From city breaks to all inclusive resorts, beach holidays to bucket list adventures, I’ve got 10 great solo travel deals to suit all tastes and budgets. 

Is 2023 the year to try a solo holiday? If reports are anything to go by, it certainly looks like it! Solo travel is booming, with Google Trends showing the search term has practically doubled over the past five years.  I have written a solo travel guide which has tips and ideas for solo holidays, and I have 10 great solo travel deals below to suit all types of traveller.

Solo travel deals are not always easy to come by. Single rooms in good hotels are like hens teeth, and no one wants to pay a single supplement! However, with more and more people looking to travel solo, hotels and guided group tours are now offering more places for singles. 

I have a wide selection of solo travel deals below from the Algarve to the Amalfi Coast, Maderia to Mexico, so hopefully there will be one here to suit you. I have selected random dates below but these can be changed to suit your requirements, so if you want four nights instead of seven, and want to travel in July instead of June, simply edit your search dates via the links below.
 

1. City break in Porto: Flights & Apartment, 3 Nights from €315

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

City breaks are a good choice for solo travellers who just want a short break, or are looking for a solo travel deal that won’t cost a small fortune. Search for hotels with single rooms or good value apartments, and choose a city that is compact and easy to navigate.
 

 
Porto is the perfect choice. It is a walkable city and most of the top attractions are close together. You will also find great value restaurants and the option for beach time if required.

Read: Why you need to choose Porto for your next city break

I found return flights for €60 on the 16th of April from Shannon and €116 from Dublin on the 17th of April.

Price for a three-night stay at the highly rated MyStay Porto Bolhão is €255. If you prefer a hotel, the 4-Star Hotel da Musica is only €351 – both are highly rated by solo travellers on Booking.com. And, for a limited time you can receive a free airport taxi when you book via the links below.

Search flights 16-19th April from €60

View Apt here €255

View Hotel here €351
 

2. 4-Star Holiday in the Algarve, 3rd May, from €499

Carvoeiro is one of the Algarve’s prettiest resorts and has been on my wish list for many years – it is ideal for solo travellers who prefer a quieter, laid back resort.

What was once a fishing village, Carvoeiro combines sandy beaches and excellent dining options with traditional Portuguese charm. The pretty town is packed with whitewashed buildings that appear to sit on top of each other as they fit snugly into the surrounding hills.
 

 
Many hotels and apartments are located outside the town centre so car hire is recommended, although UBER’s are cheap and both properties below offer a shuttle bus service to the beach and town centre.

Return flights are available from Dublin for €79 on the 3rd of May with Ryanair, and €117 from Cork with Aer Lingus. Prices from Shannon and Knock are also available but are considerably higher. The 4-star Colina da Lapa apartments are €428 for a seven night stay, but dates and durations can be changed to suit your requirements.
 

 
If you fancy some 5-Star treatment, the Vale D’Oliveiras Quinta Resort and Spa has single rooms, and rates are surprisingly good value considering it is a luxury hotel. I found a deal departing on the 3rd of May from Dublin for €711 including flights and a seven-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Similar prices are available from Cork on the 2nd of May.

Read: Where to stay in the Algarve, my ultimate guide to the top holiday resorts

Search flights 3rd -10th May Dublin €79

Cork flights 3rd -10th May €117

Search Apt here €420

View 5-star here €711 incl flights
 

3. Sorrento & Amalfi Coast Including Tours, 1 week, Half Board, from €1039

This super solo travel deal will ensure you see most the highlights of the Amalfi Coast in one epic trip. This group guided tour will place you in the popular resort of Sorrento for seven days, with full day guided tours exploring the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and Capri. You will also have three full days to explore at your leisure.
 

 
Price from €1039 in October or €1149 in August, or €1199 June, July or September includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay in Sorrento on a half board basis. Full day guided tours to the island of Capri and Amalfi Coast, half day tours of Pompeii and Sorrento town are included.

Read: 5 holidays in Italy to take this year

See more here
 

4. Majorca: 23rd May, Flights, Transfers, Baggage & Hotel Half Board, 1 week from €470

Located on a superb beach, with a nature reserve next door, the Son Baulo’s location is second to none. If you like active holidays, you will love the hiking and cycle trails nearby, but if that doesn’t float your boat, you can choose to laze by the large lagoon pool or on the white sandy beach.  

 
Enjoy the nightly entertainment, or walk the tree-lined promenade into C’an Picafort for a change of scene. This super solo travel deal includes breakfast and evening meal each day, as well as airport transfers and checked baggage.

Price of €471 is based on a seven-night holiday from Cork airport. Price from Dublin is €616 on the 19th of May.

