Busy streets, noisy gatherings, and crowded landmarks may come to mind when you think of traveling. Talk about exhausting and overwhelming at times! The good news is that places do exist for people who prefer solitude.
If you’re looking for the best places to explore solo, get off the grid, or simply hear your own thoughts, then one of these 12 best travel destinations for introverts will be just the place for you!
These places offer cultures that respect personal boundaries along with a variety of activities to enjoy alone. Plus, you’ll find serene landscapes ranging from calm coasts to picturesque peaks—awaiting your arrival to relish comfortably on your own.
Ready to escape all the hustle and bustle and enjoy some much-needed and well-deserved “me time”? You’re bound to come across a country on this list that strikes your fancy, suits your passions, and satisfies your introverted wanderlust!
What Makes These Destinations the Best for Introverts?
The best places for introverts to travel are more common than you’d think!
You may be wondering what makes these the best places to travel for introverts. Here’s the recipe: a large helping of introverted-oriented cultures, scoops of relatively safe environments, several dashes of small and quiet towns, and lots of sprinkles of solo excursion availability.
And what about all the tourists? Not to worry, we include the best times to travel to these places to dodge the droves! When you need some time for yourself, these places offer plenty of far-off countryside for resting and recharging.
Plus, this list takes into consideration the many flavors of introverts: adventurists and outdoor lovers, foodies, language learners, and cultural enthusiasts. So you’ll have lots of options to have experiences that match your interests and enjoy solitude away from the crowds.
12 Best Places to Travel for Introverts
Yes, you guessed it—many Nordic countries, along with a few other European countries, make for the best places to travel for introverts. But wait, that’s not all! A few countries in Southeast Asia/Oceania and an oft-overlooked region make the cut, too. Read on to discover why each destination will delight reserved roamers.
1. Switzerland
Why? As a neutral country that highly values personal space, independence, self-care, and silence, Switzerland is the crème de la crème destination for introverts to travel. All in all, they favor smaller, more intimate social gatherings and deeper connections, and you don’t have to worry about anyone bothering you here.
Enjoy sampling divine chocolates, taste-testing aromatic cheeses, and sipping Kafi-crème in any of the charming small towns amongst cobblestoned streets and half-timbered houses.
You’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy solo here. Soak in panoramic views of scenic countrysides on a laidback train ride, unwind in mineral baths with views of Lake Lucerne at Mount Rigi, ski the slopes in Arosa, or trek the Tour du Mont Blanc trail on Mount Pilatus.
Quietest time of year: September-May (except December)
What to do there:
- United Planet - Volunteer Abroad in Switzerland
- ELFI - Intensive French classes in Geneva (Switzerland)
- Westcoast Connection - Summer Adventure in Switzerland
2. Finland
Discover your own “sisu,” while in Finland
Why? Finland is one of the most introverted nations in the world. In fact, they have a concept called “sisu”— a quiet strength to withstand challenges with a stoic demeanor— that contributes to introversion. They believe in respecting other people’s space, and they understand the need for solitude to recharge.
If you’re an outdoor lover, consider Finland a love letter to you. With nearly 200,000 lakes, 40 national parks, and endless forests, you’ll find yourself in your element here. Hike, fish, climb, and canoe to your heart’s delight! After a long day or trekking, sit back and relax in a sauna—after all, it’s their national pastime.
Quietest time of year: September-May (except December)
What to do there:
- Youth for Understanding - Study Abroad in Finland
- Piktalent - Discover Tailored Hospitality Internships in Finland
- United Planet - Volunteer in beautiful Finland
3. Sweden
Why? Sweden also tops the list for one of the best places for introverts to travel, as the people highly value personal space and individual autonomy. They keep to themselves, so you won’t have to deal with anyone striking up a random conversation with you.
View the canals from the top floor of Fotografiska, a photography museum. Mosey along Monteliusvagen, a historic walking area, to soak in the architectural sights of Stockholm. Stroll through fairytale palaces, medieval cathedrals, and idyllic gardens.
Kayak, swim, or sail at any of the thousands of lakes. On the flip side, ski, skate, or snowboard at any one of the hundreds of Alpine resorts and then enjoy a fika (coffee break) by a cozy fireplace.
Quietest time of year: Mid-October-Mid-April
What to do there:
- Language Vacation - Live & Study in the Home of your Own Private Swedish Teacher
- University Studies Abroad Consortium - Study Abroad for your undergraduate or graduate courses
- Intern in Stockholm with Absolute Internship
4. Iceland
Experience the Land of Fire and Ice on your terms.
