6 Things You HAVE to Do as a Solo Traveller in Spain
Spain remains one of the most welcoming destinations in Europe for those brave enough to pack a bag and head to the airport alone. It offers a superb mix of vibrant social culture and peaceful solitude, meaning you never have to feel lonely unless you specifically want some quiet time. If you are planning a solo holiday to the Iberian Peninsula, there are a few essential experiences you simply cannot miss.
Hit the Fairways on the Costa del Sol
For those who enjoy active holidays, the southern coast offers world-class sporting opportunities that are perfect for solo travellers looking to join a group or enjoy a peaceful round. The region is famous for its “Costa del Golf” nickname, and rightly so, as it has over eighty top-tier Spain golf courses. You can easily book Spain tee times online to slot yourself into a game at prestigious venues like La Zagaleta or the scenic Chaparral Golf Course in Mijas. It is a fantastic way to meet people in a relaxed environment without the pressure of forced conversation.
Organizing a golfing itinerary has never been easier because you can browse through various Spain golf courses to find one that suits your handicap and budget. Many of these clubs offer added value for visitors, such as buggies included in the price or discounts for twilight rounds. You should definitely keep an eye out for Spain golf deals that package these perks together, as they can save you a fair bit of money. Once you have sorted out your Spain green fees, you are free to enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean while working on your swing under the Andalusian sun.
Master the Art of the Tapas Crawl
Dining alone can be the most daunting part of solo travel, but Spain solves this problem with the glorious tradition of tapas. In Spain, eating is a social activity, but the format is uniquely suited to singles. You should avoid sitting at a table by yourself and instead stand at the bar, which is standard practice in cities like Madrid, Seville, and San Sebastian. Standing at the bar places you right in the middle of the atmosphere, where it is incredibly easy to strike up a chat with the barman or locals.Â
Get Lost in a Pueblo Blanco
Andalusia is dotted with stunning white villages, or “pueblos blancos,” that cling to mountainsides. Renting a car to visit towns like Ronda, Zahara de la Sierra, or Setenil de las Bodegas allows you to step away from busy coastal resorts. These villages are safe, quiet, and perfect for wandering aimlessly through winding cobbled streets. Without a travel partner to rush you, you can spend hours photographing the stark white architecture against the blue sky or simply drinking coffee in a sunny plaza while watching the world go by.
Experience the Golden Triangle of Art
Madrid boasts three of the most important art museums in the world, located within a short walk of each other: The Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. These museums offer collections that are difficult to appreciate when dragging a bored companion along. Visiting these galleries alone allows you to linger in front of a masterpiece like Guernica or Las Meninas for as long as you like without feeling antisocial. Audio guides become your best friend, offering a deep dive into history that you might skip if you were chatting with a friend.
Embrace the Late-Night Lifestyle
Spain follows a timetable that feels very different from the rest of Europe, and once you settle into it everything becomes much more enjoyable. Lunch is in the afternoon, dinner starts late in the evening, and the streets stay lively long after dark. As a solo traveller, this is incredibly reassuring because you never feel out of place walking around at night. Families, teenagers, and older couples are all out enjoying the cooler hours. It also means you can enjoy a proper afternoon siesta without feeling guilty.Â
Hike the Caminito del Rey
If you want a thrill that is safe for a solo adventurer, the Caminito del Rey in Malaga is a must. Once known as the “world’s most dangerous walkway,” it is now a spectacular, secure hiking route pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge. It is a bucket-list experience that proves you do not need a travel partner to do something daring. The path is linear and regulated, so you are never truly isolated, yet the sheer scale of the canyon provides a profound sense of awe that is best processed in silence.
Spain is a country that rewards curiosity and independence. Whether you are navigating the fairways of the Costa del Sol or navigating the menu at a bustling tapas bar, the country makes it easy to enjoy your own company. The key is to throw away your rigid schedule and let the relaxed Spanish rhythm guide your holiday.Â