View offer here
 
See more here
 

5. August / September week in Greece from €499

There is something about Greece that conjures up images of solo travel. I recall Shirley Valentine going to Mykonos in 1989 (way to feel old), and how I couldn’t wait to visit.

There are so many new routes from Irish airports to Greece this summer that there has never been a better time to avail of solo travel deals. Aer Lingus and Ryanair have twice-weekly flights to Kos, and with a cosmopolitan centre, historical sights and superb beaches, there is plenty to keep solo travellers happy.
 

 
I found great value flights with Aer Lingus for €183 on the 29th of August, and a seven-night stay in the top rated Michalis Studios & Apartments is only €316. Located just 300 metres from the beach, with a pool and gym on site, a stay here offers a peaceful location with the benefit of having Kos Town just 5 minutes taxi ride away.  

Read: 23 new holiday destinations from Ireland in 2023

Read: The best luxury hotels in Greece for adults

View flights here €183

View Apt here €316
 

6. All Inclusive Solo Travel Deals to Mexico, Flights, Hotel, Transfers & Baggage, 14nts, €2267

Did you know there are direct flights to Mexico this summer? TUI has a charter flight to Cancun, which offers great value all inclusive solo travel deals.

The 4-star H10 Ocean Coral & Turquesa is located beside a fabulous sandy beach and boasts 8 restaurants, 4 pools and plenty of activities that should keep solo travellers happy.
 

 
Rated as Excellent on TripAdvisor, you can choose to spend your time relaxing at the hotel or explore nearby Mayan ruins and some of Mexico’s top attractions.
 
Price of €2267 includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a 14 night stay on an all inclusive basis. This includes a discount of €300 per booking when you use the unique code given to you online. 

View offer here
 

7. Alaska Cruise, Flights, Hotel & 7 Night Cruise, €2099

It may surprise you to learn that cruises are a great choice for solo holidays. There are plenty of entertainment and dining options to choose from, and most are included in the cost! In many cases food is available 24/7, so it is not unusual to see people popping down to the buffet alone for something to eat.
 

 
I was really impressed with the studio cabins on Norwegian Encore. They are all located in one designated area on the ship and have a private bar and lounge area. This is an ideal place to meet people and plan activities.  

I found an Alaska cruise deal staying in one of these solo cabins on Norwegian Encore. Fly direct to Seattle with Aer Lingus and overnight in a hotel before cruising Alaska for seven days. Price of €2099 includes flights, hotel, baggage, meals and entertainment. 

You for a limited time, you can add on unlimited drinks package, WiFi, Shore Excursion Credit, and 1 speciality dining meal – all for just €149! 

Read: My review of Norwegian Encore

See offer here
 

8. Yoga holiday in Madeira from €1298

Enjoy twice daily yoga sessions led by an expert teacher from Irish owned MOONS yoga Loft, while spending four days in peaceful surroundings overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

There will be a different themed classes each day where you can learn about Mindfulness, Yoga and Breathing techniques, and classes are welcoming to all abilities.
 

 
Afternoons are free to explore the tropical island of Madeira. Visit the vibrant capital of Funchal, swim in one of the island’s natural pools, or enjoy a hike – Madeira is renowned for its fabulous hiking trails and breathtaking scenery.

Price includes flights, transfers, 4-nights hotel accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis, and 7 different yoga sessions led by an expert teacher from MOONS yoga Loft.

See more here 
 
Read: Top 10 adventure holidays for active travellers
 

9. India: Splendours of Delhi, The Taj Mahal and Rajasthan, 11 nights from €2868pp

Explore the wonders of India on this trip of a lifetime with Travel Department. Watch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal, discover Delhi on a rickshaw tour, visit the pink city of Jaipur, and take a boat cruise around Udaipur’s Lake Pichola.
 

 
This is a fully guided group tour and includes excursions on each day as well as a stays in four and five star hotels with breakfast and evening meals included every day. Escorted tours are the best way to discover India, and this tour will enable you to see most of the highlights on one trip.

Price includes flights, transfers, checked baggage, ten nights hotel stays on a half-board basis, and excursions as per itinerary.

See more here
 

10. The Body Holiday, St. Lucia, 5* All Inclusive from €3,099

Wellness breaks are becoming more and more popular for solo holidays, while fitness boot-camps and walking holidays are now the norm. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by BodyHoliday Saint Lucia (@thebodyholiday) on Oct 21, 2019 at 7:01am PDT

There are many ways to book a wellness break. You can opt for a familiar beach resort and book a flight and hotel with a spa, or opt for a retreat.  The Body Holiday is the ultimate wellness all-inclusive resort and it dedicates the month of September to solo travellers. .
 