Why? The Land of Fire and Ice is a peak paradise for introverts. From stargazing at the Northern Lights to marveling at expansive glaciers, get ready to immerse yourself in other worldly views. The possibilities to retreat to peopleless places are practically endless.
Take a road trip along winding coastal roads and enjoy the vast and sprawling valleys and cliffs. For even more thrills and chills, explore ice caverns, ride on a quad through lava fields, and even go white water rafting on glacial rivers.
But one of the best places to travel for introverts in Iceland? Head to Westfjord, a sparsely populated area in the west that features Dynjandi waterfall, puffins at the Látrabjarg cliffs, the golden red-sanded Rauðisandur beach, and more!
Quietest time of year: September-June
What to do there:
- Worldwide Friends - 6-Week Journey Around Iceland to Fight Global Warming
- GoBeyond - Global Community Service Adventures for Teens
- Worldwide Friends Iceland - Siglufjordur, One Earth
5. Japan
Why? While crowds may come to mind when you think of Japan, it’s one of the best travel destinations for introverts where you can blend into the background. They have an extensive network of on-time trains where mum’s the word. Experience a tea ceremony at Muan Tea House at Happo-en, scan the shelves of Tsutaya Books in Daikanyama, and soak in beauty at the National Museum of Modern Art.
You’ll find no shortage of placid places to explore outside of the cities. Venture to Kamakura, Nikko, or Kanazawa to find your zen among tranquil temples, secluded shrines, and graceful gardens. With Japan’s archipelagos stretching nearly 2,000 miles from north to south, natural landscapes abound for sightseeing.
Quietest time of year: January-March
What to do there:
- Meiji Academy - Study Japanese in Fukuoka
- International TEFL Academy - Get Certified & Teach English in Mesmerizing Japan!
- Rustic Pathways - Discover and Volunteer in Japan
6. South Korea
Wander your way through South Korea to great eats, activities, and nature.
Why? You can count on South Koreans appreciating introverted personalities. Here, tour traditional temples, binge-eat bibimbap, and explore ancient palaces and fortresses. For nature lovers, discover a plethora of national parks, gentle gardens, and even lava caves.
The exceptionally safe city of Seoul makes it possible to easily get around on foot or on the subway. If you’d like, bike alone along the Han River at Yeouido Hangang Park to immerse yourself in cherry blossom trees.
Be sure to make your way to Dobongsan mountain if you’d like to escape the city—hiking up some trails may be challenging at times, but the spectacular vistas, lush foliage, and Buddha statues along the way will make the trekking worth it.
Quietest time of year: November-March
What to do there:
- Travel Grad - Korea 365 (Teaching English in South Korea)
- LanguBridge Education Centre - Summer Korean Immersion Program at Seoul
- Volunteer Abroad with Korea Food for the Hungry
7. Denmark
Why? You’ll find an introverted culture in this Scandinavian country, where Danes appreciate some distance, serene settings, and efficient communication. Discover the meaning of the Dane-invented concept of hygge, a cozy feeling about enjoying the present moment in a warm and comfortable atmosphere with loved ones.
If you’re game for some unique activities, hunt for prehistoric fossils in Møns Klint, forage for oysters in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Wadden Sea National Park, or climb a migrating dune in North Jutland.
Copenhagen offers a variety of activities perfect for lone rangers. Rent a bike and wheel along the waterfront to view colorful houses, promenade through the King’s Garden, kick back on a “parkipelago” (a floating park island) on the harbor, or curl up with a good book in a local cafe.
Quietest time of year: September-May
What to do there:
- AFS-USA - Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Denmark
- Transitions Abroad Publishing - Quest Volunteer in Denmark with United Planet
- Travel For Teens - Scandinavian Adventure
8. Patagonia (Chile & Argentina)
Unplug for a while and visit the Patagonian region in South America
Why? Embodying the southern cone of South America lies the geographical region of Patagonia, a combination of Chile and Argentina. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination for introverts, then look no further than this remote destination to explore a vast range of wildlife and wilderness.
To unplug from the world, take a cruise (more of a ferry) to Puerto Natales. Marvel at fjords, snow-covered peaks, and small villages. You may even catch glimpses of dolphins, seals, and whales! Once you’ve docked, head to Torres del Paine to hike among granite peaks and glacial lakes and lagoons and a chance to spot a flamingo or two!
