Tips for meeting people while traveling solo in Europe?

solo traveleuropesocializing

Kamil_S

Joined:
13.12.2022
Posts: 873

Topic Starter

14.01.2025 14:00

I'm planning my first solo trip through Europe next month and I'm honestly a bit nervous about the social aspect. I really want to see the sights, but I'm worried about spending weeks completely on my own without anyone to talk to. Are hostels actually good for meeting people, or is that just a stereotype? I'd love to hear some advice on how to strike up conversations without feeling awkward or intrusive. Any tips on specific activities or apps that make it easier to connect with other travelers?

14 replies in this topic

Kaya_J

Joined:
31.01.2020
Posts: 1741

14.03.2025 10:54

Hostels are definitely not just a stereotype! Just make sure to pick ones that have a common room or organize pub crawls. It makes a world of difference.

Alan_K

Joined:
12.11.2023
Posts: 1462

10.06.2025 15:53

In reply to a previous post

Totally agree. Avoid the 'party' hostels if you want sleep, but definitely look for those with a social vibe in the description. Read the recent reviews on Hostelworld to see if people mention meeting others.

Nadiya_D

Joined:
31.08.2023
Posts: 1860

02.07.2025 04:19

Honestly, just sitting in the common area with a book or your phone instead of hiding in your bunk works wonders. People will naturally say hi if you look approachable.

Misho_B

Joined:
24.02.2022
Posts: 685

16.08.2025 07:34

In reply to a previous post

This is great advice. I was super shy on my first trip, but realized everyone else is in the exact same boat as you. Nobody thinks it's weird if you just ask 'Hey, where are you from?'

Igor_Tech

Joined:
11.12.2022
Posts: 1368

17.09.2025 21:40

Try doing free walking tours. You spend 2-3 hours walking around with the same group, and usually, someone will suggest grabbing lunch or a drink afterward. It's the easiest way to make friends.

Zuzi_P

Joined:
19.08.2023
Posts: 754

01.10.2025 04:21

In reply to a previous post

Yes! Walking tours are the gold standard for solo travelers. I met my best travel buddy on a free tour in Prague three years ago.

Marius_C

Joined:
11.02.2025
Posts: 1358

05.10.2025 11:35

Have you checked out the Meetup app? It's not just for travelers, but you can find local language exchanges or hiking groups which are a great way to meet locals too, not just other tourists.

misho_777

Joined:
13.02.2021
Posts: 854

23.11.2025 01:36

I've used Bumble BFF while traveling. It sounds a bit random, but it actually works if you set your location to the city you're visiting.

Stasi_B

Joined:
06.06.2023
Posts: 2084

25.11.2025 03:01

In reply to a previous post

I'm not sure about dating apps for friendship, seems a bit much? I'd stick to the hostel bar, it's more organic.

Milos_S

Joined:
10.04.2024
Posts: 1627

27.11.2025 21:56

Don't overthink it. Just be yourself and don't be afraid to eat alone. Sometimes you end up meeting the coolest people when you're just grabbing a coffee by yourself.

ekspert_forum

Joined:
03.07.2023
Posts: 602

01.12.2025 11:07

In reply to a previous post

Exactly! Solo travel is about freedom. If you don't meet anyone for a day or two, don't sweat it. You're there to see Europe, not just to socialize.

monika_p

Joined:
31.01.2025
Posts: 856

05.12.2025 13:52

Take a cooking class! It’s an activity where you’re forced to work together, so you’ll be talking to people within minutes.

Iva_R

Joined:
08.03.2024
Posts: 364

16.03.2026 03:19

I always bring a deck of cards. If you're in a common room, pull them out and ask if anyone wants to play a game. It's an immediate icebreaker.

Leon_M

Joined:
23.08.2024
Posts: 256

01.04.2026 06:39

In reply to a previous post

That's a pro tip! I'm definitely going to pack a deck of cards for my trip next month. Thanks everyone!

Tips for meeting people while traveling solo in Europe?

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