The Best European Cities for Mature Solo Travellers

Planning a European city holiday as a mature solo traveller is an exciting prospect. Whether it’s those big sought-after sights, or more intimate spotlights on local life found in quieter provincial destinations, Europe offers variety in abundance. Of course, your ultimate aim is to understand where (and when) best works for you, but how do you decide? What are the best cities in Europe for solo travellers over 50?

What to consider when planning your solo holiday to Europe

Are European cities suitable for mature travellers?

Absolutely! European cities can make ideal holiday destinations for older travellers, including those ‘flying solo’. The combination of convenient transport links from the UK, plentiful bucket-list sights, a relatively temperate climate and high-quality tourist amenities all make a European city holiday an attractive prospect for travellers over 50. Keep in mind, however, that some of the more historic streets and buildings can be stepped or cobbled. A good pair of sturdy walking shoes makes for an important addition to your luggage!

Are solo travellers looked after?

Join a fully escorted holiday to ensure you travel safely and see all the important sights and attractions that may otherwise be overlooked. Having your own Tour Manager in the group means you can explore safely and relax into the holiday spirit, knowing somebody else is taking care of all the important details for you. All One Traveller holidays are fully escorted by our own ever-present Tour Managers who will travel with you each day, dine with your group every evening, and stay at the same hotel. One Traveller holidays also include double hotel rooms for sole occupancy, allowing travellers the luxury of a larger room and the privacy and security of their own space to retreat to each evening.

When is the best time to visit European cities as a mature solo traveller?

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times to visit European cities (the so-called "shoulder season”) due to favourable weather conditions. Pleasant temperatures are perfect for older travellers getting out and about for a spot of sight-seeing without worrying about layering up against the cold or wilting in the heat. Avoiding the summer school holidays is also a win for solo travellers, as attractions are generally quieter, allowing for a more leisurely-paced experience.

What is the most convenient way to travel to Europe?

Flying is generally the fastest and most direct way to travel to Europe with most major cities having their own airport. Depending on where you live in relation to Heathrow or Gatwick airports, you may have other more favourable options available such as travelling by car, train, or ferry. It is important to keep in mind however that some locations are easier to access than others depending upon your chosen transport. One Traveller holidays include flights or Eurostar transport with onward travel to and from your hotel.

Are city-based European holidays all the same?

No two European city holidays are quite alike so it is important to think about the type of holiday you want to have. A quieter break will be tricky to achieve in a bustling capital city compared to a smaller provincial destination. Likewise, it may prove tricky for the more adventurous solo traveller to keep occupied away from the hustle and bustle of ‘the big smoke’.

The Best European Cities for Mature Solo Travellers 

Combining pleasant weather conditions with enough points of interest to stay busy without feeling overwhelmed and with great transport links presents us with something of a nirvana for the mature solo traveller. One Traveller offers city-based holidays in many different destinations. Here’s our top picks for the best of the best!

Prague

What makes Prague one of the best European cities for mature solo travellers?

A short, direct flight from the UK with fairytale skylines and Bohemian heritage, Prague is a wonderful place to explore during a leisurely paced holiday, whatever your plans! Need more convincing? Consider the following:

• Prague is home to one of (if not the) best-preserved historical cores of any capital city in the world. There’s a treasure trove of architectural gems and riverside vistas to be found, from Romanesque and Gothic churches to Baroque palaces, and even Cubist buildings from the early 20^th century (Cubist architecture is unique to the Czech Republic).
• Most major sights in Prague are walkable, and both the old and new towns are flat, making it an accessible city for those with reduced mobility.
• Public transport in Prague is efficient, plentiful, and free for older travellers.
• Incredible value for money. It is more than possible to enjoy a good meal at a local restaurant in Prague for £10 or less. Indulging in extra treats for yourself needn’t break the bank here.
• We know that personal safety is particularly important to mature solo travellers. Prague is known to be one of the safest capital cities in Europe, enjoying a low crime rate, welcoming locals.
• English is widely spoken in Prague, making a visit that much easier to navigate. Visitors can quickly feel like locals, having confidence to engage in conversations and order food, drinks and other services themselves!
• One Traveller knows Prague better than anyone, thanks to our local expertise. It was our very first holiday destination and you can be sure of a warm welcome and all the benefits of years of acquired knowledge.

"The first time that I have tried a singles holiday with a group but went with OT to Prague on the recommendation of a trusted friend. What a fabulous experience. Very professional balanced with overriding customer focus. Super guides and Tour Manager, excellent itinerary and great socialising with fellow travellers. Without a doubt will be going on other OT holidays." Mr Fillingham - 07 June 25 - 5*

Stockholm

What makes Stockholm one of the best European cities for mature solo travellers?

A beautiful waterside city with some stunning coastal vistas, where rich maritime history meets trendy Scandi design and sophistication, Stockholm makes the perfect leisurely paced holiday for mature solo travellers. And, being home to the Abba Museum, there’s always “something in the air”. 

Still on the fence? Consider the following:

• Consistently ranking among the world's happiest countries, Sweden boasts high scores in quality-of-life indicators like affordability and security. We like to think that a little of its happiness rubs off on our guests during their visit!
• Stockholm has a well-developed and efficient public transport system allowing visitors to let the train take the strain while they explore.
• English is widely spoken in Stockholm, largely removing the language barrier and making it much easier to integrate into city life.
• Historic areas such as Gamla Stan have (cobbled) pedestrianised streets allowing easy walking access for older travellers to explore on foot.
• Stockholm enjoys a great café culture with plenty of opportunities for people watching and enjoying a quiet Fika with the locals to rest and recharge.
• Stockholm has a very low crime rate and is safe to wander around at leisure.
• Stockholm boasts a wide selection of world-class museums, the majority of which are easily reachable on foot. It is a real cultural powerhouse.

"I’ve just come back from Stockholm, my 16^th holiday with One Traveller. Something interesting and fun to do every day and plenty of down time to please yourself and get to know fellow travellers. As always, the Tour Manager was excellent, and nothing was too much trouble. I have travelled with quite a few holiday companies who specialise in single travellers and some that specialise in older travellers, but One Traveller is the only company I have found which does both. The get-together in a hotel before morning flights is particularly appreciated. I would recommend them to anyone but particularly first timers." Jennifer Oxley - 06 July 23 - 5*

How One Traveller helps mature solo travellers see the world in comfort and style

At One Traveller, we do the hard work for you, carefully curating the best solo travel destinations for seniors. As a specialist holiday company, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you are our sole focus! From a friendly call from our UK-based office team before you set off, to the reassurance that all our holidays have been built from start to finish with solo travellers in mind. We’ll even take care of seating arrangements at dinner, removing that awkward moment of wondering where to sit. And, with so much more included within the one price, you’ll always know how much your holiday will really cost, too.

And don’t just take our word for it – we’re rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, with over 1,000 guest reviews!

Take the next steps towards a One Traveller holiday today

Feeling inspired and excited about taking a holiday? Solo travel can be a fulfilling experience at any age and visiting the best European cities for solo travellers over 50 is a fantastic start for the mature solo traveller. Prague and Stockholm have so much to offer and rightly top our list, especially when a visit is timed just right.

Looking for a quieter escape? Our other European holidays may offer more inspiration. Alternatively, request our brochure to see our full range of holidays for the mature solo traveller.

Come and join our family!

Click here to view our 2026 holiday brochure online or view all our holidays here.