16 Best Places To Travel For Solo Female Travelers + Solo Travel Safety Tips

Estimated Reading Time: 15 minutes

Discover the safest destinations and the best places to travel solo for female travelers. Solo travel isn’t just about visiting new places; it’s a journey of self-discovery and a testament to your strength. Gain self-confidence while making unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a unique opportunity for women to challenge themselves and see the world on their own terms.

Solo travel is a thrilling adventure. With the freedom to set your own pace, make your own choices, and explore whenever and wherever you want. It’s a chance for self-discovery and relaxation. However, safety concerns can be a significant obstacle for women who wish to travel alone.

We’ve traveled all over the world solo, so we’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel for solo female travelers. These countries are rich in culture and attractions and boast solid safety records, making them among the best destinations for solo female travelers.

What Makes a Good Solo Female Travel Destination?

Solo female travel has become increasingly popular, women are exploring the world on their own terms. Choosing the right destination is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a destination for female solo travel.

1. Safety and Security

Safety is not just a consideration; it’s a priority when traveling alone, especially as a woman. Opt for destinations with low crime rates and a welcoming attitude towards solo travelers. Countries like Iceland, Japan, and Costa Rica are known for their high safety and security scores, making them ideal choices for solo female travelers.

2. Female-Friendly Culture

Look for destinations with a culture that respects and values women. Countries like Sweden, Canada, and New Zealand are known for their gender equality and progressive attitudes towards women, making them great options for solo female travelers.

3. Accessibility and Infrastructure

Choose destinations with good transportation systems, reliable infrastructure, and easy navigation. Cities like Tokyo, Paris, and Madrid offer excellent public transportation options, making it convenient for solo travelers to explore safely and efficiently.

4. Welcoming Locals

Opt for destinations where locals are friendly, helpful, and welcoming towards solo travelers. Countries like Italy, Portugal, and Mexico are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors, creating a positive and inclusive travel experience.

5. Diverse Activities and Experiences

Select destinations that offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit your interests. Whether you enjoy cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or culinary experiences, choose destinations that align with your preferences. Cities like Rome, Oaxaca City, and Paris offer solo female travelers a mix of cultural, culinary, and historical experiences.

6. Solo Traveler-Friendly Accommodations

If possible, look for accommodations that cater to solo travelers and offer safe and comfortable lodging options. Hostels, boutique hotels, and female-only dormitories at hostels are great choices for solo female travelers looking to meet other like-minded individuals and create a sense of community while traveling alone.

7. Language Accessibility

Consider destinations where you are comfortable with the language or where English is widely spoken. This can ease communication barriers and enhance your overall travel experience.

Spain, Italy, and Japan offer a mix of English-friendly environments and opportunities to learn and practice a new language.

Choosing the right destination is essential for a successful solo female travel experience. Remember to do your research, plan, and trust your instincts when selecting your next solo travel destination.

Best Solo Travel Destinations For Women

Iceland, Costa Rica, Portugal, and Japan stand out as some of our favorites as top female solo travel destinations. These destinations offer a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, and experiences that cater to solo travelers seeking adventure and self-discovery.

From the warm hospitality of Costa Rica to the bustling streets of Tokyo, each destination provides a unique opportunity for women to explore, connect with locals, and create unforgettable memories.

Ready to explore the world solo? Check out our list of the safest destinations for female travelers!

1. Iceland

Iceland is one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe.

Iceland’s breathtaking natural landscapes include waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs, and glaciers. The capital city, Reykjavik, is lively, with plenty of nightlife and cultural attractions. The Global Peace Index ranks Iceland as the world’s safest country due to its low crime rates and friendly locals.

Iceland should be at the top of the travel wish list for solo female travelers who adore the outdoors.

Iceland offers outdoor activities such as observing whales, exploring Europe’s largest glacier, the Vatnajokull, and seeing the Northern Lights in winter, visible from September to April, are examples of the outdoor activities Iceland has to offer.

