The most romantic time of the year can be a little difficult for some. Heartbreak is a very real thing, and it can sometimes feel impossible to shake.

One failsafe remedy is to go traveling. Setting off on a solo journey can often blow away the cobwebs and frame the world in a new, brighter light.

Luckily for us all, the world is filled with incredible destinations waiting to mend broken hearts of all kinds.

Our pick of the best solo travel destinations in the world covers everything from Caribbean charmers to the old cities of Europe, with loads of other kinds of adventure in between.

SEE ALSO: 7 Recommended Places to Travel Without a Passport

No matter what you’re into, you’ll find plenty of it here. What better way to fix the pain of lost love than by mulling over your next big holiday?

The 7 Best Places to Travel Alone

Below is a comprehensive list of the best places to visit when along;

1. Portugal

Portugal’s most popular spots frequently pick up travel awards and plaudits alike, and the hype is not without good reason.

Lisbon is a backpacker’s dream, while the dreamlike beauty of Porto attracts wide-eyed adventurers from all over the world. You never know, you might just meet the love of your life there.

The Algarve is much more than its budget holiday destination suggests, and the rest of the country is packed with stunning sights and spots. Pick up João Saramago’s ‘Journey to Portugal’ for some serious inspiration.

2. Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travelers.

The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran.

The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages.

Professional Tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

3. Ireland

Irish storytelling is world-famous, immortalized in the novels of Joyce, Stoker, Wilde, and the rest.

Spend an evening in any Dublin pub and you will almost certainly hear a tale for the ages, as locals spin yarns and transport listeners to a world within a world, one pint at a time. There is more to solo travel in Ireland than toasting singledom in Dublin, of course.

The friendly hospitality of the Irish guarantees good conversation, while the stunning breadth of nature here allows for tranquil walks and plenty of room to think.

4. Greek Islands

No matter your preferred form of travel, a spot of island-hopping in Greece is almost a rite of passage for any traveler.

That’s why you’ll meet everyone from excitable backpackers to considered veterans of the road here, each with a different story to tell.

The Greek Islands are beautiful, engaging, and exciting, not to mention packed with excellent food, and each one seems ready to capture your heart and convince you to stay forever and ever.

Kefalonia and Corfu are the most popular and thus offer endless social opportunities, while the serenity of Naxos and Icaria will appeal to more introverted explorers.

5. Cuba

Traveling alone in Cuba isn’t always simple, but those who make the effort will be rewarded ten times over.

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There are layers to this place, from the thoughtful energy of the people to the manic excitement of the nightlife, and what initially feels overwhelming soon becomes thrilling.

Havana is the obvious place to start, but be sure to head to the island’s most secluded spots once the training wheels are off. If you don’t fall in love with the culture of Cuba, that’s on you. 

6. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is located at the northern tip of Taiwan on the Tamsui River. It’s the country’s capital and welcomes solo travelers looking to enjoy Taiwan’s cuisine.

If you are a foodie, you must try the street food out here at extremely affordable prices. If you need to scratch your shopping itch, Taipei is awesome for those who love fashion and accessories

You can find top brands in all of the city’s best retail districts without having to pay the prices you would in London, Paris, Milan, New York, or Tokyo.

Apart from mouthwatering food and great deals to be had, Taipei is also home to incredible natural and cultural delights. Check out the gorgeous Shifen Waterfall in the Pingxi District.

I’d also recommend the colorful Taipei National Palace Museum, home to 700,000 pieces of Chinese artwork and history.

Public transportation in Taipei is cheap as heck, but pickpockets are known to target tourists.

Solution?

Try not to look like a tourist! If you’re carrying a bag, get yourself a discreet theft-proof bag, and when out and about keep an eye on your belongings.

7. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is one of the best destinations in Europe when traveling solo. The Irish capital city is located near Ireland’s east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey.

It was once settled by interloping Vikings and is famous for its marvelous museums and (literally) ancient pubs with traditional live music.

The city has a rich heritage and enthralling history that is worth exploring – and it’s all best explored on a solo journey.

SEE ALSO: 7 Best Cities To Live in Texas

You can also visit the Guinness Storehouse which is just like a beer lover’s Disneyland which will make the (drunk) child within you come out. Kilmainham Gaol, a beautifully preserved old prison is also an amazing day out.

Once you get used to the narrow, winding, cobbled streets, Dublin is an incredibly accessible city.

Public transportation is reasonably priced and prolific, and Dublin is also a bike-friendly and walkable city. Not only that, it provides easy access to some of Ireland’s gorgeous beaches and national parks.

Another reason Dublin is one of the best solo travel destinations is that the city can be a bit expensive as far as the accommodation is concerned – don’t expect to find anything half decent for less than $100 a night.

One of several top castle hotels in Ireland, the Clontarf Castle Hotel is a great place to treat yourself like a King or Queen on your solo trip.