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Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

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Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Here are the top travel destinations around the world for solo women.

Solo travel can be intimidating. Whether you're heading to a city in your own country or across the globe, traveling alone can bring up a wealth of concerns — from the awkwardness of dining on your own to more serious issues of safety, especially for women. But despite any nervousness or uncertainty, traveling solo can be one of the most freeing and rewarding experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the community and stumble upon those moments of cross-cultural connection organically.

Choosing the right destination is key, so we've rounded up some of the best destinations around the world for women to travel solo.

Between exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, chasing the northern lights , and driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can have an unforgettable trip in Iceland and feel safe doing so. The country has consistently ranked first on both the Institute for Economics and Peace's Global Peace Index and the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report, so visitors can rest assured that safety and gender equality are prized in this naturally stunning destination. Solo tourists can head out into the wilderness via well-traveled (often busy, even) hiking trails and make friends with locals and fellow foreigners alike.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an extremely walkable city, and you're unlikely to get lost as long as you have a map of some kind. You can window shop along Las Ramblas, stroll down the beach boardwalk, and wander through the Gaudi-designed Park Güell while taking in the gardens and claiming panoramic views of the city for yourself.

The dining options are conducive to solo travel, too. Instead of sitting by your lonesome in a dining room, you can take your paella al fresco at one of the many waterfront restaurants (people-watching is built-in entertainment) or opt for a counter seat at a tapas bar.

3. Seattle, Washington, United States

Thanks to the omnipresence of Seattle's coffee culture , a solo diner (or drinker) is not an uncommon sight. Plus, the city's proliferation of cafes means there's a rest stop around every corner to break up visits to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or the campy Museum of Pop Culture , aka "MoPOP." The compact downtown area makes it easy for visitors to zip between attractions, restaurants, and shops on foot — and anything that is slightly farther is accessible by the easy-to-use Link light rail.

4. Munich, Germany

The jolly German mentality shines through in this Bavarian city, where tourists and locals bond over brötchen in mom-and-pop bakeries and pints in the biergartens. Although Oktoberfest happens only in the fall (and does not lend itself to a solo experience, per se), the beer halls in Munich maintain that same kind of festive ambience throughout the year. Hofbräuhaus is, hands down, the most famous and guaranteed to contain an abundance of other tourists. Fellow travelers can also be found climbing the Olympiapark tower ( Olympiaturm ), the top of which provides views extending as far as the Alps.

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country's low crime rate heightens the appeal. Protected by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik gives you history, culture, and beautiful beaches all in one destination. Its cobblestone streets guide visitors to artisanal shops and local eateries, while a walk along the walls offers spectacular bird's-eye views of the Adriatic coastline. Just a few minutes from Old Town, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling via tours and rentals offered right on the beach.

6. Austin, Texas, United States

Austin's festival culture makes it easy to get pulled in multiple directions, but it's also a great way to meet new people. There's plenty to see and do, whether you're checking out live music or eating your way through Tex-Mex and BBQ restaurants and food trucks. When you need a little quiet time, head downtown for a walking tour, or find a spot to watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.

Austin is often ranked as one of the safest big cities in the U.S. Note, though, that the ubiquity of booze here can be a blessing or a curse. While it keeps the streets populated (and therefore generally safe) at night, alcohol can lead to crime even within tourist circles, so exercise caution while participating in Austin's lively bar scene.

7. Salzburg, Austria

Overlooked by the Hohensalzburg Fortress and bisected by the Salzach River, Mozart's hometown has storybook allure. After reliving scenes from "The Sound of Music" at Mirabell Gardens and Nonnberg Abbey, relax with a coffee on the terrace of Cafe Tomaselli or a pint in the 1,400-seat outdoor area of Austria's biggest biergarten, Augustiner Bräu . Cyclists should take note: While the entire city is walkable, Salzburg is also one of the country's most bike-friendly cities. More than 100 miles of cycle paths mean you can pack way more into a day and get around more efficiently (and economically) as a solo traveler.

8. Taipei, Taiwan

xPACIFICA/Getty Images

The capital of Taiwan offers an ideal mix of history and modernity. You'll find temples and skyscrapers, contemporary malls and traditional night markets — perfect for making a meal out of snacks while shopping for accessories and souvenirs. Taipei has the bustle of a major Asian metropolis but with important urban comforts as well. Street signage and public transportation all have names in English — and even though crime is overall low in the country, the metro system has " Safe Waiting Zones " marked on the platforms, which are monitored closely by video feed to protect passengers at night.

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

In the quirky Danish capital, you'll find plenty of centrally located hotels offering single rooms, each providing the perfect jumping-off point for Copenhagen adventures. Must-visit spots include Nyhavn, the iconic canal lined with multicolored houses (opt for a tour for a closer look at the city's waterways), and Tivoli Gardens, a historic amusement park. Stop for a quick solo bite at the TorvehallerneKBH food hall. With Danish culture valuing the importance of community dining, solo travelers should never feel alone.

10. Melbourne, Australia

This Australian metropolis is one of the most livable cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit. Throw in a free tourist tram that reaches the major sights — including the Queen Victoria Market, Carlton Gardens, and Federation Square — and Melbourne's got simplicity and safety all rolled up in one. Because Australia offers a Working Holiday visa allowing visitors between 18 and 35 to work in the country for a year, the city is especially popular with young expats.

11. Stockholm, Sweden

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home to coffee shops, restaurants, stores, and even a castle, prompting hours of exploring on foot. The modern areas surrounding it are also easy to navigate through a string of metro stations, which double as art exhibits with their over-the-top murals, mosaics, and sculptures.

12. Okinawa, Japan

For a taste of Japan without the overwhelming hustle, head to Naha, the capital of the Okinawa islands. The monorail is super accessible, linking the airport to the city center as well as the popular Shuri Castle. And within walking distance of the city center are the Naminoue city beach, Tsuboya pottery district, and Makishi Public Market, where the pull-up-a-chair stands are primed for solo dining.

13. Norway’s Fjords

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

There's no better environment for self reflection than the soothing blue-and-green canvas of the Norwegian fjords. In Bergen, you can ride up the Fløibanen funicular or embark on a daylong journey on the Bergen Railway. Head to Gudvangen and take a cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Equally impressive as the waterfalls-at-every-glance boat ride is the Flåm Railway trip, with views outside the window changing from seascapes to snow-capped mountains. This trip is for the solo traveler seeking peace in nature rather than busy biergartens and the like.

14. Washington, D.C., United States

The manageable size and easy layout of the U.S. capital make it an ideal stomping ground for solo travelers. In addition to exploring the memorials along the National Mall, you can take in the exhibits at the many Smithsonian museums (plus the zoo), all walkable and offering free admission. If you want to explore further, it's easy to get on two wheels at one of the hundreds of Capital Bikeshare stations, which extend to Arlington, Alexandria, and Montgomery County. Alternatively, take advantage of the efficient D.C. Metro for day trips to nearby areas.

15. London, England

For European charm without the culture shock or language barrier, there's London. Visitors could spend days just roaming along the River Thames, snacking in Borough Market, and admiring the eclectic houseboats, or strolling through the Royal Parks and eyeing luxury items at Harrods. After dark, grab a seat alongside locals at a pub or catch a show in the West End, then enjoy a late-night bite in nearby Chinatown. The endless sights and entertainment are easily connected via the London Underground, better known as the Tube.

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12 Amazing Destinations for Women Who Are Traveling Solo

These trip ideas make traveling alone fun (and safe).

The best thing about traveling alone is that your experience is truly what you make it. Instead of factoring in budgets, interests and opinions of others, you can tailor your trip to include exactly what you want to do and you won’t have to sacrifice anything. Whether you’re hoping to find cheap places to solo travel and ideal all-inclusive vacations for one, we’ve found the best places that encourage solo travel for women . We've included spots in the United States that are really standouts, as well as international countries.

We know you may have concerns about safety, but not to worry: We have already checked in with the Institute for Economics and Peace's 2022 Global Peace Index , which vets each country to measure their "peacefulness" when it comes to society, to ensure that these destinations are high on their list. Another thing we took into consideration was what's been stated on the U.S. Department of State's travel advisories. But before you go anywhere, we encourage you to do your own research and check with a friend who has been there (or better yet, a local).

Iceland tops the Global Peace Index for the most peaceful country in the world. Even the U.S. government says that Iceland has a "a low crime rate ." With its many natural attractions, including Black Sand Beach, Blue Lagoon, ice caps, steaming geysers and more, Iceland is a natural pick for a travel destination.

As if the beaches, architecture and food were not already a major draw, Spain ranks in the top 30 on the 2022 Global Peace Index , making it one of the countries in the world that has improved peace over the last year. Solo travelers will enjoy the country's diverse terrain, offering walkable cities, vast deserts and calming countrysides. Another plus when visiting Spain is that you can easily enjoy tapas for one sitting barside or enjoy street food in a nearby park.

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Denmark is well known for its stunning castles, vibrant towns and villages, as well as famous natural-occurring attractions. The country is also vetted as safe and secure, ranking twelfth on the World Economic Forum's 2021 Travel and Tourism Development Index .

Boasting over 1,200 islands, Croatia is the perfect destination for anyone who loves sailing or outdoor water activities. Its coastal cities also feature gorgeous cobblestone streets, adorable cafés and artisan boutiques. If that isn't enough, the country's low crime rate also makes it an amazing option for solo travel.