Due to its small size, welcoming locals, and breathtaking scenery, Iceland is a highly recommended travel destination for women traveling alone. 

Read Next: How To Visit Iceland On a Budget

Prefer listening to podcasts? Listen to this episode on creative ways you can save money exploring Iceland.

Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Any podcast player

2. Japan

Japan is known for its rich culture, low crime rate, and politeness. It’s regarded as the ninth safest country globally and the third safest in Asia, making it a fantastic vacation destination for solo female travelers. It’s also really clean and well-organized.

Japan offers so much to explore, from its beautiful mountains and archipelagos to its delicious food, rich history, and intriguing culture. Visit the traditional hot spring hamlet of Shibu Onsen, the world-class sand museum, or the Senmaida Rice Fields.

Eat your way through Japan by going on a ramen food tour or taking a cooking class.

Japanese culture is geared toward solo living; hungry customers can find single tables and service counters at restaurants. Additionally, Japan provides everything needed to make individuals feel safe, such as women-only hotels and train carriages.

Just be mindful that the language barrier in Japan can be tough, adding to the mental exhaustion, especially for longer trips. 

3. Ireland

Ireland is one of the best places to travel for solo female travelers. It’s safe, the locals are friendly, and the natural beauty is breathtaking. There are also few language barriers for English speakers.

See locations like the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, which span 700 feet above the untamed Atlantic coast. 

Visit Dingle as well, a traditional charming Irish seaside town.

Take a trip to the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, which connects a small island and the mainland.

Overall, Ireland is a great pick with relaxed cities, gorgeous countryside, and a lively culture. We’ve already made two trips to Ireland, and it’s one of our favorite European cities for solo travel.

Read Next: How Much Does a Trip To Ireland Cost?

You can also make your way to Northern Ireland, an easy day trip from Dublin on a guided tour, or spend more time exploring the country at your own pace.

4. Norway

Norway is renowned for its low crime rates. It’s a breathtaking country known for its mountains, fjords, scenery, and northern lights.

Explore Norway’s rugged wilderness by hiking and climbing massive mountains to discover spectacular views. Visit Tromsø, the top destination for seeing the Northern Lights.

Along with adventurous activities, Norway offers husky dog sledding and orca freediving.

Norway is also the site of numerous cultural treasures and intriguing cities, like its capital city of Oslo, a vibrant place with lots of nightlife and cultural attractions.

Read Next: How Much Does a Trip To Oslo Cost?

5. Canada

Canada is a favorite because of its ease of travel and its melting pot of cultures.

Vancouver has the West Coast’s thriving theater, music, and art scene. It‘s also home to the 450-foot Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

Montréal is renowned for its distinct French colonial past, charming bistros, and boutiques. It also features the largest church in Canada, Notre-Dame Basilica, a designated National Historic Site. The church is a must-see for its carillon, gardens, museum, and crypt.

Prince Edward Island’s rolling green hills, sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs, and mouthwatering seafood provide a tranquil getaway. Visitors can also visit the island’s Green Gables Heritage Place and golf courses. 

In central Canada, Winnipeg is a vibrant city with a thriving food scene, museums, and art galleries, such as the Canadian Museum For Human Rights and the Winnipeg Art Gallery. People are friendly, hospitable, and open to sharing their culture with visitors.

In the winter, go ice fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. You can also see polar bears and the Northern Lights.

The province of Manitoba is underrated; go visit!

Listen to this podcast episode to learn the best ways to embrace Indigenous culture in Manitoba.

Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Any player

If you enjoy a quieter pace and want to immerse yourself in a lively arts community, Saskatoon is a gateway to exploring the Canadian prairies.

Listen to this podcast episode for things to do and see across the province of Saskatchewan.

Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Any player

6. Portugal

Portugal’s progressive views toward women, LGBT tourists, and people of color make it appealing for female travelers.

