offer emotional and psychological support to those who need it via text message.

Volunteers go through a 30-hour training in reflective listening, collaborative problem solving, and crisis management — which, by the way, are also valuable skills in general life.

Their service is offered across the United States, Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

30. Take simple but urgent actions to save lives

Amnesty International is committed to ending human rights abuses, and you can help them right from your couch.

Simply head to their Act Now page to view ways to take action through sending letters, signing petitions, sharing on social media, and more.

For instance, you might urge your local senator to support background checks or demand investigations of child detention facilities, just to name a few examples.

31. Help protect animals without leaving home

The Humane Society works hard to protect animals around the world from abuse and mistreatment.

On their Volunteer page, they list a number of in-person and at-home opportunities, from being in charge of the phone bank to animal nutrition outreach and beyond.

32. Help students find their perfect job

CareerVillage is a platform where students can get complimentary career advice from professionals.

Volunteering is simple:

Fill out a profile, and then get matched with relevant student questions you can answer via a forum-style format.

33. Help people around the world find housing through virtual volunteer work

On their website, Shelter The World notes that “…housing can reduce disease, improve education, generate an income, protect women and children, and build relationships and communities.”

Their mission:

To help provide people around the world with safe and secure housing.

They have a number of virtual volunteer opportunities (click here), like using blogging and social media to spread their mission, donating frequent flier miles, assisting with website development, helping to raise donations, and more.

34. Help refugees by offering translation services

Tarjimly —  which means “translate for me” — is an organization committed to helping refugees have better lives and improving the abilities of humanitarian efforts by eradicating language barriers.

If you’re multilingual, you can offer up your language skills. After being trained, you’ll start receiving notifications when your skills can be of service.

35. Help the United Nations’ efforts online

Help the United Nations reach its goal of achieving international peace by volunteering online.

In fact, this page shares its work from home volunteer opportunities, which span a wide variety of categories like writing and editing, translation services, art and design, research, admin work, project development, and more.

36. Become an ally for women

Women For Women International helps women impacted by war and conflict.

One way to help from home is through their Sponsor A Sister program, where you support another woman through a $35-per-month contribution to help get her food, water, shelter, business skills training, and human rights education.

You’ll be kept up-to-date on your sister’s progress, and can send her uplifting messages.

37. Change the world through virtual conversations

Table Wisdom is dedicated to helping foreign-born Americans succeed through mentoring and conversation.

You can sign up for their platform as a mentor, helping immigrants with English and sharing your first-hand knowledge of American culture.

Moreover, to help older adults through the pandemic, Table Wisdom has added a program to help mentors provide meaningful virtual conversation opportunities to those negatively impacted by social distancing.

38. Use your time at home to help end cancer

The American Cancer Society features a number of online volunteer opportunities on their website.

For instance, they’re always looking for people who can use their social media skills to spread the word about their mission and initiatives.

Additionally, emailing local politicians to encourage them to make cancer a main focus and participating in their virtual events are other ways to get involved.

39. Defend human rights through volunteer opportunities from home

PeaceGeeks — a nonprofit organization building digital tools to support communities seeking peace — is often searching for volunteers.

Check this page for current virtual volunteering opportunities. For instance, right now they’re looking for a blog writer to create content on technology, peace, and humanitarian response.

40. Use your crafting skills to help people preserve the memory of loved ones

Experiencing the loss of a loved one is often an extremely traumatic experience.

VITAS Healthcare, an organization dedicated to providing quality end-of-life care, helps to ease the pain through their Memory Bears program.

Volunteers create stuffed bears made from the loved one’s clothing or fabric item, giving them something meaningful to hold onto.

Moreover, volunteers can also help to make Memory Pillows, Blankets, and more.

41. Sign petitions to create change

One of the easiest ways to volunteer from home is through signing petitions related to the causes that matter to you most.

A few places to find and sign important life-changing petitions include:

• The Petition Site
• Citizen.org
• Change.org

42. Combine the power of the internet with your own GoFundMe page

You don’t need to wait for the perfect virtual volunteer work opening to present itself. If there is a cause you care about, create a GoFundMe page for it, and start promoting.

Pro tip:

While many charities use walks, runs, and live events to fundraise, you can tweak this idea and go digital. That could mean livestreaming a free class, workshop, or dance party from your living room, hosting a free challenge on social media, or something else.

For example, my friends Alex and Ian started the @Meditation4Medicine Instagram account to raise money for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for NYC hospitals. To help raise money, they lead free yoga classes on Instagram Live and ask people to donate to help the cause.

43. Advocate on social media

If you’re looking for easy ways to volunteer from home, simply raising awareness about an issue and sharing positive action steps on social media can help create change.

For example, the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America asks virtual volunteers to post on their social media accounts tagging their association, using the hashtag #MultipleSclerosis, and encouraging people to visit their website. They also provide sample messaging:

“#MultipleSclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system with varying symptoms. Learn more about MS & @MSAssociation: http://MyMSAA.org.”

44. Ask to get involved with work from home volunteer opportunities

Keep in mind that if there is a cause you’re passionate about or a charitable organization that you want to support you can always reach out to them to see if your talents might be a fit.

Just because a specific project isn’t listed doesn’t mean your gifts wouldn’t be of use.

45. Become a virtual scientist and help move research forward

Through Zooniverse, anyone can be a researcher and make a real difference.

They post research projects, which you can decide to take part in. For instance, right now they’re looking for volunteers to help discover why people become resistant to antibiotics.

46. Help make data accessible

As a part of the Smithsonian Digital Volunteers program, you help make historical documents and biodiversity data more publicly accessible.

Transcribe and review important works like diaries, ledgers, manuscripts, and more.

47. Take tests to add important data to Harvard studies

Harvard’s Project Implicit features 90+ assessment tests that give you insight into your conscious and unconscious inclinations.

Along with being an interesting look into your own mind, you’ll also be assisting Harvard researchers with psychological studies by adding to their data.

48. Mentor women in business

Through the Cherie Blair Foundation For Women, you can apply to volunteer through an Online Mentors Program, helping women become successful entrepreneurs to take their future into their own hands.

If accepted, you’ll be matched with a mentee whom you’ll meet virtually for two hours each month for one year. Their program also includes training for both parties!

49. Volunteer by sharing your knowledge

Many people use Wikipedia to get information, so if you have information to share, you might consider creating a page as a virtual volunteer.

Remember, knowledge is power.

50. Help solve real-world problems volunteering from your couch

DoSomething.org is passionate about creating positive social change in the world. Many of their online volunteer opportunities take just a few minutes to do, too.

A few current virtual volunteering examples on their site include sharing tips for managing stress, swapping stories with adult seniors, creating cards to remind your father to get his blood pressure checked, and making fun five-minute playlists to help friends take shorter showers.

51. Write to help people with depression

Through Letters Against Depression, you can write letters to those needing support.

On their website, you’ll find a list of current needs mainly focused on writing upbeat handwritten letters to those battling depression and mental illness.

52. Support disaster efforts using digital skills

Through the American Red Cross, an organization that helps people and communities during times of disaster and crisis, you can become a Digital Advocate.

This entails volunteering to work on projects related to marketing, data reporting, IT services, and more.

53. Help others discover their roots

Do you have a passion for genealogy? Volunteers can use that to help others discover their own roots through Ancestry.com’s free World Archives Program (AWAP), a free public database. As a volunteer, you’ll be provided images and documents to transcribe for the database.

FAQ about volunteering from home

Q) Is it possible to volunteer from home?

Yes, there are many easy volunteer opportunities available, from mentoring and tutoring to donating and knitting to help children in need.

Q) What are examples of online volunteering?

Some ways to volunteer online are translating documents, proofreading books, advocating on social media, and writing letters to help people with depression.

Q) What are the cons of virtual volunteering?

The main con of virtual volunteering is making personal connections can be more difficult.

Do you have any easy ways to volunteer from home to add to this list?

Any other opportunities where remote volunteers are needed?

Enjoyed this post on easy ways to volunteer from home? Pin it for later!

“What are the best things to do in Times Square NYC as a local?”

It’s a question I get asked a lot, especially from guests on my NYC photo tours. The truth: locals typically avoid Times Square like the plague, though, in my opinion, they shouldn’t.

Thanks to my experience leading tourists around Times Square, I’ve come to realize that this neighborhood actually has a lot to offer. In fact, there are some unexpected experiences with a more local feel, especially if you get away from 7th Avenue and Broadway.

In all honesty, you shouldn’t visit NYC without spending at least a few hours at the “Crossroads of the World” as it’s truly a uniquely New York experience.

And in the following Times Square travel guide, I’ll share my favorite places to eat, drink, shop, play, and stay in this Manhattan tourist hub — as a local!

Times Square Top Picks:
Short on time? Some of my top recommendations for Times Square NYC include:

Accommodation:
–Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square
–Hotel Edison Times Square
–New York Marriott Marquis
Click here for a full list of Times Square hotels

Tours:
–Private NYC photo tour (including Times Square)
–Broadway Theaters and Times Square with a Theater Professional
–Small-Group Broadway Theater District and Times Square Walking Tour
Click here for a full list of Times Square activities & tours

Save Money: Save money while exploring top attractions in Times Square and the rest of NYC with a New York CityPASS or a New York Explorer Pass.

Safety: While Times Square is safe, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials – especially as pickpocketing and scams aren’t uncommon in this NYC neighborhood. One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves.

Best Things To Do In Times Square NYC (From A Local)

On that note, let’s dive into some of the top experiences and attractions in Times Square:

1. Book A Private NYC Photo Tour

Shameless plug: my company, NYC Photo Journeys, offers fun photo experiences that often visit Times Square!

On a private NYC Photo Journey, you’ll explore NYC with a licensed guide who just also happens to be a skilled photographer — meaning you leave with beautiful photos of your group to keep!

One of the most popular itineraries is Times Square – Central Park – Upper East Side – Brooklyn Bridge, which offers a stunning mix of architecture, nature, and skyline views along with interesting commentary.

Want to maximize the amount of photos you get and don’t necessarily care about getting a tour? You can also opt for a private NYC Influencer Shoot or a private Professional NYC Photoshoot — both of which also include a pre-shoot call to tailor the session to what you’re looking for.

2. See A Broadway Show

Why is New York so popular? One reason is its access to incredible theater, especially on Broadway.

Broadway isn’t just for tourists; locals love it too! In and around Times Square you’ll find New York’s Theater District, which is home to 41 Broadway theaters.

If you’re looking to explore NYC on a budget, download the TodayTix app to find discount tickets on unsold seats.

You can also visit the red TKTS booth in Times Square to snag discount tickets, though you’ll typically wait in a pretty long line. In fact, people start lining up about an hour before the booth opens each day.

Love tours? Check out this highly-rated excursion: Broadway Theaters and Times Square with a Theater Professional.

Oh and pro tip: make sure to save your Broadway playbill, which makes for a great NYC souvenir!

3. See An Off-Broadway Show

Of course, you can also opt for an Off-Broadway show, which simply means that the seating capacity is between 100 and 499 people.

There are a number of Off-Broadway theaters in Times Square, like the New Victory Theater, New 42nd St. Theater, and the Westside Theatre. If you’re looking for things to do on 42nd Street in NYC, the first two theaters in that list fit the bill.

4. Eat Cookies Galore (Some For $1!)

No New York travel guide would be complete without discussing the local food.

Schmackary’s is heaven for cookie lovers, going way beyond chocolate chip. Self-proclaimed “cookie monster” Zachary “Schmackary” Schmahl lets his imagination run completely wild when coming up with his cookie recipes.

Today, his shop sells flavors like candied yam, maple bacon, funfetti, and a pumpkin-laced “Pick of the Patch”.

Additionally, there are “Schmackaroons,” krispie treats, shakes, bars, and brownies — all made in innovative flavors using fresh Hudson Valley milk.

You can also snag a deal: just $1 for the still-delicious day-old cookies.

5. Sip On Craft Cocktails

There is no shortage of great cocktail bars in Times Square:

Tanner Smith’s, Dutch Freds, Lantern’s Keep, and, my personal favorite, The Rum House — a cozy rum bar offering a boozy retreat from bustling Times Square.