For a beachside vacation, Costa Rica is just the place to go. Not only does it have clear blue waters, but you can also visit a national park or conservation areas. Costa Rica is also a less expensive alternative to some European cities, but is just as easy to get around.

It's hard to beat the beauty of Ireland. Go see the Blarney Stone in Cork, have a pint in Dublin or visit a haunted castle in Offaly. The U.S. government notes that the country has a "low rate of violent crime."

Rwanda is actually one of a few countries that are in the blue zone on the U.S. government's website . Meaning, you can exercise "normal" precautions when traveling. You'll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the African country as you can plan to see incredible wildlife in their many National Parks.

Seattle, Washington

Seafood, national parks and adventurous outdoor activities are just a few things that make Seattle a great destination for solo travel. Though the city may get a bad rap for its numerous rainy days, when you do get to experience the sun, you'll have tons to do and the places around the city to dodge the rain aren't too shabby either.

Historic towns and picturesque views will make you fall in love with Austria. With a culture steeped in rich art and architecture, you will find exciting activities like skiing in the mountains or visiting notable landmarks. The U.S. government notes that the country has "one of the lowest crime rates in Europe and violent crime is rare."

You may come for the hot springs, festivals and breathtaking landscape, but you'll want to stay for the variety of places to shop and dine. Taiwan's diverse offerings make it the ideal location for solo exploration.

Washington, DC

The nation's capital is a walkable city with several options for public transportation and a wealth of culture and architecture. You can make your way to the National Mall to visit free museums and the National Monument, or plan to make a trip to one of its 600 parks. If you're looking for shopping, Georgetown offers tons of options from well known retailers to quaint boutiques.

Between the islands and mainland of Greece, you can't go wrong with choosing this country as a vacation destination. Picture-perfect scenery, archeological sites and spectacular beaches make it a place you won't want to miss.

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping , where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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The 15 Best Places To Travel for Solo Female Travelers [2024]

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Table of Contents

How to choose a destination as a solo female traveler, safest destinations for solo female travelers, the 3 best destinations in the caribbean and latin america for a solo female traveler, the 3 best destinations in north america for solo female travelers, the 3 best destinations in europe for solo female travelers, the 3 best destinations in asia for solo female travelers, the 3 best destinations in africa and oceania for solo female travelers, final thoughts.

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Solo travel travel has skyrocketed in recent years, and females are leading the pack. If you’ve Googled the term “solo female travel” in past years, you’re not alone. According to search engine data , search volume for the term is up 20% compared to this time last year.

If you’re a woman ready to head off on your own, there are some things to consider, starting with your destination. Picking the right destination is key because it encompasses everything important to you — safety, activities, and what type of trip you’ll have. From beachy islands to adventure spots to urban hubs, we detail where you should head on your next solo trip. We also have advice on choosing a destination and some of the safest ones around the world for a female traveling alone.

Consider the following when choosing your next solo travel destination:

Safety: This is a number one concern for many female travelers. Make sure the destination you select seems safe. Consider public transportation options and decent medical infrastructure. The CDC and the U.S. Department of State are helpful resources for general travel health and safety advisories.

Length of Trip: If you only feel comfortable spending a weekend escape alone, you probably don’t want to head to Singapore or Rome. It’s best to stick to nearby destinations if you don’t have much time or prefer not to be alone for long.

Language: Consider language barriers and how at ease you feel leaning on only yourself to translate menus, unknown words, or conversations with taxi drivers.

What You Like To Do: Just like planning any other trip, consider your likes, dislikes, and desired vacation style. If you only want to relax on the beach, a city break in Manhattan isn’t the best choice. Head to the Caribbean instead.

Experience Level: Certain destinations (like those closer to home or not too far-flung) may be a bit easier to start with if you’re not too experienced traveling alone or in general. Likewise, seasoned solo female travelers still have a lot to discover around the world.

Group Solo Travel or True Solo Travel: Female solo travelers can sign up for group tours and retreats. You’re essentially stepping out of your comfort zone and traveling somewhere alone, but when you arrive, you may travel with a group or be among others. If this sounds appealing, youthful travelers may also want to consider solo travel while staying in youth hostels, where you may be surrounded by other like-minded solo travelers.

Most solo female travelers should consider other factors when choosing a destination beyond just safety, but if that’s your top concern, we get it. Here are some of the safest destinations to visit for solo female travelers based on statistical data from the World Population Review , the 2023/24 Women Peace Security Index , Bounce , and the Woman’s Danger Index (some of which we’ll include in our top destination picks below):

• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Vermont (ranked one of the safest U.S. states for women )

In contrast, data from the same providers suggests that solo female travelers avoid visiting the following countries, taking into account things like the safety of walking alone at night, attitudes toward violence against women, and other general safety factors. We’re not saying don’t go, but use caution and take proper safety measures if you do decide to visit these countries alone :

• Afghanistan
• South Africa

Best Places To Travel for a Solo Black Female

Ashley Onadele , content contributor for Upgraded Points, suggests solo female Black travelers join certain Facebook Groups, such as Nomadness Travel Tribe , that feature tips from experienced travelers to help find the right destinations. She also advises solo Black female travelers to do the following to stay safe:

“Look at public transportation (bus and metros) to the sites you want to see in the city as well as how walkable the city is. It may be best to stay in a large city and take day trips to smaller areas with a group or other people. Research hotels that are safe for solo female travelers in terms of front desk assistance, night safety, being well-lit, and located close to main roads. Knowing what to expect to pay for things can help you not get taken advantage of.” Ashley Onadele, content contributor for Upgraded Points

These destinations feature some of the best beaches and unique, memorable landscapes for solo female travelers to explore south of the U.S. border.

Best Spot for Sustainable Solo Female Travel: Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known as one of the safest countries in Central America , as well as one of the most sustainable . It’s perfect for sustainable solo female travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and la pura vida (the simple life). This destination is best for solo travelers who crave female camaraderie but still want some solo time, thanks to the many surf and yoga or surf retreats scattered throughout the country’s stunning terrain. Eco-lodges and other sustainable tourism practices are popular (26% of the country is protected), so if you love to explore jungles, volcanoes, beaches, and all the biodiversity Costa Rica features, hire a reputable guide, contract a solo female travel package, or join a group.

Some of the best areas for solo female travelers are Manuel Antonio, Guanacaste, Puerto Viejo, Monteverde, and Arenal . Stay safe by always choosing official taxis (they’re always red with a yellow sign), not walking alone at night, and following other safety protocols.

Best Caribbean Island for Solo Female Travel: St. Barths

This small, upmarket island is frequented by sophisticated luxury travelers, but it’s also one of the safest islands in the Caribbean for solo female travelers. St. Barths’ crime rate is below average , making it perfect for solo female travelers who don’t want to stress too much about safety protocols. Thanks to a variety of luxury resorts , there are plenty of safe and very comfortable places to stay, and you might just make a few friends during a sailing excursion or while strolling the island’s capital, Gustavia. And don’t forget to visit one of the best beach clubs on the island, Nikki Beach.

Your main safety concern is probably the possibility of a hurricane, as Hurricane Irma devastated the island in 2017. Travel outside the Atlantic hurricane season (June through November) for the best weather.

Best South American Destination for Solo Female Travel: Chile

From the dunes of the Atacama Desert to the towering peaks of Torres Del Paine National Park and the glaciers of Patagonia, Chile is for walkers, hikers, surfers, and adventurers . It’s one of the safest South American countries for solo female travelers. However, culture and wine enthusiasts will also enjoy the country, thanks to the historical architecture of Valparaiso and Valle Central, Chile’s main wine region.

Solo female adventure travelers can also visit Easter Island , which is actually closer to Polynesia than Chile. Here, you can visit the famous moai statues at UNESCO World Heritage Site Rapa Nui National Park . Many of the park’s accredited guides are female , and you can contact them to arrange a guided tour.

Save money by flying to Latin America using points and miles . LATAM is Chile’s national airline, but you may also find flights on airlines like Avianca , a Star Alliance member that’s recently become a Bilt Rewards partner .

Solo female travelers who want to avoid language barriers or prefer to stay closer to home have much to do and see around North America. Solo travel within the U.S. is also growing in popularity among solo female travelers. According to search engine data , search volume for this year compared to last year is up 81% for the term “best places to travel solo female in the U.S.” Here are some of the best and safest places to travel alone in the U.S. and beyond in North America.

Safest Destination in the U.S. for Solo Female Travel: Vermont

Vermont is one of the best destinations for solo female travelers, home to hundreds of hiking trails and plenty of idyllic scenery (especially in autumn). It’s likely an easy, long weekend trip for East Coast residents. It is especially ideal for solo female travelers over age 40 as it’s more focused on exploring nature and relaxation than nightlife and parties.

According to a 2023 study by TrustedHousesitters , Vermont has the lowest rate of violence against women, and more women feel safe there than in any other place in the country. In fact, “ women traveling alone make up more than half of all overnight stays in Vermont ,” the study showed. Once there, take in a museum (the state has the most museums per capita of any U.S. state), wander across the many 19th-century wooden bridges, or enjoy some of Vermont’s most delicious products, like cheese, maple syrup, and apples fresh from the orchard.

