A woman gazing over the Devil Horns at Dunmore Head, Dingle Peninsula, Co Kerry.Getty Images
Ireland has ranked 8th in the world for solo travel in 2026, one of only three European countries in the global top 10.
Solo travel isn’t just a passing trend, it’s becoming a global movement. With more than 40,500 monthly searches and over 1.9 million TikTok videos tagged #solotravel, more people than ever are choosing to explore the world on their own terms.
To uncover where this trend is heading, Explore analysed a year’s worth of Google search data for its Solo Travel Trends Report. By analysing search trends for terms like “[destination] + solo travel,” the results reveal the world’s most sought after solo destinations for the year ahead, as well as the locations seeing the fastest growth in interest.
Where solo travellers are headed in 2026
Japan ranks as the most popular destination for solo travellers, with over 67,000 annual solo travel related searches. From the vibrant, energy filled Tokyo to the serene beauty of Kyoto, Japan offers solo explorers the freedom to move at their own pace through a culture that perfectly blends modernity with tradition.
Thailand and India follow closely behind, with Thailand offering a mix of nightlife, nature and ancient temples attracting those seeking a balance between relaxation and adventure. India’s rich cultural diversity and spiritual energy make it an unforgettable destination for solo travellers. Vietnam also features in the top five, reinforcing Asia’s popularity among the solo travel scene.
Australia and New Zealand both make the top 10, both offering vast landscapes, friendly, welcoming locals, and easy-to-navigate travel routes, perfect for solo travellers.
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Ireland
Ireland, which was one of only three European countries in the top 10, claimed the eighth spot on the list, with 15,480 annual solo travel-related searches.
From coastal villages and rolling countryside to dramatic cliffs, Ireland offers a stunningly diverse landscape for solo travelers to explore. Cities like Dublin are full of energy and culture, perfect for experiencing live music, historic pubs, and vibrant street life, while quieter regions allow travelers to enjoy a slower pace, making Ireland an ideal choice for those seeking something authentic and unique.
The top 10 countries for solo travel in 2026
- Japan
- Thailand
- India
- Vietnam
- Italy
- Australia
- Costa Rica
- Ireland
- New Zealand
- Portugal
While Asia dominates the top 10, Iceland stands out as the fastest-growing solo travel destination, growing 181% year on year. The draw of Iceland for solo travellers lies in the extensive natural beauty it has to offer, from waterfalls and lagoons to unforgettable views of the Northern Lights.
Oman (133%), New Zealand (90%), Slovenia (80%), and Kyrgyzstan (67%) round off the top 5 as the fastest growing destinations for solo travel. The growth of these lesser-visited locations shows a clear shift towards nature-led travel with off-the-beaten-track experiences.
Solo travellers don’t all want adventure, with 48% looking for relaxation
There is a common misconception that solo travellers are in search of adventure and exploration. However, new survey data from Explore reveals a more diverse set of motivations.
- 48% are looking for beach breaks or relaxation-focused travel
- 47% are drawn to city exploration and urban energy
- 33% are interested in road trips, favoring freedom and flexibility
- 24% want active adventures like hiking, diving, or trekking
- 20% are seeking wellness-focused retreats with yoga, meditation, or spa experiences
“Solo travel has a huge pull for those looking to travel at their own pace, seeking more flexibility, independence, and immersive experiences," said Laura Dewar, Senior PR and Communications Manager at Explore.
"Over the past year, we have seen a 33% rise in bookings for solo travelers among our customers. With more people sharing their solo travel stories online, 2026 could be the biggest year yet for going it alone."
More information on the study can be found here.