 
You can enjoy a personalised schedule of spa treatments, fitness classes and water sports with celebrity fitness trainers and dancers, as well as meals and premium drinks – all included in the cost of your holiday.

The Body Holiday can be whatever you want it to be. You can abseil down a river gorge in the morning, enjoy a spa treatment in the afternoon, and sip champagne at sunset. Where else would you find solo travel deals all this included in the cost of your stay?

Price for a seven-night stay including flights, transfers and accommodation on an all-inclusive basis is €3o99.
 
See more here
 

 
I hope these solo travel deals from Ireland will help you plan a trip away soon. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, price, itineraries and facilities are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

From guided group tours to independent solo trips, luxury wellness breaks to hostel holidays, check out my top 10 solo holidays and solo travel tips.

See yourself as a bit of Shirley Valentine? Or maybe you are more a Motorcycle Diaries kind of guy? Regardless of your motives or desires for travel, solo holidays help you to leap beyond your comfort zone and discover things about yourself and your surroundings, that you may never have discovered if travelling with a partner.

6 reasons to travel solo:

I have been very fortunate to enjoy some amazing holidays with my family, but there is something liberating about travelling alone. There are lots of reasons why you should try solo holidays, I’ve got six here to start with:
 

1. There is no stigma attached to solo travel 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

Think back to five or ten years ago: If your friend or partner said they wanted to travel solo you would probably have been surprised, you may have thought it strange, possibly even rude, depending on the situation.

What was once a travel trend for the young, free and single, solo travel is now popular with couples or friends who have different interests, separated couples, and couples who want to travel without their children but need one parent to stay home.

2. There is a wide variety of solo holidays available

Whether you want to climb Kilimanjaro, live out the Eat Pray Love fantasy, or want to explore a city alone, there has never been a wider selection of solo holidays available.

Fitness camps and wellness breaks are extremely popular, as are walking and cycling holidays. If you want to travel solo but not alone, there are numerous guided group tours available that have a large number of solo travellers – see more on this below.
 

3. Airport bliss

The thrills start at the airport for me. I love being able to wander around Duty Free without kids in tow, sampling new perfumes, and eyeing up the latest cosmetics.

Its the little things – like being able to browse Duty Free at my own pace, without someone telling me that we need to go to the gate. And, when I finally get on that plane, I can watch all the movies I never get to see at home, while enjoying a few glasses of wine at the same time! 
 

4. Freedom

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

It is not possible to have the same level of freedom travelling with a friend or partner that you have when travelling solo. You don’t need to consider anyone else’s wishes. You have planned the trip you want, or not planned if thats your travel style. If you don’t want to spend hours in a destination’s top attraction, you don’t have to!
 

 
Once you get to your destination, you won’t have the Spanish inquisition about where you want to go for dinner – you can dine where you want, when you want.

Want to spend two hours shopping in your favourite department store? Go for it! Maybe there is a long hike you want to try, or a spa day is badly needed  – you don’t need to consult with anyone, you can just go on your own.
 

5. Meet new people

Solo travel is not only a reason to travel alone, it is also a great way to meet new friends. Solo friendly hotels or hostels are a great way to meet like minded people, as are guided group tours.

Some cruise lines have dedicated solo cabins with a solo lounge, and luxury resorts in the Caribbean have dedicated months for solo travellers – more on that below.  

6. Growth

You will be surprised at how much you learn about yourself, and how much more independent you will become when you travel solo. Solo holidays build your confidence, give you valuable ‘Me Time’ and provide a great sense of achievement. 

Solo Travel Tips

1. Choose the right accommodation

Adult-only hotels or hostels are a great way to meet solo travellers. If it is your first time to travel solo, choose a hotel or apartment with cooking facilities. While I recommend getting outside your comfort zone and dining in a restaurant alone, if you want a night in, a kitchen can be handy. 
 

2. Check local events

Follow tourist boards and local blogs on social media, they usually have an event guide so you can see what’s on at the time of your trip. Even if you are not staying in a Hostel, it is a good idea to find the local one, they usually organise meet ups and events for travellers.
 

3. Book a group tour

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

If staying a city, food or walking tours are a great idea, especially on your first day. If you are in a holiday resort, check out local boat trips, excursions or exercise sessions. Your hotel should be able to advise you if there are any morning yoga sessions or group hikes.

Not only are these a great way to meet people, but you can ask the guide for safe destinations for solo travellers, they are likely to have some good recommendations – hence doing tours on the first day of your trip are a good idea.