Best Vacation Spot for Solo Female Travel: Hawaii

Solo travel doesn’t always have to be finding yourself; it can simply be about taking a relaxation vacation. Hawaii’s many islands offer so many different styles of vacation for all different types of travelers. Divers, snorkelers, and surfers can enjoy the state’s famous swells and underwater delights, while those who prefer to stay on dry land can enjoy culture, cuisine, and natural wonders or just relax on the beach and soak in the sun year-round. Plus, the island has a low crime rate and is much safer than many other tropical islands and destinations accessible from the U.S. — and you won’t need a passport .

Although Maui was devastated by a recent wildfire, most of the island is open and ready to receive visitors with open arms. Solo female travelers can aid in Maui’s recovery by visiting responsibly and supporting local businesses.

Best Spot for First-Time Solo Female Travel: Canada

Canada is close, easily accessible from the U.S., and ranked within the top 20 of the safest countries in the world . First-time solo female travelers can delight in the excitement of leaving the country while still staying relatively close to home and experiencing the same language and similar cultural norms. Banff’s gorgeous lakes, Manitoba’s northern lights, Whistler’s ski slopes, and Montréal’s old-world charm hold significant appeal for solo female travelers. Another exciting way to experience the country is via the rails: Canada’s famous Rocky Mountaineer train.

But one of the best destinations in Canada for solo female travelers is Vancouver . The crime rate is low, locals are welcoming, and there’s so much to see and do. Admire the beautiful skyline and water views at Stanely Park , discover hidden art galleries, and hang out along the waterfront at Granville Island . Active travelers should walk through the treetops at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and hike, bike, zipline, or ski at Grouse Mountain .

Europe is home to some of the safest countries in the world. It’s also known for its incredible history, natural wonders, cuisine, and all-around good vibes, making it the ideal continent for solo female travelers, from beginners to the most seasoned. Here’s where to go:

Best Cheap Place To Travel as a Solo Female: Spain

If you’re looking for affordable and safe places to travel alone in Europe as a woman, start with Spain. Although it’s not the most affordable country in Europe, budget solo female travelers will find plenty of affordable hostels and hotels and cheap food and drinks — a glass of wine or beer can run as low as $2.50. From Barcelona’s famous Gaudí architecture to Seville’s Andalusian charm and the glorious golden sands of endless Mediterranean beaches, solo female travelers are spoiled for choice on where to go and what to do.

Spain is also an ideal country for solo female travelers who are night owls. Many cities, towns, or neighborhoods stay active well into the evening, meaning it’s safe and enjoyable to walk around at night and see how the locals enjoy their balmy Spanish evenings.

Best Destination for Solo Female Adventure Travel: Iceland

Adventurous females who want to explore the great outdoors can do so in Iceland. You’ll probably want to visit using tours and excursions , as many of the most fascinating natural wonders are best enjoyed with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide. It’s a destination that welcomes visitors, crime rates are low, and tourist scams aren’t really a thing. Icelandic folks are simply excited to share the beauty of their country with visitors.

One of the best ways to explore the country safely is by seeing its Golden Circle. This scenic tourist route is home to cascading waterfalls, towering glaciers, geothermic geysers, and Thingvellir National Park . Here, you can actually see the erosion of the earth’s crust, which is something to add to your bucket list, along with the northern lights, visible in many areas of Iceland.

Best Ski Destination for Solo Female Travel: Switzerland

Switzerland’s powdery slopes were practically made for sole female travel. The country, in general, is extremely safe and has excellent infrastructure, which also extends to its ski towns. This way, you can blissfully enjoy the slopes, take advantage of well-maintained ski lifts, and enjoy cozy après-ski afternoons by the fire.

Switzerland has so much to offer solo female travelers in any season — charming villages, hiking trails, and picnics in rolling green valleys. But winter offers even more fun beyond skiing, as indulging in chocolate, fondue, and other alpine adventures (think luge, snowshoeing, and sledding) can help you get in touch with yourself and your inner child.

Make sure to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees and offers additional points on travel purchases — not just airfare and hotels, but also things like taxis, rideshare, and transit tickets, to maximize your points earnings. Our top picks are the   Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card , where you can earn either 3x or 2x points on travel, respectively. Neither card has a foreign transaction fee.

Backpackers love traveling through Asia for a reason: Many Asian countries are affordable, easy, and generally safe for solo travelers. Here are some of the best ones we recommend for solo female travelers.

Best for Foodie Solo Female Travel: Taiwan

Taiwan’s locals are polite and respectful, so females shouldn’t have an issue traveling through most of the country. If you prefer to get out into nature, explore the Taroko National Park (on your own or by guided tour) to discover mountainside temples and the massive Taroko gorge. But Taiwan’s biggest call for solo travelers is often Taipei, a city where eating most of your meals on the street is not only socially acceptable but also the norm.

Not only does Taiwan have clean, comfortable, and efficient public transport (it actually plays delightful classical music each time the metro pulls into a station), the city has numerous night markets where it’s completely safe to spend the evening walking, talking, eating, and shopping. Don’t be turned off by the wafting odors of stinky tofu — make sure to sample xiao long bao (delicious steamed dumplings) paired with bubble tea or Taiwan beer.

Safest Country in Asia for Solo Female Travel: Singapore

Considered the safest Asian country by the World Population Review , Singapore is a tiny country with strict penalties and regulations — even chewing gum was once banned. Female travelers will feel safe wandering the clean and organized streets and enjoying street food at the many hawker centers around the city.

Solo travelers should check out neighborhoods like Little India and Chinatown and wander through the Singapore Botanic Gardens (the very first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore) and Gardens by the Bay . For a bit of fun, you’ll never get lonely at Sentosa Island , which features attractions like a theme park, restaurants, a skywalk, and beaches.

Best Destination in Asia for Solo Female Travelers To Experience Culture: Japan

Japan is an orderly, safe country for women, so expect to be able to walk around alone in most places without having to worry about issues. However, Japanese isn’t an easy language, and it may be a bit complicated to navigate certain areas and situations on your own, so just be prepared for possible language barrier obstacles.

Solo female travelers should stay at ryokans (traditional Japanese hotels) to fully immerse themselves in the culture. Spending time at onsens, or hot springs, is the Japanese answer to a spa day, perfect for getting some rest and relaxation in after a busy day touring a city like Tokyo , Kyoto, or Osaka.

Solo female travel to Africa and Oceania isn’t for the faint of heart or beginner solo female travelers. It’s exotic, far-flung, and may be difficult to navigate or present language and cultural barriers. But it can be incredibly rewarding. Here’s where to go.

The Safest Country in Africa for Solo Female Travel: Rwanda

Although it might not be the most obvious choice for a vacation, Rwanda is an excellent starter destination for solo female travelers who want to begin traveling to Africa. Long known as one of the safest countries in Africa, travelers should still take caution in certain areas and avoid the border areas with the DRC and Burundi. According to BBC , “55% of its parliament is made up of women representatives, and it ranks number one in the world for its gender equality in parliament, according to the WPS. Rwanda also ranks highly in the index’s perception of community safety and is ranked 6th in the world in the  Global Gender Gap index .”

Though it’s not cheap, gorilla trekking is one of the most unique and exciting activities to do in Rwanda. Make your home base Musanze, the country’s second-largest city and the gateway to Volcanoes National Park . Or, if you have your heart set on spotting some of the Big 5, head to Akagera National Park , Central Africa’s largest protected wetland, home to species like zebras, rhinos, elephants, lions, giraffes, and more.

Best for Solo Female Safari: Botswana

Solo female travelers should consider heading to Botswana outside of peak season (off-speak season in November to May). This is when many tour operators waive solo supplements. Botswana safaris often guide travelers by boat through the Okavango Delta. Because boats are small, tour groups are limited in size. This means you may have the opportunity to make new friends but won’t be overwhelmed by joining massive tour groups.

If you want to support local women by taking a female-led safari, you can even have 1 of the 17 female guides at the tour company African Bush Camps , a company that’s launched a female guide program in hopes of having 25 female guides by 2025. Chobe Game Lodge also has a whole team of female guides known as the Chobe Angels .

Best for Far-Flung Solo Female Travel: New Zealand

If you’re ready to get far from home and off the beaten path, head to New Zealand. The country has many thrilling and exhilarating activities — Queenstown is considered the adventure capital of the world. But if you plan to participate in things like bungee jumping and caving, it’s best to get travel insurance — and make sure it covers whatever adrenaline-pumping activities you plan to do.

One of the most popular things for solo travelers in New Zealand is to rent a camper van and travel around the country at your own pace. Or, consider doing one of the country’s organized trails, Great Walks , which are hikes of varying lengths and difficulties that offer some of the best scenic routes in the country.

Travel insurance is always a good idea, especially if you plan to participate in adventurous activities. Just make sure to read the fine print because some policies exclude things such as scuba diving, for example.

When choosing a destination as a solo female traveler, there’s a lot to consider. Safety should be your first priority, as well as your travel experience, needs, and wants. Consider one of the places on this list for your next trip, where solo travelers will feel safe and enjoy seeing unique and different parts of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is thailand safe for solo female travelers.

While it’s not listed as one of the top safest countries in the world, parts of Thailand are relatively safe for solo female travelers. However, females traveling alone should carefully choose their Thai destinations and take travel safety precautions to avoid incidents.

Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?

The Netherlands is ranked as one of the top 10 safest countries in the world for women by the World Population Review. However, as with any major city, female solo travelers should exercise caution when traveling alone in Amsterdam.

Is Barcelona safe for solo female travelers?

Spain is listed as one of our top destinations for solo female travelers. It’s relatively safe, so females shouldn’t worry too much about traveling alone there. However, there are some neighborhoods of Barcelona, such as El Raval, that it may be best to avoid at night.

Where are safe places to travel alone in India?

While beginner solo female travelers may not want to choose India as their first destination to visit alone, seasoned solo female travelers might consider visiting destinations like the Taj Majal in Agra, Goa, or Rishikesh, all of which welcome tourists and may offer safe and secure travel experiences.

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Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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14 Best Destinations for First-Time Solo Female Travelers

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What makes a good destination for first-time solo female travelers? You want a destination that thrills you — but as a first-timer, you don’t want to bite off more than you can chew.

My first solo trip ever was to Buenos Aires, Argentina when I was 23 — and while I was already an experienced international traveler, I actually got robbed on my first day. I survived and had a great rest of my trip, but in retrospect, I should have eased myself in with a gentler destination.

So where would have been a better choice for a first solo trip? I created a list of 14 places. Each of these places has three major things in common:

English proficiency. You don’t have to worry about a language barrier here — even if the official language is different, enough locals are fluent in English that you’ll be able to get by.

Good travel infrastructure. Lots of accommodation options and restaurants, lots of activities and cool things to do, and it’s easy to get around on transportation.

Safety. These destinations are all very safe, particularly in the areas that tourists visit. Of course, anything can happen anywhere, and you should always take measures to stay safe.

Read More: Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Let’s take a look — the best destinations for first-time solo female travelers!

Table of Contents

Somewhere Near Where You Live

Your first solo trip doesn’t have to be a long, complicated, fly-in adventure! If you’re completely new to solo travel, and especially if you haven’t traveled much, I recommend starting small.

Go visit a destination within a few hours of your home, and stay one or two nights. That’s it. Keep the stakes low.

This is good because it gets you used to the rhythms of solo travel in an environment that feels familiar. “Oh — so this is what it’s like to eat alone.” “Oh, wow — I only needed 45 minutes at that museum, not two hours!”

As someone from the Boston area, I really loved visiting the Berkshires solo for a few days.

Are you in the Chicago area? How about Milwaukee? I was surprised how much I enjoyed this city!

Are you around South Jersey, Pennsylvania, or DC? I really loved Maryland’s Eastern Shore . A really beautiful place that I knew nothing about before going.

And in New York, you can’t beat my little town of Hudson or the North Fork of Long Island .

Speaking honestly: if you start with a big, complicated solo trip, it might dissuade you from ever going. Especially now, when international travel is hairy. Instead, get your feet wet with a nearby trip.

Now that we’ve gone over that, let’s move on to the destinations!

Iceland might be one of the best first-time solo female travel destinations on the planet. It’s easy to reach, with nonstop flights from several US cities; it’s incredibly safe, like leave-your-purse-on-a-park-bench-and-no-one-will-touch-it safe; everyone speaks English; and there are so many unique landscapes and organized day tours.

You can base yourself in tiny-but-funky Reykjavik and take a variety of day trips, or do a road trip around the country on the Ring Road. I love Iceland’s South Coast for the variety of landscapes: giant waterfalls, black sand beaches, the glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón.

Signature Experiences: Snorkel the neon, ice-cold waters of Silfra , go horseback riding with Iceland’s shaggy horses, see the Northern Lights if you time your trip right, go glacier walking and ice climbing, visit the Blue Lagoon for a soak before your flight home.

Caveat: A lot of people plan Iceland trips around seeing the Northern Lights, but even if you time your trip right (in the winter or during the spring or fall equinoxes), you might not get to see them. Know that this is a gamble going in, and plan lots of other fun stuff.

Join a tour: If you’d like to visit Iceland with a tour group, G Adventures has a 7-day Iceland trip that circles the island. You can see all of their Iceland tours here .

READ MORE: Why Iceland is Great for First Time Solo Female Travelers

If you dream of rainforests and beaches, ziplining and volcano-climbing, toucans and sloths, allow me to introduce you to the nature-filled gem of Central America. Whether you want to hike, bike, and raft or simply laze on a gorgeous beach during the winter months, Costa Rica is a solid choice.

A lot of people think that Central America is unsafe for women traveling alone. I’ve traveled Central America extensively solo and I disagree — with the right research and preparation, Central America can be traveled very safely.

And Costa Rica is the easiest Central American country to navigate as a newbie solo traveler. It’s phenomenally safe and has very strong travel infrastructure, each town exploding with different tours and activities you can try. And Ticos (Costa Ricans) are amazing people!

Signature Experiences: Learn to surf on the Pacific coast, go zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, watch sea turtles on the beach at night, hike to hot springs on an active volcano, go wildlife-watching in Corcovado National Park.

Caveat: Some Costa Rica travelers end up isolated from the public on their trips. To avoid this, I recommend avoiding big resorts and instead staying in small guesthouses or hotels within walking distance of a bustling area.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Costa Rica with a tour group, G Adventures has a nine-day Costa Rica trip that goes to some of my favorite spots, like Monteverde. You can see all of their Costa Rica tours here .

READ MORE: Solo Female Travel in Costa Rica: The Guide

Asheville, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a small city that will put a smile on your face, allow me to recommend the wonderful town of Asheville, North Carolina! This small city nestled into the Blue Ridge Mountains is home to an art scene, a beer scene, and tons of awesome shops and restaurants.

But if you’re looking to meet good people on your trip, Asheville is my top recommendation in the US. I still can’t get over how NICE and GENUINE everyone was — especially since so many Ashevillians grew up elsewhere. As a native New Englander, I’m not a big fan of overly sweet southern manners, but Asheville is “Mountain South.”

Asheville is the perfect size for a long weekend getaway — and don’t be surprised if you start wondering if you could live here.

Signature Experiences: Visit the over-the-top Biltmore Estate, go on a local farm-to-table food tour, go tubing down the French Broad River on a hot day, visit the galleries in the River Arts District and get to know the affable artists, go on a “blind date with a book” at Malaprop’s Bookstore.

Caveat: Asheville is easy to see on foot and by Uber, with one big exception: the Biltmore Estate, which is best done with your own car. You might end up paying for a rental car that you only use one day.

READ MORE: 14 Reasons to Fall in Love with Asheville, North Carolina

If you are dreaming of spectacular islands in the Mediterranean, let me point you toward the Adriatic instead. Croatia is one of the countries I know best (I even won Croatia’s top travel writing award in 2021!), and it never fails to stun me with its sheer beauty.

Many people think that Croatia is Eastern Europe, and is thus unsafe or difficult to travel. None of that is true ( and calling Croatia “Eastern Europe” is a good way to get punched ). I think Croatia is fantastic for solo female travelers because everyone speaks English, there’s tons of travel infrastructure, and the roads are in excellent condition, making it a perfect road trip.

Not only that — island-hopping in Croatia is cheaper than the most popular Greek islands or the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and Croatians are more Central European in personality than Mediterranean, meaning that things are organized and get done on time.

Signature Experience: Walk the city walls of Dubrovnik , hike through the waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes, take a boat trip around Vis to the Blue Cave, go on a bike tour to wineries in Korčula , marvel at the incredible sunsets of Rovinj or Zadar .

Caveat: Once you get onto the smaller islands, it tends to be the same food over and over. Good food, and primarily seafood, but it gets old quickly. Get your fill of different cuisines in Zagreb , Split and Dubrovnik!

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Croatia with a tour group, G Adventures has an eight-day Croatia sailing trip that visits several islands. You can see all of their Croatia tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Croatia: The Guide

If travel is about the people you meet, Ireland is the best destination in the world. Irish people are the highlight of their country: outstandingly friendly and welcoming, always eager to tell a story, with lilting accents that sound like music. Oh, and they won’t hesitate to take the piss out of you, which is how you know they like you.

Beyond that, Ireland is home to stunning natural landscapes, interesting small cities, and fascinating ruins. It’s an excellent destination for a road trip — albeit one driving on the left side of the road — and some of the most memorable moments are in little towns you discover on a whim.

Many Americans visit Ireland to explore their Irish ancestry, and it can feel like “coming home” in lots of ways. But even if you don’t have a drop of Irish blood, you’ll instantly feel welcome.

Signature Experiences: Visit the remote island of Skellig Michael , find your favorite picture-perfect town in the Ring of Kerry, have a night out to remember in pub-drenched Galway, explore the geological wonder of Giant’s Causeway, listen to “trad” music in local pubs.

Caveat: In Ireland and throughout the British Isles, it’s common to “shout” beers — one person buys a round of beers for the whole group, and then the next person buys the next round. I recommend opting out of this because it can get you very drunk, very fast, with people who can hold their liquor better than you. Just say you’re only having one drink tonight, and nurse it.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Ireland with a tour group, G Adventures has a nine-day Ireland trip that includes both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. You can see all of their Ireland tours here .

Read More: Visiting Skellig Michael, Ireland’s Most Stunning Destination

Ah, Amsterdam — the land of canals and bridges, superb art museums and historic sites, stroopwafels and smoked Gouda. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and nowhere else in the world looks quite like it.