Once a haven for Portuguese royalty, Sintra is known for its gardens, tiled houses, fairy-tale-like palaces, and neo-Gothic architecture.

Spend time exploring Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. VisitSão Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city from the top of a medieval fortress.

A mightymedieval castle on the Tagus River, the Belém Tower in Lisbon is a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO. It’s a representation of Portugal’s nautical history.

Madeira Botanical Gardens is a 20-acre Funchal sanctuary home to over 2,000 exotic plants. Its topiary gardens and vibrant geometric flower beds make it a must-see.

Tour the Douro Valley wine region, relax on the beaches of the Algarve Coast, or marvel at the natural wonders of Ponta de Piedade.

Read Next: How Much Does a Trip To Lisbon Cost?

7. The Azores, Portugal

Explore the Azores and volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean for a blend of adventure and relaxation.

São Miguel Island is a gem for solo female travelers seeking natural beauty, affordable prices, and tranquility. For ultimate freedom, rent a car to explore the island on your own or book various guided tours.

Hike Sete Cidades Lagoons, go whale watching, or relax in the natural hot springs of Furnas.

In Ponta Delgada, explore historic churches, visit a pineapple plantation farm, and enjoy traditional Azorean food at various restaurants.

8. Austria

Vienna, the capital of Austria, combines music, European charm, and an inviting atmosphere filled with trendy wine bars and coffee shops.

Vienna’s historic center has spectacular architecture, such as the late-19th-century Ringstrasse and Baroque gardens and castles.

The Belvedere Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings and the largest collection of Viennese Biedermeier art.

One recognizable landmark in Salzburg is the Fortress Hohensalzburg, an 11th-century castle that overlooks the city. The castle’s structures showcase the historical events within its walls. 

Graz is another must-see destination in Austria. Enjoy its rich history, modern architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. The city is easy to navigate.

Explore the charming Old Town, admire modern art at the Kunsthaus, and enjoy breathtaking views from Schlossberg.

Read Next: Where To Stay in Graz, Austria

9. Switzerland

Switzerland is a peaceful country with low crime rates, respectful locals, a reliable transportation system, and quiet streets, making it a safe destination for solo female travelers.

The country’s picturesque landscape includes mountains, sparkly lakes, and woodlands.

Right on the lake, the city of Geneva, for example, offers exquisite wine, cheese, and chocolates. It’s a melting pot of cultures with French, German, and Italian influences.

Visit the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe. This popular tourist attraction offers boat trips to the center and a quick stroll to the summit. 

Switzerland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, biking, skiing, and snowboarding. 

Switzerland is perfect for exploring independently, from the towering Alps to charming villages.

10. Slovenia

Slovenia provides an abundance of scenic landscapes and beautiful villages, as well as a secure atmosphere that offers peace of mind as you explore independently.

Due to its relatively small size easily explore different regions and experience a variety of attractions from coast to coast.

Compared to other European cities, Slovenia offers good value, making it a budget-friendly option for solo travelers.

Ljubljana, the nation’s capital, is a charming city with many restaurants and cafes along the river. While Postojna Cave for its network of tunnels, passageways, galleries, and hall.

11. Thailand

Thailand is a popular travel destination for solo females. Its friendly locals, affordability, accessibility by public transportation, and well-developed tourism infrastructure make it stand out.

Explore the Grand Palace in Bangkok, built in 1782. Visit the Phi Phi Islands, known for their white sand beaches and verdant jungles. Rising from the Andaman Sea, the islands are surrounded by blue waters and marine life.

Thailand’s highest peak is another fan favorite. Doi Inthanon National Park offers breathtaking views from its summit, trails, and waterfalls. 

Across the country, you can find temples, vibrant markets, and delicious food, whether street food or a fancy restaurant. Plus, Thailand’s affordable cost of living makes it a remarkable budget-friendly option for solo travelers.

