Ready to tick the Northern Lights off your bucket list, but torn between two Nordic giants? Here’s a concise, side-by-side look at what matters most to solo adventurers.
Ring Road loops the island; 4×4 not essential early-season but handy after Nov
Tour Prices
Avg. multi-day guided tour US $320–$520/day (short tours from US $70; deluxe trips US $1.5–3 k+ total)
Female-Solo Safety
Ranks among the world’s safest countries; harassment risk rated 1/4 (lowest) by Solo Female Travelers Index.
Why You’ll Love It
One Base, Many Hotspots – From Reykjavík you can reach Thingvellir NP or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in under 2 hours, meaning you can chase clear skies as forecasts shift.
Free Viewing Spots – Þingvellir car parks, Grotta Lighthouse, and the southern coast offer zero-fee aurora backdrops.
Choose Iceland if… you crave open-road freedom, want to pair auroras with waterfalls & hot springs, and don’t mind self-driving to trim costs.
Choose Norway if… you prefer structured yet scenic travel—think buses, coastal ferries, and snug lodges—plus fjords and Sámi culture by day.
Or do both: 2025-26’s solar-maximum window means back-to-back trips double your odds of a bucket-list aurora photo.
Pro Tip: Stay at least 4–5 nights in your chosen base, check cloud forecasts hourly, and keep a power bank handy—your phone’s aurora app will buzz all night.
TrekUp India believes that any successful trek begins with a firm grasp of its fundamentals, and breathing is one of the most critical components. Utilizing diaphragmatic breathing techniques like diaphragmatic breaths, regular step-sync patterns, and pressure breathing, as well as rest-step techniques, will provide your body with enough oxygen for long climbs without becoming fatigued during their pursuit.
Regular breathing not only strengthens your body’s endurance but also your brain’s capacity to focus and stay calm. By practicing regular breath work at high elevations and developing good walking habits, regular practice makes even challenging treks through the Himalayan or Sahyadri ranges more manageable and pleasurable.
As you train for your next trip, don’t just train your legs; train both lungs. Inhale deeply as you take long treks or scale heights with confidence.
The hills of the Scottish Highlands were still in sight when the cry went up: “Whale!” And there it was, a humpback on the port side of the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry, blasting a great cloud of mist from its blowhole, then with a farewell flick of its tail, disappearing into the Atlantic. On other voyages you may see glorious sunsets, rare migratory birds, ruined castles and historic lighthouses. Unlike the classic road trip or the great railway journey, however, the humble ferry rarely makes it to anyone’s bucket list. They are a means to an end, only chosen by necessity. And yet, the UK has some of the best and most exhilarating voyages within its borders. From exciting river crossings to island odysseys that test the mettle of the best sea captains, these boat journeys can be the high point of any trip.
Whale-watching on the way from Cornwall to the Isles of Scilly
Starting from Penzance’s South Pier, in sight of St Michael’s Mount, the crossing to St Mary’s is the indispensable highlight of any trip to the Isles of Scilly. The gas-guzzling, climate-clobbering helicopter doesn’t even approach the magic of this ship and its three-hour voyage into the Atlantic Ocean. Penzance bursts with nautical heritage; many of its remarkable number of pubs have existed since the days of Captain Kidd and Francis Drake. Once aboard the Scillonian (built in Appledore, Devon, in 1977), find a position with a view to the starboard to glimpse Land’s End on departure, then keep a lookout for wildlife. Dolphins and whales are sighted regularly on the voyage. Birdlife includes gannets, Manx shearwaters and puffins. Watch out for bird feeding frenzies, which may attract the attention of bluefin tuna (the half-ton fish can leap clear of the water and numbers are rising fast). Other potential highlights include fin whales, the planet’s second largest animal after the blue whale – with several sightings in 2024. A day return on the Scillonian III is £35.Woodstock Ark, a secluded cabin near Penzance South Pier, sleeps two, from £133 a night. Star Castle Hotel, close to the Scillonian’s arrival point on St Mary’s, has great food and superb views; doubles with dinner from £245.