A lot of people associate Amsterdam with the Red Light District and sex tourism, and thus think that it’s too wild or unsafe for solo female travelers. I disagree with this emphatically. This is a tiny corner of a large, safe and diverse city, and anyone can easily avoid the sex stuff.

I think the Netherlands has the best public transportation system in the world, and it’s so easy to travel all over the country (and beyond!) by train. Finally, everyone in Amsterdam speaks perfect, fluent English. In fact, asking an Amsterdammer “Do you speak English?” is tantamount to an insult.

Signature Experiences: Take a canal boat cruise around the city, eat a warm caramel-drenched stroopwafel off the grill, spend your day museum-hopping around the Museum Quarter, go out for an elaborate Indonesian rijsttafel meal, take a day trip to Rotterdam or Delft or The Hague.

Caveat: Amsterdam attracts groups of drunk young men, mostly Brits, who come here for the illicit activities. I’d recommend steering clear of party hostels, which tend to be a bit wilder than in other European cities, and choosing accommodation far from the Red Light District.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Amsterdam with a tour group, G Adventures has a six-day Paris to Berlin trip that includes Amsterdam. You can see all of their Amsterdam tours here .

Read More: Sexy Dutch Design in Amsterdam and Rotterdam

My long-term solo travels began in Thailand, and what a great choice that was. Right away I fell in love with this country, a land of gorgeous beaches, misty blue mountains, one of the best megacities on the planet, and $7 hourlong massages.

Asia can be tough as a first-timer — it’s a big cultural change, and on top of that, you might be disoriented by a big time difference. But Thailand is probably the easiest place to meet Asia for the first time. Thai people are so friendly, the food you’ve likely seen before, there is plenty of English signage, and prices are nice and cheap (especially so in the north, less so on the islands).

On top of that, Thailand has excellent travel infrastructure and options for every price point. You can walk into a travel agency, say you want to go to another city the next day, and they’ll prepare all the tickets you need! It couldn’t be easier.

Signature Experiences: Go shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai, get foot or body massages every day, learn to ride a motorbike around the mountains of Pai, go to the island of Koh Lanta and enjoy the best sunsets in the country.

Caveat: Most solo travelers in Thailand tend to be young backpackers; if you’re outside this group, it might be hard to meet people you have something in common with. Try joining organized activities to meet other people.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Thailand with a tour group, G Adventures has a 14-day Thailand trip that includes a stop on my beloved Koh Lanta. You can see all of their Thailand tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Thailand: The Guide

Australia is the epitome of a bucket list destination. From kangaroos and koalas to the Sydney Opera House, images of Australia have dwelled in our imagination since childhood — and because it’s far away and expensive, it’s worth investing in a quality trip.

While Australia has cool cities, the nature is what makes Australia exceptional. Whether you snorkel or dive Australia’s reefs, trek into the national parks of the Outback, take a boat to Rottnest Island to meet the quokkas , or beach-hop along the coast, make sure you prioritize getting out into nature.

Sometimes I hear about Australia travelers who only visit Sydney and Melbourne on their trip, and as much as I love both those cities, they really missed out!

Signature Experiences: Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge , go snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, explore the hidden coffeeshops and arcades of Melbourne , see koalas and kangaroos in the wild, watch the sunrise over Uluru in a million different colors.

Caveat: I don’t recommend driving in extremely rural parts of Australia as a first-time solo traveler. The isolation factor plus the kangaroos-jumping-in-front-of-cars factor makes it risky. Keep your driving to more populated areas, or skip driving altogether.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Australia with a tour group, G Adventures has a 14-day Australia trip that goes from Sydney to Cairns. You can see all of their Australia tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Australia: The Guide

Savannah, Georgia

There was a time in my life when I was living in New York and visiting Savannah often — I felt like the city was my mistress of sorts. And it couldn’t have been more different and lovely, stately brick homes edged by oak trees dripping with Spanish Moss.

I feel like Savannah is one of the places every American has to visit at least once — it’s just so special and unique. I love the food here, I love the historic homes, I love the cafes, I love the shopping, and I love the sweet-yet-sinister ambiance that is depicted so well in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil .

Savannah, like Asheville, works very well as a long-weekend destination. Here is my recommended three-day Savannah itinerary.

Signature Experiences: Learn about Savannah’s spirits on the superb Dead of Night tour, have a family-style lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, browse for gorgeous home wares at the Paris Market, explore the historic homes or take an architecture tour, spend a day at Tybee Island, Savannah’s beach .

Caveat: Savannah attracts a lot of couples, and if you join a group tour, you may be the only person who isn’t part of a couple. Be prepared for that going in, and you won’t be surprised.

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Savannah, Georgia: The Guide

One of my Scottish friends likes to say that if Scotland had better weather, it would be the best country in the world with absolutely no competition. I could easily see that (and have experienced a few scintillatingly beautiful days in Scotland).

Scotland just feels magical, from the storybook-like streets of Edinburgh to the cliffside castles that dot the country, to the beaches of Scotland’s 790 islands, some of which are home to Caribbean-clear water. On top of that, Scots have fantastic accents and are wonderfully friendly and welcoming.

You might think that Scotland would pair well with Ireland — stunning landscapes, friendly people — and you’d be right. Go to one or go to both, and you’ll feel very welcomed. Also, it’s an excuse to buy a lot of tartan.

Signature Experiences: Walk all the way up Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, try to spot Nessy on Loch Ness, drive through the gorgeous landscapes of the Isle of Skye, explore the local whisky distilleries, dance all night long with Shetland Vikings at Up Helly Aa .

Caveat: You can see a ton of Scotland by public transportation, but for the really special and more remote parts, you’ll need to have a car — and driving on the other side of the road can be a challenge.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Scotland with a tour group, G Adventures has a 7-day Scotland trip that hits up my beloved Edinburgh and Skye, among other spots. You can see all of their Scotland tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Scotland, England, and Wales: A UK Guide

Atlantic Canada

Canada’s four Atlantic provinces — Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador — tend to fly under the radar a bit . But they are some of the most scintillating places to visit in the country, especially as a solo female traveler.

Sometimes I joke that my blood pressure is at its lowest whenever I’m in Canada. Canada is just so EASY and CLEAN and FRIENDLY and BEAUTIFUL. And Atlantic Canada is full of beautiful landscapes, brightly painted cottages, and so much fresh seafood.

There is so much to see in Atlantic Canada that you’re best off choosing a single province and doing it in depth. I’ve done that twice, in Newfoundland and in Nova Scotia, and I can’t wait to return to them again!

Signature Experiences: Drive Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail , go moose-spotting in Cabot Highlands National Park or Gros Morne National Park , hike or bike along the red beaches of PEI, become an honorary Newfoundlander at a Screech-In ceremony, eat as much lobster as humanly possible.

Caveat: The best time to visit Atlantic Canada is during the summer months, when you have the best weather — but the summer season is very short. (Though I did enjoy an early fall trip to Nova Scotia!)

Read More: What’s It Really Like to Travel Newfoundland?

New York City

My home, my love, my energy. I lived in New York for four years and loved every bit of it (and miss it daily!). It’s a travel dream for quite a few people, and it’s one destination that absolutely pays off. Everywhere feels like you’re in a movie.

What I love most about New York is that you can be whoever you want to be there, even changing whenever you feel like it, and you’re both accepted and ignored. Take a trampoline fitness class in Tribeca! Go out for Sri Lankan food in Staten Island! Join a protest in lower Manhattan! Go to an off-off-off-off Broadway show in an office building in midtown!

New York is one of the safest major cities in the US, with most high crime areas being places where tourists would never end up. And New Yorkers are friendly and helpful — but efficient and always in a hurry. If you need help, ask in the fastest way possible and you’ll get an equally fast reply.

Signature Experiences: Ride the Staten Island Ferry and enjoy the free views, go on a food tour in the global neighborhood of Jackson Heights, Queens , party all night at a warehouse event in Bushwick, explore the Botanical Gardens followed by lunch in the Bronx’s Little Italy, explore the food and architecture of Harlem .

Caveat: Many first-time New York visitors end up doing the same cliché things over and over: Times Square! Central Park! Fifth Avenue! Then they get home and say they could never live there. Well. We don’t live in those places, either. Get out of midtown, get into the other boroughs, and explore neighborhoods that have more locals than tourists.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in New York City

Some states are worth every bit of hype. Colorado is one of those places. Filled with the gorgeous Rocky Mountains, Colorado is all about getting outdoors, with some of America’s best hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Colorado is a great place to try out a new outdoor activity — maybe whitewater rafting, mountain biking, or even sand boarding! And if you’re apprehensive about hiking solo, as I was, there are plenty of guided hikes and activities you can join. It’s a great way to make new friends, too.

Colorado is also home to cool cities like Denver and Vail that have a lot to explore: museums, breweries, and one of the most spectacular concert venues around.

Signature Experiences: Go hiking with llamas in Vail, visit the Tajik teahouse in Boulder, see a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, gorge yourself on brunch food at Snooze or desserts at D Bar, go sand boarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Caveat: You’ll need to watch your drinking, especially when you arrive. Colorado’s altitude leads you to feeling more intoxicated than usual. I had one glass of red wine on my first night in Vail and was loopy for hours. Locals recommend drinking a lot of water.