12. Australia

Australia is a top bucket list destination for good reason. It’s such a large country, and many people like Gemma Thompson choose to spend a significant amount of time backpacking here.

Sydney is renowned for its vibrant beaches, dining scene, and iconic landmarks, such as the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The Sydney Opera House hosts over 1,600 performances annually, showcasing creative theater, symphonic music, and contemporary dance.

Bondi Beach in Sydney offers a glistening blue sea, hip restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Melbourne, Australia’s cultural hub, offers music, art, architecture, and cuisine. The center of a trendy and lively dining scene, Melbourne’s events, exhibitions, and rich cultural heritage complement various styles.

Excursions in Melbourne include the Yarra Valley, a premier wine region with historic farmhouses, vineyards, and rolling green hills.

Queensland takes a different approach with its natural resources, including the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest.

Overall, if you’re adventurous, Australia will not disappoint.

13. Barbados

If you are looking for a beachy destination in the Caribbean, Barbados offers crystal-clear beaches, outdoor activities, rich historical sites, and a vibrant nightlife.

The Andromeda Botanic Gardens, the oldest and largest in Barbados, offers over 500 plant species and 100 tree types to marvel at.

Bathsheba, the leading fishing community, has several charming churches, including the Saint Joseph Anglican Church.

St. Nicholas Abbey, a 350-year-old plantation property, is a must-see site for its rum distillery, old-fashioned furnished rooms, gardens, orchards, 1800s antiques, and an on-site sugar cane factory.

Rent a car and explore the island at your own pace. The island is relatively small, so you can see much of the country even if you’re short on time.

14. Costa Rica

Costa Rica should not be missed by travelers seeking rest and wellness. Its warm and friendly locals are beloved for their willingness to welcome travelers and welcoming nature. It’s also one of the safest countries in Central America.

Costa Rica is ideal for hiking and surfing. You can also enjoy yoga retreats, eco-lodges, spa treatments, lush rainforests, wildlife viewing, and volcano exploration. Costa Rica offers everything from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and white-water rafting.

Nausheen Farishta says Costa Rica provides opportunities for solo female travelers to meet new people and experience the local culture, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for solo female travelers.

Listen to this podcast episode to learn about the benefits of solo travel and how it can be more affordable than traveling with friends and family. Nausheen shares her favorite solo travel destinations, activities she enjoys, and tips for staying true to your budget while traveling alone.

Beach lovers will find beautiful beaches in Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, and Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula. These beaches are ideal for reading a book, surfing, and sunbathing. 

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Santa Rosa National Park in Guanacaste is Mesoamerica’s last dry tropical forest. It’s also home to the Battle of Santa Rosa site from 1856. 

While exploring the dry forest in the Murciélago area, visitors can see the Monument to the Heroes, the Stone Corrals, and the Casona Historical Museum.

The Ecotermales Hot Springs soothes tired and achy muscles. The natural energy of the Arenal Volcano heats the magnesium-rich waters, which gather in pools surrounded by patio chairs and a beautiful tropical rainforest.

15. South Korea

Hospitable local, accessible public transportation and safety measures like emergency response systems offer solo female travelers peace of mind as they explode in popular cities like Seoul, Busan, and beyond.

South Korea offers a variety of activities, including hiking mountains, viewing cherry blossoms, and exploring the Jeju islands.

In Seoul, the royal palace, Gyeongbokgung, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gates, structures, pavilions, and museums.

Bukhansan National Park offers a day hike through dense forests with dramatic peaks and hidden temples.

Meet new people and learn about the nation’s cuisine by taking a cooking class.

The Boseong region offers vibrant green hills and fields, with year-round tea consumption and the May green tea festival.

16. Spain 

If you love good food, rich culture, and history, visiting Spain will not disappoint. Spain’s breathtaking natural landscapes and architecture are stunning from the beaches to the mountains.

