A new study from travel experts Explore reveals the most popular destinations for Americans traveling alone in 2026.
Solo travel is booming, and Explore’s data has uncovered where Americans most want to go when traveling solo. By analyzing U.S. search trends for terms like “[destination] + solo travel,” Explore uncovered the most popular countries for solo travelers seeking their next adventure.
Japan Leads the Way for Solo Adventures
With nearly 28,000 annual Google searches, Japan is the top solo travel destination for Americans. Often ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, it offers peace of mind for first-time solo travelers. Whether exploring the dynamic energy of Tokyo, the peaceful beauty of Kyoto, or Japan’s many cultural landmarks, visitors benefit from the country’s efficient public transportation and welcoming hospitality, making it easy to navigate and explore independently.
Thailand follows in second place, with over 21,000 searches. Known for its friendly locals, affordability, and vibrant backpacking scene, Thailand appeals to younger solo travelers and those seeking a social, community-oriented experience.
Costa Rica, in third place, attracts solo travelers with its lush rainforests, strong eco-tourism culture, and abundance of outdoor adventures like zip-lining, surfing, and wildlife spotting. It’s a top pick for travelers looking to balance relaxation with thrill-seeking.
Europe Shines as a Solo Travel Hotspot
Europe claims half of the top 10 solo travel spots, with Iceland, Portugal, Italy, Ireland, and Spain, leading the way.
Iceland tops the European entries with just under 10,000 annual searches. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and the chance to witness the Northern Lights, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Whether solo travelers are looking for an adventure-packed trip filled with excursions or a laid-back escape, Europe offers something for everyone. From Portugal’s sun-drenched coastlines to Italy’s historic cities, these destinations provide a rich mix of culture, accessibility, and vibrant experiences that make them ideal for independent travel.
The Top 10 Most Popular Countries For American Solo Travelers
| Rank | Country | Continent | Number of U.S. Annual Searches |
| 1 | Japan | Asia | 27,900 |
| 2 | Thailand | Asia | 21,060 |
| 3 | Costa Rica | North America | 9,600 |
| 4 | Iceland | Europe | 9,370 |
| 5 | Portugal | Europe | 8,900 |
| 6 | Italy | Europe | 8,490 |
| 7 | Ireland | Europe | 7,950 |
| 8 | Spain | Europe | 6,420 |
| 9 | New Zealand | Oceania | 5,600 |
| 10 | India | Asia | 5,230 |
Laura Dewar, Senior PR and Communications Manager at Explore comments: “Solo travel is becoming increasingly popular, particularly as travelers seek more flexibility, independence, and immersive experiences.
We’ve seen a 33% increase in solo travelers among our customers over the past year, which shows just how strong this trend has become. With more people sharing their solo travel stories on social media, 2026 could be the biggest year yet for going it alone.
I’m not surprised to see destinations like Japan topping the list. It’s renowned for its safety and welcoming culture, which is key for those traveling alone, especially first-timers. Europe’s cultural diversity and ease of travel is also a major draw for American solo travelers, so it’s great to see so many European countries ranking highly.”
