Oh, the holidays—a time for cheer, eggnog, and… solo travel? Absolutely! While some people are hunkering down with family or attending awkward office parties, you could be exploring festive Christmas markets in Europe, catching sun rays on a tropical beach, or celebrating New Year’s under fireworks abroad. The best part? You get to do it your way—on your own schedule, with all the flexibility to be as spontaneous (or as organized) as you want!
As a seasoned solo traveler, I’m here to share the most magical destinations for those of us who want to make the holidays an adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for snow-covered streets, twinkling lights, or a tropical escape, these destinations are perfect for solo travelers looking to have an unforgettable holiday season.
The Best U.S. Destinations for Solo Holiday Travel 🇺🇸
1. New York City, New York 🗽🎄
Weather: 30°F to 45°F (pack your winter coat!)
Website: NYC Christmas Guide
Nothing says Christmas like New York City. From the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, NYC is a dream during the holidays. Ice skate under the stars at Bryant Park, sip hot cocoa at the Winter Village, and marvel at the twinkling lights in Dyker Heights.
Where to stay: The Pod Hotel is a great affordable, solo-friendly option with central locations.
Things to do: Don’t miss a visit to Radio City Music Hall for the Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes or head to the Union Square Holiday Market for handmade gifts.
2. Asheville, North Carolina 🌲❄️
Weather: 30°F to 55°F
Website: Explore Asheville
Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is the perfect cozy, solo getaway for the holidays. The Biltmore Estate is transformed into a holiday wonderland with twinkling lights and grandiose decorations, and you can enjoy some of the best holiday craft fairs and food markets in the country.
Where to stay: The Foundry Hotel offers a chic, industrial vibe with Southern hospitality. Or book a cute Airbnb cabin for a peaceful retreat in the mountains.
Things to do: Stroll through the National Gingerbread House Competition at the Grove Park Inn, take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and warm up at a local brewery.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana 🎷🍤
Weather: 45°F to 65°F
Website: New Orleans Christmas
If you’re looking for a holiday destination with a twist, New Orleans is your place. With its unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole cultures, the city comes alive during the holidays with festive lights in Jackson Square, bonfires along the Mississippi River, and holiday parades.
Where to stay: The Eliza Jane offers beautiful French Quarter charm, perfect for solo travelers.
Things to do: Explore the Celebration in the Oaks light display in City Park, join a Reveillon dinner (a traditional holiday feast), and catch some live jazz at Preservation Hall.
The Best International Destinations for Solo Holiday Travel 🌍🎅
1. Vienna, Austria 🎶⛄
Weather: 25°F to 40°F
Website: Vienna Christmas Markets
For a fairytale holiday, head to Vienna where the Christmas markets are out of this world. The Vienna Magic of Advent market at Rathausplatz is perfect for sipping mulled wine while browsing handmade gifts. Wander through snow-dusted palaces, listen to classical concerts, and warm up with some hot apple strudel.
Where to stay: Hotel Sacher is an iconic option, though budget travelers might love the central Wombat’s City Hostel.
Things to do: Visit Schönbrunn Palace for a royal Christmas experience, enjoy a concert at the Vienna State Opera, and wander through the romantic streets of the Old Town.
2. Quebec City, Canada ❄️🍁
Weather: 10°F to 25°F (seriously, pack layers!)
Website: Quebec City Christmas
If you’ve always dreamed of a white Christmas, then Quebec City is for you. With its cobblestone streets, charming old town, and European vibe, Quebec City transforms into a real-life snow globe during the holidays. The German Christmas Market is a must-see, and the illuminated streets of Petit Champlain feel like you’re walking through a winter wonderland.
Where to stay: Auberge Saint-Antoine is a cozy, luxurious option in the heart of Old Quebec.
Things to do: Explore the Old Quebec Winter Carnival, admire the ice sculptures, or take a scenic walk along the Dufferin Terrace with views of the snowy St. Lawrence River.
