At a certain point in life, self-discovery becomes mandatory rather than being important. Let’s find some of the best foreign countries to embark on your journey of self-discovery.
Travel is not just a hobby but is a life-altering activity that is enjoyed by all kinds of people around the world. Traveling is much different from tourism, and it offers a chance to find yourself through the experiences you gather. In 2026, it is recommended for you to explore some of the best global destinations that can offer you greater changes in life. Starting from new people, places, and friendships, you can always explore something new through traveling. Let’s find some of the best travel destinations around the world for self-discovery.
- Thailand
Thailand is one of the best South Asian countries where you can easily go for solo traveling. This country is safe for women, cheap, and also easy to get around in different places. It is a popular place where millions of global travelers come to visit each year. Starting from beautiful natural landscapes to vibrant cities, the country has a lot to offer. The country is filled with many beautiful beaches, which can be found on the islands, namely Krabi, Phuket, and Phi Phi. This place is a tropical paradise, and Thai people are very welcoming. Make sure to enjoy the local food to enjoy more.
- Albania
Albania is one of the most beautiful countries in the Balkan region of Europe, where you can find gorgeous scenic beauty. The locals are very hospitable here, and you will feel at home with their warm welcome in the country. The gorgeous blue water of the Albanian beaches and coasts is perfect for swimming. It is highly recommended to visit places like Himarë, Dhërmi, and Ksamil, where you find great scenic views. You can witness a fair portion of history here, with the remains from the Ottoman Empire, along with medieval castles.
- Costa Rica
Survey says that Costa Rica is one of the happiest countries around the world, as people here have learnt to embrace themselves despite all national adversities. This country has a lot to offer, and you will find plenty of adventure activities to make your travel experience more memorable. From rafting on the Reventazón River to hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park, there are a lot of adventure activities that can keep you hooked. The country brings you closer to nature as well as to yourself, offering a better chance of self-discovery.
- Germany
Germany is no longer associated with Hitler, as this European country is revered for its beauty and infrastructure. Other than its prolific national football team and the massive autobahn driveway, the country still has many things to offer, which include cafés, nightclubs, museums, and parks. In case you do not want to avoid the crowd, you can also enjoy yourself at the beer gardens in the country. If you are in the country, make sure to visit some of the castles, as Germany has more than 20,000 castles that are part of its history. Commuting is also less expensive here than in other EU countries.
- Vietnam
Vietnam is another beautiful country in the South Asian region that really terrified America with its guerrilla tactics. But the war is over, and the country has discovered from the long-gone dictatorship. The natural landscapes of this country will mesmerize you when you visit areas like Sơn Đoòng, Hạ Long Bay, Bai Tu Long, etc. It is highly recommended to visit Hội An during the full moon to enjoy the spectacular moon festival. Check out the museums to find out more about the Vietnam War and who was the real culprit? The food here is good, and so are the people!
- Iceland
Iceland is one of the most mysterious countries in the world, where you can find everything through a common package. Whether it is active volcano hiking, exploring glaciers, or soaking yourself in the geothermal spas, the country is filled with natural wonders and adventurous installations. According to the 2025 Global Peace Index report, Iceland is also the most peaceful country in the world and is highly safe for female solo travelers. It is recommended to visit Faxaflói Bay, from where you can witness the blue whales. For a more captivating camping experience, make sure to visit Thingvellir National Park.
- New Zealand
New Zealand is a beautiful Island country in the South Pacific Ocean, which is considered to be a paradise for backpackers, hikers, and adventure lovers. And if you are also one of them, this country could be your best choice for solo traveling. According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the third most peaceful country in the world, and it can provide the untouched beauty of nature. The natural landscapes here appear as the movie sets from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
- Mexico
Mexico can be considered an optimal place for travelling and backpacking, where you can easily go for solo trips. Mexican people are great, and Mexican food is even greater. This country is a cultural epitome, and you will get to find different kinds of people who embrace their cultural sites. Make sure to visit the popular places like Los Cabos, Oaxaca, Tulum, Cancun, and lastly Mexico City, where you can find natural, art, history, and a whole lot of self-realization. Don’t miss out on the tacos, empanadas, and tortas!
