How to Make Friends on a Solo Trip

Solo travel can be exciting, but loneliness can become a problem. You may wonder who to talk to, where to meet people, or what to say without feeling awkward. I have seen many travelers face this challenge, especially first-time and introverted solo travelers.

From my experience helping travelers plan solo trips, friendships often start with small moments, such as a shared meal, walking tour, or simple question. You do not need to be outgoing or stay in a hostel. This guide covers practical ways to meet people, start conversations, connect with locals, and make friends safely.

Plan Your Trip With Social Opportunities in Mind

You can make meeting people easier before your trip even starts.

Think about where you will stay and what you will do each day. A private hotel room may give you more privacy, but a hostel with a common area may offer more chances to meet travelers.

You can also add social activities to your plans.

Good options include:

• Walking tours
• Food tours
• Cooking classes
• Language exchanges
• Local events
• Group hikes
• Cultural workshops
• Shared meals
• Community activities

You do not need to plan your whole trip around meeting people. Just leave some room for activities where people naturally interact.

Find Your People

Making friends starts with finding places where people already have something in common.

A shared activity gives you an easy reason to start talking. You can ask about the tour, the food, the city, or the activity.

Start with one person if a large group feels uncomfortable.

You could ask:

Is this your first time here?

Or:

What are you planning to see today?

A simple question can be enough to start a conversation.

Stay in Hostels

Hostels can be good places to meet other travelers. Many have shared kitchens, lounges, cafés, games, and group activities.

If meeting people is important to you, look for hostels with common spaces and social events.

You can start with simple questions:

• Where are you from?
• How long are you staying?
• Is this your first visit?
• What places have you enjoyed?
• Are you doing anything tomorrow?

If you connect with someone, suggest a simple activity.

For example:

I am going to check out the market this afternoon. Want to come?

You do not have to stay in a hostel, though. There are many other ways to meet people.

Get Involved in Facebook Groups

Online travel groups can help you meet people before or during your trip.

Search for groups related to:

• Your destination
• Solo travel
• Backpacking
• Local events
• Hiking
• Food
• Photography
• Language exchange

You may find other travelers who have similar plans.

For example, someone might post:

Anyone visiting the old town this weekend?

If your plans match, you can reply.

You can also make your own post. Mention your destination, travel dates, and the type of activity you want to do.

When meeting someone you first contacted online, choose a public place and tell someone you trust about your plans.

Attend Social Events Such as Festivals

Local events can make meeting people easier because you already have something to talk about.

Look for:

• Festivals
• Markets
• Concerts
• Food events
• Cultural events
• Community activities
• Public celebrations

You could ask:

Have you been here before?

Or:

What brought you to this event?

You may meet other travelers or people who live in the area.

Try a Local Homestay or Private Accommodation

Staying with a local host can give you more chances to learn about the destination.

Some hosts may enjoy sharing local tips or suggesting places to visit.

If you use a homestay or short-term rental platform, check recent reviews and the host profile before booking.

You can also choose a private room if you want more privacy.

You do not have to meet a host privately just because they invite you. Choose public places if that feels safer.

Use Friendship and Travel Apps

Apps can help you find people with similar interests.

Some platforms focus on friendship. Others help people find events, groups, or activities.

Use them to look for people who want to do something similar to you.

For example:

I am visiting the city this weekend and would like to find someone to explore the food market with.

Keep your first meeting in a public place.

A café, museum, busy restaurant, or public event can be a good choice.

Do not share private information too early.

Be Helpful

Small acts of kindness can create a natural reason to talk.

You might help someone find a train platform or offer to take their photo.

You could say:

Do you need help finding this place?

Or:

I went there yesterday. I can show you the location on the map.

Being helpful does not mean you need to become responsible for someone else’s trip.

Be friendly while keeping your own boundaries.

Cook in Hostels

A shared kitchen can be a simple place to meet people.

Cooking gives you an easy topic.

You could ask:

What are you making?

Or:

Have you tried the local food yet?

If several people are cooking, you may start talking about food, travel, and your home countries.

You can also suggest eating together.

For example:

Want to eat together when this is ready?

Be Open to Small Conversations

You do not need to become an extrovert to make friends.

Start with small interactions.

Say hello at breakfast. Ask a question during a tour. Talk to someone sitting near you at a café.

You can also put your phone away for a few minutes when you are in a social setting.

Ask questions and listen to the answers.