3. Tokyo, Japan 🎏🎆
Weather: 40°F to 55°F
Website: Tokyo Holiday Guide
For something completely unique, celebrate the holidays in Tokyo. Though Christmas isn’t a traditional holiday in Japan, the city goes all out with breathtaking light displays like the Shibuya Blue Cave and Tokyo Midtown. Celebrate New Year’s Eve at a temple, experience a traditional countdown, and enjoy delicious holiday eats like Christmas cake.
Where to stay: Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel is right in the heart of Ginza, close to all the major holiday action.
Things to do: Stroll through the Tokyo Christmas Markets, catch the New Year’s celebrations at Meiji Shrine, and see the lights at Roppongi Hills.
4. Reykjavik, Iceland 🎇❄️
Weather: 28°F to 38°F
Website: Iceland Winter Wonderland
Want to see the Northern Lights while sipping hot chocolate and celebrating the holidays in an epic, snow-covered landscape? Then Reykjavik is calling! With its quirky Christmas traditions (13 Santa Clauses!), cozy holiday markets, and the chance to bathe in hot springs, Iceland offers a magical solo holiday experience.
Where to stay: KEX Hostel is a trendy, budget-friendly option, or go luxe with a stay at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon.
Things to do: Don’t miss a Northern Lights tour, warm up in the Blue Lagoon, and explore the holiday market at Ingólfstorg Square.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark 🎁🎄
Weather: 30°F to 40°F
Website: Visit Copenhagen
If your holiday dreams include cozying up in cafes, drinking mulled wine, and wandering through magical Christmas markets, then Copenhagen should be on your solo travel list. The Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is like stepping into a holiday storybook, and you can enjoy the Danish concept of hygge—all about coziness and warmth.
Where to stay: Hotel SP34 offers chic Scandinavian design, perfect for solo travelers.
Things to do: Explore Nyhavn with its colorful waterfront houses, stroll through the Tivoli Gardens during the holidays, and visit the Royal Copenhagen Christmas Tables exhibit.
New Year’s Solo Travel Destinations 🎆🎉
1. Sydney, Australia 🌞🎇
Weather: 70°F to 85°F (summer vibes!)
Website: Sydney New Year’s Eve
If you want to celebrate New Year’s before everyone else, head to Sydney where the fireworks over Sydney Harbour are among the first to ring in the new year. Spend your days lounging at Bondi Beach, take a boat ride around the harbor, and party under the stars as you count down to midnight with fireworks over the Sydney Opera House.
Where to stay: QT Sydney is a funky, solo-friendly hotel right in the heart of the action.
Things to do: Watch the New Year’s fireworks from Mrs Macquarie’s Point for an epic view, take a Sydney Harbour Cruise, and explore the city’s lively summer vibe.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland – Hogmanay 🎇🏴
Weather: 30°F to 45°F
Website: Hogmanay
Edinburgh is home to Hogmanay, one of the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve festivals. The city comes alive with street parties, parades, concerts, and fireworks. It’s the perfect destination for solo travelers who want to celebrate with new friends.
Where to stay: The Balmoral Hotel for luxury, or for budget travelers, try Castle Rock Hostel with its stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.
Things to do: Join the Torchlight Procession, dance at the Street Party, and watch fireworks from Calton Hill.
Solo Travel Tips for the Holidays 🎒🎅
- Pack light, pack smart: Cold destinations? Pack layers! Warmer climates? Don’t forget the sunscreen!
- Plan ahead: Especially during the holidays, book accommodation and activities early to avoid disappointment.
- Be open to new traditions: Whether you’re exploring Christmas markets or joining a New Year’s festival, embrace the local holiday vibes.
- Safety first: Solo travel is amazing, but stay aware of your surroundings, especially at crowded holiday events.
Wherever you choose to go this holiday season, remember: solo travel is an adventure all your own. Whether it’s sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market or watching fireworks light up the sky at New Year’s, there’s no better time to explore the world. So pack your bags, embrace the festive spirit, and make this holiday season unforgettable! 🎅✨
Curves and a Carry On 
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