Valentine’s Day 2026 falls on a Saturday. You know what that means? The perfect excuse for a long weekend getaway and you don’t need a plus-one to make it happen.
Here’s the thing: solo Valentine’s Day travel isn’t about being sad and single. It’s about treating yourself to something amazing. No compromising on the destination. No waiting for someone else to plan it. Just you, your passport, and a trip that’s exactly what you want.
I’ve put together the best destinations for solo travelers this Valentine’s Day — places where you’ll feel safe, have incredible experiences, and maybe even forget what day it is because you’re too busy living your best life.
Why Solo Travel for Valentine’s Day Actually Works
In my experience, Valentine’s Day can feel heavy when you’re single. The ‘couple posts’ and matching looks. The pre-fixed menus for two. The general vibes.
But booking a solo trip? That’s a power move.
Solo Valentine’s Day ideas don’t have to mean staying home with wine and a rom-com (though no judgment if that’s your thing). Taking yourself somewhere new shifts the whole energy. You’re not avoiding the holiday, you’re actually redefining it.
Plus, February is actually a great time to travel. Flights are cheaper after the holiday rush. Tourist spots aren’t packed. And Valentine’s Day travel deals pop up everywhere if you know where to look.
Best Destinations for Solo Valentine’s Day Travel
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is that girl for female solo travelers. The city is walkable, affordable, and incredibly safe. Spend your time there getting lost in the Alfama district, eating pastel de nata until you can’t move, and riding those iconic yellow trams you’ve seen on TikTok.
The vibe here is warm and laid-back. Restaurants are totally solo-friendly so you can grab a seat at a wine bar, order some petiscos, and people-watch. At night, find a Fado house and let the music hit you in your feelings (in the best way).
Pro tip #23: Take the tram 28 in the morning before the crowds. The views are unreal.
Bali, Indonesia
If you need a reset, Bali is calling. This island is basically designed for solo travelers, especially if you’re into wellness, yoga, and trying to get your head right.
Ubud is the spiritual heart. Visualize rice terraces, meditation retreats, and sunrise yoga overlooking the jungle. Canggu and Seminyak have more of a beach club scene if you want to meet other travelers.
The best part? Your money goes so far here. You can stay in gorgeous villas, eat incredible food, and book massages daily without breaking the bank.
Pro tip #12: Book a cooking class. You’ll learn to make nasi goreng and probably make friends with other solo travelers.
Mexico City, Mexico
Okay, hear me out! Mexico City is one of the most underrated solo destinations out there. The food scene alone is worth the trip. Tacos al pastor at 11 pm? Yes please!
Roma and Condesa are the neighborhoods to base yourself in. They’re walkable, full of cute cafes, and have that effortlessly cool energy. Book a food tour, visit the Frida Kahlo museum, and wander through Chapultepec Park.
The city feels alive in a way that makes being solo exciting, not lonely. And it’s a quick flight from most US cities.
Pro tip #342: Download Uber. it’s the easiest way to get around safely.
Costa Rica
Want adventure mixed with relaxation? Costa Rica delivers. Zip-lining through cloud forests, hiking volcanoes, spotting sloths, and spacious villas designated for rejuvenation; this place is basically an adrenaline playground wrapped in jungle.
The solo travel infrastructure here is solid. Group tours are easy to join, hostels are social, and the “pura vida” attitude means everyone’s friendly.
Base yourself in La Fortuna for Arenal Volcano adventures or hit Manuel Antonio for beaches and wildlife. Either way, you’ll be too busy to think about Valentine’s Day.
Pro tip #213: Book the hanging bridges walk in Monteverde. The views are to die for.
New Orleans, USA
Don’t want to leave the country? New Orleans is the right move. This city knows how to have a good time, and it doesn’t care if you’re single, coupled up, or traveling with your grandma.
The food is incredible (beignets at Café du Monde, obviously). The music is everywhere. And the energy is just so much fun. Walk down Frenchmen Street, pop into jazz clubs, and let the city sweep you up.
Eating alone here is totally normal and bellying up to a bar for oysters and a Sazerac is basically a local tradition.
Pro tip #91: Skip Bourbon Street (too chaotic) and spend your time in the Marais and Garden District instead.
Cape Town, South Africa
If you want to go big, Cape Town is bucket-list worthy. This city has everything, including stunning beaches, Table Mountain, world-class wine country, and some of the best food in Africa.