A tugboat tow on the River Dart in Devon
There has been a ferry across the River Dart since the 14th century. Photograph: Candy Apple Red Images/Alamy
Dartmouth has a huge heritage of sailing and boats, and the lower ferry across the mouth of the River Dart is an absolute classic. The best approach is on the steam railway from Paignton, which brings you into what was once the Great Western Railway’s imposing Kingswear station on the east bank of the river. Alternatively, you could walk to Kingswear on the South West Coast Path from Brixham (a 10-mile yomp). There has been a ferry here since the 14th century and the latest incarnation is a barge with room for eight cars towed by a tugboat. The crossing is short but memorable, the flanks of the steeply wooded valley looming over a fast-moving tidal river that froths around the barge as it picks its way through a busy shipping lane. Landing is right in town, next to the blue plaque for John Davis, one of the great sea dogs of Devon, who searched for the Northwest Passage and died at the hands of pirates near Singapore in 1605. If the crossing has whetted the appetite, walk upriver along the historic waterfront to the Upper Dart ferry, another interesting boat. Originally a floating platform linked to cross-river chains that were pulled by horses, today it’s a diesel-electric paddle engine combined with cables that can manage about 18 cars. The Lower Dart Ferry costs £5 return for a foot passenger; car and passengers £14 return. Ferryside apartment next to the ferry in Kingswear sleeps four, from £533 for three nights. Further away, Dartington Hall, once Britain’s leading progressive school, is now a top arts centre, offering wonderful gardens and accommodation, withdoubles from £103 B&B.
An exhilarating passage from Berneray toHarris in the Outer Hebrides
A Caledonian MacBrayne ferry docked at Berneray. Photograph: Pearl Bucknall/Alamy
Scotland is blessed with many memorable ferry routes, but none surpasses the short voyage from Berneray to Leverburgh on Harris. A hop of just nine nautical miles and taking an hour, it crosses the shallow Sound of Harris, which is strewn with deadly rocks, dangerous tidal currents and frequent mists. Before GPS, it was a rule that the captain would turn back if he couldn’t see two buoys ahead, and occasionally the ship would slither on to a sandbank and have to stay there until the tide lifted her off. These days it remains an exhilarating passage, weaving between dozens of jagged hazards with evocative names such as Drowning Rock and the Black Curran. Listen for the ghostly cries of seals on the larger islets, and look out for a majestic white-tailed sea eagle. The Caledonian MacBrayne ferry costs £4.70 one way for a foot passenger. Camping at Balranald on North Uist is highly recommended (tent £14), or try 30 Backhill, a restored thatched stone croft on Berneray, from £535a week.
Crossing Harwich harbour from Suffolk to Essex
Passengers boarding the Harwich harbour ferry in Felixstowe, Suffolk. Photograph: Geog Photos/Alamy
As a shortcut at the end of the Suffolk coastal path, the ferry from Landguard Fort near Felixstowe to Harwich offers great panoramas of the harbour formed by the rivers Orwell and Stour. You’re likely to spot some of the planet’s largest container ships and a Thames barge. Alternatively, embark at Shotley Gate, the tip of the narrow and beautiful Shotley peninsula that separates the two rivers – the walk down the Orwell from Ipswich is particularly picturesque, taking in Pin Mill. Harwich old town is also well worth exploring, with some beautiful period buildings including the Electric Cinema, opened in 1911. The Harwich Harbour Ferry connects Felixstowe and Harwich (tickets £6 one way), and Harwich and Shotley (£4.80); it runs from April to October. The Alma Inn is a gorgeous Grade II-listed pub in old Harwich, with doubles from £90 B&B.