Tucked away inside the Hotel Edison, it’s an intimate space accented by wood and copper that features an enticing menu.

While you can’t go wrong with a “Moscow Mule” made with homemade ginger beer, my personal favorite is the “Tortuga” showcasing El Dorado 8-Year Rum, citrus, fresh ginger, and cinnamon for something bright yet warming (especially good if you’re visiting New York in winter).

Another drink to try is the “Rum Old Fashioned” that swaps in Brugal Anejo Rum for the typical bourbon.

While their happy hour offers discounted drinks, if you come in the evening you’ll enjoy live jazz and piano music, too. This helps to make visiting one of the most fun things to do in Times Square at night!

6. Enjoy Latte Art At Its Finest

Looking for the most Instagrammable places in New York City?

Frisson Espresso is a cozy coffee shop just outside the bustle of 7th and 8th avenues. Drinks feature gorgeous latte art, with a few paintings by Adrian Hashimi adding an artsy twist.

It’s a great spot to curl up with some fun travel stories, too!

Tip: If you’ve never had a canele, make sure to try one here. It’s a French custard pastry laced with rum and vanilla, almost like creme brulee with a flan texture.

Craving something healthy? Attached is Fresh From Hell, a smoothie and salad cafe with a name that plays on the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood (which Times Square connects with).

7. Take In The Views From A Times Square Rooftop

Looking for fun things to do in Times Square with kids? Beasts & Butterflies is a rooftop restaurant and bar offering beautiful views over Times Square. Best of all, it’s open to patrons of all ages.

Another rooftop not to miss is St. Cloud Rooftop, a stylish rooftop atop the luxury Knickerbocker Hotel. This option is for adults only, and features a private cigar lounge, too.

Both of the above rooftop bars offer delicious food as well as indoor and outdoor seating for year-round fun!

8. A Cultural “Melting” Stove Pot

I had no idea Times Square had hip cafeterias featuring top local New York purveyors. At City Kitchen, aromatic steam wafts over counters serving Dough Doughnuts, Luke’s Lobster, Azuki, Kuro Obi, and other New York favorites.

Sit under exposed bulbs while looking out over 8th Avenue, or head into the spacious attached seating room.

By the way, if you’re on a solo trip to NYC, this is a great spot to eat on your own.

9. Eat Pizza In A Historic Church

One activity that is a must-do in Times Square is savoring some pizza at John’s of Times Square, an eatery located in the former Gospel Tabernacle Church, which opened in 1881.

Today, you can still take in the stained glasses windows and ceiling as well as the church’s balcony-level seating.

Just make sure to come hungry, as they only serve pizza by the pie (not the slice).

10. Eat NYC’s Cutest Pastries

Seriously, do you see my strawberry shortcake? It was super tasty, too.

The alpaca-themed Bibble & Sip serves up quality coffees with creative pastries like matcha cream puffs, everything bagel croissants, and chocolate chip cookie brownies, all made fresh daily.

Why alpacas? Simply because the founder thinks they’re awesome!

In my opinion, Bibble & Sip is one of the most Instagrammable cafes in NYC.

11. Enjoy Views & Free Events In Bryant Park

Known as Manhattan’s Town Square, Bryant Park is a 9.6-acre park known for its relaxing atmosphere, free amenities like ping pong tables and reading rooms, and epic views of the Empire State Building.

Make sure to also check the park calendar, as you can frequently find free movies, yoga classes, juggling classes, chess matches, and more.

12. Shop For A Cause

Almost all of my clothing is bought from thrift stores, typically Vintage Monk and Buffalo Exchange in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Near Times Square, I absolutely love Housing Works Thrift.

Housing Works’ mission is to “end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS through relentless advocacy, the provision of lifesaving services, and entrepreneurial businesses that sustain [their] efforts.” Profits from the thrift store help sustain their parent company nonprofit.

Bonus: they sell books and unique housewares, too! For any fellow-thrift shopper, this will quickly become one of your favorite things to do in Times Square New York.

13. Eat Your Way Around Hell’s Kitchen

When my tour guests ask me about the best places in Times Square for food, I let them know that for local restaurants, bars, and cafes they should make the less-than-10-minute walk over to 9th Avenue to explore Hell’s Kitchen.

This Manhattan neighborhood has long been known for its abundance of independent eateries. Just a few blocks away from the overpriced chain restaurants and tourist traps of Times Square, you will find plenty of choices for great local eats in Hell’s Kitchen.

Empanada Mama serves flavorful, filling Colombian food at affordable prices if you’re looking for a quick bite, while Totto Ramen is a counter-service restaurant where you can grab a bowl of ramen for lunch.

If you’re looking for a nicer spot for dinner, Guantanamera is a buzzing Cuban restaurant with live music on the weekends, while Il Melograno is a neighborhood favorite serving home-cooked Sicilian fare.

14. Shop For Affordable Art

Sure, nearby Chelsea is home to over 300 — mainly high-end — galleries; though just one avenue from Times Square you’ll find Fountain House Gallery.

Here, walls are covered in colorful modern works for less than $100 as part of their annual “Small Works: $100 & Under” program.

What’s really awesome about this gallery is they’re also a nonprofit dedicated to making mental health a priority. In fact, the art is created by artists living with mental illness, confronting stereotypes and stigma surrounding it.

Additionally, two blocks away sits Jadite Galleries, showcasing contemporary works since 1985.

15. Learn About Mental Health Through Street Art

Okay, so this was a bit further out as it’s located on 34th and 9th, but it’s only a 15-minute walk and is one of the more interesting things to do near Times Square NYC.

Part of the Mural Arts Project — an initiative of the New York City Health Department and the Fund for Public Health — the installation seeks to de-stigmatize mental health issues.

Interestingly, the above-mentioned Fountain House Gallery and artist Andrew Frank Baer are the ones who created these first Manhattan installations.

The message: “Some days I have to push myself to go outside and walk to the park. Say hello! We can embrace ourselves and open doors together.”

According to Street Art NYC, the Fountain House Gallery hosted workshops where community members were able to sketch out the murals, allowing them to be a part of their neighborhood.

In my opinion, this one of the best free things to do in Times Square.

16. Get Inspired By Unique Gifts

Delphinium Home may be just a six-minute walk from the heart of Times Square, but it feels like a country cottage with a creative keeper.

When I visited last time, the window displayed pastel Post-It’s showcasing Love Always Wins thoughts.

Inside, you’ll find quirky presents like a cat-shaped omelet mold, journals with prompt pages, funny cards, and Golden Girls devotional candles.

17. Get Caffeinated On The Cheap

Looking for cheap things to do in Times Square? Here’s one my fellow budget hunters will love: at Corvo Coffee, everything from the lattes to the muffins is $2.

I think the picture pretty much says it all.

18. Enjoy Boozy Brunch At Lilly’s Craft and Kitchen

Looking to enjoy the best boozy brunch in NYC? One top spot is Lilly’s Craft and Kitchen, where on Saturdays and Sundays you can add bottomless brunch for $26 and the purchase of one entree.

A few standout selections include the Breakfast Quesadilla with avocado, cheddar, pepper jack, tomatoes, scrambled eggs, chips, and salsa as well as the Salmon Benedict featuring Nova-Scotian smoked salmon.

More of a night owl? Those looking for things to do in NYC after midnight will love that Lilly’s is open until 4am daily!

19. Pair Your Meal With A Song At Ellen’s Stardust Diner

If you are looking for activities in Times Square for kids, don’t miss Ellen’s Stardust Diner. While it is admittedly touristy, and you may need to wait in line, it’s a great place for families to have lunch or dinner near Times Square.

This 1950s-style diner is famous for its singing waitstaff. Most of the servers are professional performers who belt out classic Broadway tunes as they take your order and serve your food.

Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of the entertainment, especially when the waiters jump on top of the booths to continue their singing and dancing performance.

Not only is it a fun and lively atmosphere, the food at Ellen’s Stardust Diner is also good and the menu contains plenty of kid-friendly options that will suit even the pickiest of eaters. Make sure to save room for dessert, too!

20. Have A Modern Diner Experience At Times Square Diner

Love diners but want to do without the lines and singing? Times Square Diner is a delicious pick! This unassuming but delicious eatery serves up giant stacks of pancakes, homemade burgers, decadent desserts, and other classic diner fare in a super clean and modern space (no 1950s theme here!).

If you feel like imbibing, you can also order alcohol — from beer to boozy milkshakes.

Bonus: The menu is reasonably priced, too!

21. Explore Times Square At Night Through Your Camera

Looking to visit New York City Times Square at night? On an NYC After Dark Photography Tour, you’ll explore Times Square with a local photographer, who will teach you how to take stunning evening photos.

In fact, you’ll learn both flash photography and long-exposure photography techniques for truly unique photos!

22. Catch A Drunk Shakespeare Performance

If you’re looking for something quirky and fun to do in Times Square, attending a Drunk Shakespeare performance is guaranteed to be a good time.

As you might be able to infer by the name, this is a rowdy and highly entertaining show where one of the professional actors downs five shots of whiskey before attempting to perform Shakespeare.

You definitely have never seen Shakespeare done like this before!

23. Sit In On A Show Taping

Many popular daytime and nighttime television talk shows film in studios in and around Times Square. And the best part is, you can snag free tickets to sit in the audience for a taping!

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon are just a few examples of shows that you can attend.

Each show has an option to request free tickets to sit in the audience, usually through the television network’s website.

For best chances, be flexible with your dates and request tickets as far in advance as possible.

24. Have A Midnight Moment

One of the coolest things to see in Times Square is the Midnight Moment, the world’s largest and longest-running digital public art program.

Every night from 11:57pm to midnight, more than 92 electronic billboards showcase the work of contemporary artists. It’s a truly unique experience!

25. Check Out The Best Bookstores Near Times Square NYC

If you love books, don’t miss the best bookstores around Times Square.

The Strand, a New York City literary institution, has a small outpost in Times Square. You can’t miss their bright red kiosk where you can stop and browse for books. (Their larger location further downtown is worth a visit too!)

Close to Bryant Park, you can find Kinokuniya, known for its expansive collection of Japanese books, manga, and other media.

Bookoff is another bookstore near Times Square, this one offering used books at great discounts.

By the way, if you’re looking for things to do when it rains in NYC, getting cozy with a new novel at a local bookstore is a great option!

Best Tours In Times Square NYC

Looking to explore the many fun Times Square activities, check out the neighborhood on a local tour like:

• Private NYC photo tour (including Times Square)
• Private NYC Photoshoot (including Times Square)
• Private NYC Influencer Shoot (including Times Square)
• Broadway Theaters and Times Square with a Theater Professional
• Small-Group Broadway Theater District and Times Square Walking Tour
• Super Tour of NYC: Heroes, Comics and More!
• New York Midtown Scavenger Hunt Adventure
• New York In One Day Guided Sightseeing Bus Tour

Click here for a full list of Times Square activities & tours.

Hotels In Times Square NYC

After a day of exploring the many fun places to go in Times Square, rest your head at one of these top local hotels:

• The Row NYC Times Square
• Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square
• Hotel Edison Times Square
• New York Marriott Marquis

Click here for a full list of Times Square hotels.

And if you’re interested in living in a hotel in NYC, there are numerous extended stay hotel options too!

Staying Connected While Exploring Times Square

So you know when you’re wandering around trying to connect to free public WiFi but the service is shoddy? Or when your phone automatically connects you to weak public WiFi, making your connection super slow?

Enter the sponsor of this post, Speedify, a VPN service that solves these issues by binding all available connections for the fastest possible speeds. It makes the perfect companion for exploring the many fun things to do in Times Square NYC.

Here’s a neat feature: You can choose how much of your data you’d like Speedify to make use of:

And because it’s a VPN, your data stays secure — even when using unsecured hot spots. Unlike other VPNs — where they vanish as soon as your WiFi signal does — Speedify bonds to your 3G network until it can automatically link to another WiFi source.

While you’re out exploring the many fun things to do in New York’s Times Square, you’ll be able to connect Speedify with available LinkNYC hotspots, which are typically pretty wonky.

Getting set up with Speedify and LinkNYC is super easy: download the free app, set it up on your device, and choose a package.