Search tours
 

4. Bring some essentials

Crossbody or bumbags are ideal for keeping your money and valuables sale. If travelling outside the EU make sure you check the roaming rates in advance, and pre-purchase an eSim or local sim card.

If you feel anxious dining alone, having a book to read can take away any uneasy feeling. A scarf is not only handy if the weather turns against you, but they can be used as a shawl for entering religious venues.
 

5. Be careful

This post is all about the benefits of travelling solo, but it should go without saying that safety is paramount. Research your destination before you go and avoid walking alone in any areas known for criminality.

Use common sense and protect your valuables, beware of taxi scams, always let someone know where you are at all times, and make sure you have travel insurance.

Read: 10 things to watch out for on holidays
 

Top 10 solo holidays

There are many different ways to enjoy solo travel, and hopefully my list of top ten solo holidays will inspire you to plan your next trip away. 

• City breaks
• The Body Holiday – St Lucia
• Norwegian Cruise Line’s Solo Studios
• Escorted Group Tours
• Beach holidays
• Ultimate Retreat – Bali
• A touch of luxury – Greece
• Independent travel – Hostelworld
• Road Trip – Route 66
• Nature Lovers Iceland

1. City breaks

City breaks are a good choice if you just fancy a few days away. If it is your first solo holiday and you are a little anxious, go to a city that you have been to before. You will feel comfortable and safe wandering around on your own.

Alternatively choose somewhere that is compact and easy to navigate. Once you get used to solo holidays you will be surprised how much easier it becomes. You will then happily hop on a plane to a new city for your next solo holiday.
 

 
Despite being France’s fourth largest city, Toulouse feels like a small town. It is just a short distance from the airport and very easy to navigate on foot. I loved wandering around its colourful streets on my own.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I really enjoyed strolling around #Toulouse on my own, I think I’m ready for some #solotravel 🤔 I even managed to take this pic with a selfie stick 🙌 Toulouse is a great city if you do want to try it solo. It’s only 2 hours flight with @aerlingus and a 15 minute taxi ride to the centre of town. The city is really easy to navigate and feels really safe walking alone. Anyone else like to travel solo? . . . . . . . . #visiteztoulouse @atout_france @travelmedia.ie #lavillerose #igerstoulouse #presstrip @VisitToulouse #toulousemaville #visitfrance #oldtown #beautifuldestinations #citiesofeurope #beautifulcities #travelblogger #travelgram #wearetravelgirls #irishtravelblogger #viewsofinstagram #cityscape #sheisnotlost #dametraveller #citybreak #travelbloggerlife #riverwalk #garonne #selfiestick #travellingsolo

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert) on Jun 16, 2019 at 11:25am PDT

Read: Toulouse travel blog – why you should visit and what to do when you get there

Porto or Lisbon are other great choices, the later is obviously larger and has much more to offer, but Porto is so compact that you could easily see the highlights over two days.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I visited Malaga city for the first time last year, this is another great choice for a city break, and you have the added advantage of being able to enjoy some beach time too!

Read: Why you need to choose Porto for your next city break

Read: Top 10 things to do in Lisbon

Read: Malaga travel guide – top things to do and where to stay

Search hotels here
 

2. Wellness holidays: The Body Holiday, St. Lucia

Wellness breaks are becoming more and more popular for solo holidays, while fitness boot-camps and walking holidays are now the norm. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by BodyHoliday Saint Lucia (@thebodyholiday) on Oct 21, 2019 at 7:01am PDT

There are many ways to book a wellness break. You can opt for a familiar beach resort and book a flight and hotel with a spa, or opt for a retreat.  The Body Holiday is the ultimate wellness all-inclusive resort and it dedicates the month of September to solo travellers.
 

 
You can enjoy a personalised schedule of spa treatments, fitness classes and water sports with celebrity fitness trainers and dancers, as well as meals and premium drinks – all included in the cost of your holiday.

The Body Holiday can be whatever you want it to be. You can abseil down a river gorge in the morning, enjoy a spa treatment in the afternoon, and sip champagne at sunset. Where else would you find all this included in the cost of your stay?
 

See more here   
 

3. Cruises

It may surprise you to learn that cruises are a great choice for solo holidays. There are so many dining options to choose from, and meals are included in the cost of your cruise. In many cases food is available 24/7, so it is not unusual to see people popping down to the buffet alone for something to eat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

There are theatre shows on every evening as well as live music in the bars, so there are plenty of options to keep you entertained. The fact that you stop off in many different ports also allows for lots of different experiences – it is virtually impossible to get bored on a cruise!
 

 
Many cruise lines have dedicated areas for solo travellers but I was really impressed with the studio cabins on Norwegian Encore. They are all located in one designated area on the ship and have a private bar and lounge area. This is an ideal place to meet people and plan activities.  I would quite happily spend a week travelling solo on a cruise.