Read More: Vail, Colorado, Might Be Better in the Summer!

There are plenty of other spots, too!

There are plenty of other places that didn’t make this post. Some because I haven’t been — like New Zealand and the Canadian Rockies — and some that I think are better suited for solo travelers with more experience, like Mexico , Japan , and Belize .

If you’re a very experienced traveler, and just haven’t traveled solo yet, you might have an easier time in destinations with a language barrier — like Paris or Italy — or places where you need to be more on guard about safety, like Colombia or South Africa .

Finally, there’s traveling solo to Antarctica . Which is easy, and I loved every minute of it — but it’s all the most special if you save it for a milestone.

But it’s entirely up to you. Solo travel is about going wherever you want, whenever you want — and that’s one of the things I love most about traveling solo.

More on Solo Female Travel:

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Why You Should Always Consider the Source

How to Survive Pre-Trip Anxiety

See our full Solo Female Travel hub here.

Where would you recommend for a first-time solo female traveler?

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The best places for solo female travel in 2024

Women everywhere are jetting off to explore new cultures, and these are the easiest, safest, and coolest places to do so

Photograph: Shutterstock

Solo female travel is having a moment – according to a recent survey, over half of Gen Z women would consider travelling abroad alone. That means more women than ever are  heading off to far-flung destinations in search of new friends, different cultures and memorable experiences. But where should they go, and what should they know? 

A few countries are known to be relatively safe and easy to navigate for women looking for an adventure, with well-trodden backpacker routes, friendly locals and the chance to meet new people – or spend some good quality alone time. Here are nine of the best destinations for solo female travellers and good-to-know advice on how to stay safe.

India-Jayne Trainor is a British-Australian travel writer based in London. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts.

RECOMMENDED: ✨ The  best places in the world to travel alone 🏡 The most beautiful small towns in the world 🌃 The best cities in the world

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best destinations for solo female travel

1.  sri lanka.

The tiny teardrop island of Sri Lanka is like India in miniature but with its own unique charm, making it the perfect first stop for female travellers wanting to dip into South  Asia . It’s popular with backpackers and perfectly sized for a week or a month spent exploring the ancient Unesco-listed sites like Dambulla and Sigiriya or visiting tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya. And for some blissful downtime, the golden beaches of Arugam Bay, Mirissa and Hikkaduwa promise beachfront hostels, surfing and delicious local food.

2.  Portugal

Portugal  has made a name for itself as the perfect solo travel destination thanks to a growing number of digital nomads moving there. Amongst the Baroque castles and palaces, hiking trails and sweeping beaches, you can also find trendy backpacker hangouts and an increasing number of co-working spots and cute cafes for snacking on pastel de nata . The Douro Valley is home to rolling vineyards, Lisbon ’s cobbled streets are packed with history, and in the southern Algarve , whale-watching and watersports await. Plus, it’s simple to navigate by car, train and bus. 

3.  Czechia

The food is tasty, the drinks are cheap, and the cities are breathtakingly beautiful – what more could a solo female traveller want? In Czechia ’s capital of Prague , visitors can wander the narrow streets, visiting the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and the Old Town Square. For those who aren’t used to solo travel, walking and cycling tours of the city make it easy to meet people too. There’s low crime, major sights are walkable, and loads of dreamy day trips – have you seen the picturesque town of Český Krumlov?

4.  Japan

Japan is one of the safest destinations in the world, not just for solo travellers but for anyone who visits, thanks to its respectful culture, etiquette and traditions. Cities like Tokyo can seem overwhelming, but Japan has everything from female-only train carriages to women’s hotels to make you feel secure. Simple and efficient transport, like the superfast bullet train, can take you from volcanic hot springs and snow-capped mountains to white sand beaches and cascading rice terraces in one trip. Best of all, dining alone in Japan is considered completely normal! 

5.  Guatemala

Central America is slowly catching up to an influx of independent travellers, and Guatemala has never been more popular with solo female travellers due to hostels and tour routes popping up everywhere, great infrastructure and affordable food and attractions. Meeting new friends is a breeze, as most people follow the same trail, visiting the stunning Lake Atitlán, the ancient pyramids at Tikal and sparkling blue falls at Semuc Champey. The colourful streets of Antigua are also the perfect base for attempting Guatemala’s famous hike up Acatenango to watch Volcano Fuego erupt at sunrise. 

6.  Vietnam

When it comes to the safest destinations for women  backpacking in Southeast  Asia ,   Thailand and Vietnam still vie for the top spot – but Vietnam is a good place to start. With a well-trodden tourist route, stretching from the capital of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh in the south, the country encompasses mountains, beaches, islands and ancient villages like Hoi An and Hue, plus some of the region’s best cuisine. Whether you make the journey by train, sleeper bus or scooter, thousands of other solo travellers will be making the same trip.

7.  Australia

Australia holds a major draw for independent travellers, thanks to the scenic tourist route along the East Coast and simple visa process, making it safe and uncomplicated to plan, particularly if it’s your first time down under. Sydney ’s buzzing beaches, food scene and postcard-perfect landmarks, like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House , are a dazzling introduction to the country, while further north, the Great Barrier Reef offers snorkelling cruises and jeep tours on Fraser Island . All of this comes with almost guaranteed sunshine, friendly Aussies and cute wildlife – just don’t think too much about the other critters.

8.  Greece

A solo trip to Greece is a real-life Mamma Mia movie waiting to happen. The country is a good beginner destination for those looking for sun, sand and a dose of history on their own. Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities, brimming with ancient wonders like the Acropolis, Parthenon and Panathenaic Stadium. Modern hotels and hostels mean you’ll travel in comfort and can dine out on Mediterranean cooking at affordable prices, plus the popular islands of Corfu , Kefalonia and Kos have the blue waters, beaches and pretty towns you’ve seen in the movies and are simple to reach by boat.

9.  New Zealand

Whether you choose the North or South Island or combine them both, New Zealand is one of the safest countries for solo female travel. You can self-drive or join tours while in the country, exploring fjords, mountains, glaciers and beaches. The wild landscapes are perfect for adventure and road trips, starting in Auckland , Queenstown or Christchurch , where hostels and hotels are concentrated. It’s an epic outdoor destination, so nature lovers are well set up for hiking, swimming and kayaking, while the slightly higher costs mean there are always other solo female travellers keen to buddy up.

How to stay safe as a solo female traveller

Before you go.

Packing smart isn’t about what to wear; however, dressing to respect local cultures is important. Make copies of your passport, driving licence and visas to keep to hand, along with money and a phone charger or power bank, so you’re never without a connection. Consider using a money belt or backpack with anti-theft security and u se locks on luggage where possible.

Download useful apps

If you’re going somewhere unfamiliar, download apps such as maps.me, so you have directions available even when you’re offline. If you want to meet other travellers, download Tourlina, which is exclusively for women, or Backpackr to meet people of all genders (or you can always change the settings on dating apps to connect with people as friends). Consider using safety apps like BSafe, which live-tracks your journey to a chosen contact. 

On the road

You can still be spontaneous as a solo female traveller, but researching before you go away ensures you know important information, like your general route, essential local contact numbers and any common scams.

Read reviews of tours, guides and hotels, and always have travel insurance. Finally, stay open-minded, try to meet new people and don’t forget it’s your trip – if you need a break, want a five-star stay or want to join a group again, there’s no one to stop you.

Read our full guide on how to stay safe as a solo female traveller

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JourneyWoman Reveals the Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024

by JourneyWoman Staff | Jan 2, 2024

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Last updated on March 1st, 2024

Featured image: Northland, New Zealand , one of 30 less-travelled places recommended by women, for women in 2024 | Photo by Rosemary Neave.

30 first-hand recommendations from female travel experts

In celebration of its 30th anniversary as the world’s first solo travel website for women, JourneyWoman has revealed its “30 Less-Travelled Places for Women in 2024” List. The list was developed with female travel writers and travel experts to focus on off-season travel, sustainability, accessibility and personal safety. For each destination, there are suggestions on ways to are ways to extend travel into a longer stay of weeks or months, and recommendations for women to support women-owned businesses from JourneyWoman’s Women’s Travel Directory , including small group tours, retreats, safe places to stay and small ship experiences. Some of the Directory partners included in the list are Trafalgar Tours , Insight Vacations , G Adventures , Swan Hellenic, Intrepid Travel, Adventures in Good Company, and Wild Women Expeditions .

“In 2024, we want to inspire women to rediscover travel as an adventure,”says Carolyn Ray, Editor and CEO, JourneyWoman. “We hope our list of unique and meaningful places inspires women to think differently not just about where we travel but also how we travel, with a sense of purpose and intention. In the midst of so much conflict and uncertainty, travel offers us the opportunity to learn, expand our understanding of humanity, and to connect with cultures and communities vastly different than our own. Above all, we hope women travel to embrace self-discovery and the wisdom that comes with stepping into the unknown.”