You can try their limited free version or sign up for unlimited usage. Then, turn on Speedify with the touch of one button.

From there, you can connect a weak LinkNYC hotspot, which bonds with Speedify to become faster. Within the Speedify app, you’ll actually be able to see it working. In fact, the app tells you how much of each connection it’s using.

You’ll also be able to choose a limit for your mobile carrier data so you never go over on your bill.

In short, it’s a smart tool for staying connected on your trip. This way, you’ll be able to look up what to do in Times Square whenever you need and can easily orient and navigate yourself, too.

Do you have other suggestions for unique and local things to do in Times Square?

Considering a solo trip to Amsterdam?

Then you’re in the right place, as the following guide will help you travel Amsterdam alone with confidence and have an incredible time.

Amsterdam is the Dutch capital often referred to as the “Venice of the North.”

It’s one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and is probably most famous for having no fewer than 165 canals, 1281 bridges, and 75 museums!

Additionally, this unique city has an abundance of things to offer visitors; rich history, art and culture, stunning architecture, picturesque views, and vibrant nightlife.

Keep reading to learn how to plan an unforgettable Amsterdam solo travel itinerary. As an Amsterdam local, I can’t wait to share this incredible city with you!

Amsterdam Solo Travel Top Picks:

Airport Transfer: Click here to book

Amsterdam Hotels: Some of my favorite accommodations for solo travelers include:
–Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
–INK Hotel Amsterdam – MGallery
– Flying Pig Downtown (hostel)
Click here for an Amsterdam accommodation map with pricing

Things To Do: A few top picks for Amsterdam tours include:
–Amsterdam Alternative Culture Walking Tour with Local Food Sampling
–Bike Tour of Amsterdam’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
–Anne Frank Guided Walking Tour through Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter
Click here for a full list of local Amsterdam tours

Solo Travel Safety: While Amsterdam is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials. One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves.

Train Travel: Omio

 Travel Insurance: SafetyWing

 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Learn How To Travel Amsterdam Solo (Free Course!)

Now, before we dive into our solo travel Amsterdam guide, I invite you to grab a seat in the free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course.

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to travel by yourself and take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve grabbed your seat, keep reading to learn about traveling to Amsterdam alone.

Why A Solo Trip To Amsterdam Is A Great Idea

Okay, so let’s start by talking about why enjoying female solo travel to Amsterdam is absolutely something you should consider and why the city is one of the best places in Europe for solo travel.

First of all, no Netherlands travel guide would be complete without talking about this exciting city. There is truly so much to do and see in regards to history, culture, art, food, nature, and more.

Moreover, Amsterdam is a safe city to visit for women of all ages. From my own experience of living here for over 17 years and speaking with solo female travelers, women experience little if any harassment here.

That being said, it’s important to remember — as you would anywhere else you visit — to be mindful of where you are and follow normal safety precautions just to be on the safe side.

In terms of solo female travel, Amsterdam is safe to explore on your own. The locals are friendly and open-minded, and they enjoy meeting new people from around the world. 

You also don’t have to worry about getting odd stares when doing things on your own and sitting at a restaurant by yourself, as everyone is free to be and do as they please.

In my opinion, that is really the beauty of this city; the vibe here feels very liberating. 

Another thing that makes Amsterdam easy to wander through and discover on your own is reliable and safe public transport. 

Having said that, Amsterdam is a compact city compared to other European capitals. The center is relatively small and most of the sights and attractions are close together, meaning that seeing the beauty of the city is possible on foot.

English is spoken well by most people, as well as other languages like German and French.

On that note, let’s dive into some important tips for enjoying solo travel to Amsterdam:

The Best Time To Visit Amsterdam

The best time to visit Amsterdam is from spring in late April through the summer until September. This is when the weather is at its best and it’s wonderful to be outside.

The fall months from late September to early November can be pleasant as well; however, there is a bigger chance of sometimes having bad weather.

Getting To Amsterdam From Schiphol Airport

The cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center is by train. 

The trains here are comfortable and punctual. There is a train running to Amsterdam every 10 minutes, and a ticket will cost you €4.60 (Euros).

The train will take you to Amsterdam’s Central Station — also known as Amsterdam Centraal. This station is located in one of the most beautiful buildings of the city built between 1881 and 1889. 

From the main hall, you will find bus routes, trams, and the metro to connect with any part of the city you need to get to. 

The other option is to use a licensed taxi — though note that it will be pricy, especially if you’re traveling solo and don’t have anyone to split the fare with. The short journey will cost you between €45 to €50.

Note that if you’re arriving to the airport between midnight and 5am then a taxi is your only option.

Practical Tips For Visiting Amsterdam Solo

Before we start, here is some important practical information you should know:

1. You can pay with a debit card almost everywhere in Amsterdam — as well as credit cards, though not in every shop. I would recommend having some cash with you for small purchases, local markets, taxis, and emergencies.

2. The Dutch weather may be less reliable than you are used to. The weather can change rapidly and even during summer, you can have two seasons in a matter of hours. In the last few years — possibly due to global warming — spring and summer have been very warm. When you pack, please keep this in mind.

3. Yes, you are expected to tip in Amsterdam! For some strange reason people tend to think that the Dutch don’t tip well, but we do! We tip between 10-12% in restaurants and bars.

4. Carry a water bottle when you are sightseeing in Amsterdam. This is not only cheaper and more convenient, but it is also a more sustainable way to travel. This way you won’t have to purchase plastic drink bottles when out and about.

5. Have an adaptor with you in Amsterdam for your electrical devices. Here is a budget-friendly one you can buy.

6. The cheapest way to have internet in Amsterdam is by purchasing a local SIM card for your phone. It is important to have internet — and not just for sharing beautiful travel photography on social media. You will need it for navigation, online purchases for Amsterdam museum tickets and other attractions, paying for parking, and safety reasons like downloading travel safety apps.

7. Amsterdam shopping tip: Most tourists flock to the main pedestrian shopping street called the Kalverstraat (near Dam Square) or to Leidsestraat. If you would like to shop beyond the usual H&M or Zara, I recommend the Utrechtsestraat shopping passage and the Nine Streets neighborhood for unique boutiques and outside-the-box options including vintage stores.

8. Get an iAmsterdam City Card and save money. The iAmsterdam City Card is a pre-paid pass and discount card to museums and other Amsterdam attractions around the city. It also gives you free access to public transport. If you plan to visit museums and attractions during your visit, it is worth checking their free entry and discounted admission list. You can buy it at the airport or tourist information offices. 

How To Get Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam is very easy to explore. It is small, accessible, and easily done on foot — though if you want to explore the different neighborhoods you can use the tram or the metro. 

You can also take a tuk-tuk for a short sightseeing tour.

Here are a few tips for getting around on your solo trip to Amsterdam:

1. The local way to get around Amsterdam is by bike but please, do not rent a bike if you can’t ride a bike! It can get very busy and hectic on the bike path. Moreover, locals ride like no one else you have ever encountered and have zero tolerance for tourists on bikes. If you’re up for the task, Yellow bikes and Rent-A-Bike are very popular with visitors.

2. Amsterdam has great public transportation that connects all parts of the city. Trams run until midnight, and then from midnight to 5am you have night buses. Note: I personally don’t feel comfortable taking the night bus and would recommend skipping it if possible. 

3. To be able to use Amsterdam’s public transportation you will need a tourist OV Chipcard. Note: Buying your ticket in cash on the tram is no longer possible! If there is a conductor on the tram, you may purchase a card using your debit card but not cash. You can buy a single-use tourist chipcard or an anonymous OV-Chipkaart at public transport service desks or from the ticket vending machines in stations.

Depending on how often you’ll take public transportation, it may make sense to opt for a 24-hour ticket. Usually, it is cheaper this way than buying single cards each time.

Important note:

You will need to scan the card when you get on and when you get off the tram, bus, or metro. Failing to do so means your card is invalid for your next trip. I can’t tell you how many tourists I’ve seen arguing on the tram, saying they bought their card only 10 minutes ago and so it must still be valid.

Again, don’t forget to scan it when getting off!

4. Know how to avoid getting ripped off in a taxi in Amsterdam. Make sure the rate is arranged before you start the journey. To avoid getting ripped off by a taxi driver, it’s helpful to ask your hotel for specific directions and a suggested rate beforehand.

Additionally, I always act on the side of caution when taking a taxi and have someone on the phone with me during my ride. There have been stories about taxi drivers trying to hit on female passengers and I want to avoid this.

5. Uber is an option in Amsterdam, too. Consider installing the app before you leave home so you have it ready to go.

Where To Stay In Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s city center and the canal belt that surrounds it is really where the magic happens! 

There are beautiful hotels along the canals and in the city center. You will find boutique hotels here that are modern and yet have lots of character and are safe places to stay in Amsterdam.

In terms of charm, there are three main canals dug during the Dutch Golden Age. When wandering around you have stunning Dutch architecture to admire as well as museums, bars, restaurants, and lovely shopping streets.

The biggest advantage of staying in the heart of Amsterdam is that you are within walking distance of all the major attractions Amsterdam has to offer. 

If you are in Amsterdam for the first time, I highly suggest staying here rather than in one of the suburbs.

Amsterdam has a wide selection of hotels visitors can choose from to match different styles and solo travel budgets.

These are some of my favorite Amsterdam hotels offering an amazing city experience:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station

Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht – a concept by Hyatt

INK Hotel Amsterdam – MGallery

The Hoxton, Amsterdam

Some solo female travelers prefer to stay in a social hostel with common areas and group events where the chance to meet fellow solo travelers is greater. 

In that case, the Flying Pig Downtown is a popular place to stay with people backpacking in Amsterdam. 

Additionally, the Cocomama and Max Brown are some of the best hostels for solo travelers in Amsterdam.

If you’d like some additional options or to price compare, here is a local accommodation map showing a mix of hotels and self-contained rentals:

You can also click this link to pull up the map.

Safety Tips For Solo Female Travelers To Amsterdam

As I mentioned at the start, using common sense and keeping your wits about you is the key to staying safe while on the move. Always let someone know where you are and what you are planning to do.

Here are some other Amsterdam safety tips:

1. Don’t buy drugs from street dealers in Amsterdam. This should go without saying, but because Amsterdam is popular with drug tourism I think it’s important to mention. Not only is buying drugs off the street illegal, but it’s dangerous, too.

2. Beware of pickpocketers in busy areas and on Amsterdam’s public transport. While solo travelers don’t need to worry too much about violent crime, it’s smart to know how to avoid pickpockets to keep your valuables safe.

Building on this, never walk around with your phone or other valuables in your back pockets. Consider using a front or cross-over bag — like these — instead of a backpack so to keep your belongings safe.

While we’re talking about valuables, it’s probably smart to leave your passport in your hotel’s safe along with your other valuables.

3. Don’t walk in Amsterdam’s cycle paths. It’s a sure way to get hit and potentially badly injured.

4. Stay safe in Amsterdam’s coffee shops: Please beware when smoking and drinking by yourself. In general, the only people you’ll find here will be tourists — and not always tourists with the best intentions. Building on this, don’t accept drinks from strangers and don’t leave your drink unattended.

5. Street harassment can happen anywhere. That being said, in my 17 years of living in Amsterdam I’m happy to say I have never encountered it. Should you receive unwanted male attention most times if you ignore the person and walk past they will get the hint. 

6. Know what areas of Amsterdam to avoid. The Biljmer as well as parts of the Bos and Lommer neighborhoods are not considered the best to hang out in, and I recommend avoiding them. Besides, unless you live there, there’s nothing to see there.

7. Notes on the Amsterdam Red Light District: Much has been written about this quarter known for its prostitutes and sex shows, and tourists do flock there; however, I personally don’t understand why. In fact, I advise you to spend your time elsewhere — not necessarily because of safety issues, but because there is no shortage of worthwhile things to see and do in Amsterdam.

That being said, if you must visit the Red Light District, I suggest going during the day when the atmosphere is friendlier and more relaxed.

During the evening it is very crowded and unpleasant to stroll through. 

Also, there is absolutely no photography allowed here. Please respect the privacy of the women who work in this district.

