Solo travel is where you truly meet yourself – Old Soul Explorer

Travel is one of modern life’s great luxuries. It’s never been easier in human history to traverse new worlds and explore foreign cultures, to catch glimpses of daily life in a different corner of the globe.

There are many styles and preferences when it comes to travel. Some people enjoy staying at all inclusive resorts to truly disconnect from life’s constant rushed pace. Others prefer guided tours, which eliminates the extra work it takes to plan trips independently. Many people like to travel in groups, with friends and loved ones, to share memories and split expenses. For me though, I have fallen in love with the art of solo traveling and I’ll explain why.

Solo traveling gives me the flexibility to discover places and chase experiences that I find the most meaningful, enriching, and impactful. It has led to personal growth I can’t fully describe and broadened my horizons. Although I’m often seeing the world alone, I don’t feel lonely. In fact, I prefer it. You meet locals in unexpected places and write stories that will last a lifetime. Solo travel builds confidence, creativity, and problem solving skills. For anyone compelled to go on an adventure by themselves, I encourage them to do so, even if just once.

I have included everything I’ve learned from my many solo trips traveling Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, along with safety tips, and recommended countries for planning your first solo adventure.

Intention and Goals of Solo Travel

I think a good place to start planning your first solo trip is defining the reason you want to go on a new adventure by yourself.

Do you want to foster newfound creativity, immerse yourself in foreign cultures and exotic landscapes, or meet other like-minded travelers. Maybe it’s a combination of factors.

Asking yourself why you want to solo travel will establish intentionality and purpose behind your trip.

Benefits of Solo Travel?

There are countless benefits of solo traveling that I’ve personally experienced.

I still remember how I felt getting ready to embark on my first solo trip at 22 years old, sitting in DFW’s international terminal and looking down at my passport and my Turkish Airlines boarding pass. I waited in what sat between curious anxiety and childlike excitement as I boarded the fourteen hour flight to Istanbul all by myself.

Solo travel shows you things about yourself you never knew and grows you into a stronger, more conscious, and well rounded person.

Here are the top benefits I have experienced while solo traveling:

Increased Confidence

Solo travelers quickly become decision makers. They decide which flights to catch, how long to stay at each destination, and the overall feel and goals of traveling alone. The feeling of accomplishment acquired during these milestone experiences will leave solo travelers with greater overall confidence that carries into everyday life.

Broadened Horizons and New Perspectives

Solo traveling has made me overall more well rounded and open to the world, which is why I encourage all people, especially young adults to try solo traveling.

New Found Creativity

Some of my biggest and boldest ideas, business and personal, have come to me while solo traveling. Exposure to unfamiliar architecture, foreign languages, and exotic terrain have led to heightened moments of creativity. It’s a unique chance to tap into the power of thought while free from daily routine and a busy world that demands undivided attention.

Allow yourself to explore new hobbies, contemplate new businesses, and draft lofty goals from the creative energies that flow while solo traveling.

Freedom to Travel How, Where, and When You Want

One of my personal favorite benefits is the flexibility to be able to travel how I want. Travel is a luxury. For me, having the freedom to decide what I want to see and where I want to visit on my trip is crucial. Close friends may plan an expensive trip and have the possibility of being left disappointed because they have different goals, perspectives, and preferences while traveling. Solo travelers isn’t for loaners, it’s for those who are intentional in the experiences they want to have while traveling the world.

Controlled Pace and Budget

Solo travelers control the schedule, mood, and the bill. This has helped me avoid awkward money talks while allowing me to travel more efficiently and maximize personal value.

//Note: Solo travel doesn’t have to be more expensive than traveling in a group. Airbnbs, hostels, street food, and budget flights help balance the cost of traveling alone.

Fosters Appreciation for Home

I’ve noticed whenever I come back from solo traveling I’m filled with more gratitude. I’m thankful for the safety, comfort, and overall beauty of life under big Texas skies. It makes me romanticize the small things in my everyday surroundings.

Helps Introverts Come Out of Their Shell

Traveling alone helped me expand my comfort zone, build social confidence, and interact with locals while giving me the flexibility to engage or retreat. It’s been a great way to experience internalized growth and be energized from short but genuine conversations with new, lifelong friends.

How to Solo Travel | Essentials and Tips

The hardest part about solo traveling for the first time is organizing and planning all the logistical aspects. It’s easiest to start with the essentials and work your way down to smaller details. Here is a brief list of essentials to start planning your first solo trip:

• Have a valid Passport (check the expiration date)
• Visas: Some countries issue Visa on arrival for specific nationalities. Other countries require a Visa be obtained before entering their country 
• Book flights, accommodation, and transportation 
• Bring a credit card but have some of the local currency. Some of the best places to shop only take cash
• Create a travel budget
• Have portable charger ready
• Consider SIM cards or an eSIM
• Download Offline Google Maps for navigation (directions further along below)
• Vaccinations if doctor recommended 
• Share your travel plans with loved ones back home 
• Keep copies of passport, visas, and other important documents 
• Document a personal list of reservations 
• Bring TSA approved travel locks for your bags

Safety First | Trust your Instincts

When traveling alone, safety takes on a new urgency. You’ll be in a foreign country all by yourself. It’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and trust your judgment at all times.