Read: My review of Norwegian Encore

See more here
 

4. Guided Group Tours

A group tour is the perfect way to enjoy a solo trip for the first time. They are particularly handy if there is a bucket list trip you want to take, but don’t necessarily feel comfortable travelling alone.

South America, Vietnam and Jordan are ideal destinations for solo group tours, but there are also plenty of group tours in European destinations too, including yoga, photography and walking holidays.
 

 
Irish owned Travel Department and TD Active offer guided tours for groups and solo travellers. I love that their website shows the single supplement clearly for each departure date. I have chosen some of my favourites in these posts, or you can get prices directly via the links below.
 
Read: Top 10 escorted tours from Ireland in 2023 

Read: Top 10 adventure holidays for active travellers
 
Search TD Active
 
Travel Department
 

5. Beach holidays 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Sometimes a few days away is all you need to re-charge the batteries. A short flight and a nice hotel is just what’s required for some ‘Me Time’. The Algarve, Costa del Sol or Greek islands are ideal choices for solo holidays. There are plenty of sandy beaches, superb restaurants and plenty of excursions available.

Whether you are looking for a three-star apartment or a five-star luxury hotel, both are relatively easy to find. Luxury hotels are extremely good value during the winter time and most have indoor pools with Spas.

Search flights here
 
Search hotels here
 

6.  The ultimate retreat – Ubud, Bali

Yoga, pilates and meditation gave Ubud its global status as one of the world’s best wellness locations, so if you are looking for the ultimate retreat, Ubud is the place to go. You will certainly be wowed by its beauty, you may possibly be taken in by its spirituality, and who knows you might even meet the love of your life, like Julia Roberts did in Eat Pray Love.
 

 
There are numerous ways to experience Ubud. Many choose to combine it with some beach time in Bali or the Gili Islands, but for the ultimate in relaxation, book a spa hotel or retreat. Your local travel agency will be able to organise this for you, or search independently below.

Search flights here
 
Search hotels here
 

7. A touch of luxury in Greece 

There is something about Greece that conjures up images of solo travel. I recall Shirley Valentine going to Mykonos in 1989 (seriously feeling old now), and how I couldn’t wait to visit.

The constant images on Instagram of Santorini’s white-washed towns and Zakynthos’ famous Shipwreck Beach are persuading everyone to pack their bags and travel to Greece.

However, I chose the road less travelled last year and stayed in a luxury resort on the island of Crete. Anemos Luxury Grand Resort is located near Chania and Rethymno – two beautiful towns with Venetian ports. They are full of narrow side streets, waterfront cafés and colourful buildings. I explored Chania on my own and loved it.
 

 
There is a super bus service that goes to both towns every hour, and the bus stop is right outside the hotel. You can also enjoy a 30 minute stroll along the beach into the town of Georgioupolos – home to this delightful church. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert) on Jul 19, 2019 at 12:56pm PDT

The hotel has great restaurants on site, an indoor pool and spa, and has yoga classes every morning on the beach. If you are looking for a luxury beach hotel with plenty to do in the surrounding area, this is perfect!

Read: My review of Anemos Luxury Grand Resort

Read: Top Things to do near Chania

Search flights here Chania airport

Search hotel here
 

8. Independent long haul trips with Hostelworld 

Hostelworld is a great choice for solo holidays. Not only are staying in hostels more affordable, but you are bound to meet lots of solo travellers on your journey, and who knows you you may end up changing your plans and travelling with them instead.

Many hostels are like hotels now – en-suite private rooms are the norm, you don’t have to stay in a dormitory. Hostelworld has a great app with a chat function, so you can chat to fellow travellers who are staying in your hostel, or in another hostel nearby, before you travel and while you are there. 
 

 
Hostels usually organise group events too, including city tours and pub crawls, so you don’t have to go out alone. These are a great option if you happen to be travelling solo for a long duration.

Search flights here
 
Search Hostelworld
 

9. Road Trip: Route 66 

Maybe you turned 50 and bought yourself a motor bike, or maybe you just like road trips…. If you want to take off on your own, it doesn’t get much better than driving two thousand miles, across eight US states. Driving Route 66 is arguably the most iconic road trip in the world, and one that is sure to be full of soul searching, joy and adrenaline.
 

 
Drive through Grand Canyon National Park, stand on a corner in Winslow Arizona, and finish off your trip on Santa Monica pier – this is an adventure like no other, and a solo trip you will never forget. 

