Top 10 Tips for Travelling Solo
Travelling solo is one of life's great adventures. It’s a chance to explore the world on your own terms - but that doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. At Riviera Travel, we believe solo travel should feel like joining a well-travelled collective: a group of curious, kind, and like-minded travellers who are looking to explore the world too. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller or looking for tips for first-time solo travellers, this guide is for you.
1. Travel with confidence
“Solo travel can be extremely powerful - our guests get to see the world, have new experiences, make new friends and develop a new sense of confidence and independence.” — Linda Harris, Solo Travel Specialist
One of the most important tips for first-time solo travellers is to be sure you choose a travel company that truly understands solo travel. At Riviera, we've been curating solo holidays for years - and we've learned that confidence comes from knowing you are in safe hands.
From our handpicked Tour Managers and Cruise Directors and thoughtfully designed itineraries, everything we do is built around making solo travel feel seamless, sociable and secure.
Before you book, take a moment to read reviews from fellow solo travellers. Look for stories that reflect your hopes - whether that’s making new friends, feeling safe abroad, enjoying authentic travel experiences, or simply having a brilliant time. (Spoiler: Riviera guests tend to say all four.)
With thousands of five-star reviews, you can trust that you're joining experts in travel who know how to look after their own.
2. Choose a solo-friendly itinerary
“Our solo holidays are crafted to make guests feel safe, welcome and part of something special.” — Linda Harris
Not all holidays are created equal - while solo travellers are welcome on every Riviera adventure, our solo exclusive holidays are designed with solo travellers in mind. And that starts from your departure point, where a member of the Riviera Team will be there to greet you, help you check in.
Small group sizes - just 25 on our tours, 19 on yacht cruises and 89 on a river cruise - mean you'll enjoy a more personal, relaxed experience. Plus, our expert Tour Managers and Cruise Directors specialise in solo travel — they’re there to make sure you feel safe, welcome, and part of the group.
You’ll also enjoy a welcome dinner and drink to break the ice, and transparent pricing with no single supplements or hidden extras.
But don’t just take our word for it:
I have tried other solo holiday companies and Riviera are by far the best.
It was my first solo holiday and I was a little anxious, but I needn't have been and I can't wait for my next solo trip with Riviera.
3. Break the ice early & embrace the social side
“Even when meals aren’t included, people naturally dine together. It’s a great way to share stories and laughter.” — Linda Harris
You're not in it alone, on a Riviera solo-exclusive holiday; everyone is in the same boat (quite literally, if you’re on a river or yacht cruise). Say hello, ask questions, and be open to conversation. You’re surrounded by people who chose this experience for the same reasons you did — curiosity, connection, and a love of travel.
From the very first evening, you’ll be invited to a welcome dinner and drink - a relaxed, friendly way to meet your fellow explorers with your experienced Tour Manager or Cruise Director on hand to make introductions. It’s the perfect setting to share stories, laugh over travel plans, and start forming connections that often last far beyond the holiday.
In fact, we’ve heard countless stories of guests who met on a solo holiday and went on to become lifelong friends — meeting up back in the UK, or even planning their next Riviera adventure together.
4. Pack smart
When you’re travelling solo, there’ll be times when you have to be your own porter - so pack accordingly (and invest in a suitcase with wheels!). It’s worth bring versatile clothing so you can add or remove layers as the weather changes, as well as a portable charger, and a small day bag for outings. And don’t forget a good book or journal for those peaceful solo moments. Plus, don't forget to leave a little room in your suitcase for local treasures, like Provençal lavender or Belgian chocolates.
5. Trust your Tour Manager
“Our Tour Managers and Cruise Directors are there to make sure you feel safe, supported and inspired throughout your journey.” — Linda Harris
Your Riviera Tour Manager and Cruise Directors are more than a guide - they’re your support system, storyteller, and safety net. They know how to help you make the most of your holiday and are always there to help. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share concerns - that’s what they’re there for.
Here’s what one of our travellers had to say:
As a first-time traveller abroad on my own and being in my 80's, I was a bit nervous, but Denise made me feel safe and at ease. Plus she helped everyone to integrate and be friendly.
This was my first solo trip, and from the outset Paul ensured that not just myself, but everyone in the group quickly felt comfortable and included, and he was always there if we had a query.
7. Balance group time with me time
One of the joys of solo travel is the freedom to choose. Join the group for a guided tour in the morning, then spend the afternoon exploring. During free time, it's up to you - get together with newfound friends to explore, sip coffee in a quiet square or take advantage of the facilities in your hotel or on our ships. It’s your adventure, after all.
If you feel like skipping a group activity for a personal wander, trust your instincts and take a little detour.
8. Say yes to new experiences
“I have found that solo travel really helps increase people's confidence and that continues into their life back home - I heard a group of ladies on my last river cruise talking about joining Rock Choir when back in the UK!” - Linda Harris
If you're new to solo travel, you're already trying something new simply by joining us! But there are plenty of other firsts to try - new dishes, learning a few local phrases or hopping on a scenic train ride. Solo travel is the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone. The best stories come from the moments you didn’t plan.
9. Ask questions - lots of them
Curiosity is the solo traveller’s superpower. From your friendly Tour Managers to Cruise Directors to expert local guides, there's more to learn than could ever fit into a guidebook. From local customs to how to say "thank you" in the local language or the best place for gelato, they're a fountain of knowledge - and they love to share!
10. Switch off and soak it in
Be present. The memories you make when you’re fully in the moment are the ones that stay with you longest. We love a good travel snap as much as anyone, but don’t forget to put the phone down now and then. Some of the best moments are the ones you can't capture - a spontaneous laugh, a breathtaking view, or a shared story on film.