To make yourself more at ease before your trip, do research on the country and area you’ll be visiting. Read other travelers’ reviews and opinions on safety. Book reputable hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs and arrive during daylight if possible. Always share your accommodation locations with family or friends.

Keep Your Money and Belongings Secure

Wear a money built under your clothes in crowded areas and make sure your passport is always secured. Make sure your valuables where you are staying are safe and secure with locks or in safes.

Stay alert in cities

In cities, try staying in areas frequented by travelers. These areas tend to be more upscale and developed. For example, cities like Athens, Amman, and Palermo all have historic city centers with monuments, restaurants, shops, and attractions. These cities also have slums and even refugee areas which aren’t the safest for solo travelers.

Blend in For More Conservative and Traditional Environments

If appropriate, consider wearing local clothing or following unspoken dress guidelines for settings where culture and modesty are extremely important. This can include many countries in the Middle East along with regions in Africa and Asia.

When I solo traveled Oman, I watched a traditional Omani bullfight in the village of Liwa near the UAE border. All of the men in attendance wore the dishdasha, the traditional thobe of the region. This was not a tourist attraction. To respect the local feel of the event and to both blend in and feel more safe, I wore a white dishdasha to the fights, a small effort to try and blend in.

Create An Itinerary But Leave Room for Spontaneity

I start planning my solo trips by building a rough itinerary.

I use Google Maps and start pinning important destinations and places that peak my interest. Sometimes, I organize by color or by neighborhood. Having a rough map allows me the structure to save my most important priorities while leaving space to wander and get lost.

Here are some of the common topics I use when organizing my maps?

• Monuments and top sights
• Personal places that peak my interest
• Nature: mountains and beaches
• Restaurants and cafes
• Lodging (hotels, hostels, airbnbs)
• Transit points (airports, subways, ferry ports)

Really, any place you want to visit can be saved to your map.

Here is an example of how I structure my itinerary with Google Maps when I was planning my trip to Sicily and visiting the capital Palermo.

Download Offline Google Maps

If you plan to travel without an international phone or data plan, I suggest downloading the offline version of Google Maps before you leave.

You can download offline Google Maps by:

1. Open Google Maps with reliable Wifi
2. Select your map and tap the three dots in the upper right corner
3. Choose “Download offline map”
4. Adjust the map to your needs
5. Tap the “Download” button

Don’t Overbook and be open to Unexpected Experinces

While I suggest having a basic itinerary to guide your solo-trip, I highly recommend leaving room to wander and find hidden gems and be ready for unexpected adventures. I find that having daily highlights helps give my trips direction, but leaving room for unplanned experinces sometimes leads to the best stories.

When I visited Jordan and the ancient city of Petra in Wadi Musa, I meet bedouin cousins who invited me to their weekly Friday chicken bbq. We collected water to put out the fire from a well struck by the Prophet Moses staff housed in an old shrine. We ate chicken and drank whiskey while watching the sunset fall over the valley during the last call to prayer. It wasn’t anything fancy, just plastic lawn chairs overlooking Wadi Musa and sharing stories between new friends.

Another time, on my trip to Oman, I left one of my travel days more open and got to explore different seaside neighborhoods I hadn’t planned on visiting. This widened my perspective of Muscat, only knowable through the many distinct but seperated quarters of the coastal capital.

// Couchsurfing is a great platform to meet locals who can share more authentic experinces with

Solo Travel Activities

Below are some of the things I enjoy doing while solo traveling. They include a balance between exploration and relaxation. Ultimately, the magic in taking a solo trip is you get to decide how you travel and what you do.

• Go swimming in the sea or lay by the pool
• Rent a bicycle
• Take a roadtrip by renting a car
• Explore photography
• Wander lively souqs and bazaars
• Walk the historic center to get a feel for a new city
• Journal on the beach or mountain peaks
• Discover archeological and historical sites
• Visit churches, mosques, and temples to understand local views on religion
• Attend local events for cultural immersion
• Go to smaller museums and art galleries
• Watch sunrises and sunsets
• Try street food and local dishes
• Engage in conversations with locals to learn about the country

Best Countries for Solo Travelers

Not all countries are created equal when it comes to solo travel potential. Some destinations naturally call those seeking personal exploration and independent travel. They offer safety, hospitality, cultural depth, and accessible transportation. But above all, they create spaces to learn more about yourself and the world. Here are a few of my favorite countries I’ve solo traveled to and why I think they would make a great choice if you’re looking to go on an adventure by yourself.

