SPLIT, CROATIA

BEST FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS, natural landscapes, PARTYING & ADVENTURE

Croatia is the most popular destination in the Mediterranean for young and adventurous travellers. Croatia is a very affordable country that combines the beauty of Greece’s natural landscapes and Italy’s captivating charm. Split is the perfect city to base yourself for an epic trip exploring Croatia’s gorgeous islands, historic towns, and national parks.

Split is a city with UNESCO-protected heritage, the centre of the city exists within the 3rd century AD Diocletian’s Palace. The city is bustling with activity during the Summer but you will always be able to feel relaxed lounging on one of the sandy beaches. Dine on traditional Croatian cuisine and experience top-tier hospitality before dancing the night away in the heart of an ancient Roman ruin.

There are so many great hostels in Split offering cheap prices and a social atmosphere perfect for solo travellers. Split is a very walkable city and if you wish to visit beaches further away the local bus network is well connected. You will be spoilt for choice with fast food joints, bakeries, and grocery stores providing an array of affordable meals.

From Split, it is possible to reach all of the main tourist draws. You can adventure to the islands of the Dalmatian Coast which offer unparalleled character and natural beauty. The islands that can be easily reached include Brac, Hvar, Korcula, and Vis. Go inland to explore Plitvice Lakes National Park’s exceptionally green lakes and cascading rapids. Or head further south to discover the spectacular waterfalls of Krka National Park. To the north, you can venture to the charming coastal towns of Trogir, Sibenik, and Zadar which provide an authentic Croatian experience. To the south become entranced by the magical city of Dubrovnik, trap yourself within the medieval walls and become lost in the maze of history.

If you are looking for a unique experience then Split has you covered. Numerous travel companies will organise tours and guides for you to engage in heart-racing activities. Whether it is canyoning, kayaking, or zip-lining over the Cetina River you can be assured it will be a day to remember! Adventure isn’t your speed? How about music festivals? Croatia is home to some world-class partying, you can plan your trip to Croatia around the famous Hideout Festival, Ultra Europe or just a good old-fashioned Split Boat Party!

LISBON, PORTUGAL

BEST FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS, city break, local culture & history

Portugal is often hidden in the shadow of its larger neighbour Spain, and travellers who overlook Portugal are missing out! From the Douro Valley in the north to the sun-soaked Algarve in the south Portugal provides a diverse experience. Lisbon, the capital city, is the beating heart of the country that bursts with breathtaking viewpoints, Fado music, and colourful tiles.

Lisbon has a rich history dating back to 1200 BC, making it one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. Ruled by the Phoenicians then the Romans then the Moors, Lisbon is known for thriving during the Age of Discoveries under Portuguese monarchy. Today Lisbon has become a popular city break due to the blend of historic landmarks amidst a city full of life and culture. Visit San Jorge Castle for unbeatable views before wandering through the iconic neighbourhood of Alfama to the sound of traditional Fado.

I believe that Lisbon was a city designed for budget travellers and backpackers. With so many hostels offering fantastic prices, top-notch facilities, and a social atmosphere you have your pick of the best. The city is easy to navigate, most landmarks are within walkable distance if you stay in the right neighbourhood and if not you can catch the metro easily. Throughout Portugal, thousands of Minipreço (small grocery) stores are tailored toward budget-conscious shoppers. Don’t want to cook? No worries, there are numerous restaurants and windows where you can grab a delicious Portuguese meal for great value.

Lisbon is one of the best cities in the world for its variety of day trip options. Just an hour away is the fairytale town of Sintra nestled in the lush forests of the Serra de Sintra mountains. Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site home to a collection of historic landmarks like the colourful Pena Palace, ancient Moorish Castle and enchanting Quinta de Regaleria Palace. Close to Sintra, the charming seaside town of Cascais has a picturesque old town and scenic coastal trails along the national park. Obidos and Evora are well-preserved medieval small towns full of Roman ruins that can make you feel as though you have stepped back in time only 1.5 hours from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon.

NERJA, SPAIN

BEST FOR SLOW TRAVEL, local culture, FEMALE TRAVELLERS, history & NATURAL LANDSCAPES

Spain is perhaps the best well-rounded destination for youth and budget travellers. It has natural beauty, world-class partying, top-tier hiking, dreamy coastal towns, vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, remarkable landmarks, and a rich cultural history. Nerja is an inviting town nestled into the hills of the Costa del Sol, the coastline of Spain’s southern edge.

Nerja is celebrated, mainly by English and Irish families, for its stunning beaches and shimmering sea. The town’s charm is accentuated by the traditional white-washed buildings and narrow, winding streets that reflect the Andalusian heritage. Nerja is a peaceful paradise free from stress and worry. Relax into the Andalucian lifestyle and spend time lounging on the beach, sipping sangria, and talking with friends in the early morning.

Two or three hostels in Nerja provide cheap accommodation suitable for budget and solo travellers. If you are travelling with a group there are plenty of stylish yet budget Airbnb-style stays you can call home for a perfect week away. The small-town vibe of Nerja means that while there are many high-end restaurants you will also find fast food windows, local favourite cheap eats, and affordable groceries. Everywhere within Nerja is walkable, no more than a thirty-minute journey by foot from the beach to the top of the hill!

Nerja is on the coast of the beautiful Andalucia region of Spain in the south. Andalucia is the birthplace of Flamenco, a passionate art form combining music and dance, and it is also famous for its sunny climate. If you have a rental car, Nerja is a fantastic base destination to explore the iconic Alhambra in Granada, Mezquita in Cordoba, and Alcazaba in Malaga. Andalucian cities, especially the Seville capital, are known for their well-preserved architecture, vibrant culture, and joyful atmosphere. For a unique experience in southern Spain, you can visit the numerous Pueblos Blancos, gorgeous white-washed hillside villages with colourful flowers, narrow windy streets, and stunning views. My favourite Pueblos Blancos that you can visit from Nerja include Ronda, Setenil de las Bodegas, Olvera, and Frigliana.

NICE, FRANCE

BEST FOR FEMALE TRAVELLERS, luxury on a budget, countryside & beaches

France is the number one country for international tourism and backpackers often perceive this to mean it is unaffordable – nonsense! France is a country that attracts everyone with its romantic ambience, fashionable locals, and luxurious style. The Cote d’Azur is a glamorous section of the Mediterranean coastline in southeastern France renowned for stunning beaches and historic charm. Nice is an iconic city that provides an excellent vantage point for the discovery of the Riviera on a budget.

Perched to the east of France the Italian influence in the architecture, cuisine, and lively atmosphere of Nice cannot be denied. Nice is a colourful city and a jewel of the French Riviera for its spectacular Promenade des Anglais and Cours Saleya markets in the heart of Old Town (Vieux Nice). Nice offers a range of quality social hostels for reasonable prices perfect for solo and female travellers. Restaurants in Nice are expensive but the city is large and you can easily find cheap eats and groceries to satisfy you.

Nice is well connected by train and bus networks to the surrounding towns and cities of the French Riviera. You can spend your days relaxing on the nearby beaches of Plage de Carres and Plage Publique Magnan on the promenade. Within half an hour are the gorgeous and unique bays of Cap-d’Ail, Eze, Paloma Beach, and Villefranche sure Mer. Venture outside the small towns and explore the enchanting cities of Antibes, Cannes, and Menton all connected on the same train line! Extend your time in the south of France by discovering the lavender fields in Provence, the bustling port of Marseille, and the turquoise river of the Gorges du Verdon.