Solo Adventures by Train: Safe and Scenic Routes Across Europe
Naples
In addition to having some of the best pizza in Italy, Naples is a popular destination for tourists visiting the buried city of Pompeii. Its charming, cobblestone residential streets are a photographer’s paradise and ideal for lone travelers seeking a quiet stroll.
If you do want to experience a little of a busier Italian city, Naples is also a terrific place to be. Rome, Florence, and the island of Capri are all easily accessible by high-speed train or, in the case of the latter, by boat. Beyond its culinary and historical allure, Naples offers a unique blend of bustling city life and serene coastal vibes. The Bay of Naples, with its sparkling waters, provides a scenic backdrop for leisurely walks or ferry rides to nearby islands like Ischia and Procida, which are less crowded than Capri but equally charming.
For history enthusiasts, Naples has a treasure trove of museums and historical sites. The Naples National Archaeological Museum houses artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, offering an intimate look into ancient Roman life. Meanwhile, the city’s underground tours allow visitors to explore tunnels and catacombs that reveal Naples’ layered history, from Roman aqueducts to World War II shelters. Solo travelers will find these experiences both fascinating and safe, with guided tours that foster a sense of camaraderie among participants.
Saulzburg
Austria is renowned for its undulating hills and stunning countryside, making it one of the greatest destinations in Europe for lone travelers who wish to escape into the mountains and away from civilization. While visiting new towns with friendly inhabitants is wonderful, it’s often a comfort to be by yourself while traveling alone and spending a day or two in the Austrian countryside seems very rejuvenating to us.
If you would prefer to remain in the city, you can still take in views of the Danube River and the mountains from your hostel window because the city is surrounded by stunning scenery. Enjoy the view and some alone time while sipping a nice cup of coffee and listening to some of the classical music that the city is known for. Saltzburg is a fantastic site to start and finish your trip in Austria because it is conveniently accessible to numerous international cities via train.
Salzburg is also the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and the city embraces this legacy with pride. Solo travelers can visit the Mozart Residence and Museum to learn more about the composer’s life and work. The historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perfect for wandering aimlessly while admiring baroque architecture and stopping by local cafes. Don’t miss the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
For nature lovers, Salzburg is a gateway to the Austrian Alps. Day trips to places like Hallstatt or the Krimml Waterfalls offer breathtaking scenery and a chance to experience the tranquility of the great outdoors. These excursions are easy to organize and provide a refreshing contrast to city life.
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Amsterdam
Although it takes longer than some of the other train trips on this list, the one from Salzburg to Amsterdam is ideal for lone travelers who wish to unwind with a serene train ride through the countryside. While the scenery passes, create a playlist, pick up a book, or send a few postcards to your loved ones back home.
I can personally attest that Amsterdam is a terrific spot to visit when you’re traveling alone because it’s a very vibrant little city and the best part is that the locals hardly even bat an eye at visitors anymore.
Amsterdam is famous for its extensive canal network, and solo travelers can enjoy a peaceful boat tour to see the city from a unique perspective. The Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum are must-visit attractions, offering a blend of history and art that appeals to a wide range of interests. Renting a bike and exploring the city like a local is another great way to spend a day, especially since Amsterdam is known for being one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.
Food enthusiasts will love the diverse culinary scene, which ranges from traditional Dutch pancakes to international cuisines. The city’s cozy cafes are perfect for solo dining or catching up on a good book. For a quieter experience, the Jordaan district offers narrow streets, independent boutiques, and charming gardens.
Copenhagen
Safety is one of the biggest worries for single travelers, especially women. Copenhagen in particular is renowned for being incredibly safe, and Scandinavia as a whole is regarded as one of the safest places in the world. Pickpocketing is less frequent here than in some of the other bigger European cities, and the crime rate is among the lowest in the continent.
Book lovers who travel alone, rejoice—this city is a great choice for you! Bookworms will love Copenhagen, the birthplace of Hans Christian Anderson and the location of the small statue of a mermaid on the quay. Try Stroget, the longest pedestrian street in the world, or the Tivoli Amusement Park, which is right across from the train station, if you wish to mingle or at least be around other people. From Amsterdam to Berlin and one from Berlin to Copenhagen. However, if you would like to stop and see more of Germany before arriving in Copenhagen, there are various options that need additional train changes. One of the best things about traveling through Europe by train is that you may get off and visit as many places as you like en route to your next stop. You can use Trainline to plan and book your journey seamlessly.
Additionally, despite all of the discussion on safety, it is still crucial to be cautious wherever you are traveling alone. It’s true that some cities are safer than others, but it’s always advisable to be more watchful and vigilant than you would be at home.
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Copenhagen also boasts a vibrant cultural scene. Solo travelers can visit the Design Museum Denmark or the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek for a dose of art and history. The city’s café culture is inviting, with plenty of spots to relax, enjoy a Danish pastry, and people-watch. For those who love the outdoors, a visit to the free-to-enter King’s Garden or a bike ride along the waterfront provides an opportunity to soak in Copenhagen’s charm at your own pace.