Greece

Greece was the first country I ever solo traveled to and will always hold a special place in my heart. Sitting in the southeasternmost corner of Europe, Greece is the rugged, breathtaking last frontier of the “West”. It’s where mountains, seas, and myths merge. 

Greece has over 200 inhabited islands for solo travelers to discover. From the jagged mountainside villages of Karpathos that plunge vertically into the Aegean Sea, to the volcanic moonscape beaches of Milos, and the wild, expansive terrain of Crete, the Greek Islands are one of the most special places on earth.

Besides Greece’s islands, the Peloponnese in the South of Greece is truly extraordinary and is dotted with ancient ruins, sandy beaches, and cultural treasures. In the north, Thessaloniki, Meteora, and Mt. Athos offers more off the beaten path experiences with Greece’s historical, archaeological, and spiritual heritage. Athens is an underrated European capital with lively nightlife, cafes, and tavernas. It has a special energy that can’t be found anywhere else.

Greece has expansive ferry connections and regular daily flights to larger islands, making transportation cost effective and efficient.

Jordan

Another great country for solo travelers is the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Jordan is a great country for those seeking outdoor desert adventure and the chance to explore historical and archaeological marvels, beautifully weathered by the sands of time. Jordanian hospitality is unmatched. Wherever you visit, you will be welcomed with a steaming cup of tea or Arabic coffee and a smile. From then on, you are no longer a stranger but a friend.

Exploring the sandstone cliffs in the vast orange desert of Wadi Rum, wandering the ancient carved streets of Petra, and floating in the middle of the Dead Sea are truly once in a lifetime experinces. It’s the perfect setting to foster creativity or seek a new perspective. Amman is an exciting city, the heart of Jordan, with a suprising creative side and up and coming art scene.

Highways in Jordan are in excellent condition and remarkably safe for solo travelers.

Italy

Italy is one of the most special countries in the world. Filled with mouthwatering food, jaw dropping art, and dreamlike landscapes, a solo trip to Italy will leave you rejuvenated and inspired. From the green rolling hills of Tuscany to the azure coasts of Sicily, time moves remarkably slower in Italy.

The cobble-stoned streets or Rome is the perfect starting point for solo travelers discovering Italy and will transport you back in time. Day trips to cities like Venice, Florence, and Naples are easy and quick thanks to Italy’s modern train system.

My favorite part of Italy is the south, especially Sicily. Palermo is an underrated European city, full of culture and character. The Valley of the Temples sits in an ancient olive grove and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Taormina, under the watchful volcanic eye of Mt. Etna feels like Italy’s own Hollywood hills.

No matter how many times I visit, Italy will always have something both new and timeless to show me.

Turkey

At the crossroads of East and West, Turkey ignites all the travelers senses. Situated between both Europe and Asia, Turkey is the meeting point of the world. It’s the intersection of religions, cultures, and ethnicities. It has always been a nation at the nexus of both geopolitical coexistence and tension.

Istanbul is a historical and cultural mosaic. The complex layers of past empires and nations that have come and gone give the city its distinctive beauty. The Hagia Sophia is a sight to behold sitting proudly on the Bosphorus. The energy in Sultanahmet during the call to prayer is ancient and electric.

Besides Istanbul, Turkey has remarkable off the beaten path destinations, many of which can easily be visited on a road trip through Anatolia or along the Turquoise Coast.

Oman

Oman will reshape the way you see the world. It is one of the most peaceful, traditional, and orderly countries I’ve ever solo traveled. And at the same time, it has embraced the benefits of modernization. Yet, while neighboring countries like the UAE and Qatar have shifted deeper into futuristic aspirations and towering skyscrapers, Oman has retained its deep cultural authenticity.

The sprawling capital of Muscat, walled by soaring rose-colored, granite mountains and bordered by the Arabian Sea is a compelling destination to explore. It’s appeal comes not so much from the monuments but from the port capitals chill and coastal ambiance. Muscat is best discovered slowly, the real beauty is found between old souqs, sleek corniches, and roadside beaches.

The mountains of Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar provide opportunities for personal reflection while watching the sunrise or climbing rugged peaks offering panoramic canyon views. Salalah is a solo traveler’s fever dream. Thousands of wild camels roam freely across roads and powdery, white-sand beaches. The otherworldy beaches are backed by soaring cliffs and tropical palm forests where bananas, mangos, and papayas are harvested. You can also catch a glimpse of local traditions at Oman’s bull fights, camel races, and Friday goat markets.

Traveling in Oman is easiest if you rent a car. Roads and highways are in excellent condition. Additionally, flights between Oman are fast and affordable. It takes less than an hour to fly from Muscat to Salalah.

The post Solo Travel | Everything You Need To Know About Traveling Alone appeared first on Old Soul Explorer.

