The holiday season is in full swing, so the soul is eager to go on a trip. Uswitch has compiled a rating of the best cities in the world for independent travel. Find out more about which European destinations are best suited for first-time travelers

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Many travelers choose to travel alone, and this is not a sign of loneliness, but a desire for comfort and freedom. When traveling alone, you don't have to wait for others or compromise, you can do everything at your own will. 

According to the Visa Global Travel Intentions Study, almost 24% of travelers prefer traveling alone to planning a vacation with friends or family. This confirms the trend toward individual travel, where people are looking for personal space and new experiences.

Rating of the best cities for independent travel

The British company Uswitch has compiled a rating of the best cities in the world for independent travel. The ranking is based on several important criteria. They took into account the speed of the Internet, which is important for planning routes and searching for places, the number of attractions, the cost of public transportation, the number and quality of accommodation, and the average temperature. 

This research helps travelers choose the most convenient cities for individual trips, ensuring comfort and accessibility during their travels.

So, the list of the best cities for independent travel is as follows:

1. Rome (Italy)

2. New Delhi (India)

3. Bangkok (Thailand)

4. Istanbul (Turkey)

5. Jaipur (India)

6. Athens (Greece)

7. Dubai (UAE)

8. Florence (Italy)

9. Lisbon (Portugal)

10. Paris (France)

The best travel tips from experienced travelers

Are you planning your first solo trip and worried about the unknown? Traveling on your own can present many challenges, from communication to transportation. Choosing the right place can make your experience unforgettable. It is worth paying attention to the convenience of transportation, the friendliness of the locals, and the minimal language barrier. 

Feedback from users of the r/travel forum on Reddit will help you find the best European destinations that meet these requirements, providing comfort and a pleasant experience.

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Spanish Andalusia

Andalusia, an autonomous community on the southern coast of Spain, impresses with its historical sites, affordable prices, and incredible nature. It is convenient to travel here by public transport, which is especially important for solo travelers. Travelers on the r/travel forum recommend visiting the cities of Malaga, Ronda, Seville, Cordoba, and Granada. Cordoba is popular for its combination of Roman and Moorish history. 

You should definitely visit the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Andalusia also attracts nature lovers with hiking spots such as the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, the ancient forests of the Sierra de Grazalema, and the subtropical beaches of Granada.

Portugal, Lisbon

Portugal is a great destination for beginners in solo travel. Experienced travelers recommend starting in Porto, a city famous for its port wine. This city is easy to get around on foot, and the locals are always ready to help. After Porto, you can take a train to Lisbon, where you can enjoy great food at reasonable prices. 

Users recommend purchasing the Lisboa Card, which covers transportation costs and provides discounts on entry to more than 50 museums and attractions. 

Be sure to visit the Sintra and Pena Palace, go there early to avoid the crowds. After city walking, head to the Atlantic beaches of the Algarve, which can be reached in three hours by train.

Malta

Malta is ideal for those who are worried about the language barrier, as English is one of the official languages along with Maltese. The compact island is easy to explore by bus or taxi. Malta offers modern resort towns, historic locations, beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes. 

The local cuisine, which combines Italian and North African influences, is also worth a try. It is recommended to visit the Ggantija temple complex on the island of Gozo, which is older than the pyramids of Giza. Travelers on the r/travel forum consider Malta to be an ideal place to start solo traveling due to the friendly locals, great food, and ease of exploration.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.