- Switzerland
Is there any other country that can diminish the Swiss Beauty? Maybe not. Other than offering banks for the monopolists and industrialists, Switzerland also offers great scenic spots to enjoy all over the country. The best way to explore the country would be by train, and the most recommended thing would be the Swiss Travel Pass, which provides you with an unlimited travel pass for boats, trains, buses, and whatnot. You can hike to the top of the Alps, visit the medieval castles, or do anything you love, as this paradise is open to all. The country also offers a chocolate-themed tour where you can forget about Willy Wonka.
- Chile
Chile is not only beautiful but also one of the most diverse countries, where you can find a lot of things to explore. Starting from the Torres del Paine National Park to the San Rafael Glacier or climbing an active volcano in the Lake District, this country can offer many natural activities combined with adrenaline adventure. If you want to feel unworldly or want to be on a different planet like the sci-fi movies, make sure to visit the Atacama Desert, which can suit your fancy, along with a great opportunity for stargazing.
- Netherlands
The Netherlands is globally revered for its tulip fields and canal culture that connects hearts. This is a prime destination for solo travelers, and there is a hefty number of youth who like to visit the country for its vibrant culture. A fair portion of their welcoming culture can be felt through places like Amsterdam, Vondelpark, The Keukenhof, and many others. Just like you can find some of the best cycling trails and tulip gardens with colorful patches, you can also find globally revered places like the Van Gogh Museum, which is a popular attraction among tourists and travelers. You can visit this garden in Europe in the summer for the best experience.
- Spain
Spanish people love to party, and the party vibe can be felt in the air when you are in the country. This popular country is an accumulation of art museums, gorgeous architecture, delicious food, stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, and jaw-dropping hikes, which make it perfect for solo traveling. Other than football fanatics, Barcelona can also inspire people with Park Güell, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features architecture, sculptures, and many other things. Spanish food is absolutely delicious and will make you crave more.
- Austria
Austria is another popular European country that is highly visited by global travelers. This country can offer you the taste of fine culture through music, art, and architecture. There are more than 100 museums in the country, and visiting each of them can introduce you to a different part of history. Make sure to become a part of the traditional Viennese coffeehouse culture and also enjoy their local food. The capital of the country, Vienna, is best known as the City of Music, where you can find the Musikverein or the State Opera House. This is highly suggested for you if you are a culture vulture.
- Denmark
Danish people are very welcoming, and their hospitality makes Denmark a suitable place for solo travelers. This country might remind you of Venice due to its water routes and boat trips. Make sure to visit the Nyhavn district, where you will get to see iconic wooden ships and boats along with colorful townhouses, which make it appear very artistic and cinematic. The Tivoli Garden can be a great place to explore as well, but nothing can beat the grandeur of Kronborg Castle and Frederiksborg Castle, which became a World Heritage Site for UNESCO.
- Japan
Japan has set an example globally with its amazing food, polite culture among people, and a wide range of anime and manga. It is also one of the cleanest countries around the world; they take good care of their nature. Visiting this country can teach you a lot about yourself while instilling the ideas of empathy, gratitude, apology, and embracing the self. Whether you visit the spiritual forests of the prime cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, this country is perfect for solo traveling.
- Norway
Let’s visit the Norwegian woods this summer to find the warm beauty of this country. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure sports and activities in this country, along with a handful of museums, restaurants, and parks. Walking, cycling, or taking public transportation is highly encouraged by the government of the country, where there is zero pollution and ZERO AQI in this country. This place also offers an opportunity to enjoy the ethereal beauty of the Northern lights.