Venice is one of the most mesmerizing and unique places in Italy and the world. This legendary and historic city on the water once dominated the Mediterranean Sea. Today, it is a must see destination for travelers from all walks of life. Its canals, serving as arteries, keeping the storied city alive in the 21st century. It’s survival attests to the ingenuity and ambitious aspirations of the city’s founders, leaders, and artists who built and adorned this legendary metropolis known as the “Queen of the Adriatic”. Taking a day trip to Venice from Rome was one of my favorite adventures in Italy.

Although it’s possible to spend several days or weeks exploring this city’s many neighborhoods  and surrounding islands, many people only have a day to visit Venice as part of a broader Italian or European itinerary. My blog includes a comprehensive guide to planning a seamless and unforgettable day trip to Venice from Rome. I have included practical tips, advice, and lessons learned from my day trip to Venice that I hope make your visit to the floating city smooth, memorable, and enjoyable.

Is it possible to do a day trip to Venice from Rome

There is a lot of conversation and confusion on the internet and social media amongst travelers about whether it’s even possible to do a day trip to Venice from Rome. During my first trip to Italy, while staying in Rome, I nearly chose to skip Venice because so many people claimed it would be too rushed or even impossible. I’m here to tell you that it’s totally possible to visit Venice on a day trip from Rome. If you organize your day effectively, you will be able to visit the most important sites of Venice and have plenty of time to explore and stumble across unique places at a relaxed pace.

Day Trip to Venice Fee

The city of Venice has implemented a new fee for travelers visiting Venice for less than 24 hours. The tax for day trip visitors is 5 Euros.

Currently, Venice is running a trial on certain days to see how effective the 5 Euro day pass is. If you plan to visit during one of the trial days, you will have to pay the day trip fee. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during peak season are expected to be included in the 2025 calendar as days requiring the day trip pass.

If the day you are planning to visit Venice requires the 5 Euro day fee, you can purchase your day pass here. You simply select the day you are visiting, pay the fee, and receive a QR code. Authorities have fined tourists up to 300 Euros for failing to obtain the proper day trip pass. The day trip fee is a relatively new approach to curbing the city’s struggle with overtourism. It was not in effect during my first solo-trip to Italy.

In my opinion, a 5 Euro day fee for a day trip to Venice from Rome is well worth it. Hopefully, the small fee will assist the city in preserving and maintaining the city for years to come.

Is it worth it to do a day trip to Venice from Rome

If you are in Italy for a short trip and only have one day to see Venice, I think it’s totally worth it. Venice is one of the most enchanting places you can visit in Italy. A day in the city gives you more than enough time to visit the most significant landmarks, explore the storied neighborhoods and impressive canals, and experience the timeless charm of the city built on the waters of the Adriatic.

Whether you are traveling with a significant other, a group of friends, or traveling solo, Venice will not disappoint. Venice is a great city for romantics and history lovers alike; the tiny city state controlled ports, islands, and vast territories across the Mediterranean.

Just visiting this magical city for a day will instill a sense of wonder and imagination that such a place can exist. I thought it was well worth the effort and planning to do my day trip to Venice from Rome.

//Planning a trip of a lifetime to Rome? Check out my blog for everything you need to know before visiting the Eternal City (COMING SOON).

How to get to Venice from Rome

There are many ways to get to Venice from Rome. The best and most enjoyable way to get to Venice from the Eternal City is by high speed train. Italy has a fantastic network of bullet trains that can take you all over the country. I highly recommend paying the small fee to upgrade to the business class cabin, which has leather seats and extra leg room and just overall feels much more luxurious.

To arrive in Venice by train, you will need to depart from the train station in Rome, called the Roma Termini station. The Roma Termini station isn’t in the best part of Rome. Watch your belongings outside the train station. Inside feels safer and more secure once you pass through security.

Train Schedule

One of my top tips for planning a day trip to Venice from Rome is to take one of the earliest trains. The earliest train departs Roma Termini most days around 5:30 am (with arrival in Venice at 9:30).  I highly recommend catching this train if you can. It’s an early start, but if you can make this train you will have the entire day to explore the city. The last trains leaving Venice usually depart around 11:00 pm. I recommend departing Venice no later than 6:00-7:30 pm or else you will be arriving well after midnight in Rome.  The Italian trains are scheduled on the 24 hour system.

It takes around 4 hours to get to Venice from Rome by train. I enjoyed the train ride by eating an Italian breakfast served in the train café, reading my book, and admiring the expansive green countryside and charming towns. Most trains also have seat chargers and free wifi.

I definitely recommend booking your tickets as soon as possible. The earlier you book your train ticket, the cheaper it will be. Since I bought my tickets quite late, they were much more expensive. I purchased my tickets online, and Google gave me all the available options.

Downloading Offline Google Maps

As I have mentioned previously on other blogs, offline Google Maps is one of my favorite resources as a solo traveler since I often have limited access to wifi or cellular data plans internationally. I was able to navigate Venice entirely by using Offline Google Maps. Just remember to include all the sights you wish to see in advance or simply download the map I’ve included in my blog before your day trip to Venice from Rome.