See more here
 

10. Nature Lovers: Iceland

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert) on Mar 2, 2017 at 1:29am PST

Iceland is one the world’s safest countries, so if you are worried about travelling solo, this is a great place to start. There is so much to do in Iceland especially if you like nature and the elements.
 

You can travel during the summer time and experience the midnight sun, or wait until winter time and chase the Northern Lights. Regardless of when you travel, take a trip around the Golden Circle and book a swim in the Blue Lagoon. 

Read: Top things to do in Iceland

 
Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Note some of the links in this post are affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.

I hope this post on solo holidays will inspire you to travel solo this year. Let me know if you have any favourite solo holidays, but commenting below.

From cycling trips to cookery courses, spa breaks to small group tours, I’ve got ten great ideas for solo holidays in Ireland.

Solo travel gives you a great sense of freedom – you can do what you want, when you want. There is no dinner debate, if you want fine dining or a takeaway – the choice if yours. If you want to spend your time lying in bed, in a shopping centre, or climbing a mountain – you decide. So why not step outside your comfort zone and think about trying solo holidays in Ireland this year?
 

 
Solo holidays in Ireland are booming. Group hikes and organised sea swims are a regular occurrence where singles meet like minded people for fun activities, and these have extended into overnight stays and longer breaks.

Ironically, Ireland is considered one of the best countries in the world to travel solo – so we should probably consider ourselves fortunate that we live here! There is no culture or language barrier to worry about, and where else would it feel normal to buy a stranger a pint? Remember we are the island of 1000 welcomes after all.  
 

 
Outdoor pursuits are what we crave right now. We want to discover new forests walks, hike majestic mountains, and stumble upon hidden beaches. Luckily we can do all of this in Ireland, and solo travellers can enjoy these experiences without some of the fears they may have if travelling solo in a strange country.
 

 
Like all forms of travel, there are different types of solo holidays in Ireland to suit all tastes and budgets. Experienced solo travellers may want to stay in a hostel and mingle with backpackers, while others may wish to rent a seaside cottage and enjoy the peace and serenity of the Wild Atlantic Way.

There are also some great organised tours available, where you can enjoy some of Ireland’s top attractions in a group setting – this is a great way to meet new friends.
 

 
As much as I love travelling with my family, I enjoy staying alone in a hotel too. I love dining in a hotel restaurant and having a drink in bar. As a resident there is no fear of walking into the bar alone, it almost feels like home.

I also love the flexibility of room service and the luxury of a freshly made bed with crisp cotton sheets! I have travelled solo overseas on a few occasions – so if you are looking for travel inspiration abroad, this post might be of interest.

Read: Top 10 solo holidays around the world 

I think it is fair to say that there are solo holidays in Ireland to suit everyone out there, its just a matter of finding the right one to suit you – hopefully one of these will do the trick.
 

1. Hike Donegal and the Causeway Coast with Wilderness Ireland

 

 

 

 

 

 

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It may sound like a contradiction but group tours are actually very popular with solo travellers. You can enjoy all the freedom of travelling alone, but enjoy the company and security of travelling with like minded people.

If you want to explore some of Ireland’s rugged coastline or remote villages, Wilderness Ireland have a wide range of guided tours available and their maximum group size is eight. Walking holidays and cycling trips are some of their most popular, and all of their tours involve an adventure activity – so a certain level of fitness is required. All tours include accommodation, transport and meals, and single supplements are available for €250 for week long trip.  

I like their Donegal and Causeway Coast week long trip that takes in the Giant’s Causeway, Rathlin Island, Malin Head, the Slieve League Cliffs & Glenveagh National Park over seven days. Price from €1990 including hotels and meals, plus €250 for single supplement.

See more here
 

2. Book a great value spa break at Falls Hotel, Clare

There are few hotels that offer good single room rates, but the Falls Hotel in Clare is one of them. There is a swimming pool, fitness centre and award-winning spa on site.
 

 
The Falls Hotel & Spa is ideally situated to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, with the Cliffs of Moher and the lively town of Doolin less than 15 minutes away. You can also reduce your carbon footprint by staying here – the Falls Hotel & Spa gets its electricity from the river that runs alongside it.

Price on the bank holiday Monday, 1st August is €129 including breakfast.

See more here
 

3. Book a beach front cottage on the Wild Atlantic Way

If you like the idea of sea views and a good book, then why not book a cottage beside the sea? There are so many to choose from, and they are great value if you have the luxury of being able to travel off peak. This luxurious stone cottage in Donegal is located beside St. Johns Point, it is ideally located to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, Slieve League Cliffs and Donegal’s glorious beaches. 

Search many more beachfront Airbnbs  here.
 