- Ireland
If you are willing to go on an Irish adventure, 2026 seems like the right time to do it. In Dublin, you can take a literary walking tour of the UNESCO City of Literature, browse Grafton Street’s bustling shops, and chat with other travelers in the Guinness Storehouse over a pint of the world-famous stout. Make sure to visit the lovely Salthill Promenade or park, where you can enjoy traditional Irish folk music. With friendly residents and stunning natural landscapes, this place seems to be the perfect destination for solo travelling.
- Uruguay
Uruguay is a powerful South American country that offers a great chance to rejuvenate yourself. It is perfect for those who just want to relax by the ocean and soak up the sun. Punta del Este may be best known for its gorgeous beaches, like Playa Mansa and Playa Brava. But, if you want to escape the crowds, consider visiting the more secluded beaches along Uruguay’s Atlantic coast in Jose Ignacio and Rocha.
- Finland
Those who are looking forward to enjoying a Finnish adventure must visit the “land of the midnight sun”. This place is not only beautiful but also safe and peaceful. It is perfect for all kinds of solo travelers, and the locals are very welcoming to make sure no one feels like an outsider. This country is perfect for traditional sauna experiences, as there are more than 3.2 million saunas. However, this sauna capital of the world can also offer you spectacular architecture, museums, parks, and markets that are easily accessible for global travelers.
- Scotland
Scotland feels like a country where folklore comes alive. There is outdoor adventure and stunning beauty around every corner of the country, which makes it perfect for solo adventure. It’s a safe, cozy sojourn for anyone who loves postcard-perfect views, and the country can also help you reconnect with yourself. It is highly recommended to explore Edinburgh through cycling, as the city has zero tolerance for pollution and carbon emissions. You should also visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and Holyrood Park, two of the most prominent places to embrace art and culture.
- Australia
Australia is an exceptionally safe place and is a popular solo travel destination. Why not kick off your trip in Sydney, the country’s biggest city and capital of New South Wales? Touch down here to find a friendly vibe and thriving art, food, and sports scenes; you can shake off your jet lag walking around Sydney Harbour or exploring the white-sand shore at Bondi Beach. You can also explore the wildness of Tasmania or the vibrancy of Melbourne, which captivated most global travelers. The Great Barrier Reef and other coastal areas offer the best situation and experience of snorkeling among marine life.
- Canada
It is not just people who are nice in Canada, as the country can offer you a diversified range of natural beauty in magnificent locations. The country can keep you hooked with both the vibrancy of the urban areas and the wilderness of the natural formations. Make sure to explore Toronto, Vancouver, and Banff National Park’s famous glacial lakes in order to get through an ethereal experience. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the greatest attractions of the country, which is around 450 feet long and 230 feet high.
- Croatia
Although Croatia is a part of the European Union, this country is less expensive and offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy Europe with a different taste. You can dive into rich history, eat delectable cuisine, or swim in the best beaches of the country. Whether you visit the Dalmatian Islands or the medieval city of Dubrovnik, there is always something new to explore for travelers. While you are happy in your mind, also make your stomach happy with white truffle pasta and fresh seafood.
- Egypt
There is a new ‘Mummy’ movie releasing soon, and 2026 seems like the perfect time to reach the roots or the origin of mummies, which is Egypt. This African country is well-revered for its ancient history, desert activities, and scuba diving. This is the best place for solo adventures, where you can enjoy the spectacular views of the River Nile, or also witness the Pyramids of Giza. The country owns a huge range of archaeological wonders here, and there are seven UNESCO World Heritage sites as well, including Luxor, Karnak, Abu Simbel, and others.
- England
The British people have invaded and colonized many countries in history, and now, they are inviting global travelers to visit their country so that the country can earn more. It is time to visit the oppressor country without any context of history. London should be the initial point to start, and then, you can easily take a train to enjoy charming English towns. You will also find many castles and historical remains, but do not expect any good food, as they do not have any. However, the immigrants in the country can feed your taste buds with satisfaction.