//Check out my complete guide and tutorial on how to use Google Maps  (COMING SOON).

Day trip to Venice from Rome Itinerary

Arrival in Venice

After a short passage through an underground  tunnel, the train came out along the tracks over the water, graced by two statues of winged lions, symbols of Venice. Seeing Venice for the first time was an unforgettable experience. It felt like something out of a novel or a movie. The waters of the Adriatic Sea surround the entire city like a garland. The train station in the historic part of the city, Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia, serves as the main arrival point (ensure you select this station when purchasing your tickets). As you exit the station, the bustling Grand Canal greets you, offering an amazing first glimpse of the city.

Getting to St. Mark’s Square

One of the top places you should visit on your day trip to Venice from Rome is St. Mark’s square. This is the historic, cultural, and social heart of Venice. There are multiple ways to get to St Mark’s Square from the Santa Lucia train station. You can take the vaporetto, or water bus which sells tickets right outside the train station. Additionally, you can also rent a private water taxi or a gondola to take you to St. Mark’s Square.

In my opinion, the best way to get to St. Mark’s square is by walking. Along the walk to St. Mark’s Square, I found countless charming streets and bridges with views of the canals. My walk took about 45 minutes as I explored canal-lined streets, beautiful churches, and eclectic shops. After four hours on the train, it felt great to stretch and explore while getting plenty of steps.

St Mark’s Square

After navigating through the countless alleys and turns leading to the city’s most important meeting point, I descended on the grand St Mark’s Square. The ornate and imposing exterior of St. Mark’s Basilica and the towering campanile, or bell tower, immediately greeted me.

St Mark’s Square is the most important gathering place in Venice for both locals and visitors alike. There are many Italian restaurants and shops lining the columned square. You can see the Adriatic Sea crashing against the foundations of the square. Nearby gondolas gently sway in the waves waiting for riders. Although it is undeniably a touristy area, it has a nice feel to it.

You can climb the campanile in St Mark’s Square. Tickets can be purchased at the base of the tower or online in advance. I did not climb the tower, but I’ve heard the views of the city at the top are breathtaking. St Mark’s campanile is the tallest point in Venice.

Practical Tips

NOTE: If you visit St Mark’s Square in the winter, it can be flooded by sea waters. St Mark’s Square is one of the lowest points in the city. Wooden catwalks are put up to get around the square and prevent people from getting their feet wet. When I visited in late October, the water was pretty low but the catwalks were still out. I have seen images where the waters are at peoples knee levels.

Alternatively, if you visit Venice in summer, crowds can surge. The city may feel more overwhelming, especially at St Mark’s Square.

Venice, like many highly desirable travel destinations, is battling with the growing problem of over tourism. The city is struggling to maintain it’s unique cultural identity and quality of life for the local population.

//Check out my blog on the rise of over-tourism, what it means for the future of travel, and how we can contribute to ethical travel (COMING SOON).

St Mark’s Basilica

History

St Mark’s Basilica is a beautiful and complicated building with a fascinating history. The cathedral took inspiration from many of the famous churches of Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey) thanks to its trade interaction and sometimes volatile relationship with the Byzantine Empire. The church contains many precious objects that the Venetians took from Constantinople during the 4th Crusade, including statues, icons, liturgical articles, and a magnificent gold altarpiece displayed in the center. The most famous loot taken from Constantinople were 4 bronze horses proudly welcoming visitors over the main entrance of the church. These 4 stallions once stood in the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot racing and other imperial sports took place in the ancient Roman and Byzantine empires. The 4 horses you see today on the exterior of the basilica are replicas with the original bronze horses in the museum in the attic and roof of the basilica.

The interior of St. Mark’s Basilica features incredibly intricate and ornate designs. Artists covered the cathedral from floor to ceiling in golden, glistening Byzantine mosaics depicting the life of Christ, the saints, and the most important political and spiritual moments in Venice’s history. The basilica interior reflects Venice interactions with other countries and cultures, along with its storied wealth from its maritime commercial dominance. The mosaics and ambiance differ from other Italian cathedrals, highlighting Venice’s connection to the East. Visit the church museum for a few euros to see the origional four bronze horses. The museum’s balcony offers views of St. Mark’s Square, the campanile, and the sea.

Important Tips for Visiting St Mark’s Basilica

One of the biggest mistakes I made on my day trip to Venice from Rome  was not purchasing a ticket to St Mark’s Basilica in advance. The cues to enter St Mark’s are long, even during quieter times of the year. If you purchase a skip the line ticket, you will save a lot of time waiting in line to enter. If you forget to purchase a ticket in advance, the line does go relatively quickly though (I waited for 30-45 minutes in late October). I imagine the line in summer could be hours to enter the basilica

It is also important to note that the church has a strict backpack policy. I have read that many travelers have had difficulty bringing backpacks and bags into the church. If you have a larger backpack or bag, you may have to check it at the coat room to the left of the basilica where they will store and secure your bag.