February is summer in South Africa, so the weather is perfect. Hike Lion’s Head at sunrise, explore the V&A Waterfront, and book a day trip to the Winelands. You will not regret it.
Solo travel here is totally doable. Just take normal safety precautions like you would anywhere.
Pro tip #56: Do the Table Mountain cable car on a clear day. The 360-degree views are absolutely worth it.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in Europe for solo travelers. It’s compact, bikeable, and genuinely welcoming.
Rent a bike and ride along the canals. Visit the Van Gogh Museum (book ahead!). Pop into cozy brown cafes for a coffee or local beer. The city has this relaxed, easygoing energy that makes solo exploration feel natural.
February is off-season, so you’ll avoid the summer crowds and actually be able to get into the Anne Frank House without booking months ahead.
Pro tip #48: The Jordaan neighborhood is the prettiest for wandering. Get lost there on purpose.
Kyoto, Japan
If you want peace and beauty, Kyoto is the spot. This city moves at a slower pace — temples, tea houses, zen gardens. It’s perfect for solo reflection.
February means plum blossoms are starting to bloom, adding pops of pink to the already stunning temples. Walk through the Fushimi Inari shrine gates at sunrise (get there early!) and wander the Arashiyama bamboo grove.
Japan is incredibly safe for solo female travelers, and the food will change your life. Ramen. Kaiseki. Matcha everything.
Pro tip #70: Stay in a traditional ryokan for at least one night. The experience is unforgettable.
Medellín, Colombia
Medellín has transformed into one of the best cities for solo travelers, especially if you’re into salsa dancing, coffee, and that digital nomad vibe.
The weather is perfect year-round (they call it the City of Eternal Spring). Take a salsa lesson, visit a coffee farm, and ride the cable cars for incredible city views.
The El Poblado neighborhood is where most travelers stay. It’s walkable, full of restaurants and cafes, and easy to meet people if you want company.
Pro tip #79: Book a free walking tour. It’s the best way to understand the city’s history and transformation.
Barcelona, Spain
Beach, culture, food, nightlife — Barcelona has it all. The Gothic Quarter will have you wandering for hours. Park Güell gives you those iconic Gaudí views. And the tapas scene? Chef’s kiss.
This city is made for eating alone at bar counters. Order patatas bravas, sip cava, and soak in the energy. The beach is right there if you need a break from sightseeing.
February means fewer tourists than in summer, but still mild weather that is just perfect for exploring.
Pro tip: Book La Sagrada Familia tickets weeks in advance. Seriously, they sell out.
Solo Valentine’s Day Travel Tips
- Book accommodations in safe, central neighborhoods. Read recent reviews and look for places other solo travelers recommend.
- Tell someone your itinerary. Share your plans with a friend or family member back home. It’s just smart.
- Join group activities. Cooking classes, walking tours, and day trips are perfect for meeting people without the pressure.
- Trust your gut. If something feels off, remove yourself. No explanation needed.
- Embrace eating alone. Bring a book or your phone — or just people-watch. It gets easier every time.
Go Book That Trip
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about romance for everyone. It can be about adventure. About treating yourself. About proving that you don’t need anyone else to have an incredible experience.
So pick a destination. Book the flight. And give yourself the Valentine’s Day trip you actually want. You deserve it.
Some FAQS
Absolutely. Valentine’s Day is just a day — how you spend it is totally up to you. Taking yourself on a trip is actually one of the best solo Valentine’s Day ideas out there. You’re not alone, you’re independent.
Book a trip! Even a weekend getaway to a new city counts. If travel isn’t in the cards, treat yourself to a nice dinner, spa day, or activity you’ve been wanting to try. The point is doing something that makes YOU happy.
The best solo Valentine’s Day travel destinations are places that feel safe, have great food, and offer plenty to do. Lisbon, Mexico City, Bali, and New Orleans are all excellent choices depending on what vibe you’re going for.
Do something that’s just for you. Book a trip you’ve been dreaming about. Try a new restaurant solo. Get a massage. Buy yourself flowers. Self-love is about prioritizing your own happiness — Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse.
Not even a little bit. Solo travel is having a major moment — searches for solo Valentine’s Day trips have more than doubled compared to last year. You’ll probably meet other solo travelers doing the exact same thing.
Take yourself to a nice dinner (yes, alone). Book a cooking class. Go to a museum. Get a spa treatment. Watch the sunset somewhere beautiful. Basically, anything you’d want someone else to plan for you — do it yourself.