Quietest time of year: June-August (their winter)
What to do there:
- Enforex - Spanish in The Spanish World - Learn Spanish in Spain or Latin America
- GoEco - Volunteer at a Puma Sanctuary in Argentina
- Adelante Abroad - Complete an Internship in Vina Del Mar or Valpariso, Chile
9. New Zealand
Why? If you share a kindred spirit with Hobbits, then the Land of the “Lord of the Rings” will be a dream come true for you (and yes, touring Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata is an option!). Nearly 80% of New Zealand is uninhabited with more sheep than people!
Ride the TranzAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass National Park, soar new heights on a small plane ride above the fiord of Milford Sound, or white-water raft the rapids of Kaituna River.
Keep in mind that since New Zealand lies in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are flipped—so summer is December-February and their peak season for tourists. But with so much to see and do any time of year, from surfing at Awana Beach to skiing in Wanaka, it’s really choose your adventure here!
Quietest time of year: March-November (their fall/winter)
What to do there:
- Kaya Responsible Travel - Support Environmental Conservation on the South Island
- Intern Abroad HQ - The Most Affordable Internship Programs in New Zealand!
- South Pacific Semester | Carpe Diem Education Gap Year
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10. Austria
Relax in Austrian vineyards, hot springs, and fairy tale towns.
Why? From the Baroque architecture to classical music, the heart of Europe offers a haven for introverted cultural lovers. Embrace the beauty of gothic-style cathedrals, priceless art museums, and ornate concert halls. As Austrians tend to be more reserved and composed, you can explore unbothered.
As one of the greenest capital cities in Europe, Vienna boasts many parks (and even a forest!) for endless strolling, hiking, and biking. Outside of the city, discover storybook villages throughout Austria or rejuvenate in refreshing hot springs, explore river-lined vineyards, and marvel at fairy-tale palaces. The Austrian Alps also offer a playground for skiers and snowboarders. If you’d like, wander to Werfen to explore Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave, the largest ice cave in Europe!
Quietest time of year: October-April
What to do there:
- Language Vacation - German Language Course and Immersion
- IES Abroad Vienna - Music Internships
- International TEFL Academy - Get Paid to Teach English in Austria
11. Scotland
Why? Scotland features remote lands that offer silent beauty, making this country a top destination for those seeking solace. The loudest sounds you may hear may be your own heartbeat, soothing raindrops, and distant bird calls.
If gin or whisky is your preferred “poison,” you could go on a taste-testing tour in one of their many distilleries—this way, you can have a drink outside of a crowded pub!
From the misty mountains to the rugged highlands, you’ll also find no shortage of opportunities to soak in scenic views. Explore ancient castles, spot seals on isolated islands, and cruise along peaceful lochs.
Quietest time of year: September-May
What to do there:
- Adventures in Preservation - Dunans Bridge & Castle Conservation
- API - Experience Stirling, Scotland
- AIFS Abroad - Internships in Edinburgh, Scotland
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12. Slovenia
Catch a sunset (or sunrise) in Slovenia!
Why? Tucked under Austria and east of Italy lies Slovenia, the last but not least best places for introverts to travel. From sampling seafood in a sleepy town on the Adriatic shore to spelunking Karst region caves, Slovenia offers a variety of regions to explore. Most of all, the charming lakeside towns nestled at the foothills of the Julian Alps will sweep you off your feet.
If you love a good (but not too technically demanding) adventure, hike along the Juliana Trail, which rounds the Triglav National Park—explore lush green valleys, visit an 11th century castle in Bled, and bask in the crystal-clear Lake Bohinj along the way. For the more experienced climbers, summit the 9,000-ft. Mt Triglav!
Quietest time of year: September-May
What to do there:
- Peace Boat - Volunteer to Teach on a Global Voyage
- University of Ljubljana - University Degree Programme in Business and Economics
- Westcoast Connection - Summer Adventure in Slovenia
Find your travel style in one of the best places to travel for introverts!
There’s a travel destination for anyone out there.
From reflecting on remnants to reconnecting with nature, you’ll find a plethora of comfortable environments in any of these best travel destinations for introverts. These countries offer a range of activities to tune your energy levels up or down, from relaxing in peace to pumping up the adrenaline. So, what are you waiting for?! Take your pick and travel on your terms!
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