Remember to dress modestly when visiting the basilica or you may be denied entry. Men and Women should both cover their knees and women should cover their shoulders when visiting St. Marks Basilica.

Doge’s Palace Venice

The Doge’s palace is another of the top places I visited on my day trip to Venice from Rome. This is where the Doge of Venice, the city’s ruler, lived and governed the city state and its vast ports and colonies throughout the Mediterranean Sea. The architecture of this building is distinctly Venetian, and the palace is specially designed to adapt the structure from the physical confines and limitations Venice’s geography imposes. On the staircase leading into the palace is a depiction of Atlas holding up the globe, a unique tribute to Venice and its ambition to discover, control, and conquer different territories it came across.

Throughout the palace, artists painted beautiful frescoes portraying life in the city and famous war scenes. Leaders made important decisions that shaped Europe within the many lavish halls of the palace. When visiting the Doge’s Palace, you can also cross the Bridge of Sighs. This is where convicts would get their last glance of freedom before facing long imprisonment or execution. The Bridge of Sighs is one of the most iconic bridges in all of Venice.

I would suggest booking your tickets in advance so you can skip the line. I also purchase an audio guide after security to learn about the significance of each room in the palace. After you pass security, you will have to check your bag once inside the palace courtyard in the cloak closet.

Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is one of the top bridges to cross over in the city. The bridge divides the districts of San Marco and San Polo in Venice. There are three sets of stairs on the bridge and there are many unique shops. It is also the  oldest and most important bridge in Venice. Completed in the late 16th century, it was the only way to cross the Grand Canal for 300 years. The stone crossing gradually became a hub for commercial activity between San Marco and San Polo.

There are jewelry and local artisan stores on the bridge, and a cool antique shop that sells many old items from across the world.

Other Sights to Visit

St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge are three of the most important cultural and historically significant places to visit in Venice.  The below list are other sights that I visited during my day trip to Venice from Rome. I recommend doing your research to plan accordingly and prioritize places that are of the most interest to you.

Santa Maria di Nazareth Church

Located in the Venetian district of Cannaregio, this small but ornate church is a one minute walk from the train station along the grand canal. The church of Santa Maria di Nazareth is a masterpiece of the late Venetian Baroque period and serves as a church for the Carmelite order in Catholicism. The church is very elaborate, and the altar is especially beautiful. Because of its close proximity to the train station, this is a great first stop on the itinerary.

Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari

The church of Santa Maria Gloriosa is one of the most important churches in Venice. Although the red brick exterior is quite simple, the majestic interior more than makes up for the humble facade. The church took nearly one hundred years to build and has the second tallest bell tower in the city. Inside the church has several incredible works of art including the Renaissance masterpiece the Assumption of the Virgin by Titian.

Venetian Arsenal

The Venetian Arsenal was critical in maintaining the cities extensive navy and was the largest industrial scale operation before the industrial revolution. The Venetian Arsenal mass-produced galleys and other ships on an assembly-line process, restoring and creating naval vessels for the purpose of trade and conquest. The former military complex is closed to the public, however you can still admire the grand entrance guarded by two medieval towers and winged lions. It’s still visible to see the large area where the ships were built.

San George Dei Greci

The St George church is the place of worship and center of community life for the sizable Greek population in Venice. Granted the right to build a church in 1539, the church was built by Greek soldiers serving in the Venetian military and Greek intellectuals. Many of the first 16th Greek immigrants arrived fleeing the collapse of the Byzantine Empire. It is also the headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Italy. The church has traditional Orthodox icons with a noticeable Italian influence. There’s also a Byzantine icon museum on the church grounds. St George church is easily recognizable by it’s leaning bell-tower.

Bridge of Sighs

You can admire the little but significant bridge of sighs from a bridge just to the right of St Mark’s square. 

Waterfront Views of Venice

If you continue walking past the bridge of sighs along the waterways, you will get some incredible views of the city and its most cherished landmarks. This is a great moment to take some pictures and remind yourself that you are in Venice, Italy. For the best views, walk along the waterfront until you reach the park called Giardini Della Marinaressa.

Campo di Ghetto Nuovo- the Jewish Quarter

Venice housed a thriving Jewish population, with refugees from around the  world. The Jewish Quarter includes a museum  highlighting the Jewish culture in Venice, 5 synagogues, and many kosher restaurants and bakeries. Buildings here are taller, housing families and communities who wanted to live in close proximity to each other.