30 Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024

In keeping with JourneyWoman’s ethos of sharing first-hand experiences, the 30 Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024 are recommended by JourneyWoman’s editorial team, female travel writers and experts who have actually travelled to these places. In addition to JourneyWoman Editor Carolyn Ray, contributors include Norie Quintos, Tonya Fitzpatrick, Mariellen Ward, Sandra Phinney , Diana Eden, Karen Gershowitz , Shawna McKinley Robins, Sandra Phillips , Nora Livingstone, Rosemary Neave , Tanzila Khan , Dawn Booker, ​ Rupi Mangat , Leyla Alyanak , Jules Torti, Nancy Drolet, Kathy Buckworth, Christine Winebrenner Irick, Franny Bergschneider and Rue Mapp. Many of the photographs of these destinations are original, taken by these talented travel professionals. 

The 30 Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024 include North America: Four Canadian destinations made the list, including the Arctic*, Banff, Alberta; Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Abitibi-Temiscaming, Quebec/Ontario. In the US, there are three destinations, including: Cedar City, Utah; Finger Lakes, New York, Maui, Hawaii and Mexico, Oaxaca.  Five destinations in Asia/Oceania  include: Hiroshima, Japan; Kerala, South India;  Bora Bora, Tahiti; Perth, Western Australia and Northland, New Zealand.  In Africa and the Middle East , eight destinations are included: Istanbul, Turkiye; Cairo, Egypt; Petra, Jordan; Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE); Cape Town, South Africa and Zanzibar, Tanzania. Caribbean destinations include: Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Martinique (French Overseas Territory) South American destinations include the Ecuadorian Andes and Medellin, Colombia. European destinations include: Haugesund, Norway; the Basque Region, France; Splitska, Brac, Croatia; Malaga, Spain; Edinburgh, Scotland; and the Arctic*. Last but not least, our 30th destination is an invitation for women to travel in their own backyard.

(Please note, the Arctic includes: the United States (Alaska), Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark (Greenland), and Iceland.)

Women over 50 in travel

Women are the primary travel decision makers in travel, making 80-85% of all travel decisions. Women 50+ represent over $15 trillion in purchasing power and are experiencing the largest population growth over the next 10 years, according to a recent study conducted in the US by the   Coca-Cola Group and Mass Mutual. JourneyWoman’s previous recent global study,   “The Influence and Affluence of Solo Women 50+ in Travel” , published in December 2022, showed that 70% of women over 50 felt ignored and undervalued by the travel industry, despite representing trillions in spending power. In addition, an April 2023 JourneyWoman survey, “ JourneyWoman Women 50+ 2023 Travel Outlook”   shows that women over 50 are leading the trend of off-season travel to reduce travel costs, focusing on less-travelled places and longer trips, with 81% planning to travel more than two weeks per year. The study revealed that 96% of women are the primary travel decision makers in their households, and that 51% spend more than US$3,000 a week on travel. ​

About JourneyWoman

Founded in 1994, JourneyWoman™ is the world’s first solo female travel resource and one of the most trusted women’s travel brands in the world. JourneyWoman operates the world’s largest  Women’s Travel Directory , providing women with hundreds of women-friendly tours, retreats, guides and accommodations while supporting small tourism businesses around the world. To elevate women’s voices, the award-winning Soul of Travel Podcast joined JourneyWoman in 2023. JourneyWoman also launched the travel industry’s first Women’s Speaker’s Bureau to share wisdom from women over 50 and accelerate diversity.  To learn more, visit  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Twitter , or  LinkedIn . JourneyWoman is a registered trademark of Journeywoman Enterprises Inc.

More on Women’s Travel

Travel Industry: Ignore Women Over 50 ‘at Your Peril’, Longevity Expert Says at IWTTF 2024

Older women have been ignored by every sector, despite their representing a massive share of purchasing power, says longevity expert Avivah Wittenberg-Cox.

Vote by July 8: JourneyWoman Selected as Finalist for ‘Best Travel Blog’ by TBEX

On our 30th anniversary, JourneyWoman has been selected as a finalist for “Best Travel Blog” by the Travel Bloggers Exchange (TBEX).

Celebrate JourneyWoman’s 30th Anniversary on a Northern Lights Expedition Cruise with Hurtigruten in December 2024

Celebrate JourneyWoman’s 30th anniversary on a Northern Lights expedition cruise in Norway with Hurtigruten in December 2024. Prices discounted until July 15.

JourneyWoman Staff

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Greetings, embracing the change of my life. With adult children and them having families of their own I try not to infringe upon their lives but to continue to build my life. Life isn’t over for women over 60. We can continue to live and explore life. I know that there’s so much more to encounter however, I’d rather not do it alone.

We always strive to use real photos from our own adventures, provided by the guest writer or from our personal travels. However, in some cases, due to photo quality, we must use stock photography. If you have any questions about the photography please let us know. Disclaimer: We are so happy that you are checking out this page right now! We only recommend things that are suggested by our community, or through our own experience, that we believe will be helpful and practical for you. Some of our pages contain links, which means we’re part of an affiliate program for the product being mentioned. Should you decide to purchase a product using a link from on our site, JourneyWoman may earn a small commission from the retailer, which helps us maintain our beautiful website. JourneyWoman is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you! We want to hear what you think about this article, and we welcome any updates or changes to improve it. You can comment below, or send an email to us at [email protected] .

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8 Destinations for Female Solo Travelers, According to the Pros

Empowering, exciting, challenging: Few things are more rewarding than solo travel—and pre-pandemic, research showed it was on the rise, especially with women. Sure, you might have to ask a complete stranger to take that photo of you walking across Tokyo 's Shibuya Crossing or standing outside of Barcelona 's Sagrada Família, but it's a small price to pay for the freedom to plan a trip exactly how you want it, when you want it. 

That said, traveling alone isn't always easy; choosing the right destination can be equal parts exhilarating and overwhelming when you (and you alone) are responsible for all the research, travel planning, and packing. And while there's lots of data-fueled consensus out there about the “safest” places for women to go alone, some of the most beloved spots for a solo getaway are places that might not cross the radar of those big-city rankings, yet boast welcoming locals, walkable old towns, and vibrant food and art scenes. To help you start planning that first post-vaccine solo trip , we tapped six experienced solo travelers for their tips. Here, the places that stood out to them the most when they saw them firsthand—totally alone—and why some of them couldn't pick just one.

This story was originally published in October 2018. It has been updated with new information.

Granada, Nicaragua

Getting off the beaten path is no problem in Central America, especially alone and as a woman. “Nicaragua is an exciting under-the-radar option to consider traveling solo [to], and in the many times I have visited, I have met several other women traveling solo throughout the country,” says Katalina Mayorga, co-founder of El Camino Travel and the Casa Violeta hotel in Granada. “Not only is it welcoming, but it has everything Costa Rica has plus more, and at a much more accessible price point. You have volcanos, expansive deserted beaches, colonial towns, rich culture, and stunning boutique hotel options galore.”  If you're looking for a place to stay like a local, Mayorga recommends embedding yourself into “towns like Granada, Popoyo, and San Juan del Sur [that] have super tight-knit communities of foreigners from around the world. They are really welcoming to travelers passing through and openly bring you into their community with open arms. I have been invited to private dinners, jam sessions, secret surf spots, and artist studios.”

Istanbul, Turkey

Celebrating your return to travel by plotting a far-flung getaway? Consider using a solo trip to cross a destination off of your bucket list, like Condé Nast Traveler contributing editor and Nomadness Travel Tribe founder Evita Robinson did in Turkey in 2019. “Turkey had lived on the top of my bucket list for years. Through photos, and stories of Nomadness Travel Tribe members who'd gone, I fell in love with images of the Blue Mosque and the fantasy-like nature of Cappadocia,” says Robinson.

“As a solo trip, a gift to myself, I traveled to both Istanbul and Cappadocia in November of 2019. Istanbul immediately sucked me in. The people, the energy, the food, the favorable conversion rate! I was hooked. I appreciated the safety I felt; I found myself outside, on my own, at a packed restaurant, enjoying pizza, my journal, and wine at 1 a.m. It reminded me of New York. I'm always soothed by the call to prayer in countries, and hearing that in Istanbul only added to the calm I felt there. I walked everywhere I could. It's the city dweller in me. The flight to Cappadocia was quick, and to finally see its playfulness and wonder in real life was breathtaking. To date, Turkey has been one of my most fulfilling and safe solo trips I've ever taken in my life. I can't wait to go back and explore more.”

Portland, Oregon

For outdoor adventure paired with big-city culture, follow rock climber and photographer Nikki Smith 's advice for staying stateside. “My favorite cities to visit have great outdoor access close to, or in town. Portland, Oregon’s Forest Park has over 80 miles of beautiful trail,” says Smith, who contributes to rock-climbing guide books and has notched first ascents in over 150 locales. “Lush ferns line the pine needle-covered trails shaded by towering western hemlock and Douglas fir trees. After a long trail run, Portland’s famous food scene allows even the most discerning eater to find a delicious après-meal. I love that I can be outdoors all day, and then throw on a dress and go to an amazing art exhibit, dinner, and drinks, all within a few-mile radius.”

Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas

Another outdoor locale that Smith recommends as a favorite place to visit solo? Las Vegas—but far from the city's Strip. “One of my favorite places to visit alone in the colder months is Las Vegas. Most people's idea of Vegas is the strip, but there is so much more,” says Smith. “Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area is host to miles of amazing hiking, biking, and running trails, as well as a world-class rock climbing destination. I usually stay in the Summerlin area as it’s closer to Red Rock and much quieter than downtown. You can find great restaurants, bars, and shopping in the area, but you are still a short drive to downtown if you want to go out for a wild night.”