3. Enjoy a city break in Kilkenny  

If you looking for solo holidays in Ireland and don’t have a car, then look no further than Kilkenny. Many of Kilkenny’s top attractions are located in the heart of the city, and you can get there by train from most Irish cities.

The Medieval Mile pass includes access to many top attractions including Kilkenny Castle, the Medieval Mile Museum, Rothe House and Garden, Shenanigans Walking Tour and Garden and the Smithwick’s Experience.
 

 
There are many hotels to choose from in the centre of town. The 4-star Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel have single rooms from €122 per night including breakfast in July and August.

See more here
 

4. Book a B&B – there are over 700 to choose from in Ireland

Remember B&B’s? With holiday homes and Airbnbs’s cropping up all over the place, we tend to overlook our world famous B&Bs that have been welcoming visitors for nearly 50 years. Ironically, Homestays are very much in vogue all over the world – perhaps they need to change the name?
 

 
B&B Ireland have a super website where you can search by destination and price. All of their members have independently owned quality assured B&B’s. I had a quick look and found single rooms in Galway from €40 in July and August. B&Bs are probably the best way to enjoy solo holidays in Ireland if you are on a budget.

See more here
 

5. Walk the Kingdom of Kerry with TDactive Holidays

You may be familiar with Travel Department and TDactive holidays for overseas travel, but they also organise guided group tours in Ireland. The average size group tour is 20-25 passengers and accommodation and meals are included.

This particular trip is based in Killarney and includes three guided walking trips with visits to Killarney National Park, Knocknadobar Mountain and the Dingle Peninsula.

Price is €599 for a four-night trip including hotels and meals. Single supplement is €129.

See more here
 

6. Cycle the Great Western Greenway from Westport to Achill

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I think Mayo is a great destination for solo holidays in Ireland – there are so many gorgeous places to explore, including some amazing beaches that are devoid of crowds, even in the peak summer months. You can choose to stay in the lively town of Westport and enjoy its vibrant bar and restaurant scene, or opt for a quite cottage in Achill or one of the many beach towns along the coast.
 

 
I suggest cycling along the Great Western Greenway from Westport into Achill. You can choose to cycle the full 42km, or pick up the trail in the coastal towns of Newport or Mulranny and cycle part of it. Some of Ireland’s best beaches are in Achill Island, including Keem Bay where these photos were taken.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

I would also recommend a trip to DownPatrick Head, and if you like to hike – there is always Croagh Patrick…

Read: Top 10 things to do in Mayo

Search hotels here
 

7. Take a cookery course at Dunbrody House, Wexford

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I had the pleasure of staying in Dunbrody House a few years ago and I could think of nothing better for someone who likes cooking and fancies an activity break. The Dunbrody Cookery School has been designed to cater for all levels of cooks, and have been personally designed by Celebrity Masterchef Kevin Dundon.
 

 
Cookery Courses are priced at €175 for a one day course, or €325 for a two day course and the maximum class size currently is six. For the ultimate foodies there is a Five Day Masterclass for €750, with a class size of five. Prices from €130 per room per night in Dunbrody House with breakfast included.

Read: Dunbrody House serves up more than just good food

See more here
 

8. Enjoy a yoga retreat with Cliffs of Moher Retreats

Cliffs of Moher retreats offer a wide selection of retreats throughout the year. They are ideal if you are looking for solo holidays where you can unwind, reflect and rest. The yoga studio overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and there is a sauna and hot tub to add to the experience. Healthy and nutritious meals are included and you have free time in the afternoon to explore the local area. 

Two-night Rest, Recover and Reflect retreats cost from €630 in single room.

See more here
 

9. Book a luxury break in Northern Ireland

Five star hotels can be expensive for solo travellers, but sometimes there are luxurious four-star hotels that are great alternatives. The Slieve Donard Resort & Spa in Co. Down is one of those hotels. Its luxury two floor spa, 20 metre pool and superb facilities will make it hard to leave, but one of the other reasons that I am recommending it for solo holidays in Ireland is its superb location.
 

 
It is located on a gorgeous beach with stunning views of the Mourne Mountains, and you are within walking distance of the shops, bars and restaurants in Newcastle town. There are 44 walking trails in the surrounding areas, with the Mourne Mountains winning the Best Walking Destination in Northern Ireland in WalkNI’s inaugural awards.

Prices from £140 per room per night including breakfast. For further information or to book contact sales@hastingshotels.com and quote ‘Hotel Office’ (hastingshotels.com 028 4372 1066

Read: The best beach hotels in Ireland
 

10. Learn Bushcraft Skills in the wilds of Glengarriff, West Cork

And now for something completely different….