Food in Venice

The food in Venice is very delicious and high quality. You will not struggle to find a good meal here. The city has great Italian food, but also remarkable seafood dishes, not found elsewhere in Italy. There are many charming bistros, restaurants, pizzarias, and bakeries that are very welcoming and cozy. There are also nice bars and gelaterias to enjoy some ice cream with views of the city

//Florence is another great day trip from Rome. Everything you need to know about planning the perfect day trip from Rome to Florence (COMING SOON)

If your itinerary only permits one day to visit Venice,  a day trip from Rome is both possible and worthwhile. If you leave early and plan carefully, you will get a full day to explore the city’s most important highlights and get a strong feel for the unique surroundings of Venice at an enjoyable pace. Just remember to alot sufficient time to make your way back to the Santa Lucia train station. Although the day will be packed, you will have time to sufficiently experience Venice and create many new memories in this unforgettable city.

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After visiting Greece for the second time in the summer of 2023 on my first solo trip, I can honestly say Karpathos is one of my favorite places I have ever traveled to. Karpathos is an exciting destination for solo travelers and offers so much to discover for those looking to take a journey by themselves. Below I have included some of the top reasons I think Karpathos is the perfect island for solo travelers visiting Greece (if you will be visiting Karpathos with a group, this blog will still contain information I think you’ll find useful so tag along!)

general Tips

Rent A Cat

Karpathos is a large island. It will be most convenient and enjoyable for your trip if you rent a car. Additionally, many of the sites, villages, and beaches are spread out throughout the island. Renting a car gave me the most flexibility and allowed me to explore on my own timeframe. Not to mention driving in Karpathos was an unforgettable experience. Many of the highways go through mountain passes with pine forests while offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It was some of the most scenic drives I ever took.

Many of the main roads on Karpathos are in the mountains and have a lot of curves. Also, the highway running south to north hugs the side of the Karpathian mountain range where falling rocks are not uncommon.  Driving in Karpathos is doable and safe if you take the right precautions. Watch your speed and keep your eyes on the road (it will be hard with the mesmerizing views all around). Many of the main roads were actually in excellent condition.

Note: I added some additional rental insurance on my vehicle. I also took pictures on all sides of the car. I used Hertz and got my car at the Karpathos airport, making for an easy pickup and return.

12 reasons karpathos is perfect for solo travel in Greece

1.Karpathos is Adventurous

Karpathos feels adventurous. While other mainstream islands in Greece that cater primarily to couples or families can feel slower and less exciting for solo travelers, Karpathos avoids these problems. From the moment you leave the airport, you will drive towards jagged imposing mountains that invite you to explore this otherworldly island. 

Driving Karpathos is an awesome experience. Each winding pass high in the mountains overlooks some of the most gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea. I discovered some of the most incredible beaches in Greece and visited traditional villages that have been unchanged for centuries. When exploring Karpathos, I came across unique places that captured my attention and was stopped in my tracks by herds of mountain goats crossing the road. If you are feeling extra adventurous, check out some of the hiking trails perched in the mountain peaks offering unbeatable views of Karpathos.

// Make the most of your trip to Greece by visiting another island. Everything you need to know about Island Hopping (COMING SOON)

2.Karpathos is Safe

Another reason to visit Karpathos as a solo traveler is that the island is very safe. I felt completely comfortable and safe traveling alone on the island. Crime rates are low and petty crime like pickpocketing is rare. I felt secure walking around at night in Pigadia, the main port town. The streets closest to the water with the shops and restaurants are the best-lit. You should still take measures to protect your safety and be extra aware of your surroundings whenever you are solo traveling.

// Everything you need to know about Solo Traveling (COMING SOON)

3.Karpathos is Beautiful

Karpathos is one of the most beautiful places I have visited in the world. The unique, rugged, and mysterious terrain of Karpathos is breathtaking. Lush green pine forests meet the bright blue Aegean Sea, backed by jagged, soaring mountains. The scenery of the island alone is completely alluring and remarkable.

//Definitive Karpathos Guide and Itinerary (COMING SOON)

4.Karpathos Has Some of the Best Beaches in Greece

The island has hands down some of the best beaches I have ever visited. I savored perfect sandy beaches with water so clear you can see your feet. It felt like I had been transported to the Caribbean or Maldives. There were also unforgettable black pebble shorelines located in pine reserves and hidden coves.

May to September boasts warm, inviting waters and perfect beach weather. You can either bring a towel or rent a beach lounge. Most beach lounges cost anywhere between €5-€20. I enjoyed reading, journaling, and watching the waves hitting the beach.

My favorite beaches on Karpathos are:

• Apella Beach
• Diakoftis (paradise) Beach
• Agios Minas Beach 

Note: The road down to Agios Minas Beach is completely unpaved and rugged. Be careful when entering the beach cove. If you do make the journey, you will be embraced by one of the most picturesque beaches in your life (and will have it almost completely to yourself).