You might say:

I am visiting this city for three days. It is my first time here.

That gives the other person an easy way to respond.

If you are shy, focus on one conversation rather than trying to meet a whole group.

How Introverts Can Make Friends on a Solo Trip

Introverts can make friends without spending all day in large groups.

Choose activities where conversation happens naturally.

Good options include:

• Small group tours
• Coffee shops
• Cooking classes
• Language exchanges
• Shared meals
• Walking tours
• Art classes
• Photography activities

You can also use a simple goal.

Try starting one conversation each day.

Some conversations may last only a few minutes. Others may become longer.

You do not need to force either one.

The best social setting is one where you feel comfortable.

Join Evening Social Activities

Evenings can create more chances to meet other travelers.

Hostels may offer dinners, games, movie nights, or group outings.

You can also visit cafés, food halls, cultural events, or other public activities.

You do not need to drink alcohol or stay out late.

If you prefer quiet activities, choose an early dinner, evening walking tour, local class, or cultural event.

Choose activities that fit your comfort level.

Book a Group Tour

Group tours can make it easier to meet people because everyone is taking part in the same activity.

Try:

• Walking tours
• Food tours
• Cooking classes
• Bike tours
• Hiking groups
• Museum tours
• Photography walks
• Day trips
• Cultural activities

Arrive a little early and introduce yourself to someone.

You could say:

Are you traveling alone too?

If they are, you already have something in common.

After the tour, you can ask if they want to get coffee or food.

Dine Solo at Counters and Communal Tables

Eating alone does not mean you have to feel isolated.

Choose restaurants, cafés, or food halls with counter seating or shared tables.

You may find other solo travelers or local people there.

Food also gives you an easy conversation topic.

You could ask:

What would you recommend?

Or:

Is this a local dish?

You can also ask someone nearby about a restaurant or food they enjoyed.

Do not feel pressure to make every meal social. Enjoying your own meal is also part of solo travel.

Sign Up for Group Activities

Group activities give you a reason to spend time with the same people.

Choose something that matches your interests.

If you like cooking, take a cooking class.

If you enjoy fitness, join a group workout.

If you like history, take a local history tour.

If you enjoy nature, join a group hike.

Shared interests can make conversation easier.

You may also see the same people again if you join recurring activities.

Meet People on Local Transportation

Buses, trains, ferries, and other forms of public transportation can sometimes create chances to talk.

Longer journeys give you more time for a simple conversation.

You could ask:

Have you been to this city before?

Or:

Do you know any good places to visit there?

Do not disturb someone who appears busy or wants quiet time.

If someone seems open to conversation, let the discussion develop naturally.

Spend Time at Coffee Shops

Coffee shops can be good places to meet people without joining a formal activity.

Look for cafés with shared tables, community events, or a social setting.

You could ask someone about a local drink, nearby attraction, or place to eat.

For example:

Do you know any good places to visit nearby?

You can also return to the same café during your stay.

Seeing familiar faces can make future conversations easier.

Try a Language Exchange

Language exchanges can help you meet local people and other travelers.

You can practice a language while learning about another person’s culture and city.

Look for:

• Language groups
• Community events
• Informal language meetups
• Cultural exchange events

You do not need to speak the language perfectly.

You can ask:

How do I say thank you in your language?

A simple question can lead to a conversation about food, culture, and travel.

How to Meet Locals on a Solo Trip

Meeting locals can give you a different view of a destination.

Local people may know about restaurants, markets, events, and activities that are less obvious to visitors.

Try:

• Language exchanges
• Cooking classes
• Local markets
• Community events
• Cultural workshops
• Small cafés
• Group fitness classes
• Art classes
• Local walking groups

You can also ask staff at your accommodation for recommendations.

For example:

Where do local people usually eat?

This can help you find places that fit your interests.

How to Make Friends Without Staying in a Hostel

You do not need to stay in a hostel to meet people.

Hotels, guesthouses, and private rentals can work well for travelers who want more privacy.

Try joining activities outside your accommodation.

Good options include:

• Walking tours
• Cooking classes
• Food tours
• Language exchanges
• Local events
• Group day trips
• Cultural activities

You can also spend time in cafés, food halls, parks, and other public places.

If you prefer a private room, add one or two group activities to your trip.

This gives you privacy while still giving you chances to meet people.

How to Make Friends on a Solo Trip as a Solo Female Traveler

Solo female travelers may want to meet people while also keeping strong personal boundaries.

