Make an Itinerary

It is very important to have an itinerary. I would even have this done before you go. If you are traveling during peak season, it is best to have any visits or tours booked ahead of time. Some things are still available on the day but I would be sure to book anything that you really would like to do well in advance. This way, you will not be disappointed. Trip Advisor is a great resource for this. I often book all of my tours through them.

Most cities offer tours. There are even things that are probably going on weekly throughout the year so all you need to do is know about it and show up. Again, if it’s high season, I would try to see if booking is necessary. Check out the local tourism office site and Trip Advisor

Those silly bus tours that everyone rolls their eyes at, are some of the best. I think it’s a great way to have an overview of the city. Being alone, this is a very comfortable and easy way to begin your trip. While you’re on the bus, you can take note of anywhere you think you’d like to come back to. Most bus tours offer a 2 day ticket so you could even go back the next day and use it as your taxi service. Most all of them are hop on/hop off. I would encourage you to do this as your first activity. Once you’ve discovered your surroundings you’ll have a different focus on how you want to get around.

Not a fan of the bus tour? There will be many opportunities to book other tours. There could be anything from historical tours, wine tours, food tours, hiking and cooking classes. If you really don’t like tours, simply wander around on your own. Whatever you do, make a list of things you want to see. It’s important to have focus. Take a look, there’s so much going on. Again….Trip Advisor

The more you have organized, the less alone you will feel. It’s a great strategy for enjoying your time and keeping it interesting.

Do your Research

This seems obvious but you’d be surprised when you arrive in your new city all of the things that are going on. Apart from the everything that you must see and do, there are often lots of events taking place which are designed for locals. In fact, it’s probably a good idea to check this out beforehand and reserve some tickets to any events you’d like to attend. For example, in the South of France, there are many events happening which you can find out about via the tourist information centers of each town. Things sell out quickly and it’s best to book tickets before you arrive. Not only will you have something to look forward to but it also takes the stress out of scrambling for tickets once you arrive. There will still be opportunities to find out about other things going on in the area but you don’t want to be disappointed. As a solo traveller, this also gives you places to go and you won’t be feeling lost about how to organize your day.

Again, TripAdvisor. I use it all the time to find out where to eat, what to do, etc. It is very useful and I have never been disappointed with the advice that I have found here. I also review most of the things that I do, as I really believe in this forum. Trip Advisor is also a great place to book a tour. I have done it in many cities and again, have been very satisfied with the results.

Google local tourism offices, too.