// The Adventurous Drive to Agios Minas Beach (COMING SOON)

5.Olympos Will Transport You Back in Time

The mountain village of Olympos was one of the highlights of my visit to Karpathos. This village is located in the north part of the island and was virtually cut off from the rest of Greece and the outside world until the last hundred years. You can feel the profound sense of history when visiting the village. Olympos has been continuously inhabited for over a thousand years, with many  of the customs and traditions passed down from the ancient Doric people, ancestors of the modern villagers. Many of the inhabitants still wear traditional clothing and some women wear a headscarf unique to Karpathos. 

The entire village is built on the side of a mountain that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The houses are colorfully painted and the streets snake around small shops where local women sell beautiful handmade crafts and local products. The atmosphere of the village is really genuine and I felt like I had stepped back in time. Olympos is truly incredible and is unlike anywhere else in Greece.

//Visiting to the Ancient Village of Olympos, Karpathos (COMING SOON)

6.Karpathos Gives You a window Into Traditional Greek Culture

One of the things I appreciated most about visiting Karpathos was that the island retains a special authenticity. As a Greek American myself, the island was a great place to connect with part of my roots. Visiting Karpathos will expose you to the traditional Greek culture, often drowned out by islands that are more mainstream and over touristed. The island has special customs, traditions, and festivities that are unique to Karpathos. While the island has opened up to tourists and the world, the locals fiercely protect and cherish their cultural traditions, which helps preserve their identity in the twenty-first century.

A big part of Greek culture is the Greek Orthodox religion. When visiting Karpathos, I found many beautiful painted churches and chapels dedicated to saints or important holidays. Karpathos is estimated to have over 300 churches, chapels, and monasteries on the island. 

7.The Food is Amazing

One of the first things I look for when choosing a destination as a solo traveler is the food. Karpathos did not disappoint. Greek food is delicious, healthy, and balanced. Every meal was especially fresh and wholesome. Karpathos has many dishes that are unique to the island, especially seafood. It also has special variations of pastries like Spanakopita and Baklava that I have not seen anywhere else in Greece.

Karpathos has several restaurants that serve other cuisines. Harper All Day Cafe & Restaurant has amazing American breakfast with pancakes, scrambled eggs, and a great coffee bar. It’s also right on the water in the main town of Pigadia and is a great place to people watch. I went back multiple times during my stay before starting my day.

8.Karpathians are Helpful and Kind 

The residents of Karpathos (Karpathians) are incredibly friendly, humble, and kind people. Like the rest of Greece, the Karpathians have opened up their island home for visitors around the world to experience and enjoy; rooted in the Greek cultural concept of Philoxenia (love of the foreign). The locals are kind and genuinely curious about the world outside of Karpathos. 

The locals were also extremely thoughtful. They gave me many suggestions on where to visit and provided detailed directions. Those who visit Karpathos will always remember the interactions they have with the islanders.

9.English is Widely Spoken 

Another bonus for solo travelers visiting Karpathos is that English is widely spoken. I honestly don’t recall an interaction on the island where I wasn’t able to communicate with the locals in English. Even in some of the most remote parts of the island, the inhabitants still spoke some English. I never really felt that there was a language barrier. Because of Greece’s dependance on tourism, English is now taught in many schools. Road signs and restaurant menus are in both English and Greek.

10. Accommodations for Every Budget

Karpathos has accommodation options for every traveler’s preference and budget. While there are fewer hostel options on Karpathos, you can find cheap hotels and guest rooms along with boutique hotels and luxury villas. 

Each solo traveler has their own standards and comfort level when it comes to accommodations. Make sure to check all details of where you will be staying. I splurged a little on accommodations and stayed at an amazing property that overlooked the port of Pigadia and the mountains of Karpathos called Istia Luxury Villas. The property was gated and made me feel extra safe as a solo traveler. The layout was modern and luxurious and maintained a clean, white, minimal theme throughout the property that was very calming. There is even an ancient temple to Aphrodite on the grounds of the property. It also has an infinity pool with floating daybeds that overlook the Mediterranean Sea. It was worth every penny.

11. Karpathos is One of the Best Kept Secrets in Greece

Maybe you have figured out reading this far into the blog, Karpathos is one of the best-kept secrets in Greece. With stunning and dramatic scenery, amazing food, top-tier beaches, and a rich authentic culture, Karpathos is truly off the beaten path when it comes to Greece. It is remarkably less touristy than islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and even nearby Rhodes. Because of this, Karpathos has kept its authentic charm and is a genuine, wholesome, unpretentious place to experience as a solo traveler. I would just suggest visiting soon before it blows up as Karpathos has started to gain the attention of the travel community.

12.Karpathos Will Give You a New Perspective of the World

Lastly, I think Karpathos is an amazing solo travel destination because visiting the island will give you a new perspective of the world. Such a beautiful, unique, and well-preserved place fosters new perspectives and sets the backdrop for self-growth and discovery on your trip.

Karpathos is such an amazing place and I hope you like it as much as I did. Feel free to leave a comment in the section below and check out my other blogs about traveling in Greece.

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