Group activities can be a good option because you meet people in a shared setting.

You can also choose public places for your first meetings.

Good options include:

• Group tours
• Cooking classes
• Cafés
• Museums
• Food markets
• Women-focused travel groups
• Cultural events

Tell someone you trust where you are going.

Do not share your hotel room number or private travel details with someone you have just met.

If someone makes you uncomfortable, leave.

You do not need to explain yourself.

How to Start a Conversation on a Solo Trip

Starting a conversation does not have to feel difficult.

Use your surroundings.

Ask about the place, activity, food, or travel plans.

Here are some simple conversation starters:

• Where are you traveling from?
• Is this your first visit?
• How long are you staying?
• What have you enjoyed so far?
• Do you have any food recommendations?
• Are you traveling alone?
• What are you planning to do tomorrow?

You do not need a perfect line.

A simple question is enough.

How to Know If Someone Wants to Talk

Not everyone will want a conversation.

Look for simple signs that someone is open to talking.

They may:

• Make eye contact
• Smile
• Answer your question with more detail
• Ask you a question back
• Stay engaged in the conversation

Someone may not want to talk if they give very short answers, avoid eye contact, use headphones, or turn their attention back to their phone.

Respect those signs.

You can simply say:

Nice talking with you. Enjoy your trip.

Then move on.

How to Keep a Conversation Going

Starting a conversation is only the first step.

Ask a follow-up question based on what the person says.

If someone says:

I’m from Canada.

You could ask:

Which part of Canada are you from?

If they say:

I’ve been here for three days.

You could ask:

What has been your favorite place so far?

You can also share something about yourself.

For example:

I’m from the U.S., and this is my first visit here. I really liked the old town yesterday.

This gives the other person something to respond to.

Try to keep the conversation balanced.

Ask questions, listen, and share your own experiences too.

How to Turn a Conversation Into a Friendship

Meeting someone once is easy. Building a friendship takes a little more effort.

Use this simple process:

Start a conversation → Find something you both like → Suggest a small activity → Spend time together → Exchange contact details → Follow up

For example:

I am going to get coffee later. Want to join me?

Or:

I am visiting the market tomorrow. Would you like to come?

Keep the invitation simple.

You do not need to plan an entire day together.

If you enjoy spending time together, exchange contact details.

You can use a messaging app or social media platform you both prefer.

Then send a short message later.

It was great meeting you today. Let me know if you want to explore the market tomorrow.

How to Make Friends on a Short Solo Trip

A short trip does not give you much time to meet people.

Choose activities where people interact quickly.

Good choices include:

• Walking tours
• Food tours
• Group day trips
• Cooking classes
• Hostel events
• Local festivals
• Language exchanges

Try to join one social activity soon after arriving.

You can also eat at communal tables or visit a busy café.

You do not need to make a close friendship in two days. Even a few hours with a friendly person can make your trip more enjoyable.

How to Build Friendships on a Long Solo Trip

Long trips give you more time to build deeper connections.

Instead of meeting new people every day, return to places you enjoy.

You can:

• Visit the same café
• Join a recurring class
• Attend regular language exchanges
• Volunteer
• Join a local group
• Spend more time in one neighborhood
• Use a coworking space

Seeing the same people more than once can make friendships feel more natural.

How to Make Friends Without Bars or Parties

You do not need nightlife to meet people.

Try daytime and early evening activities such as:

• Coffee meetups
• Walking tours
• Food markets
• Museums
• Cooking classes
• Hiking
• Fitness classes
• Cultural events
• Art workshops

These options can work well for travelers who do not drink or prefer quieter settings.

Choose activities based on your interests.

It is easier to talk when you already enjoy the activity.

What If You Are Rejected?

Not everyone will want to talk.

Someone may be tired, busy, shy, or already have plans.

Do not take every short conversation personally.

If someone is not interested, simply move on.

You can say:

Nice meeting you. Enjoy the rest of your trip.

Then try another activity or speak with someone else.

One awkward conversation does not mean you are bad at meeting people.

What If You Do Not Make Friends?

Sometimes you can try several activities and still have a quiet day.

That does not mean your trip is going badly.

People have different schedules and travel styles.

Someone may be leaving the city the next morning. Another person may already have plans.

Try another location.

Move from your hotel to a café. Join a walking tour. Visit a local event. Spend time in a shared space.

You can also enjoy time alone.

