There’s something powerful about taking your first solo trip. For many of our students, joining the Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP) marks the beginning of a life-changing solo travel experience. Spain stands out as one of the most appealing destinations in Europe for solo travelers. Whether it’s walking through quiet medieval streets in Burgos, ordering tapas in the heart of Valencia, or chatting with local families inBarcelona, our solo travelers aren’t just visiting, they’re living the language.
In this blog, I’ll share the stories of real students from around the world who decided to travel alone and join our SHIP program across Spain. Many felt excited before starting their solo journey, anticipating the freedom to decide how to spend their days, whether to get an audio guide, or simply wander at their own pace. From young adults to retirees, each story reflects what happens when you stop waiting for others and start exploring on your own.
If you’ve ever thought about traveling solo to a foreign country, meeting new people, and learning Spanish in a real home, these stories might be just what you need to imagine your next trip and maybe even book your first solo travel adventure. Some travelers even fell in love with Spain or a particular city along the way, and it’s easy to fall for the charm of Spanish culture and the unique experience of solo travel in Spain.
Introduction to Solo Travel in Spain
Spain is a dream destination for solo travelers, offering a blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and a lively social scene that makes every trip unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned solo traveler, Spain welcomes you with open arms.
From the vibrant energy of Madrid’s city streets to the sun-soaked beaches of Barcelona, there’s a perfect spot for every interest and personality. Traveling solo here means you can explore at your own pace, discover hidden corners of each city, and connect with new people along the way.
Spain’s friendly locals, diverse regions, and endless opportunities for adventure make it an ideal destination for anyone ready to set out on their own and experience something truly special.
Why Everyone Should Travel Solo at Least Once
Planning your first solo trip can feel daunting, but once you do it, you’ll wonder why you waited so long. So many people are now choosing solo travel. More and more people are choosing to travel alone, and not just young backpackers or digital nomads. Our solo travelers include professionals, retirees, students, and anyone curious enough to explore a foreign country on their own.
Why the rise in solo travel? In 2025, millions of people are setting off alone, not because they have to, but because they want to. A solo travel experience offers something group tours rarely can: the freedom to spend each day how you choose, speak with locals at your own pace, and reflect on your own life without distraction. Importantly, solo travel fosters personal growth and independence. It can feel a bit intimidating or challenging at first, but the rewards are well worth it.
You meet new people, build confidence, and discover how rewarding it is to enjoy your own company. For many of our students, their SHIP stay was not only a language course, but the start of a much bigger adventure into the world. By planning ahead, solo travelers can save money on transportation and accommodations. Managing spending is an important part of making the most of your solo travel experience.
Preparing for Your Journey
Getting ready for your solo travel adventure in Spain is all about smart planning and a sense of excitement. Start by researching your chosen destination—whether it’s a bustling city or a quiet coastal town so you know what to expect.
Book your accommodations in advance to secure the best options and peace of mind. As a solo traveler in a foreign country, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and any travel advisories. Don’t forget to arrange travel insurance to cover any unexpected events during your trip.
Packing light, keeping digital copies of important documents, and having a flexible itinerary will help you make the most of your solo travel experience. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to embrace the fun and adventure that awaits you in Spain, knowing you’ve taken steps to ensure your safety and comfort.
Liam in Valencia & Barcelona: A First Ever Solo Trip
Liam, a 27-year-old model from New York, took his first-ever solo trip with Spanish Express, splitting time between Valencia and Barcelona. It wasn’t just a solo travel adventure to improve his Spanish; it was a personal reset. In Valencia, he felt safe exploring a foreign country alone and quickly started enjoying his own company. He described the peaceful rhythm of the city as perfect for reflection. There was a moment, sitting in a quiet plaza with a coffee, when he realized how much he had grown by deciding to travel on his own.
Then came the energy of Barcelona, a big city full of surprises. He practiced ordering food at local bars and connected with like-minded people during a group walk through the Gothic Quarter. One midday, he joined a small tour arranged by his host, no extra cost involved, and met new friends over vermouth and tapas.