Park Güell in Barcelona offers incredible city views and is up close to Antoni Gaudí’s design.

Take a cooking class at a local culinary school in Madrid to learn how to make authentic Spanish tapas, socialize, and meet new people.

Attend a flamenco show, visit museums, and relax on the beaches in Barcelona and Valencia.

How To Travel Alone Confidently

If you haven’t gone on your first solo trip yet, or it’s been a while, don’t worry. Here are our best tips for getting started with solo travel and how to feel more confident.

1. Start Local

If traveling alone frightens you, you can build up your confidence by attending local events alone. 

Enjoy your own company by watching a movie alone, eating at a restaurant, going to a concert, or taking a short weekend trip nearby. 

Starting on a small scale will allow you to test the waters and discover what traveling solo is like.

Do this a few times, and you’ll be ready for your first (or next) solo adventure.

2. Don’t Let Language Barriers Scare You

If you visit a place where you do not speak the language, you will find a way to communicate.

Practice with language apps, purchase a phrase book, and use Google Translate to translate signs and menus and pronounce words.

Read More: Tips for When You Don’t Speak the Language

3. Make an Itinerary

Planning ahead is especially important when you are venturing to a new destination alone. It also helps you maximize your time.

Before your trip, determine the top things you want to see and do, and how much money you will spend. 

Start with a free walking tour of the city to get a lay of the land and meet other travelers.

Ask your tour guide about their favorite restaurants, bars, and activities – they’ll gladly share their recommendations with you.

4. Share Your Itinerary with Loved Ones

Share your travel plans with family and close friends. Include addresses, websites, and phone numbers just in case they need them. Consider sharing Uber and Lyft rides with family and friends.

5. Remain Alert

When traveling solo, always remain alert and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid looking down at your phone or listening to music.

6. Pack light

Packing light helps you easily travel and ensures heavy, bulky backpacks and luggage don’t weigh you down.

While traveling solo, you need to be able to lift your bags overhead without any help. Packing light reduces the number of things you need to keep track of and saves you money on airline baggage fees.

Knack Bags is our favorite all-in-one carry-on backpack and weekender bag.

7. Wear a fanny pack

Fanny packs are back in style!

Keep your belongings close to your body with a cross-body bag or fanny pack.

8. Never leave your drink unattended.

Always bring your drink with you, and never leave it unattended. Also, never accept a drink if you haven’t seen how it was made.

9. Don’t post in real time

As much as we’d like to share our travels in real time, please avoid it.

Posting your whereabouts makes it easier for people to track your movements and target you. Avoid alerting people you are not home. Also, you never know if one of your followers is nearby and would go out of their way to meet you. Wait a while before posting about your trip. We prefer to delay sharing until after we’ve returned home, sometimes weeks after outings.

10. Just because you are alone doesn’t mean you have to remain alone

When traveling solo you do not have to be alone every waking minute of the day. Meet other people and enjoy the company of a group by joining a walking tour, guided day trip excursion, or food tour. 

GetYourGuide and Viator are great places to discover and book travel tours and activities worldwide.

11. Never mention you are alone

When traveling alone, it’s easy to meet people. Never share you are traveling alone. Say you’re meeting up with a friend, family member, boyfriend, or partner soon.

Solo Travel Tips Summary: 

• Start local – go to nearby events and dine at restaurants alone.
• Don’t let language barriers scare you – use resources like Google Translate to help you communicate.
• Create an itinerary – focus what you want to do and how much it will cost. 
• Remain alert.
• Even though you travel alone, it doesn’t mean you must remain alone. You’ll meet lots of people along the way.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up, we hope this list of solo travel destinations for women has sparked your interest in exploring the world alone.

The world is a big place, and luckily, many incredible destinations offer safety, beauty, adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences.

Choosing the right destination comes down to interests, budget, travel style, and research findings. Happy solo travels!

Read Next: Best Winter Destinations For Black Female Solo Travelers