Spain is one of the best destinations for solo travel, offering a mix of vibrant cities, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re planning a solo journey through major cities or exploring the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Spain has something for everyone.
As a Host Teacher at Spanish Express, I’ve welcomed like-minded solo travellers from around the world into my home. Through our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP), I’ve seen firsthand why solo travellers love Spain.
In this guide, I’ll help you plan the perfect Spain solo adventure, featuring the best cities, cultural experiences, and insider tips.
Why Solo Travel in Spain?
Traveling alone might seem intimidating at first, but solo travel in Spain is easier and more rewarding than you think. With its well-connected public transport, welcoming locals, and rich culture, Spain is a dream destination for independent travelers.
Spain’s major cities offer a perfect balance of history, entertainment, and safety, making them ideal for solo female travelers and adventurers alike. Whether you’re exploring the old town of Seville, joining walking tours in Barcelona, or indulging in local cuisine in Valencia, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy.
From budget airlines to comfortable walking shoes, everything you need for a smooth solo trip is within reach.
Top Destinations in Spain for Solo Travelers
Spain offers a diverse range of experiences, making it perfect for any solo traveler. Whether you want to visit Spain for its lively city centers, charming coastal towns, or cultural hotspots, there’s something for everyone.
Below are some of the best destinations for Spain solo travel itineraries, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions, explore historic sites, and even learn Spanish while staying with a host teacher.
1. Barcelona – A Solo Traveler’s Urban Playground
Barcelona is one of the most exciting places to visit Spain, blending modern energy with historical charm. As a solo traveler, you’ll love exploring the city center, filled with architectural wonders like Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell.
The city’s vibrant culture extends to its local cuisine, where you can enjoy tapas in the lively markets or relax at a café by the beach. Getting around is easy with its efficient metro system, making solo exploration a breeze. For those looking to immerse themselves in the language and culture, our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) in Barcelona offers an unforgettable experience.
Live & Study Spanish in Your Teacher’s Home in Barcelona with SHIP
2. Burgos – A Historical Retreat for Solo Travelers
For travelers interested in Spain solo travel itineraries that focus on history, Burgos is a must-visit. This medieval city is home to the UNESCO-listed Burgos Cathedral, one of Spain’s most magnificent Gothic structures.
Wander through the charming streets of the old town, where you’ll find cozy cafés and artisan shops. Burgos also sits along the Camino de Santiago, attracting pilgrims and travelers alike, making it a great place to meet like-minded solo travellers. Staying in Burgos with SHIP allows you to experience the city authentically while improving your Spanish skills in a welcoming home environment.
Live & Study Spanish in Burgos with SHIP
3. Cádiz – A Coastal Paradise in Southern Spain
Located in southern Spain, Cádiz is an ideal destination for solo travelers seeking sun, sea, and history. Known as one of Europe’s oldest cities, Cádiz offers breathtaking ocean views, golden beaches, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Spend your days exploring the city center, visiting landmarks like the Cádiz Cathedral or watching the sunset from La Caleta Beach. The city is also famous for its flamenco dance heritage, with numerous intimate performances taking place in local bars and tablaos. Choosing SHIP in Cádiz means you can practice Spanish daily while immersing yourself in Andalusian culture.
Live & Study Spanish in Your Teacher’s Home in Cádiz with SHIP
4. Girona – A Fairytale Escape for Solo Explorers
If you love medieval towns and scenic landscapes, Girona is a dream destination. Its well-preserved walls, colorful riverfront, and Game of Thrones filming locations make it a fascinating place for a solo journey.
The city center is compact and easy to explore on foot, with highlights including the Jewish Quarter, Girona Cathedral, and Eiffel Bridge. With fewer crowds than other Spanish cities, it offers a peaceful retreat for those who want to take in the culture at a relaxed pace. Staying with a SHIP host teacher in Girona lets you experience the local way of life while enhancing your Spanish.
Live & Study Spanish in Girona with SHIP
5. Extremadura – A Hidden Gem of History and Nature
For solo travelers looking for an authentic Spanish experience away from the crowds, Extremadura is an ideal destination. This region is rich in history, stunning landscapes, and charming towns that feel like stepping back in time.
Wander through the ancient streets of Cáceres, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore the Roman ruins of Mérida, one of Spain’s best-preserved archaeological treasures.
Extremadura is also a paradise for food lovers, known for its world-famous jamón ibérico, traditional stews, and delicious cheeses. The slower pace of life here allows for deeper cultural immersion, and locals are always happy to chat, making it a fantastic place to practice Spanish.
Our SHIP program in Extremadura offers a unique language experience surrounded by history, nature, and warm hospitality.
6. Mallorca – A Solo Traveler’s Island Retreat
For those looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway, Mallorca is the ideal destination. This Balearic Island boasts stunning beaches, charming villages, and incredible hiking routes in the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains.
Explore Palma’s old town, discover hidden coves along the coast, or take a scenic train ride to Sóller. The island is well-connected with domestic flights and budget airlines, making it accessible for travelers. By staying with a SHIP teacher in Mallorca, you can fully experience the island’s charm while learning Spanish in a local home.