If it’s Amsterdam solo nightlife you’re after, there are better places to enjoy your nights where you won’t have to worry about things around you. You’ll find some recommendations below in the food and drink section of this Amsterdam solo travel guide.

8. Keep the address of your Amsterdam hotel handy. You might even consider carrying around their business card to have it within reach at all times.

Unforgettable Things To Do In Amsterdam As A Solo Traveler

Looking for fun things to do in Amsterdam on your own? Don’t miss the following local experiences!

Remember, one of the biggest benefits of traveling alone is having ultimate freedom over your schedule, so feel free to adapt the below suggestions to suit your itinerary.

1. Explore a local Amsterdam museum (or three!)

You are spoiled for choice in Amsterdam when it comes to museums, as the city has about 75 to choose from.

One suggestion: 

Stroll through the Rijksmuseum to admire the Dutch Masters. 

It is huge so you will need to devote serious time to it. Or you can head directly to one of the most famous paintings in the world called The Night Watch by Rembrandt.

Additionally, I would recommend the following museums as important additions to your Amsterdam itinerary: 

• Anne Frank House, where you can learn about Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank and see her family’s secret annex.
• Moco Museum, which puts on expos featuring Banksy, Warhol, and Dali.
• Van Gogh Museum, a museum dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries.

As you can see, exploring the museums when going to Amsterdam on your own is worthwhile.

2. Visit the Lord in the Attic Museum

This is probably one of the best-hidden churches and museums in Amsterdam!

It’s a unique museum that stretches over three canal houses dating back to the 17th century. These houses were secretly connected at a time when Catholics could not freely practice their religion in the Netherlands.

The museum showcases what life was like centuries ago — though the cherry on top is the beautiful Catholic church in the attic, which is not visible from the outside.

Additionally, the decor, furniture, and architecture are in the Golden Age style.

3. Explore the Westerkerk

Located next to the Anne Frank House, you’ll see a church and tower called the Westerkerk.

This large church and high tower are mentioned several times in Anne Frank’s diary written while the family was in hiding from the Nazis.

Apart from the history and beautiful architecture, if you climb to the top of the tower you are guaranteed spectacular panoramic views of Amsterdam.

4. Spend time at the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

If you like palaces, step inside the Royal Palace of Amsterdam in Dam Square. 

It’s one of three palaces in the Netherlands. While the facade is beautiful, visitors can also explore the interior and tour the stately rooms.

Opposite the palace, you’ll find the National Monument of Amsterdam, a World War II memorial honoring the nation’s fallen soldiers.

5. Explore Amsterdam’s canals by boat & bike

No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without taking a canal cruise, like this budget-friendly option or this luxury option with Champagne included.

On a canal cruise, you’ll learn about the city’s history and see some true Amsterdam hidden gems that aren’t easily seen while exploring on foot.

Moreover, what you see from the water you cannot see from land, so bring your camera for unique photos.

Most of these cruises depart from near Amsterdam Centraal station.

Feeling sporty? 

Another option idea is to rent a canal bike, which is a small boat with foot pedals.

Add cheese and a small bottle of red wine to the mix and you’re set to have fun on the water. 

Just don’t forget to take a map!

Overall, going on a canal cruise or riding a bike to explore the city’s canal are must activities in Amsterdam for solo travellers.

6. Visit a Buddhist temple

Visit Fo Guang Shan, a Buddhist temple in the historical and colorful neighborhood of Nieuwmarkt. 

This area is also known as Chinatown and is worth a stroll through.

The temple is beautiful as it stands out from the traditional Dutch architecture found here. The golden roof tiles and traditional ornamentation for the temple were flown in specially from China. 

If you’re looking to ground yourself or still your mind, the Buddhist temple serves as a meditation center.

7. Wander Amsterdam’s Vondel Park

Here you can have a picnic and just chill out with the locals and other travelers. If you’re traveling solo in Amsterdam, consider bringing a picnic and offering to share with new friends.

Vondel Park is Amsterdam’s version of NYC’s Central Park. It is where locals like to unwind, walk, jog, and enjoy the sun with friends.

There is art to see throughout the park, too, the highlight of which is a sculpture named The Bird located at the southern end of the park made by Picasso!

This outdoor sculpture was created in 1965 to commemorate the park’s 100th birthday.

Pro tip:

Vondel Park is home to one of the best terraces in Amsterdam!

8. Admire Amsterdam’s architecture

If you’re traveling alone in Amsterdam, take to the streets and don’t forget to look up! 

The most beautiful symbols and typical Dutch features can be found at the top of the houses. 

Plantage Middlelaan, the Nine Streets, and the Jordaan are my favorite neighborhoods to wander around in for architecture. 

Moreover, the cobbled streets surrounding the canals feature big, beautiful, and of course high-end homes. My recommendation is to wander around the Herengracht and the Keizersgracht canals.

9. Expand your palate with global cuisine

Try local and international delicacies in the Foodhallen. This is an indoor food market where even the pickiest eaters can find something to satisfy their taste buds. 

Speaking of markets, most tourists go to the Albert Cuyp Market in the Pjip neighborhood. This market has some delicious food stands serving items like stroopwafels — which are thin waffles filled with maple — and poffertjes which are tiny pancakes with sprinkled sugar powder on top.

10. Shop at the Netherlands’ oldest flea market

I also love visiting the Waterlooplein Flea Market, a big outdoor bazaar showcasing over 300 stalls that is the oldest flea market in the Netherlands!

11. Have fun & take in the views from ADAM Tower

Cross over to Amsterdam Noord by using the free ferry behind Central Station. 

On the other side, you can visit the ADAM Tower. This tower has an amazing lookout point at the top offering stunning panoramic views of Amsterdam. 

On the entry-level as well as the top floors, they offer fabulous restaurants and activities. DJs play there on weekends, for example, in the Moon and Madam restaurants.

This all being said, the best part is definitely the swing on the 22nd floor which is the highest swing in Europe! 

Located right on the edge of the building, there are three swings. Swinging on it is terrifying and exhilarating at the same time.

12. Have a cinematic experience at Eye Film Institute

The Eye Film Institute is a fun and interative experience.

This museum has a great archive of movies and they do screenings of Dutch as well as international films on occasion.

13. See an incredible Amsterdam sunset

Watch the sunset from Pllek, a restaurant with full views of the water and the city in front of you.

Along with having delicious food, they put on fun events like musical and theater performances as well as yoga classes.

14. Rent a bike & explore Amsterdam

Remember, do this only if you can bike! 

If you can, cycling is a great way to feel the beat of the city and take in Amsterdam’s charm.

Renting a bike in Amsterdam is simple, too, as you have many rental companies — mostly around Central Station and Dam Square.

15. Spend time exploring Westergasfabriek

Westergasfabriek is a former gasworks that has been transformed into a cultural venue.

Here you’ll find restaurants, art galleries, music, and a big park to stroll through.

16. Enjoy mother nature at the Amsterdamse Bos

Amsterdamse Bos is a huge nature park that is three times the size of NYC’s Central Park.

Here you’ll find a big lake, multiple forests, grasslands, hiking trails, sporting events, and more. You can definitely spend a day here immersing yourself in greenspace!

17. Explore secret Amsterdam at the Begijnhof

The Begijnhof is a hidden courtyard right in the heart of the city. In fact, it’s located just off the main shopping street — though you would never guess it’s there.

This beautiful and peaceful inner courtyard dates back to the 14th century, making it one of the oldest courtyards in Amsterdam. 

It features historic houses where religious single women used to live together after they vowed chastity.

18. Have a beer at Brouwerij ’t IJ

Instead of the Heineken Experience, head to Brouwerij ’t IJ, a small yet beloved local brewery. 

It is located next door to the De Gooyer Windmill, the tallest wooden mill in the Netherlands at 26.6 meters (~87.3 feet) high.

Best Tours For A Solo Trip To Amsterdam

Another must-have experience when enjoying solo travel in Amsterdam: join a walking tour to connect with other solo travelers!

A few highly-rated local tours include:

• Amsterdam Alternative Culture Walking Tour with Local Food Sampling
• Discover Amsterdam’s Art and Culture with a Local
• Bike Tour of Amsterdam’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
• Amsterdam Cheese Tasting with Wine & Beer Pairing
• Anne Frank Guided Walking Tour through Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter

Click here for a full list of local Amsterdam tours.

Where To Eat & Drink In Amsterdam

Now let’s talk about food in Amsterdam!

The culinary options in Amsterdam are remarkable and honestly, endless. You’ll be able to find any type of cuisine you like — and then some.

To help you discover the tasty side of the city, I’ve comprised a list below featuring a mix of trendy bars and restaurants as well as yummy and relaxed pitstop options.

All are fabulous and are great for solo dining in Amsterdam!

The Corner Bakery: Visit for a beautiful, colorful, and over-the-top breakfast or brunch. Do not even try to count calories here.

Jansz: This spot is perfect for a lazy brunch, afternoon drinks, or fancy dinner after exploring the Jordaan and the Nine Streets neighborhoods.

For some fun Amsterdam solo nightlife head over to Satchmo, a bar and restaurant that plays a lot of Jazz. They have live music during the weekends, a lively crowd, and delicious food!
 
MOMO is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a great combination of exotic drinks on the bar and delish sushi and Eastern fusion dishes in the restaurant. It’s beautifully designed, totally trendy, and buzzing with good energy!
 
Go on the Pancake boat: This activity I have to admit is still one of my favorites. I take all my visitors on this tour. During this cruise, you can see incredible views of Amsterdam from the water while enjoying traditional Dutch pancakes — which are large and thin and covered with toppings both sweet and savory. The cruise leaves from Amsterdam-Noord and lasts around 2.5 hours. 

You can’t visit Amsterdam without trying Bitterballen, a classic and yummy Dutch snack traditionally made with meat filling; however, these days new modern options are available — including a vegetarian one. At Bar Bitterbal you have a wide selection of over 25 different flavors to sample in a cozy atmosphere with great vibes. My favorites? Smoked salmon, goat cheese, ricotta combined with mozzarella, and hummus.

Enjoy a meal at REM Eiland: This quirky restaurant is located on the former broadcast platform of an illegal television station that broadcasted commercial television against the government’s wishes in 1964 — and got away with it for a bit thanks to its location in international waters. Here you can enjoy a fun culinary experience and wonderful views of Amsterdam from above.

Cafe Panache: Where margaritas come in carafes! Need I say more?

5&33: Located in the Art’otel opposite Central Station. It is modern with unique art displayed all over. Downstairs you can explore art and photography exhibitions.

Floor 17: Enjoy stunning views of the city while holding a cocktail in your hand at this hip rooftop bar. Another rooftop I love is on the 6th floor of the W Hotel near Dam Square.

Pulitzer Hotel Bar: This bar is dark and cozy with velvet decor and lovely canal views.

LuminAir Amsterdam: Located on the 11th floor of the DoubleTree by Hilton, this bar offers panoramic views of the city, yummy cocktails, and bites to go pair. They also have a beautiful rooftop terrace.

When the Dutch want to unwind and have a spontaneous beer with friends after work, they often go to what’s called a “brown cafe”. This type of traditional bar is where people stand and chat; it’s not a place for cocktails and finger food. You can find a few good ones in Rembrandt Plein like Heeren Aan de Amstel.

Where To Enjoy Brunch In Amsterdam

A weekend in Amsterdam just isn’t the same without brunch. Luckily, Amsterdam has many unique and delicious spots to choose from, allowing you a different culinary experience every weekend! On lazy Sundays, a boozy brunch is a fun thing to do, which allows for delicious food and drink in a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.

A few recommendations include:

Gs: This is one of my favorites mainly because of the atmosphere. It’s unique, fun, and a bit cheeky. A must-try is their Brunch Boat, where you can enjoy a brunch with bottomless drinks while cruising on a canal! They sail on the weekends boarding at Keizersgracht 177. Reservations are a must.

Benji’s: Feel as if you’re in Bali for a couple of hours. This space has a beautiful tropical design that makes for a relaxed vibe. There are three locations in Amsterdam to choose from — East, West, and New West.

Little Collins: The concept here is doing things Melbourne-style. In fact, the Australian owners of this cool hangout offer an unconventional menu with dishes like caramelized French toast laced with rhubarb and raisin compote, goat cheese cream, tahini custard, and ginger rye almond praline.

