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Holidays for Single Over 60s: Travel Ideas and Tips

Published: 9 November 2026

A group of single men and women in their sixties and seventies smiling and chatting as they walk along a sunny seaside promenade on holiday

A group of single men and women in their sixties and seventies smiling and chatting as they walk along a sunny seaside promenade on holiday

Holidays for single over 60s have never been more varied. Whether you are newly single, widowed, divorced or simply have friends who never want to go to the same places as you, travelling on your own terms can be one of the most rewarding things you do in later life. You choose where to go, what to see and how fast to do it. And, if you would like company, there are plenty of ways to find it along the way. This guide covers the main types of holiday that suit older solo travellers, how to keep costs fair, how to stay safe and well, and how a trip can open the door to new friendships or even romance.

It is written for men and women in the UK and the USA, and for family members helping a parent plan their first trip alone.

Why holidays for single over 60s are worth trying

Many people put off travelling because they have no one to go with. It is a shame, because going solo has real advantages:

Freedom. Linger in a gallery all afternoon, skip the beach entirely or have breakfast at whatever time you like.
Confidence. Planning and enjoying a trip yourself is a lovely reminder of what you are capable of, especially after a big life change.
New people. Travelling alone makes you more approachable. Fellow travellers, guides and locals are far more likely to strike up a conversation.
Something to look forward to. Even the planning stage can lift your spirits through the darker months.

If you are feeling a little nervous, that is completely normal. Start small, with a short break close to home, and build from there.

Types of singles holidays for seniors

There is no single right way to travel alone. Here are the main options, with what each one suits best.

Escorted group tours

On an escorted tour, a tour manager looks after the itinerary, transport, hotels and many meals. You travel with a group, so there is always someone to chat to at dinner, but you can still head off on your own during free time. Many companies run tours specifically for solo travellers or for mature travellers, which means everyone in the group is in the same boat. These tours are a gentle first step if you have never travelled alone before.

Special interest holidays

Walking, painting, photography, cookery, gardens, history, wildlife and music holidays all attract people who share a passion. Having a common interest takes the pressure off conversation, because you already have plenty to talk about. If you enjoy a hobby at home, there is almost certainly a holiday built around it. Our guide to making friends after retirement has more ideas for turning an interest into new connections.

River and ocean cruises

Cruises are popular with older solo travellers because you unpack once and the scenery comes to you. Ships usually have social events, talks and shared dining options, so it is easy to meet people. River cruises tend to be smaller and calmer, with a stop most days. Check whether the ship offers cabins designed for one person.

Independent short breaks

A few nights in a city, a market town or by the coast can be a confidence-building way to try solo travel over 60 without committing to a long trip. Choose a well-located hotel, plan one or two things each day and leave room for wandering. Rail breaks work well too, as you can relax and watch the countryside go by.

Volunteering and learning holidays

Some people like to give something back or learn a new skill while they travel, from conservation projects to language courses. These trips often bring together people of all ages and are a meaningful way to see a place from the inside.

For more general ideas about where older travellers like to go, see our OAP holidays guide.

How to avoid paying more for travelling alone

The biggest frustration for many solo travellers is the "single supplement", an extra charge for having a double room to yourself. It is not always avoidable, but these tips can help:

Look for solo-friendly holidays. Some operators offer single rooms with no supplement or a reduced one on selected dates. Ask directly when you enquire.
Travel outside the busy season. Spring and autumn often have more flexible pricing, quieter attractions and milder weather.
Consider a room share. Some group tours will pair you with another solo traveller of the same sex, if you are comfortable with that.
Compare the full price. A trip that includes meals, transfers and excursions can work out better value than a cheaper deal with lots of extras.
Read the small print. Check exactly what is included, the cancellation terms and whether the company is part of a recognised protection scheme before you pay.

Staying safe and well on solo travel over 60

A little preparation means you can relax and enjoy yourself once you arrive.

Before you go

Check the official travel advice for your destination on gov.uk (UK) or travel.state.gov (USA).
Ask your GP, pharmacist or doctor about any vaccinations and how to travel with your medicines. The NHS travel vaccinations page is a good starting point.
Leave a copy of your itinerary, passport and insurance details with a family member or friend.
Keep a little emergency money and a second bank card separate from your main purse or wallet.

While you are away

Keep in touch with someone at home, even if it is just a quick message each evening.
Use licensed taxis or transport booked through your hotel.
Be wary of anyone who becomes very friendly very quickly and then asks for money or help with a problem. Holiday romances are lovely, but the same warning signs apply as online. Our guide on how to spot a romance scam explains what to look out for.

Travel insurance for over 60s

Good travel insurance matters at any age, and it becomes even more important later in life. Always declare any medical conditions honestly, as an undeclared condition can mean a claim is refused. Compare the level of medical cover, cancellation cover and any age limits before you buy. UK travellers heading to Europe should also carry a Global Health Insurance Card, although it is not a replacement for insurance. Our simple OAP travel insurance guide explains what to look for, and Age UK and Citizens Advice also have helpful general guidance.

Making friends and meeting people on holiday

Many solo travellers come home with new friends, and some with a new someone special. A few simple habits make it easier:

Join in early. Welcome drinks, the first group dinner and introductory talks are when friendships begin.
Sit at shared tables. It feels brave the first time, but most people are delighted to have someone new to chat to.
Ask easy questions. "What brought you on this trip?" or "Have you been here before?" are natural openers.
Swap details if you click. A shared photo album or a coffee once you are home keeps a holiday friendship going.

If you would love to find a travel companion before you go, a dating or friendship site for mature singles is a good place to start. Mention in your profile that you love travelling and where you would like to go next. It is a wonderful conversation starter, and our tips on writing a dating profile over 60 show how to bring it to life. Take things slowly, though: get to know someone well, and meet for a few relaxed first dates close to home, before you think about going away together.

A note for family members

If a parent or grandparent is planning their first solo holiday, encouragement goes a long way. Offer to help compare holidays, check insurance and set up a simple way to keep in touch, such as a family group chat or a daily photo. Try not to take over the planning, though. Choosing the trip is part of the fun, and a successful holiday can be a real boost to their confidence.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best holidays for single over 60s?

It depends on what you enjoy. Escorted group tours, special interest holidays, river and ocean cruises and short independent breaks all suit older solo travellers. Group and interest-based trips are a good choice if you would like built-in company.

How can I avoid paying a single supplement?

Look for solo-friendly holidays with no single supplement or a reduced one, travel outside the busy season, consider a room share on a group tour and compare what is included in the full price before you book.

Is solo travel over 60 safe?

Yes, with sensible preparation. Check the official travel advice for your destination, buy suitable travel insurance and declare any medical conditions, share your itinerary with someone at home and keep in touch while you are away.

Can a holiday help me meet new people or a partner?

Very often. Group tours, cruises and special interest holidays make it easy to chat to fellow travellers. If you would like a travel companion, getting to know someone on a dating site for mature singles first, and meeting close to home before travelling together, is a sensible approach.