“This was the best part of the whole trip, mixing language with real life,” he told us. “I didn’t expect to speak so much or feel so comfortable.” From street art to seaside sunsets, Liam got to explore two worlds in one journey, without having to fly to Central America or Southeast Asia to feel transformed. Looking back, Liam felt he was in the right place at the right time, making the best choice for his solo adventure.
Dana in Barcelona: A Solo Adventure in a Big City
Dana, a marketing executive from the Czech Republic, joined our SHIP program in Barcelona for a professional and personal reset. Though she had travelled through Central America before, this was her first time traveling solo with the purpose of language immersion in a big city.
She stayed with Mónica, one of our senior host teachers, and focused on Business Spanish through structured lessons and real-world interaction. But this trip became more than work; Dana learned to enjoy her own company.
She often talked with Mónica and locals at neighborhood cafés, which made her feel more connected to the city. From early-morning walks to late-night dinners near the Sagrada Família, she embraced the rhythm of solo living and soon fell in love with the vibrant atmosphere of Barcelona.
Barcelona proved to be the perfect travel destination. Dana didn’t just improve her Spanish—she also found space to reflect, explore, and meet people from all over the world. “I thought I came here to study,” she said, “but this solo adventure helped me reconnect with language, with friends, and with myself.”
Ashley in Burgos: A Solo Adventure That Felt Like Home
Ashley, a 30-something traveler from the U.S., had spent time in Southeast Asia but had never truly immersed herself in the language of a foreign country. Her week in Burgos with Alberto and Marisol was her first structured Spanish homestay and her favorite solo travel experience to date.
What Ashley didn’t expect was how easily the city welcomed her in. From her morning lessons to evening walks along the river, every part of her solo adventure felt meaningful. She spent hours journaling, exploring the cathedral, visiting the Museum of Human Evolution, and laughing over lunch with her host family.
There was no extra cost for confidence here, just real moments, honest conversation, and the joy of learning to speak like a local.
Ashley said, “Burgos is a great place to slow down and reconnect.” She now personally recommends the SHIP program to her friends who love traveling and want something deeper than a vacation. The SHIP program is a great option for solo travelers looking for an immersive and rewarding experience. It was the trip that helped her find peace and herself.
Megan in Barcelona: From A-Level Prep to Unforgettable City Life
Megan, a 16-year-old from London preparing for her A-Level Spanish, booked her ticket to Barcelona for her first solo travel experience with SHIP in Dosrius near Barcelona.
She spent mornings in intensive lessons with Mónica and afternoons discovering the city’s landmarks like La Boqueria Market and the Sagrada Família, with her host and family friends. Her trip took place during the busy summer, a popular time for solo travel in Spain.
Megan called this her first solo travel experience, saying it felt more like living with a family than taking lessons. Her favourite moments weren’t in the classroom but walking the Paseo de Gracia, watching a local cultural performance, and chatting with locals.
She returned home speaking more confidently and with a deeper love for Spanish culture. Her journey is proof that travelling solo, even as a teenager, helps you find your voice and independence in a big city.
Christine in Valencia: A Business Trip with a Personal Twist
Christine, 29 and from California, came to Valencia with a goal that went beyond vocabulary drills or grammar lessons. During her solo travel experience, Christine made sure to pay for her accommodation and activities in advance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free stay.
By the end of her stay with host teacher Pilar, she was trading jokes with shopkeepers and expressing herself in full Spanish sentences during casual chats. She enjoyed the quiet independence of solo travel but felt deeply connected through the shared rhythm of daily life.
From long walks through old streets to beachside conversations and birthday churros, her week in Valencia turned a learning trip into something personal, like finding a second home where every word mattered. Christine also managed her spending carefully, choosing local experiences that balanced cost and enjoyment.
Staying Safe and Healthy
Safety is a top priority for any solo traveler, and Spain is known for being a welcoming and secure country. Still, it’s wise to stay alert, especially in busy tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur. Keep your belongings close, avoid displaying valuables, and trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right.
Make sure to stay hydrated, eat nourishing food, and get enough rest so you can fully enjoy your trip. If you need medical assistance, Spain’s healthcare system is reliable, and most cities have clinics or hospitals nearby.