Starring at Jacob: This is an American brunch bar that is too cool for school. It captures those NYC vibes perfectly and is famous for their chicken and waffles and, of course, dirty Bloody Mary’s.

Looking for something refined? There are also some great high tea spots in Amsterdam, like Mama Kelly, which also features totally Instagrammable pink interiors.

Travel Insurance In Amsterdam

When enjoying Netherlands solo travel — or heading anywhere else in the world — make sure to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

FAQ on things to know when visiting Amsterdam alone

Q) What do I do in Amsterdam alone?

If you go on a solo trip to Amsterdam, you can visit the city’s main museums, discover the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, go on a canal cruise, and enjoy the local and international food, among other fun activities.

Q) How safe is Amsterdam for solo female travelers?

Amsterdam is very safe for solo female travelers, and the chances of being the victim of a violent crime are low.

Q) How do I get around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is walkable, but you can also ride a bike or use public transport like a tram or bus.

What are your favorite things to do on a solo trip to Amsterdam?

*Featured Amsterdam solo travel image via Canva Pro.

About The Author

Hi! I’m Diti, an Israeli travel and lifestyle blogger living in Amsterdam. I have been exploring the world, living in different countries from a young age (eight countries on three continents), and always feeding my wanderlust — because to me, to travel is to live!

Backpacking, solo travel, budget travel, city trips, island vacations, extreme adventures, luxury journeys; I’ve done it all!

I specialize in Israel (my home) and the Netherlands (my home away from home).

My mission is to inspire and empower you to travel by offering you high-quality travel content and resources on my blog, My Trendy Trail.

Pin this Amsterdam solo trip guide for later

Looking for the best travel games for adults to help satisfy your wanderlust at home?

If you’re like me, your Pinterest board is overflowing with photos of travel destinations, you’re stalking your favorite travel search engine for cheap flights, and you’ve binge-watched every travel documentary on Netflix. If a private jet showed up to take you to an unspecified locale, you’d get on, no questions asked.

You, my friend, have a serious case of wanderlust.

Wanderlust can be difficult to deal with when you can’t get out of town. Maybe your calendar is too full, you’re facing travel restrictions, or your budget just isn’t where you want it to be.

Thankfully, there’s a way to satisfy your craving for adventure from the comfort of your home with travel-themed board games!

We’ve rounded up of the best travel games for adults that will allow you to trek the globe for way less than the price of a one-way flight.

From conversation-starting cards to international adventures, you’ll be sure to find a game that’s right for you.

If you’re looking to plan the ultimate staycation or just want some fun stay at home activities for you and a similarly grounded travel buddy, we’ve got you covered!

Satisfy Your Wanderlust

Before we dive into the fun travel games for adults, I want to share this free travel personality quiz.

Answer 10 visual questions, and you’ll be told what type of trip you should take based on your answers.

Bonus:

You’ll also be shown suggested experiences — all unique, to take you #BeyondTheGuidebook — for each trip type!

Best Travel Games For Adults

1. Trip Chaser

Created by travel bloggers Dalene and Pete Heck of Hecktic Travels, Trip Chaser is an armchair travel game for competitive people.

Played by 2-6 players, the game mimics the act of travel, but without the need to pack a suitcase or spend $1000+ on a plane ticket.

You’ll collect and play destination cards in order to take trips around the world. Just make sure to plan your journeys strategically so that you have enough money to take each trip!

During the hour of play, expect a mix of challenges as well as enriching experiences to keep things interesting.

Bonus: The game is also packable to take on the road with you. And for every game sold, one tree will be planted via Ecodrrive (powered by Veritree).

2. Travel Banter

Created by a friend of the blog, Nicolette Orlemans of Culture Trav, this fun travel-themed game comes in the form of a deck of conversation starter cards meant to help you re-live some of your favorite trip memories and swap life lessons with your partners.

Questions come in five categories — Arts & Culture, Food & Drink, Life & Lessons, Culture and People — and challenge cards will have you pondering the bigger picture.

While the cards are perfect for connecting with people you meet on the road, they’re also great for a night at home when you’re dreaming of your next big trip.

Moreover, you can use the cards to inspire some fun journal writing prompts related to travel!

3. Passport to Culture

Looking for the best travel board games for adults?

Well, if you binged too much TV and are now in need of some fun Netflix and Chill alternatives for travelers, Passport to Culture can help!

In this board game, you’ll travel the world and test your cultural knowledge, all from the comfort of your own home.

With 636 travel trivia questions and 60 possible cultural scenarios, you’ll definitely expand your knowledge — and will probably also discover a new location to add to your travel bucket list!

 

 

 

 

 

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4. Monopoly: National Parks Edition

In this version of the classic property trading game, you’ll plan a cross-country trip to visit over 60 of the parks and historic sites in the United States National Park System while learning a little more about the parks themselves. Go hiking in Sequoia National Park, have an adventure in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, explore the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree, and more.

The best part?

You can play while supporting the parks themselves, as a portion of the game’s proceeds goes to the National Park Foundation.

5. Around The World In 80 Days

Inspired by the classic Jules Verne novel, you’ll race the other players to be the first to travel around the world from London in just 80 days.

As with all travel, success in the game requires a fair amount of strategy, as you’ll have to manage your savings wisely and make the right moves to come out victorious!

Note that to purchase this travel game, you’ll need to check sites like Amazon, eBay, and BoardGameGeek to find copies.

Bonus: After playing, click here to watch the classic film by the same name.

 

 

 

 

 

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6. Ticket To Ride

Train fans and history buffs alike will love this two-to-five player board game that’s constantly listed as one of the best travel games for adults.

Compete to create the longest train route across turn-of-the-century North America, traveling to different destinations around the continent.

Already conquered the original?

Check out the rest of the series, with versions set in Germany, Europe, London, India, and more. If you love travel-related games, you’ll easily become addicted to this collection.

7. Sagrada

Ever wanted to help build one of the most awe-inspiring — and unfinished — cathedrals in the world?

In Sagrada, you’ll use dice to create one of the intricate stained glass windows in the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.

A little strategic know-how and artistic flair will take you far in this game, while the gorgeous game pieces will transport you to the storied Spanish basilica.

8. Forbidden Desert

In this game for two-to-five players, you’ll search an ancient desert to find a legendary flying machine buried somewhere in the rolling sandhills.

You’ll have to survive the elements and work with your teammates to succeed in this travel-themed board game that will take you to another world, all from the safety of your own living room.

 

 

 

 

 

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9. 7 Wonders

How many of the Seven Wonders of the World can you check off your travel list?

In this travel game, you’ll play as one of the leaders of the ancient world, work to expand your empire and build architectural marvels.

The game moves quickly so you’ll stay engaged and enjoy leaving your mark on history.

10. Discover Lands Unknown

For those who love games about traveling the world, Discover Lands Unknown will easily become one of your favorites.

The board game challenges you and your fellow players will find yourself marooned in the harsh wilderness, searching for survival essentials. As the game goes on, you’ll work together to find your way home.

Each copy of Discover Lands Unknown is unique, featuring different mixes of environments, characters, and storylines; much like traveling, every gaming experience is different!

 

 

 

 

 

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11. Camp

This fun game is perfect for outdoor adventurers who might find themselves stuck inside for a while.

It tests your knowledge of the great outdoors while giving you some inspiration for your next camping trip.

Grab a copy of the game’s travel edition to bring along on your next adventure.

12. Ridley’s World Tour Travel Trivia Card Game

Looking for a game that’s a little less complicated — and more travel friendly? Look no further than Ridley’s World Tour Travel Trivia Card Game.

This 2+ player travel game includes 80 questions as well as bonus facts and offers the perfect way to show off your knowledge of world wonders and cultures to your travel-savvy friends.

13. Who Knows Where?

This fast-moving and easy to play geography board game has 1,000 questions on capitals, major cities and towns, events and facts, major tourist sites and more.

The game’s board is also double-sided, featuring a world map with borders and country names for easier play on one side, and a topographical map on the other for more of a challenge.

As you learn about some of the coolest places on earth, you’re bound to get a few ideas for your next trip.

 

 

 

 

 

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14. Backpacker – The Ultimate Travel Game

Travel bloggers will love this game in which players compete to be the one to bring home the most photos.

In this travel-friendly card game, you’ll trek around the world, visiting as many places as possible without getting sick or missing your plane.

No two rounds of Backpacker are alike, so you’ll want to keep playing this one for a long time.

 

 

 

 

 

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15. Tokaido

In this gorgeous board game, you and your fellow players will travel through Japan across the “East Sea Road.”

Along your way, you’ll indulge in many cultural experiences, collecting interesting things to become the most initiated traveler.

For those who want to relive the memories of their travels to Japan, or those itching to take a trip to the island nation, Tokaido is a great way to experience the country from afar.

 

 

 

 

 

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16. Scotland Yard

Anglophiles rejoice!

In this game, you’ll travel through London to track down the criminal mastermind Mister X, a fugitive of Scotland Yard.

You’ll traverse the city by taxi, bus, and underground, visiting great London landmarks like Paddington Station and Piccadilly Circus.

For travel lovers who want to get their Sherlock Holmes on, Scotland Yard is the perfect way to spend an evening in.

17. Globe Runner

With adjustable levels for different ages and abilities, this geography board game is perfect for travel-loving kids and adults.

Use your knowledge of countries, capitals, flags and more to race your fellow players around the world.

As you “travel” to different countries, you can share some of your own stories and get some inspiration for your own travel bucket list.

What would you add to this list of best travel games for adults?

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Looking for hotels in Seattle with hot tubs in room?

Then you’re in the right place!

When you think of Seattle, WA, you probably imagine rainy weather, the Space Needle, grunge music, and Starbucks.

While you’ll find plenty of drizzly days and coffee shops in this Pacific Northwest city, Seattle has so much more to offer travelers of all kinds.

From world-class museums and art institutions to exciting outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, there are tons of reasons to add Seattle and the nearby Puget Sound area to your travel bucket list.

If you’re looking for a truly relaxing stay in the Emerald City, there are tons of vacation homes and hotels with private hot tubs and jacuzzis in the Seattle area to keep you warm on those damp days.

From stylish hotels in the heart of Downtown to romantic woodland retreats, hot tub and bath aficionados will find plenty of accommodation options.

Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered with a list of some of the top hotels in Seattle WA with a jacuzzi in room. Read on to learn more!

Short on time? Some of the best Seattle hotels with hot tubs include:

Silver Cloud Inn Seattle – this romantic lakeside hotel features spacious rooms with private Jacuzzis
Beautiful Oasis in Seattle’s Seward Park – this vacation rental feels like having your own private spa with hot tub, steam room, and cold plunge pool
Olympic View Cottage – this nautical-themed bed and breakfast features water and mountain views as well as outdoor hot tubs

Hotels In Seattle With Hot Tubs In Room

1. Staypineapple Watertown Hotel

Looking for jacuzzi suites in Seattle’s University District? The Staypineapple Watertown Hotel has you covered.

This cheerful hotel is best known for its abundant amenities, from daily $10 food and beverage credits to free bike rentals to unlimited bottled water.

Of course, one of the best amenities has to be the jacuzzi tubs available in the gorgeous Montlake Junior Suites, great for a romantic getaway or just a little self care.

The hotel’s University District location also makes it a prime place to stay if you’re looking to visit the University of Washington or attend a Huskies football game.

2. Hotel Theodore

Whether you’re looking for honeymoon suites in Seattle or just want to splash out on a truly decadent getaway, consider booking the Residence Suite at the Hotel Theodore.

This 2,000-square-foot penthouse suite features a king bed, fully equipped kitchen, living room, and even two wrap-around outdoor decks with fire tables and a private hot tub.

Take in incredible views of the Seattle skyline while soaking in the hot tub whenever you choose to visit.

The hotel is also close to many of Seattle’s top restaurants, bars and attractions — convenient for those visiting the city for the first time.

3. Silver Cloud Inn Seattle

Searching for Seattle hotels with private hot tubs? Look no further than the Silver Cloud Inn in Lake Union.