Feel like Bear Grylls after completing this two-day Bushcraft Skills course in West Cork. You will learn how to forage, fish, and cook your own food, how to build a fire, and you will overnight in the wild in a shelter that you have built. Cost from €250 per person and beginners are welcome. 

Read: The best adventure holidays in Ireland

See more here
 

 
I hope this post on solo holidays in Ireland will help you plan a trip away soon. It is important to note that some of the facilities / activities listed may not be operating to full capacity – please check with individual hotels and operators for clarification. I always recommend booking a hotel or activity with free cancellation in case there are any changes to the listed facilities that may not suit you.

These hotels and activities were researched independently. Some have my affiliate links attached to third party websites, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.

Sarah

Enjoy the best of both worlds with Travel Department’s new long haul extension holidays. See the highlights of Cuba and enjoy a three night stay in Toronto.

Cuba and Toronto – not your typical two centre holiday! But thanks to Travel Department’s new ‘long haul extensions’ you can combine one of their award winning guided tours with an independent extension. This is the latest offering from Irish owned, Travel Department, the market leaders in guided group holidays – and I love it! You can enjoy all the benefits of a group tour with free time to explore independently at the end of your holiday. This particular tour to Cuba includes an extension to Toronto, but if you want to see a different city or stay a bit longer in Cuba, Travel Department can tailor make a trip to suit you.

Cuba has been on my bucket list for years and I can’t wait to go! My husband went on a charity cycling trip to Cuba about 10 years ago and came back raving about it. Cuba is one of those countries that is not easy to travel alone. My husband travelled with a group and when I talk to other people who visited Cuba, they all say the same thing – book a guided tour! Group holidays are a great choice for people who don’t want to travel to far flung destinations alone. No language barriers and no difficulties navigating strange cities – visiting Havana might be a lot easier than you think! It is great to have all the planning and organising done for you and excursions to top attractions included in the price. Trust me I know – sometimes I could spend days organising holidays for people when I was a travel agent!

Yes you can easily book a package deal to an all-inclusive resort in Varadero beach, but that’s not the REAL Cuba. You need to experience the classic beauty of the vintage cars of Havana close up, take a walk in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway and travel the tobacco route to the western part of the island, taking in the panoramic views of the Viñales Valley. That’s why a guided tour makes all the difference. A guided tour gives you a chance to see the REAL CUBA, discovering hidden secrets like the underground river through the ‘Cueva del Indio’ cave, filled with hanging vines and a prehistoric wall depicting the history of evolution.

Expert local guides will bring you on a real adventure and share their in-depth knowledge of Cuba, giving you insight that you couldn’t possibly learn if you were travelling alone. Enjoy all the highlights Cuba has to offer along the way, such as authentic Cuban food in local restaurants, like the famous Café del Oriente in Old Havana for dinner. Of course Cuba is not only about culture and history – you are in the Caribbean after all! No trip to Cuba would be complete without enjoying some beach time! Varadero is the resort to do just that. Snorkel, scuba dive, take a boat trip or just chill out on its magnificent beaches.

Would you believe all of the above is included in Travel Department’s 14 night Highlights of Cuba tour with Toronto extension! On this particular trip, you will enjoy a three night stay in Toronto at the end of the Highlights of Cuba tour. On arrival in Toronto, you will be met by a guide who will give you a short tour of Toronto’s famous landmarks and leave you with leisure time to sightsee and enjoy all that Toronto has to offer. Visit the Flat Iron Building, the CN Tower or take a day trip to Niagara Falls – the choice is yours!

A price of €3599 includes all flights, hotels, transfers, excursions and guides in Cuba for ten nights as well as a three night stay with breakfast in Toronto. In Cuba many lunches and dinners are included and the five night stay in Varadero is on an all-inclusive basis. This tour is available on selected dates in 2019.

Click here for the full itinerary:

Why Choose Travel Department?

For more than twenty years Travel Department have been organising tours to over 100 different destinations and offer 200 different itineraries from Dublin, Belfast and the UK. They are the experts! Nothing is left to chance as all details are arranged by their specialist team before departure, ensuring you receive an authentic guided experience from local experts. Whilst Italy is Travel Department’s most popular destination, long haul destinations like China, India and Cuba are becoming more and more popular. They also offer a wide selection of specialist holidays, such as garden holidays, opera holidays, cruise holidays and solo travel – without single supplements! Some worldwide tours already have extensions included, you can see them here. However if there is a specific destination that you would like to add at the beginning or end of your tour, just talk to the sales team at Travel Department and they will arrange it for you.

Prices are correct at time of issue but are subject to change. This post was sponsored by  Travel Department but all views, as always, are my own.

Sarah