Travelling Alone and Meeting New People – Hostels Are Perfect for Solo Travellers

Travelling alone means freedom, independence and self-discovery. You can do whatever you like, without compromise, and get to know yourself on a whole new level. At the same time, solo travel can be challenging: loneliness, uncertainty and the question of how to connect with others often accompany solo travellers. That’s exactly where hostels come in.

Hostels – The Perfect Place to Meet New People on Holiday

If you’re travelling solo, hostels are the ideal place to strike up conversations. Unlike anonymous hotels, hostels offer a lively, open atmosphere. Many guests are also travelling alone and are just as keen to meet new people as you are.

What makes hostels especially sociable:

• Communal areas: Lounges, bars, co-working spaces and kitchens invite you to relax and chat.
• Dorm rooms: Staying in shared rooms means you’re almost guaranteed to meet fellow travellers.
• Events: Many a&o Hostels offer pub crawls, game nights or shared dinners.
• Central locations: Being close to local hotspots means you’ll easily meet other explorers looking for or sharing tips.

Community Without Borders: Experiencing Diversity in Hostels

Hostels bring together people from all over the world. Whether it’s a student from Sweden, a backpacker from Australia or a digital nomad from Brazil – hostels create an international community as vibrant as life itself.

What to expect:

• A mix of age groups: From early 20s to well over 50 – everyone’s welcome.
• Diverse lifestyles: Travellers with different interests, professions and stories.
• Cultural exchange: New perspectives, languages and friendships are all part of the experience.

A simple coffee in the hostel kitchen can quickly turn into an invitation for a city walk – or a spontaneous travel group for your next destination.

These Cities Are Perfect for Solo Travellers

Some European cities are known for being especially solo-friendly: They offer great infrastructure, safety, plenty of activities and, of course, a&o Hostels with great connectivity and community vibes.

Berlin – Big, Diverse, Open

Germany’s capital is a paradise for solo travellers. Wander through museums and quirky districts by day, and meet fellow travellers at the a&o Berlin Mitte in the evening.

Highlights: Street art, techno, history and laptop-friendly cafés.

Vienna – Culture, Coffee Houses & Relaxed Vibes

Vienna blends imperial charm with modern urban culture. Solo travellers love the laid-back pace, green parks and sense of safety.

Perfect for: Museum days, chats over coffee and friendly meetups at the a&o Wien Hauptbahnhof.

Prague – Affordable, Beautiful and Compact

The Czech capital offers great value, a walkable old town and plenty of free sights to see.

Tip: The a&o Praha Rhea is ideal for budget-friendly city trips.

Copenhagen – Sustainable, Stylish & Welcoming

Copenhagen is safe, eco-friendly and full of charm. Solo travellers can explore by bike, enjoy a taste of hygge and meet new people at the a&o Kobenhavn Nørrebro.

Don’t miss: Street food markets, community cafés and sustainable living inspiration.

Travelling Solo, But Never Alone

Travelling solo doesn’t mean being lonely. If you’re open to meeting people and choose the right accommodation, you’ll quickly make new connections – especially in hostels. Their welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, international crowd and regular events make them one of the best tips for solo travellers.

Next time you’re wondering where to go alone on holiday: Pick one of the cities above, book your a&o Hostel and look forward to unforgettable encounters!

Solo Travel – Your Most Common Questions Answered

Where can I go on holiday alone?
Big cities with great infrastructure like Berlin, Vienna or Prague are ideal. Smaller towns with cultural offerings are great too.

How can I meet new people while on holiday?
The easiest way is in hostels, on city tours, at cafés with communal tables or via apps like Meetup or Couchsurfing.

Is travelling alone dangerous?
With common sense, good planning and a little caution, travelling solo is just as safe as any other way to travel.

How do I find the right hostel?
Look for good reviews, communal spaces, a central location and events. a&o Hostels offer perfect conditions.

What should I do if I feel lonely?
Talk to other guests, join group activities or spend time in the common areas. Loneliness often disappears faster than you expect.

Book Now and Meet New People!

Ready to travel alone, but not feel alone? Book your a&o Hostel now and enjoy the perfect mix of independence and community!

Planning to stay longer in one place? Find out more about long-term stays at a&o Hostels.

Got hooked?

Then book your trip with a&o to Vienna!