A hand ferry across the River Wye in Herefordshire
The barman at the pub in Symonds Yat hauls the ferry across the River Wye. Photograph: Paul Weston/Alamy
There cannot be many ferries that only run when the barman is free, but this classic crossing requires the pump-puller at the Saracens Head in Symonds Yat to shut up shop for a few minutes and haul half a dozen passengers across the River Wye using an overhead cable. Despite some deplorable environmental mismanagement upstream, the river here remains a beautiful sight. On the far bank, take the lane north to another good pub, Ye Old Ferrie Inn. Their ferry drops you on a footpath that heads up through the woods for the fine views along the curving river from the Symonds Yat rock itself. These crags were visited in 1770, by schoolmaster William Gilpin, who had an eye for untamed landscapes, triggering a revolution in the appreciation of views and nature that we still benefit from today. Alternatively, walk downriver and cross at the beautiful Biblins suspension bridge. Both Symonds Yat ferries cost £2 for adults. The Saracens Head occupies a lovely riverside location, with doubles from £135, B&B.
Swivel from Glenelg to the Isle of Skye in the Inner Hebrides
The Glenelg to Skye ferry is a fun alternative to the modern bridge. Photograph: John Bracegirdle/Alamy
You may, of course, choose to take the bridge to Skye, but for a real Hebridean treat take the original ferry across the 500-metre-wide Kyle Rhea straits. This is the last manually operated turntable ferry in the world (built in Troon in 1969), carrying just six cars and 12 people on a five-minute voyage. Due to strong tidal currents running at up to nine knots and frequently windy conditions, the designers came up with the ingenious solution of a turntable to allow vehicles to disembark safely. Saved by a local campaign in 2006, it has now become a vital part of the Skye experience. The Isle of Skye ferry from Glenelg costs£3 for foot passengers, and £20 for a car (with up to four passengers) one way. Sykes Cottages has a number of properties on Skye, including Beaton’s traditional thatched croft, from £457a week.
Home»Australia Travel News» 12 Best Destinations for Australian Tourists to Travel Solo This Spring, Full Guide is Here for a Perfect Trip
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Spring makes the world shimmer, and it’s the perfect season for solo travel. If wandering new streets, staring at mountain views, or dipping toes in ocean waves sounds good, you’re in the right place. This guide shares 12 top spots every Australian solo traveler should check out this season.
More Aussies are flying solo every year, and for good reason. Traveling alone means you get to set your own schedule, dive into new cultures, and have adventures at your own pace. This spring, everywhere you look, flowers, sunshine, and fresh experiences are waiting. Whether you stick to Australia or cross the ocean, these 12 destinations are safe, stunning, and full of memories you’ll want to keep.
The only blueprint you’ll need for a smooth, exciting trip is right here. Ready to kick-start the adventure? Grab this guide and take spring 2024 onto the open road.
Spring in Australia arrives in September, and it’s the best time for solo travel. Clear skies, blooming flowers, and the thrill of adventure fill the air. Whether you’re thinking of a short getaway or a longer adventure, this spring is calling you to hit the road. In this guide, I’ve picked the top spots for Aussie solo travellers based on safety, stunning nature, and experiences designed for one. Each place is vibrant, friendly, and ready for you to uncover on your own.
Tokyo, Japan — Quiet Wonders and Big Surprises
Tokyo promises a spotless, high-tech, and safe escape. September feels gentle, with the first hints of autumn. You can wander peaceful shrines, stroll bustling markets, or hop on a street food tour. Getting around is a breeze; the trains run like clockwork and people are always helpful. Don’t miss the Meguro Sun Festival for heartfelt music and the warm buzz of culture. Australians love the city’s perfect blend of ancient and cutting-edge, and you will, too.
Greek Islands – Sunsets, Wine, and Solo Joy
In September, islands like Santorini and Crete wrap around you in warmth. The summer crowds have slipped away, leaving the tubig still blue and welcoming. Old ruins stand in quiet applause, and soft beaches beg for a slow afternoon. This time of year the grapevines are heavy, and cellar doors open for tastings. Solo travelers can hop on a sailboat and find new pals between islands. If you’re thinking of a spring getaway, the Greek Islands keep the same gentle vibe, ready to unwind and invite you to wander.