This cozy lakeside hotel is famous for its king bedrooms with in-room two-person jacuzzi tubs.

These rooms are perfect for a romantic city getaway, whether you’re relaxing with complimentary Aveda products in your private jacuzzi or warming up by your in-room fireplace.

The hotel’s central location is also ideal for exploring the many things to do in Seattle. In fact, you’ll be just a short walk away from top attractions like the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, the Museum of History & Industry, and more.

This property is truly one of your top options when searching for hotels with private hot tubs in room in Seattle!

4. Warwick Seattle

The classy Warwick Seattle is one of the top choices for Seattle hotels with hot tubs.

The Warwick’s modern and sophisticated Magnolia Suite features a gorgeous Italian marble bathroom with a whirlpool tub that you definitely won’t want to leave.

You’ll also find incredible views of the Seattle skyline on the suite’s Juliet balcony and through the space’s gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows.

If you’ve had enough of the luxuries of your suite (which is unlikely), head down to the Warwick’s signature restaurant Margaux for some delicious Pacific Northwest cuisine and craft cocktails.

5. The Arctic Club Seattle

The Arctic Club Seattle, now a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, is the perfect place for travelers looking for historic jacuzzi tub hotels in Seattle.

Built in 1917 as a social club for Yukon miners, this gorgeous restored hotel has plenty of turn-of-the-century charm mixed with modern amenities.

The hotel features several rooms and suites with jacuzzi tubs perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Seattle.

You’ll also feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you sip craft cocktails at the hotel’s historic Polar Bar.

Overall, a stay at The Arctic Club makes for an unforgettable getaway, particularly for those searching for the best bathtub hotel in Seattle.

6. Georgetown Inn

Searching for Downtown Seattle hotels with jacuzzi in room for an extended stay?

Consider booking a deluxe king suite at the Georgetown Inn, an independent hotel in Downtown Seattle with all the comforts of home.

This 600-square-foot room features a king bedroom, separate living area, and full kitchen perfect for those who like to cook their own meals while traveling.

The suite’s spacious bathroom also features a jetted tub where you can recharge after a day in the city.

You also won’t have to go far to enjoy Seattle’s art scene; the Georgetown Inn is located in one of the city’s most artistic and eclectic neighborhoods, home to plenty of galleries, shops, and studios worth exploring.

This is truly one of your best options when looking for hotels in Downtown Seattle with jacuzzi suites!

7. Silver Cloud Hotel Seattle Stadium

If you’re looking for a Seattle hotel with a jacuzzi tub in room that is also close to the city’s sports stadiums, you’re in luck!

The Silver Cloud Hotel Seattle Stadium offers gorgeous rooms with jacuzzi tubs just steps away from T-Mobile Park and Lumen Field & Event Center.

Book the king bedroom with jacuzzi for access to a jetted tub with great city views where you can celebrate your team’s win or melt away the stress of a hard loss.

The hotel is also just a few blocks from the famous Seattle Waterfront featuring famous sites like the Olympic Sculpture Park and Pike Place Market — one of the top places to explore food and drink in Seattle.

8. Grand Hyatt Seattle

One of the most luxurious hotels with hot tubs in Seattle is the Grand Hyatt. Located right in the heart of Seattle’s Downtown, this high-end hotel is just a short walk away from attractions like Pike Place Market and the waterfront.

If you’re looking to splurge on your trip to Seattle, consider booking one of the Grand Hyatt’s suites, which all have in-room jetted tubs.

The Onyx Suite is the most opulent of all, featuring more than 2,700 square feet, a full-size bedroom, kitchen, wet bar, and parlor, and a spa-like bathroom with a jetted tub and spectacular views overlooking Seattle.

9. Mayflower Park Hotel

Mayflower Park Hotel is a great hotel with hot tub in room in Seattle. This historic hotel is located in the heart of Downtown Seattle, and is conveniently next door to Westlake Center, a major shopping center.

It’s also just a short walk away from the most popular attractions in the city, making it the perfect place to base yourself on a trip to Seattle.

If you’re looking to indulge, book the elegant Spa King Suite, which showcases a king-size bed, an in-room hot tub, and stunning city views.

This is a great place to stay if you want to be in the center of everything Seattle has to offer.

10. Comfort Suites Airport Tukwila Seattle

Another good Seattle hotel with hot tub in room is Comfort Suites Airport Tukwila Seattle. This is one of the most affordable options if you are looking for cheap hot tub rooms in Seattle.

The Comfort Suites Airport Tukwila Seattle is located less than 10 minutes from Sea-Tac Airport and 20 minutes from Downtown Seattle. It’s also adjacent to Tukwila Family Fun Center, an amusement park perfect for families.

Some of the rooms at this hotel have in-room jacuzzi tubs, perfect for relaxing at the end of the day. Other amenities at this hotel include an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and free breakfast.

Hotels With Private Hotels In Bellevue

11. Courtyard Seattle/Bellevue Downtown

Located in the upscale enclave of Bellevue, the Courtyard Seattle/Bellevue Downtown is one of the best Seattle hotels with a hot tub in room.

This is an affordable property close to Downtown Seattle. In fact, the hotel is located just 15 minutes by car from Seattle’s top attractions like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, and you’re also within easy walking distance of great dining and shopping in Bellevue.

The deluxe king guest rooms at this hotel feature a large in-room whirlpool tub, the perfect place to relax at the end of the day. Other amenities include a fitness center and an indoor swimming pool.

12. Eastgate Hotel, BW Signature Collection

If you’re looking for a Seattle hotel with a jacuzzi in room, look no further than Eastgate Hotel, BW Signature Collection.

This hotel is located in Bellevue, an affluent suburb just 15 minutes from Downtown Seattle. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the city, but not right in the midst of it. And there’s plenty to do in Bellevue itself, especially if you enjoy shopping or going out to eat.

The Eastgate Hotel offers comfortable guest rooms, some with a jacuzzi tub in the room. Some rooms at this hotel also have full kitchens and separate sitting areas if you’re looking for the extra space.

Vacation Homes And B&Bs With Private Hot Tubs In Seattle

13. Urban Tree House

Get the best of both worlds in this unique, treehouse-style home just a few miles from Seattle’s top attractions.

Surrounded by lush trees and tucked away into the forest, this 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home is the optimal place to get away from it all.

The property features a heart-shaped private outdoor hot tub, making it an ideal spot for a romantic stay.

And with all the comforts of home like a full kitchen and laundry machines, you’ll have everything you need.

14. Three Tree Point Cottage

Take in stunning views at the Three Tree Point Cottage, known for having one of the best private hot tubs in Seattle.

From the spacious bedroom overlooking the water to a patio perfect for sunset cocktails, this cottage is the place to relax on your next Pacific Northwest adventure.

The home’s outdoor hot tub also offers incredible views of the Puget Sound — great for relaxing after a day of outdoor adventures or touring the city.

Hungry? This cottage also comes stocked with healthy breakfast items so you can easily fuel up before heading out for the day.

Hotels With Private Hot Tubs In The Puget Sound Region

15. Domaine Madeleine in Port Angeles

If you’re looking for hotels with private hot tubs in room in Washington State, consider a stay at the gorgeous Domaine Madeleine in Port Angeles.

Tucked away on the Olympic Peninsula roughly two hours from Seattle, this charming bed and breakfast is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Book the Hurricane Ridge Suite or the Hoh Rainforest Suite for access to your own private jetted tub with sweeping views of the nearby lake, as well as a cozy in-room fireplace, modern bathroom, and one of the comfiest beds you’ll ever sleep in.

For even more privacy, book the Rialto Beach Cottage — equipped with a spacious jetted tub and private patio.

While in Port Angeles, enjoy hiking, kayaking, fly fishing, or any of the area’s many outdoor activities.

16. Lakedale Resort in Friday Harbor

Take camping to a whole new level at Lakedale, one of the top outdoor resorts on San Juan Island.

Lakedale offers a range of accommodations, from lodge rooms to cabins to RV campsites.

For a truly unique experience, book one of Lakedale’s luxury yurts, stylishly designed to give you the best of both worlds.

Each yurt features a wrap-around deck where you’ll find your own private hot tub, grill, and dining space.

Soak your cares away while you enjoy a glass of wine surrounded by the towering trees of the Pacific Northwest forest.

While at Lakedale, you’ll have access to tons of great activities like biking, volleyball, stand-up paddleboarding on the lake, and more.

17. Willows Lodge in Woodinville

Looking to explore Washington’s wine country? Book a stay at Willows Lodge in Woodinville.

From relaxing spa treatments to delicious meals, this hotel has everything you need for a great getaway.

All of the suites at the Willows Lodge feature large jetted tubs — perfect for enjoying a relaxing evening alone or with a partner.

With the hotel’s “D-I-Y Do Not Disturb Bath and Bubbles Amenity,” you’ll even get your own bubble bath, epsom salts, rose petals, electric candles, and a bottle of sparkling wine to upgrade your bathing experience.

While in Woodinville, make sure to check out the area’s many wineries, breweries, and distilleries for a true taste of the Pacific Northwest.

18. Best Western Plus Edmonds Harbor Inn (Edmonds)

Located just a short drive from Downtown Seattle, the Best Western Plus Edmonds Harbor Inn offers cozy accommodations for all kinds of travelers.

The hotel’s Fireplace Suite is a top highlight as it features a private fireplace, comfortable king bed, and large jetted tub for a soothing soak.

All hotel reservations also come with access to a full breakfast buffet every morning, so you won’t have to worry about fueling up for a day of exploring.

While in Edmonds, check out the charming waterfront as well as the many art galleries and museums around town.

19. Hotel Murano in Tacoma

Looking for hotels with jacuzzi in room in Tacoma?

Look no further than Hotel Murano, a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Downtown Tacoma.

While each room in the hotel is impeccably designed, a stay in one of the Patron Suites is the ideal way to unwind.

These beautiful king suites feature stunning mountain and water views, a separate living space, and even a private jetted tub in the master bathroom.

You’ll also get access to the Patron Lounge, featuring delicious complimentary snacks and refreshments throughout the day.

Once you’re settled in, rent a bike and head out for a day of exploring Tacoma’s many museums, parks, and eateries.

20. Hilton Garden Inn Seattle North/Everett

Another one of the best hotels in Seattle with jacuzzi in room is the Hilton Garden Inn Seattle North/Everett.

This hotel is about 30 minutes north of Downtown Seattle in Everett, which is located right on the Puget Sound.

Everett makes a great base to visit Seattle and discover more of Washington’s natural beauty in areas like Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and North Cascades National Park.

But, it’s not just the peaceful location that is a draw. The hotel also offers rooms with a hot tub where you can soak and relax after a busy day exploring Seattle and its surroundings. Additionally, you’ll find an onsite fitness center and indoor swimming pool.

Vacation Homes And B&Bs With Hot Tubs In The Puget Sound Region

21. Cottage Lake Bed & Breakfast (Woodinville)

If you’re looking for the perfect private getaway in Woodinville, the Cottage Lake Bed and Breakfast has you covered.

Conveniently located close to many of the city’s famous wineries and breweries, this cozy suite makes for an ideal trip any time of year.

Enjoy stunning lake views from your own private outdoor hot tub, peruse the library’s vast selection of books, or warm up by the fire pits in the backyard.

The cottage even has its own kayaks, so no need to bring your own or search for a place to rent a boat.

With so many amenities, this is a great location for a tranquil retreat.

Tip For Finding Seattle Hotels With A Jacuzzi In Room

Stay22 is a great tool for finding stunning self-contained stays with hot tubs and Seattle hotels with a jacuzzi tub in room.

If none of the properties above fit what you’re looking for, you can try searching this map — which is also embedded below.

It’s currently set to Seattle, but you can easily change the location to be your specific destination:

I think you’ll be impressed with how many beautiful yet budget-friendly accommodations there are with great amenities!

Seattle Travel Insurance

When visiting Seattle — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Seattle Tours & Experiences

When you’re done soaking in your private hot tub in Seattle and are ready to leave your hotel to go explore, here are some top tours and experiences:

• Seattle Harbor Cruise
• Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour
• Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market
• Mount Rainier Tour from Seattle
• Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour
• 20-Minute Narrated Seattle Seaplane Flight from Lake Washington

Click here for a full list of Seattle tours & experiences.