It’s also a good idea to know the location of your country’s embassy or consulate, just in case. By taking these simple precautions, you can focus on the best part of your solo trip—exploring, learning, and making memories in Spain.
Getting Around Spain
Navigating Spain as a solo traveler is both easy and enjoyable, thanks to the country’s excellent transportation network. High-speed trains connect major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, making it simple to explore multiple destinations in one trip. Consider purchasing a Spain Rail Pass for unlimited train travel and the freedom to hop between cities at your own pace.
Local buses, metros, and taxis are widely available, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Cabify offer convenient options in bigger cities. Many places also have bike-sharing programs and guided walking tours, perfect for solo travelers who want to explore and meet new people.
If you’re interested in learning more about a city’s history or culture, joining a group tour is a great way to connect with like-minded people and get insider tips from local guides. However you choose to get around, Spain’s transportation options make every solo adventure smooth and stress-free.
Dining and Nightlife in Spain
One of the highlights of any solo trip to Spain is diving into its famous food and nightlife scene. As a solo traveler, you’ll find it easy to sample everything from traditional tapas to modern Spanish cuisine in bustling markets, cozy bars, and lively restaurants. Don’t miss out on local favorites like paella, tortilla española, and churros with chocolate.
Spain’s social culture means it’s common to strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers over a shared table or at the bar. When the sun sets, the country comes alive with music, dancing, and vibrant nightlife.
Head to neighborhoods like Malasaña in Madrid or the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona for a taste of the action—these areas are packed with bars, clubs, and live music venues where solo travelers are always welcome. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal or joining the crowd for a night out, Spain’s food and nightlife offer endless opportunities for fun, connection, and unforgettable moments.
Ready to Meet Like-Minded People and Make New Friends?
Is this your first-ever solo trip? Or are you ready to explore a new country in a deeper way? With the Spanish Homestay Immersion Program (SHIP), you live and learn in your teacher’s home, speaking Spanish from day one.
You meet people, explore a new city, and build confidence every step of the way. It’s a unique experience we personally recommend to anyone who loves traveling and wants more than just a course. Take the first step by putting yourself out there and joining the SHIP program.
Get in touch to find the destination that suits you best. We’ll help you plan every detail.
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FAQs
How is the experience of travelling solo?
Traveling solo with Spanish Express is described as empowering and unforgettable. Many have heard from friends and fellow travelers about the unique benefits of solo travel, such as increased independence and self-discovery. From sharing local meals with your host to exploring charming Spanish towns, many find that it builds confidence and brings their Spanish to life in real situations. There is often a defining moment—like navigating a new city alone or connecting deeply with locals—that stays with you long after the trip. You come back changed in the best way.
Where is the best place to go as a solo traveller?
If you’re looking for the best choice for solo travel in Europe, Spain stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse destinations. Choosing the right place is key to a successful solo adventure—consider what you want most from your trip. Valencia is relaxed and social, perfect for beach lovers. Barcelona offers culture and city energy, making it a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts. Cádiz brings you close to the sea and friendly neighbors, while Burgos is a peaceful spot for history fans. Each one offers a safe and enriching solo travel experience, positioning Spain as a top destination in Europe for those traveling alone.
Is solo travelling a good idea?
Yes, it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do. While solo travel can be a bit challenging at first, it helps you learn to enjoy your own company, practice a new language naturally, and see the world through a new lens. Importantly, it gives you the freedom to make choices entirely for yourself and grow in confidence. Many travelers fell in love with solo travel or the destinations they visited, returning feeling stronger, more open, and full of new stories.
What is the best travel company for solo travel?
Spanish Express is a great option and the best choice for solo travelers who want a real connection to Spain. You live in your teacher’s home, enjoy personalized Spanish lessons, and experience local culture firsthand. You’re not just visiting, you’re living like a local, guided by a friendly and supportive host.
What is the average age of solo travellers?
There’s no fixed age. Some join in their 20s on a gap year. Others come in their 30s or 40s for a break from work. Many are in their 50s or 60s, finally making time for themselves. What they all share is a love for learning and adventure.