Making friends is one part of solo travel, not the whole experience.

How to Stay Safe While Making Friends

Meeting new people can be fun, but safety should come first.

Keep your first meetings in public places.

Tell someone you trust where you are going. Keep your phone charged and make sure you have a way to return to your accommodation.

Do not share your room number, financial details, passwords, or other private information.

If you drink alcohol, keep track of your drink and know how you will get back to your accommodation.

Be careful about accepting rides from people you have just met.

You also have the right to leave any situation that makes you uncomfortable.

You can say:

I am going to head back now.

Or:

Thanks, but I am going to pass.

You do not need a long explanation.

How to Turn a New Travel Friend Into a Lasting Connection

A friendship does not have to end when the trip ends.

If you genuinely enjoy spending time with someone, exchange contact details before you leave.

You can connect through a messaging app or social media platform that you both use.

After the trip, send a simple message.

For example:

It was great meeting you on the trip. I hope you got home safely. Let me know if you ever visit my city.

You can share photos, recommend places, or check in from time to time.

You may even meet again if one of you visits the other’s city.

Some travel friendships may last for years. Others may remain a short but meaningful part of your trip. Both can be valuable.

Your First 24 Hours: A Simple Plan for Meeting People

If you are nervous about meeting people, keep your first day simple.

Morning

Have breakfast in a shared area or visit a local café.

Start one small conversation.

Afternoon

Join a walking tour, food tour, class, or other group activity.

Talk to one person during the activity.

Evening

Choose a social dinner, local event, or relaxed group activity.

If you meet someone you enjoy talking to, suggest a simple plan for the next day.

You do not need to meet many people.

One good conversation is enough to get started.

Final Thoughts

Making friends on a solo trip does not require perfect social skills. In my experience, genuine connections often begin with simple conversations during tours, meals, or local activities. Not every conversation will become a friendship, and that is completely normal.

Choose activities you enjoy, start small, and stay open to meeting people. Keep your boundaries and safety in mind. You do not need to meet many people. One genuine connection can make a solo trip far more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make friends on a solo trip?

Stay in social accommodation, join group activities, attend local events, take walking tours, and start simple conversations. You can also use travel communities and friendship apps to meet people.

Is it hard to make friends while traveling alone?

It can feel difficult at first, especially if you are shy. However, solo travelers can find many chances to meet people through group activities, shared spaces, local events, and travel communities.

What is the best place to meet people while traveling alone?

Hostels, group tours, food tours, walking tours, local events, cooking classes, cafés, language exchanges, and shared spaces can all give you chances to meet people.

How do I talk to someone I do not know while traveling?

Start with a simple question about the place, activity, food, or trip. Ask where they are from or how long they are staying. Then use their answer to continue the conversation.

How can introverts make friends on a solo trip?

Choose smaller group activities, classes, walking tours, shared meals, and cafés. Start with one person instead of a large group. You can make friends without being highly outgoing.

How can I make friends without staying in a hostel?

Join walking tours, cooking classes, language exchanges, local events, group activities, and day trips. You can also meet people at cafés, food halls, and community events.

How do I meet locals while traveling alone?

Try language exchanges, cooking classes, local events, community activities, cultural workshops, local markets, and small cafés. You can also ask local staff for recommendations.

How do I make friends as a solo female traveler?

Choose public group activities, meet new people in public places, protect your private information, tell someone you trust about your plans, and leave if you feel uncomfortable.

How do I make friends on a short solo trip?

Choose activities where people interact quickly, such as walking tours, food tours, group day trips, cooking classes, and local events. Start social activities early in your trip.

How do I make lasting friendships while traveling?

Exchange contact details with people you genuinely connect with. Send a message after the trip, share photos, and keep in touch from time to time.

What should I do if someone does not want to talk?

Respect their choice and move on. They may be tired, busy, shy, or focused on their own plans. Try another activity or start a conversation with someone else.

Do I have to drink or party to make friends while traveling?

No. You can meet people through coffee shops, walking tours, cooking classes, museums, food markets, language exchanges, hiking groups, and cultural activities.

What should I do if I feel lonely during a solo trip?

Leave your room and choose a social setting. Join a group activity, visit a café, take a walking tour, or attend a local event. You can also contact a friend or family member at home.

Is it safe to make friends while traveling alone?

You can reduce risks by meeting new people in public places, telling someone you trust about your plans, protecting private information, and leaving if you feel uncomfortable.