What hotels in Seattle with hot tubs in room would you add to this list?

Enjoyed this guide to finding a hotel with a jacuzzi in room in Seattle? Pin it for later!

Looking for fun things to do in London alone?

Then you’re in the right place, as that is exactly what we’ll be covering in this travel guide!

Some people worry about potentially feeling lonely or bored while traveling solo; however, that’s not going to be possible on a trip to London, England.

There is so much to do for the solo traveler in London, and there truly is something for everyone, whether you’re looking to explore art, culture, history, nature, food, views, or opportunities to get off the main tourist trail.

To help with the planning, this list of 50+ fun things to do in London solo shares must-do experiences for a truly unforgettable trip — even if you’re exploring on your own.

Quick tip: While London is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials. One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves.

Enjoy Solo Travel In London With Confidence [Free Course]

Now, before we dive into our guide to fun things to do on your own in London, we invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course.

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to travel solo and take amazing selfies

Once you’ve grabbed your seat, read on for our solo London travel guide.

Why London Is Perfect For Solo Travel

There are many reasons why London is a great destination for those traveling on their own.

First of all, there are loads of unforgettable things to do solo in London, meaning you’ll never get bored and will have fun traveling alone.

Plus, as it’s one of the most popular destinations in the world, it makes it easier to meet other travelers if you’d like to find a friend to explore with. Some tips for meeting other travelers include:

• take a walking tour (like these)
• attend local meetups (CouchSurfing and Meetup.com are helpful resources)
• book an interactive class (like this tea tasting masterclass)
• opt for a shared Airbnb or hostel (many of which have private rooms)

London is also incredibly easy to get around. No need to rent a car or take expensive taxis, as the city’s budget-friendly public transportation system can get you anywhere you need to go.

And while you should always use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, London is considered a very safe city.

Tips For Traveling Alone in London

As previously stated, London is overall a safe place to travel alone. That being said, here are a few extra tips to help you avoid any potential safety issues and have a great experience.

-Keep an eye on your belongings at all times. For example, when you’re sitting down to eat, don’t leave your phone casually on the table.

-Be aware of pickpocketing in busy places. If you’re watching street performers or are on a crowded train, be sure that you’re still paying attention to your stuff and try to keep your bag in front of you. You don’t have to be paranoid, but be alert and know a few ways to avoid pickpockets.

-As with any place, don’t wander around alone in secluded areas — especially at night. Trust your gut if an area feels iffy. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

-Don’t carry all of your money on you in case you get pickpocketed while you’re out. Keep extra cards and cash in more than one place.

-Have photocopies of your important documents like passport and driver’s license. In case your things go missing or get stolen, you want to have some proof of who you are. It could also be a good idea to email copies of these documents to yourself or upload them onto a cloud storage system to access in case of an emergency. 

-Taking transit is the best way to get around the city, so skip the taxis and Ubers and save your money. The transit system may look overwhelming, but it’s actually pretty easy to navigate. Learn how to use the London tube before your trip here.

-London is known for having rainy weather, so pack a travel-sized umbrella that can easily fit in a purse or large pocket. This way, you’ll never be caught in the rain unprepared. 

-If possible, visit the more popular tourist destinations earlier in the day. Some of these places can get pretty crowded as the day goes on, so if you want a more relaxed atmosphere or to take photos without people getting in your shot then going earlier is a wise choice.

50+ Fun Things To Do In London Alone

The following experiences are perfect for those enjoying some solo female travel in London or who just want to spend time exploring on their own. After reading this list, you’ll understand why London is one of the best places to travel alone in Europe.

Remember, too, that one of the biggest advantages of traveling alone is having ultimate freedom over your schedule, so feel free to adapt the below suggestions to suit your itinerary.

London Attractions For Solo Travelers

These solo-friendly sites shouldn’t be missed when visiting London.

The London Eye

The London Eye is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel and is one of the most recognizable modern landmarks in London.

Riding it is a must-have experience on a trip to England, especially as it offers beautiful bird’s-eye views over the city and River Thames.

Tours and tickets can be purchased here.

Sky Garden

Sky Garden is a great place to enjoy beautiful views overlooking Central London. As the name says, this location is actually a garden in the sky. Take a walk among the greenery and look out at a vista from above the city. 

Tower of London

If you’re a history buff, then you’ll want to check out the Tower of London, a castle and World Heritage Site.

Here you can walk the same steps as important historic figures such as Anne Boleyn, the Queen of England from 1533 to 1536.

Plus, you can get up close to the famous Royal Crown Jewels — which features a collection of 23,578 gemstones — as well as the ravens that protect the castle.

For a unique excursion, this Tower of London tour also includes a cruise of the River Thames and the chance to watch the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most architecturally stunning buildings in London. You can buy tickets here to take a tour of this beautiful church during the week from Monday through Saturday. 

Pro tip:

At the highest point of the dome is the Golden Gallery, where you can take in sweeping views of London — including the River Thames, Tate Modern, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre — from 280 feet.

Emirates Air Line Ride

Take the Emirates Air Line cable car for a great view over the east side of London. Catch a view of The Shard, Canary Wharf, and the 02 Stadium from above.

You can choose to go during the day for a sweeping view across the city, or take a nighttime journey to see London all lit up.

Kings Cross Station

This is definitely a must-see, especially for the Harry Potter fans visiting London. Go to the wall labeled 9 ¾ for your chance to get a photo of yourself trying to run to the Hogwarts Express train.

When you’re finished, you can grab your photo and some other fun souvenirs just around the corner.

Big Ben & Parliament

The famous clock tower called Big Ben as well as the Parliament Building are two very important London icons. This means you should definitely add them to your solo itinerary.

While here, don’t just take in the beauty of the landmarks, but also explore the surrounding streets and neighborhoods full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Just note this area is touristy, so try to come earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey — a royal church and World Heritage Site — is around the corner from Big Ben and Parliament.

You can sit in the area and take in a view of this beautiful church, or you can take a tour. Just note they don’t allow photos inside. 

Abbey Road

Are you a Beatles fan? Then head to Abbey Road, where the very famous photo was taken of the band crossing the street. 

If you want a picture of yourself here but you’re traveling solo, see if you can find someone nearby to take a photo of you as you cross. Very likely, someone else will want the same photo so you can trade places.

Just be sure to be on the lookout for cars and try not to get in anyone’s way!

Palace Theatre

When thinking of fun things to do alone in London, seeing a show should be pretty far up on that list.

London has a great selection of performances that you can watch. Of course, if you’re a Harry Potter fan you must head to the Palace Theatre to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Very likely, this will be a highlight of your trip.

If you’re traveling solo, you may prefer trying to catch an afternoon viewing of a show, which can actually save you a bit of money, too.

National Theatre

Located in the South Bank district of London, the National Theatre is another great place to see a world class performance.

They serve food and drinks in the theater, too, though if you want a nice sit-down meal there are many restaurants within walking distance.

Pro tip: If you want to save money, you can snag £10 Friday Rush tickets from 1pm. Details here.

Buckingham Palace

Whether you have 5 days in England or are just spending a day in London, this attraction should be at the top of your list!

You can also book a tour here to gain a deeper understanding of England’s royal heritage.

Buckingham Palace is the most recognizable home and place of business of the British Royal Family. Try to get here earlier in the day to beat the crowds. 

Barbican Conservatory

If you like the greenery of Sky Garden, then you’re bound to love Barbican Conservatory, one of the largest greenhouses in London.

Exploring London on a budget? You’ll be happy to know it’s free to enter, though note you do still need to get tickets ahead of time as space is limited.

Piccadilly Circus 

Piccadilly Circus is basically London’s version of Times Square in New York City. You can do a bit of shopping while you’re here, or just walk around and take in the buzzing atmosphere. 

Trafalgar Square

Have coffee or lunch in Trafalgar Square and do some people watching — which is especially enjoyable on a sunny day in London. You’ll also find restaurants, cafes, museums, markets, and other attractions if you’re looking for something to do.

Strange fact:

While here, take a close look at the lion statues surrounding Nelson’s Column. They were designed by painter Sir Edwin Landseer, who used an actual dead lion as his model. The paws were done last, and it’s often said that they look odd compared to the rest of the body, as the animal had begun to decompose. Yikes!

Stroll London’s Quaint Mews

In case you’ve never heard this term, “mews” are tucked away cobblestone streets in London that often showcase buildings laced with ivy or wisteria. Interestingly, these buildings used to be stables but have been converted into townhomes.

Wandering these whimsical mews is a great way to take in some London charm while enjoying a scenic walk on your own. A few mews to add to your solo travel itinerary include:

Holland Park Mews

Located in Holland Park, you can take a walk in the neighborhood and enjoy the cobblestone street and quaint buildings. Enter from the west entrance to pass under a historic arch dating back to 1862 that is on the National Heritage List for England.

Warren Mews

Warren Mews is a very popular spot with people looking to take photos of a quaint and cozy spot in London. You can find Warren Mews located in the Camden area of London.

Kynance Mews

Located in South Kensington, Kynance Mews is another sweet neighborhood to check out if you enjoy exploring these converted neighborhoods. 

Explore London Markets

Exploring local markets is a big part of local life in London. They’re also great for solo travelers and groups alike. So if you’re wondering where to go alone in London, don’t miss:

Portobello Road Market

Wander the popular Portobello Road Market and peruse stall upon stall of fresh food, clothing, antiques, knickknacks, and more.

Borough Market

Borough Market is a great place to get something to eat as a solo traveler. They have a wide array of food choices, and if you’re someone who is nervous about sitting alone at a restaurant, you don’t have to worry about that here!  

Columbia Road Flower Market

If you love plants, then you really need to take a trip over to the Columbia Road Flower Market. Open on Sundays, the market stalls overflow with roses, calla lilies, amaryllis, chrysanthemums, and other colorful flowers and plants.

Learn At The Many London Museums

Perusing interesting exhibits is a great way to spend a day in London on your own. The following London museums are some of the best.

Victoria & Albert Museum

For solo travelers craving a dose of creativity, this museum showcases over 1 million vintage design and art pieces.

The British Museum

Housed in a beautiful Greek Revival building, the British Museum features 2 million years of human history and culture from around the world through interesting exhibits, events, tours, and talks.

Choose to take a guided tour through the museum for a fee or explore at your own pace for free to save money on solo travel.

The Natural History Museum

Discovering the Natural History Museum is one of the best things to do in London alone for free!

Learn about our planet and its fascinating creatures at the Natural History Museum. And it’s not just current living things either. In fact, their dinosaur exhibit is a highlight of a visit!

Get Inspired At London Art Galleries

Get in touch with your creative side with a solo trip to a local London gallery, like:

The National Gallery 

Looking for free things to do in London? The National Gallery is a free art museum in Trafalgar Square that showcases over 2,300 works.

Much of the artwork is world-renowned, too, like The Virgin of the Rocks by Leonardo Da Vinci and Mars and Venus by Botticelli.

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is another must-see gallery if you love art and are looking for fun things to do in London by yourself. As the name suggests, you’ll find more modern art here — versus the historical paintings that you would find at many other art galleries. 

It’s free to visit the Tate Modern, however, be sure to grab a ticket and reserve a time beforehand.

Catch A Movie At A London Cinema

While it can sometimes feel awkward to go to a bar or club on your own, cinemas offer the perfect option for some solo nightlife in London. So, when you’re looking for things to do alone in London at night, check out:

Prince Charles Cinema

If you’re wanting to catch a film while you’re in Central London, the Prince Charles Cinema is a popular option. It shows a mix of current Hollywood films as well as older films, so you’ll easily be able to find something entertaining.

Picturehouse Central

Relax with a solo movie viewing experience at Picturehouse Central, which is known for its comfortable seating as well as its dining options. They’ve even got an outdoor terrace and bar with beautiful views over London.

This is a fun twist on the usual movie theatre outing! 

The Electric Cinema

This small 600-seat theater takes you back in time. With their Portobello location opening in 1911, this cinema is one of the oldest in Britain! That being said, you can still see the latest flicks.