Live & Study Spanish in Your Teacher’s Home in Mallorca with SHIP
7. Murcia – A Hidden Gem for Solo Travelers
If you’re looking for an authentic Spanish experience away from tourist crowds, Murcia is a fantastic choice. This southern city is known for its rich history, stunning baroque architecture, and warm climate year-round.
Visit the Murcia Cathedral, wander through the Plaza de las Flores, and enjoy the region’s local cuisine, which features fresh seafood and traditional rice dishes. Murcia’s affordability makes it a top pick for those looking to stretch their budget while still experiencing Spanish culture. Our SHIP program in Murcia offers a unique opportunity to live and study Spanish in a welcoming environment.
Live & Study Spanish in Your Teacher’s Home in Murcia with SHIP
8. Seville – A Cultural Wonderland for Solo Explorers
Few places capture the essence of southern Spain like Seville. The city is filled with stunning landmarks, from the Real Alcázar to the Giralda Tower, and its lively atmosphere makes it a great destination for solo female travel.
Take a flamenco dance class, explore the winding streets of the old town, or enjoy a river cruise along the Guadalquivir. Seville’s charm lies in its mix of history, culture, and welcoming locals. With SHIP in Seville, you’ll not only experience the city but also improve your Spanish through total immersion.
Live & Study Spanish in Your Teacher’s Home in Seville with SHIP
9. Valencia – A Perfect Blend of Old and New
Valencia is an ideal destination for solo travellers who want both history and modern attractions. Explore the City of Arts and Sciences, relax on the Mediterranean beaches, and try paella, the city’s most famous dish.
The city center is lively yet easy to navigate, and the locals are known for their warmth and hospitality. Valencia is also well-connected by budget airlines, making it an excellent base for further exploration. Staying with a SHIP host teacher in Valencia offers a deeper cultural experience while helping you improve your Spanish skills.
Live & Study Spanish in Your Teacher’s Home in Valencia with SHIP
Solo Travel Tips for Spain
Planning to travel solo can feel overwhelming, but Spain makes it easy with its efficient public transportation, welcoming atmosphere, and diverse cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking to unwind in coastal towns or dive into the vibrant city life, these tips will help you explore Spain smoothly and confidently.
Visit Local Markets for an Authentic Experience
If you’re a food lover, don’t miss out on visiting a local market in each city. Places like San Sebastian are famous for their fresh seafood and unique pintxos culture, offering an unforgettable taste of Spanish cuisine. These markets are also great for budget-friendly meals and a chance to interact with locals.
Take Advantage of Spain Tours & Immersive Experiences
For those who prefer guided experiences, Spain tours provide a great way to connect with fellow travelers while uncovering hidden gems. But if you’re looking for something even more immersive, our Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) offers a unique way to experience Spain while learning Spanish.
With SHIP, students stay with a host teacher in their home for 1 to 4 weeks, enjoying excursions, cultural activities, and guided conversations tailored to their level. This program allows you to truly experience Spain beyond the typical tourist path, making it ideal for solo travelers who want to enhance their language skills while exploring Spain in an authentic way.
Use Public Transportation for Easy Travel
With a well-developed public transportation network, getting around is both affordable and convenient. Trains, buses, and metros connect major cities, allowing you to see more of the country without hassle. Whether you’re hopping between regions or navigating a city, solo travel in Spain is seamless, safe, and full of adventure.
Final Thoughts: Experience Spain Like a Local with SHIP
Embarking on a solo journey in Spain is more than just an adventure—it’s an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the culture, language, and lifestyle. Whether you’re wandering through the old town of Seville, enjoying local cuisine in Valencia, or hiking in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, every experience becomes richer when you can connect with locals and practice Spanish naturally.
With SHIP (Spanish Homestay Immersion Program), you don’t just visit Spain—you live it. Stay with a host teacher, enjoy guided conversations and excursions, and explore Spain in the most authentic way possible. Whether for one week or four, it’s the perfect way to enhance your travels while learning Spanish in a welcoming, real-life setting.
Pack your comfortable walking shoes, step outside your comfort zone, and join Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) for an unforgettable solo travel experience in Spain. Learn more and book your stay today!
FAQs
Where is the best place to solo travel in Spain?
Spain has plenty of great destinations for solo travelers, depending on what you’re looking for. Barcelona and Valencia are ideal for city lovers, while Seville and Cádiz offer rich history and culture. For a coastal retreat, San Menorca or Mallorca are excellent choices.
Is Spain good to travel alone?
Yes! Spain is one of the best destinations for solo travellers due to its safe cities, excellent public transportation, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring major cities or the countryside, it’s easy to meet like-minded solo travellers and enjoy your trip.
What is the best city in Spain for singles?
If you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, social experiences, and plenty of things to do, Cádiz and Barcelona are top choices. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Valencia and Seville offer excellent options with plenty of opportunities to meet locals and fellow travelers.
Is Spain a safe country for solo female travelers?
Yes, Spain is one of the safest countries in Europe for solo female travel. While general precautions should always be taken, major cities and tourist areas are well-monitored, and public spaces remain busy even at night. SHIP provides an even safer and more immersive way to experience Spain by staying with a host teacher.
How many days in Spain do you need?
The ideal length of a solo trip depends on what you want to see. A week-long itinerary is great for visiting one or two cities, while two to three weeks allows for a more immersive experience, including coastal escapes and cultural experiences like flamenco dance in southern Spain.