Portugal – A Budget Paradise by the Sea
Portugal stays sunny and easy on your wallet. September days are warm, yet the beaches are still breathing, not bursting. You can feel the history in Lisbon and Porto, where music drifts from corner cafés and pastéis are warm in your hand. Stroll along the cliffs or ride the rattly trams up the hills. From the golden beaches to the lively street art, Australians fall for the friendliness and the easy pace. If you’re an Aussie looking for spring travel that pampers your spirit and budget, Portugal feels like a sunny “yes.”
Italy – Culture, Food, and Vineyards
Visiting Italy in September is like tasting a new dish every day. In Tuscany, the grape harvest fills the air with musty sweetness, and every hill is dressed in gold and green. Strolling the cobblestone streets of Rome feels like walking through a living museum; the Colosseum and street musicians make the past sing. Down in Sicily, sandy beaches join frescoed cathedrals in a surprisingly easy mix. Travel solo? Join a foodie crew in Bologna or a vineyard ride outside Florence, and make new friends over shared plates. Whether you love painting, pasta, or the ruins, a September in Italy fills every pocket of your heart.
France – Romance, Art, and Relaxed Days
France in September is a quiet love letter. In Paris, the leaves start to turn, and a golden light spills over the Seine. Sit at a sidewalk café with a warm croissant, or ride the train to a harvest festival in Bordeaux. Coastal towns in the Côte d’Azur are peaceful; you can swim in the sea and then wander old streets. Australians say France is both safe and stylish, with every train and museum on speakable terms in English. Art lovers can step inside the Louvre, then step outside for a street artist’s portrait. Everything feels easy and elegant, the perfect blend for solo wanderers.
Turkey – Hot Air Balloons and Ancient Streets
September in Turkey is like opening the door to a lively caravan. Istanbul’s bazaars are hot with spices and cool with tea; a ferry ride across the Bosphorus feels like a quick holiday from the holiday. In Cappadocia, dawn turns valleys to watercolor; that’s when the hot air balloons lift off, silent and bright. Turkish meals of bread, lamb, and yogurt are warm gifts placed in your hands. Australians say the people are generous and the streets feel safe. Whether you’re shopping for a lamp in a city bazaar or hiking to an ancient rock church, Turkey is a generous host to solo travelers who like both city buzz and centuries of stories.
Croatia – Coastlines Without the Crowds
Visiting Croatia in September is like stepping into a postcard. The Adriatic stays warm, the big ships disappear, and the sunsets last forever. You can walk the quiet old walls of Dubrovnik, catch a ferry to sun-soaked Hvar Island, or simply park yourself at a seaside café and eat grilled sardines. Everything is easy to reach, and solo travelers especially appreciate the safe roads and friendly faces. From ancient stone streets to sheltered beaches, the vibe is a relaxing mix of sun and history.
South Africa – A Springtime Adventure
September brings spring to South Africa, and the country wakes up in color. In Cape Town, wild flowers paint the hills, and it’s the best time to spot whales along the coast. You can hop a small plane or a bus into Kruger National Park and watch for elephants, lions, and leopards. The famous Garden Route road trip rolls through forests and golden beaches, where you can stop for a surf or a walk. Solo travelers feel at home in organized tours and cozy guesthouses, with safety in numbers and stories to share.
New Zealand – Friendly and Full of Thrills
Spring begins in New Zealand in September, and the country’s energy is contagious. In Queenstown, the mountains call you to bungee jump, hike, or race a jet boat through canyons. Auckland balances skyline views with sparkling harbors, and the streets hum with new cafés and bakeries. The fresh and mild weather is a perfect excuse to explore. Australians love the easy hop across the ditch, and solo travelers rave about the warm locals and spirit of adventure. From action to Auckland, the journey always feels like a grand welcome.