Everyman Cinema

Everyman Cinema is also worth checking out if you want to see a movie alone in London. This cinema is comfortable and enjoyable, however, their screens are a bit on the smaller side in comparison to other theaters around the city.

Enjoy Nature At London Parks

Wandering through nature is the perfect way to get back in touch with yourself. Luckily, London is home to truly unforgettable parks that double as some of the top places to go alone in London, like:

St. James Park

Listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, St. James Park is a large 57-acre park with much to explore — from a small lake with two islands to a resident colony of pelicans.

Visiting this lovely park is one of the best things to do in London on your own, especially for those who love immersing themselves in nature! You can spend some time exploring its different areas.

As the park is located near Buckingham Palace, you’ll also be able to catch a glimpse of the royal residence from certain areas of the park, like the Blue Bridge.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of the most popular parks in London, and it’s the largest at 350 acres. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a boat ride, a walk through the trees, or a wander through the adjacent Kensington Palace and Gardens.

Its size and beauty make it one of London’s top places to go alone to clear your head or just enjoy some greenery.

Pro tip:

Visiting Hyde Park is one of the top Christmas activities in London, as you can experience the annual Hyde Park Winter Wonderful event with live music, figure skating, holiday markets, and more.

Primrose Hill

Primrose Hill is a smaller park in London, but it is still a great one to check out. It offers a lovely view of the city from atop its grassy hill summit.

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park is a top park option located in South East London. Formerly a hunting park, you can now come here for a nice walk paired with a beautiful view of the city skyline. 

Walthamstow Wetlands

As London’s largest nature reserve and the largest urban wetlands in Europe, Walthamstow Wetlands has much to explore. Wander 13 miles of paths and bring your binoculars to do some birdwatching.

Explore London On A Guided Tour

One of the best ways to meet other people while traveling London solo is booking a walking tour. These excursions not only introduce you to London history and culture, but they can also be quite social. Some not-to-miss tours include:

Explore street art in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is known for its street art. You can join a walking tour through the area or take yourself around. You’ll learn a bit more if you join a guided tour though, and you’ll likely even make some friends along the way!

Click here to peruse tickets and tours.

Cruise the River Thames

Get an up-close look at London’s famous skyline with a cruise along the River Thames. There are different types of cruises that you can enjoy and can do at different times of the day. See the skyline in detail during the day or enjoy the twinkling city lights on an evening cruise. 

Click here to peruse tickets and tours.

Take a food tour of Borough Market

Exploring the markets is one of the best things to do in London as a solo traveller who loves food, but it can be better with a local guide!

Borough Market is known to have some of the best food around, so why not join a walking tour with other visiting foodies? Try a bit of everything as you make your way through — and order some to-go to enjoy later.

Click here to peruse tickets and tours.

See all the sights on a Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

A Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour visits almost all of London’s biggest attractions, and you have the ability to get on and off as you please throughout the day.

Sure, it’s one of the most touristy things you can do; but honestly, if you’re visiting London and are short on time, it can be a great way to get a lot in. Plus, you can save on transportation as you simply pay for the ticket once.

Recommendation:

Get on at one stop and ride the whole way through to see many different aspects of the city. As you go, note the areas that appeal to you most and walk back to those spots later on.

Click here to purchase your ticket.

Enjoy thrift shopping & Indian food on Brick Lane

Another great place to explore on foot is the hip Brick Lane, a street in the East End of London.

Here you’ll find thrift shops where you can find great budget buys as well as delicious food options — especially if you like Indian food and craft cocktail bars.

Click here to peruse tickets and tours.

See the colors of Notting Hill

Notting Hill is known across the world for its colorful homes. You may have even seen a bit of it in the movie Notting Hill starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. 

Go for a walk to really take in the beautiful and bright colors of the neighborhood — which can cheer you up on a dreary day.

Click here to peruse tickets and tours.

Do Some (Window) Shopping 

Shopping is best done at your own pace. Enjoy this solo-friendly activity in some of London’s top shopping areas.

Oxford Street

You’ll find many high-end stores on Oxford Street. Have fun window shopping or treat yourself and grab a few mementos to bring home to remember your time here. 

Bond Street

You can get to Bond Street from Oxford Street to continue your luxury shopping journey. On Bond Street, you’ll be greeted by some of the biggest luxury brands in the world like Cartier, Bulgari, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and Fendi, to name a few.

Covent Garden 

Covent Garden is a London district offering a variety of shopping experiences, from high-end brands to markets. You’ll also find some tasty food options here, from a diverse array of restaurants to pubs to cafes.

Harrods

Harrods is probably one of the first places you think of when it comes to shopping in London. This luxury department store showcases over 5,000 brands across clothing, furniture, food, jewelry, beauty, and more.

Bonus: You can also try a proper British afternoon tea while you’re here. 

Selfridges

Selfridges is another worthwhile department store to check out while you’re in London.

It has even been voted the best department store in the world multiple times by the Intercontinental Group of Department Stores thanks to its creative collaborations, clever store concepts (like pop up installations and social spaces), and high-quality goods sold.

Carnaby Street

This pedestrian shopping street is full of boutiques and restaurants — though that’s not all. It’s also worth visiting to see the beautiful signage and decorations that change with the seasons. It’s particularly noteworthy during the holidays when they do a light display!

Daunt Books

Daunt Books is a really popular bookstore in London that is worth checking out. While today it’s a local chain, the first shop opened in the Marylebone district in 1912 — and claims to be the world’s first custom-built bookshop.

Not only is the shop beautiful with oak galleries and skylights, but they offer a lot of interesting travel books, which is its specialty.

Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth it to simply wander the old-school shop and get inspiration for a future purchase.

Enjoy Offbeat Things To Do In London By Yourself

Wondering what to do alone in London while getting off the main tourist trail? A few recommendations include:

Walk The Line

The Line is a free-to-enjoy modern and contemporary art walk in East London. It stretches from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to The O2, following the waterways and the line of the Greenwich Meridian while introducing you to inspiring sculptures and beautiful views along the way.

Kayak the Thames River

Craving an urban adventure? London’s famous Thames River isn’t just for admiring from the street, but also from a kayak! In fact, the London Kayak Company offers both day and night trips that are suitable for all levels.

Get funky at God’s Own Junkyard

Located in London’s creative Walthamstow neighborhood, God’s Own Junkyard is an eclectic art shop showcasing colorful neon signs, unique props, and other creative pieces hanging from every inch of the walls and ceiling.

If you love interesting art or want a fun shot for your Instagram grid, don’t miss this stop.

Explore medical heritage at a quirky museum

One of the best things to do in London alone is to explore a local museum.

Along with popular institutions like the National Gallery and the Natural History Museum, London is home to a number of quirky museums — many of which look at niche topics related to medical history. A few of these include:

The Anaesthesia Museum. This medical museum showcases more than 2,000 objects dating back to 1774 through the present that help to tell the story of anaesthesia.

Freud Museum. Explore the final home of Sigmund Freud, founder of psychoanalysis. His study room has been preserved to look just as it did when he was alive, and you can also peruse contemporary art, 2500 antiquities from Sigmund Freud’s personal collection, and exhibitions on Freud and psychoanalysis.

Old Operating Theatre Museum. Here you’ll see Britain’s oldest surviving purpose-built operating theatre, constructed in 1822 for low-income women. You’ll see some fascinating exhibits and will learn the (somewhat gruesome) story of early medicine and operations.

Go back in time at the Billingsgate Roman House & Baths

You’d never know that underneath a nondescript office building on Lower Thames Street sits 2,000 years of history.

In fact, in the basement of the building, you’ll find the ruins of a Roman home and bathhouse — discovered in 1848 when the floor was dug up during construction of a new coal exchange, as at the time coal was the most important commodity of the British Empire.

You can see the ruins for yourself on a tour, which begins with learning about Roman history in London and even seeing a map of Roman London (or Londinium, as the Romans called it).

Eating Alone In London

Of course, you are free to dine wherever you’d like, though some eateries are more solo-friendly than others. A few of these include the following.

Eat at the bar

If you feel awkward requesting a table for one, consider opting for a restaurant with a bar or counter. A few eateries in London with fantastic bar service include The Drapers Arms (for comfort food), St John’s Tavern (seasonal dishes), and Lyle’s (Michelin-starred).

Dine at cafes

It’s completely commonplace to see people sitting alone at a cafe. Luckily, these cozy establishments aren’t just for coffee, especially if you pop into Nora Cafe, Antipode, or Urban Meadow Cafe and Bar — all of which are known for their tasty menus.

Pair your meal with entertainment

You’re less likely to feel awkward if you’ve got something to focus on. Plus, pairing entertainment with your meal allows you to enjoy a fun local experience while you eat.

A few recommendations for this include Gingerline (for immersive dining adventures), Ronnie Scott’s (for live jazz), and London Cabaret Club (for a mix of song, dance, and theater).

These are also great picks if you’re looking for things to do in London alone at night.

Head Out On A Solo Day Trip From London

As you read above, there are many solo things to do in London. That being said, there is also much to explore outside the city. The following London day trips are safe, fun, and unforgettable for solo travelers.

Warner Brothers Studio Tour

The Warner Brothers Studio Tour is a must for Harry Potter fans, especially as you get to see how they’ve made the set into a Harry Potter museum. 

It can get quite busy here, so it’s a good idea to come in the first group of the day. This way, you can stroll along at a leisurely pace without too many people getting in your way. 

You can catch a shuttle bus from Watford Junction — which run about every 30 minutes — and you can be back in London by the afternoon.

Oxford

Oxford is known for its beautiful architecture and historic university — the oldest in the English-speaking world and the second-oldest in continuous operation as it’s believed to date back to 1096.

Along with visiting the university, you can explore Oxford Castle, see the beautiful pastel-colored houses of Holywell Street, peruse the local covered markets, and gaze out over the city’s iconic “dreaming spires” from St Mary’s Church Tower.

Some of the buildings here were even used in the Harry Potter films, so this is another great destination for Harry Potter fans. 

To reach Oxford, you can take a train from London Paddington Station, which takes about an hour, or book a tour.

Windsor

Windsor is home to one of the main royal residences used by the British Royal Family. You can take a day trip here to see Windsor Castle — which is a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II. 

To reach Windsor from London, you can grab a coach from Victoria Coach Station, a train from London Paddington Station, or a direct train that takes a little bit longer from London Waterloo Station.

Of course, you can also book a tour.

Bath

Unsurprisingly, Bath is known for its Roman bathhouses, hence its name. This is another top destination to check out for the history buffs, as you’ll be able to visit ancient Roman baths — or take a dip yourself at the modern Thermae Bath Spa.

Love views? Climb to the top of Bath Abbey Tower for a vista over the city.

To reach Bath, you can grab a 90-minute train from Paddington Station or book a tour.

Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a prehistoric stone circle monument, cemetery, and archaeological site that is believed to date back to 3100 BC. It’s known as being very sophisticated for its time, though its purpose remains a mystery to researchers.

Because of the rich history, it’s best to visit on a tour, like these.

Bonus: Top Tours For A Solo Trip To London

One great way to meet people when traveling solo is booking a group tour. A few top-rated excursions include:

• Ghastly Ghost Walking Tour in London
• Secret Food Tour: London Bridge & Borough Market w/ Private Tour Option
• Classic London Landmarks Bicycle Tour
• Small-Group Tour: Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
• Secret Walking Tour of Central London

Click here for a full list of tours in London.

Top London Hotels

Looking for London accommodation?

Click here for a list of top-rated hotels!

There are also some pretty epic hotels in the UK with private hot tubs.

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals! 

You can also use the map below to search for local stays:

England Train Travel

Getting around England by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! I use this tool for all of my public transportation needs when traveling Europe.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount. They even offer flight and car deals!

London Travel Insurance

When visiting London — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Solo things to do London FAQ

Q) How can I spend a day alone in London?

In terms of how to spend a day alone in London, make sure to visit London’s main attractions, museums, art galleries, parks, and markets. Also, you might want to check out tours to learn more about the culture and meet other travelers.

Q) Is London fun for solo travel?

Yes, London is one of the best destinations for solo travelers as there are plenty of fun things to do alone.

What would you add to this list of fun things to do in London alone?

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