How to Confidently Enjoy Bars Alone While Traveling

How to Enjoy Going to a Bar Alone When You Travel

Going to pubs, clubs, and bars by yourself can feel intimidating at first. As a solo traveler, though, skipping nightlife means missing a huge part of local culture—music, community, and serendipitous conversations. With a few smart habits, you can feel safe, relaxed, and genuinely enjoy your night out.

From a fiddle session in Dublin to late-night jazz in Havana, live music often shines brightest after dark. Big concerts can be pricey, but small venues are usually more affordable, more intimate, and far more local—perfect for travelers looking to connect.

To discover what’s on, ask staff at your accommodation, chat with locals, check city event calendars, and browse trusted entertainment guides like Time Out.

Going to a Bar Alone: 12 Safety Tips

1. Dress to local norms. Respect the culture and keep your attire aligned with local standards. It sets a positive tone and helps you blend in.
2. Tell someone your plan. Share where you’re going and roughly when you’ll be back with a trusted person at home or at your accommodation.
3. Arrive a little early. You’ll have more choice of seating and time to get comfortable with the space.
4. Sit at the bar. It’s social, staff are nearby, and you’ll usually have a clear view of the room.
5. Choose a strategic seat. If tables run along the walls in an L shape, take the short end. You’ll face the room and naturally connect with more people.
6. Carry only essentials. Bring one card, some backup cash stashed separately, and a photo ID—leave your passport and extras locked up.
7. Guard your drink. Never leave it unattended; if you step away, order a fresh one when you return.
8. Borrow a line buddy. If a long queue feels uneasy, politely ask to join a safe-looking group until you’re inside and settled. Then part ways—or make new friends.
9. Locate exits immediately. A quick scan when you arrive means you can leave fast if needed.
10. Pick your conversations. Be proactive about who you chat with so your evening isn’t steered by the wrong person.
11. Limit alcohol. Drink less than you would at home so you’re alert and in control.
12. Leave solo, too. No matter how friendly people seem, book a taxi or use reputable transport. Exit on your own terms.

Enjoy the Nightlife Solo: Make It Fun

Walking into a new venue alone takes a deep breath and a little courage. Most nights will be simply pleasant; sometimes they’ll be unforgettable. Set yourself up for both.

1. Keep expectations realistic. Treat it as a casual night out to explore the scene. If the band is brilliant or you click with new friends—bonus.
2. Befriend the bartender or server. Ask for drink or snack suggestions and how their night’s going. They’ll clock that you’re solo and often keep an eye out for you—tip well.
3. Go off-peak. When it’s quieter, it’s easier to find a seat, chat with staff, and meet others without crashing big groups.
4. Give it a moment before grabbing your phone. First, read the room. If nothing’s happening, scroll something light and laugh—it signals you’re friendly and approachable.
5. Start a conversation. Skip “Do you come here often?” Try a genuine opener: “What’s the story behind this bar?” or “Know anything about the band?”
6. Dance if the floor is hopping. Enjoy the freedom of being somewhere no one knows you. It’s your cue to let go.
7. Join the game crowd. Sports on big screens are built-in icebreakers, even for casual fans.

Two Short Tales of Going to Pubs, Clubs, and Bars Solo

• The place: Havana
  The club: La Casa de la Música
  The tactic: I chose an afternoon show thinking it would be tourist-heavy. It wasn’t. In a sea of locals, I spotted three travelers and greeted them like old friends. They turned out to be Hungarian, but understood I wanted safety in numbers and welcomed me. Inside, their guide even taught me to salsa.
• The place: Ambleside, Lake District, England
  The pub: The Unicorn
  The tactic: I grabbed the short end of a long table, and as the night went on, hikers naturally filled in around me. Conversation flowed, and by my third visit, I walked in like a regular.

And if bar life isn’t your scene every night, that’s fine. Consider evening walks in busy areas, a local theater show, a food tour, or a twilight museum opening. You have options—go with what feels right for you.

Last updated: October 16, 2023