Barcelona, Spain – Art, Beaches, and Festivals
Barcelona is alive with color and laughter. In September, the temperature is just right—warm but not burning. You can wander the narrow, shadowy streets of the Gothic Quarter, peer at Gaudí’s wild towers, or spread out on the golden beach. The cuisine is a feast on every corner: olives, grilled squid, and a splash of paella. Flamenco strums from tapas bars and the city feels safe and buzzing, ideal for solo wanderers.
Vienna, Austria – Calm, Classy, and Cultural
Vienna is a city built of silence and grandeur. The Opera House opens its curtains in September, and every street corner has a hidden museum or a café with cake and coffee served on silver trays. The sidewalks are polished, and everywhere you turn, history whispers in perfect German. You can stroll from Baroque palace to quiet park and feel the city breathe with you. Music fans, readers, and lovers of the past will find their heart here in the soft spring air.
Canada – Leaves, Mountains, and Festivals
In September, Quebec and Vancouver dress in orange and gold. The air turns crisp and the mountains glow. You can hike through quiet forests, watch giant balloons rise against the autumn sky, or wander small towns that feel like postcards. Festivals of music and harvest celebrate every weekend. It’s a gentle, quiet time for a solo traveler. Canadians smile, share directions, and invite you in. For Aussies, it’s a grand blend of wild nature and buzzing city life all in one season.
Antigua and Tobago – Caribbean Calm in September
Antigua and Tobago soak up sunshine and peace in September. It’s in-between the big crowds and the big storms, so nights are cool and days are golden. Hotels discount their rates, and the sea shines like glass. Go snorkel among bright fish, sway to the rhythm of steel drums, or simply find a hammock. The islands are safe and slow, perfect for solo adventurers craving sunshine and silence in spring.
Kenya – Wild Adventures and Warm Smiles
September brings living color to Kenya. The great wildebeest migration thunders across the plains, and so do lions, cheetahs, and flocks of pink flamingos. Many solo explorers join friendly group safaris, making new friends and hiking in the fresh savanna air. Parks are open and safe when guides are with you. The wide skies, crackling campfires, and running herds create moments you’ll never forget. It’s a bucket-list splash for Australians chasing nature and a decent thrill.
Bonus Picks for Bold Solo Travelers
Morocco September cools the desert. Marrakech buzzes with spice, color, and music. Camel rides, colorful markets, and nights in mountain kasbahs create a fairytale trip full of surprise.
Bali, Indonesia After the dry months, Bali breathes peace. Join a sunrise yoga retreat, lose yourself in emerald rice fields, and meet a warm culture that loves visitors. Australians adore the wellness vibes and the cute beach cafes.
The Balkans – Bulgaria, Albania, Montenegro September here means soft weather and empty roads. Rent a cheap flat, wander ancient towns, and dive into big blue seas for the price of a coffee. Fresh veggies and grilled fish pile your plate without piling your bill. Perfect for spring wanderers with a love for good weather on a good budget.
Why These Are the Best Places to Travel Solo This Spring for Aussie Travellers
Every destination on this list has something that sparkles. They’re safe, buzzing with life, and easy to wander alone. When September rolls around, Aussie travellers get the best of both worlds. Back home, the days are bright, and flowers wake up. Abroad, early fall whispers calm and sheds the crowds.
Going solo means the road is all yours. You can linger, you can dash. You can share laughs with new pals, or you can enjoy your own company. It’s pure freedom. And the globe is waiting with an open door.
Conclusion: Take the Solo Leap This September and Live It Hard
September is just the moment for Aussie wanderers to fly solo. The air smells fresh, the world feels wide. From Japan to New Zealand, from France to Bali, every corner has a gift to share.
Want a beach lounge, a hidden hike, or a personal breakthrough? The right spot is ready. These are the best places for Aussie travellers to roam solo this spring, and this is your moment to dazzle.
Pack ultrasmall. Step light. Saying yes is the only way.
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