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Alone time in Europe almost needs no introduction, but if you're finding it hard to choose one place, take a page from the travel book of Martinique Lewis , a diversity in travel consultant and president of  Black Travel Alliance . “I absolutely adore Amsterdam as a solo traveler. Even though you come alone, you leave with a whole community of people who welcomed you,” says Lewis who is also a member of Traveler 's advisory board . “Especially for Black travelers, there are so many different communities to tap into, like Amsterdam Black Women, which can be found on Facebook and on Instagram . They changed my trip 100-percent as I participated in their meetups. Jennifer Tosch's Black Heritage Tours also introduced me to other travelers and some ins and outs of the city. Amsterdam is super safe, and you can get anywhere with Google Maps. I highly recommend it.”

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv's beaches, food, and nightlife scenes are treasures of delight for any traveler, but Washington Post travel-advice writer Natalie Compton swears by the city for solo travel in particular. “There were about a million reasons Tel Aviv was one of my favorite places to travel solo. It's a city for people-watching, appreciating sunsets, all of the magic you're too busy to enjoy at home,” says Compton. “The food, the ocean, the markets, the climate were all obvious selling points, but the hospitality was what made me feel less like a person visiting Tel Aviv and more like someone truly experiencing it. Everywhere I went—restaurants, nightclubs, surf shops—there was someone friendly ready to embrace a lone foreigner. If you're a person who loves sitting at a bar and seeing where life takes you, Tel Aviv is for you.”

Cartagena, Colombia

If you're looking for a solo adventure abroad and speak some Spanish, Jessica Nabongo , the first Black woman to have visited every country in the world, says to consider colorful Cartagena. The cobblestoned port city tops her list of places she's visited solo (which includes dozens of locales), and without hiring a local guide. “Cartagena was an easy place to do solo, I didn't take public transit because it is small enough to walk everywhere on your own,” says Nabongo. “It felt safe, and people are so nice. I'm someone who loves to talk to local people to get recommendations and in Cartagena, in particular, people were so open to helping me.” Nabongo notes her Spanish is limited, and that visitors should feel open to practicing their language skills with the locals. 

Luang Prabang, Laos

For a further-off solo escape, Nabongo also holds Luang Prabang, Laos among her top solo adventures without a guide. “It was very easy to navigate by riding a bike, and you get there and this spirit of zen just comes over you,” Nabongo says. “My favorite thing about it was the alms giving [ceremonies], waking up at 5 a.m. when the people line the streets to give food to the monks, clad in their orange robes. It's so beautiful in so many ways, and just the way in which the community is supporting them and you can see it.”

The 20 Best places for solo female travel

So, you’re looking for the best places for solo female travel?

You’ve come to the right place. For the last eight years I have been travelling the world solo. I have crossed 6 continents, entered almost eighty country borders and had such a fun time along the way.

It hasn’t always been easy travelling the world solo as a woman, but it has certainly been a challenge. If I were to pick just one thing that has made me who I am today, it would be solo travel.

But I was nervous when I first started solo travelling as a woman.

I was twenty years old when I took my first adventure overseas alone. I was a bit of an introvert, more inclined to read a book at night over bar hopping.

But over the years I have become so fond of solo travel that despite having friends I could travel with, I still prefer to go solo. Here’s why, how and the best places for solo female travel!

The best places for solo female travel

When it comes to choosing a destination for a solo adventure, as a woman some destinations are inherently better than others.

Whether it be that they are safer or easier to travel alone, these destinations are my top picks.

Each of these destinations I have visited alone, so I’m coming to you with first-hand recommendations of the best solo female travel destinations. All of them are tried and tested!

New Zealand

There are few destinations as whimsical and ethereal as New Zealand . With epic mountain ranges and endless landscapes to enjoy, New Zealand is the capital of adventure travel . This is a great choice for solo females as New Zealand is safe but more importantly, there are plenty of activities and adventures to keep yourself busy. I’d recommend opting for the South Island and if you’re up for it, rent a van to explore solo!

Next on our line up is a country that never ceases to amaze me – Japan . This is hands down one of my favourite countries to explore and even better, it is perfect for solo female travellers. If you’re looking for a quick escape, you can see the highlights of Japan in just 7 days . Alternatively, you can take your time and spend up to a month riding trains around the country. My favourite cities include Kyoto , Tokyo and Osaka. But my favourite experience of all was staying with Buddhist Monks.

Onwards to Canada: the land of open landscapes, long highways and incredibly friendly locals. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Canada a handful of times over the past few years and each visit is better than the last. Cities like Vancouver are a great place to start, however my all time favourite experience was driving the Icefields Parkway . There’s something so magical and surreal about a length road trip on your own.

Germany will forever hold a special place in my heart as it is the first country I ever lived as an expat. Around 6 years ago I grew tired of non-stop travels and after a year on the road, I settled in Berlin for a few months. It was one of the best experiences of my life for so many reasons. But most of all, I just loved German culture. There always seems to be something quirky to experience or enjoy, especially in Berlin. Germany is a great country to explore solo by train and even better, to live as an expat. Berlin is full of them!

I’ve always wanted to explore the countryside of France with a boyfriend (probably French) in tow. But guess what? Life had other plans. I visited the countryside of France solo and had a blast. There’s something so endlessly romantic about this country, that it took me a while to want to visit alone. But once I did, I wished I had done it sooner. Europe is filled with great destinations for solo travellers so don’t just stop there. Scan the rest of this article for some great add-ons!

Spain is one such perfect add-on for your European itinerary. I’d recommend a solid three month stint in Europe if you really want to see it all. Alternatively if time is not on your side, you can really see a lot of the continent in just one month. A great itinerary would include France, Spain, Italy and Croatia. Whilst in Spain, make sure you don’t miss Barcelona – this city has my heart!

There are few trips that are as prominent in my mind as my time in the Scottish Highlands . The scenery can be so surreal that you begin to believe the tales of fairies and giants (no kidding!) If I could choose anywhere to return to solo and spend more time, it would be far away in the Scottish Highlands. I did my trip in one week but I’d recommend two.

Another trip I wish I spent longer on is my visit to Sri Lanka . This tropical oasis has become increasingly popular of late as an alternative to Bali and indeed, it is the perfect place to have your own Eat Pray Love moment. There are some great yoga retreats and surf camps on offer, so you can also meet fellow travellers.

A lot of women ask me on Instagram what I’d suggest between a solo trip to New Zealand and a solo adventure in Australia . The answer is: why choose just one? You can travel by plane between Australia and New Zealand in just a few hours, so this is a great combination for solo female travellers. When in Australia be sure to take your adventure outdoors into the Aussie outback. You won’t regret it! If you’re more of an island gal, check out these secret islands in Australia .

I don’t know if I love Italy as much as a love pizza or I love pizza as much as I love Italy. Regardless, I love eating pizza in Italy. Adventuring around the Italian countryside and once-in-a-lifetime cities like Rome is one of my favourite pastimes. This is a country perfect for solo travellers as it is full of history, great food (hello carbs) and so much to explore. I’ll never tire of Italian adventures.

Another great alternative to Bali for fans of the book Eat Pray Love is nearby Thailand. This is one of the first countries I visited back in 2010 and I instantly fell in love. There is something so mesmerising about the temples, matched with the chaos of Thai street markets. If you’re a solo traveller who prefers to get lost in the thick of it, Thailand is a great place to do just that.

When I first landed in Portugal some 6 or 7 years ago my instant reaction was “how did it take me so long to get here?” There’s something about the city of Lisbon that feels so inviting – the sea of colours, fun bars to discover and great food. The locals are extremely warm and welcoming, so it is little wonder I returned a few years later to explore the South of Portugal . I’d recommend at least four nights in Lisbon, with a further week or two if you plan to adventure through the countryside.

United States

The United States sometimes gets a bad reputation for not being adventurous enough. I disagree. There are so many adventures to be had throughout the States, from epic cities like New York City through to soulful escapes in Arizona. I will never tire of exploring this country!

Some of my favourite adventures include travelling to upstate New York , road tripping through Arizona and exploring Joshua Tree in Southern Californi a .

There are many ways to get around and see the United States. Road trips are the most popular way to travel cross-country, although there are some great train journeys to be had within state lines. If you are spoiling yourself for a birthday or special occasion, Limo Find offer some great shuttle services ranging from buses to private cars.

Montenegro is one of the most surprising countries I have visited. I had never heard about it before I was invited to speak at a media conference, so I jumped at the opportunity to go. This country in the South of Europe is incredibly underrated and one of my favourite finds in the past two years. It is extremely safe to visit solo – I rented a car for a two week adventure.

Iceland will forever be one of my favourite countries. Before I even visited I was obsessed. If you can time your visit outside of the colder months (no one likes driving in a snow storm) Iceland is one of the best places for solo female travellers. Who doesn’t love an epic adventure!

Malta is a country that surprised me when I visited a few years ago and I only wish I had have spent more time there. This is a great add on to an itinerary in Greece or Italy, as it is a short flight away and much cheaper than other countries with mass tourism.

If you’re looking for a country in Europe that is flying under the radar, look no further than Slovenia . I recently spent two weeks exploring the country solo in a rental car and it was a jam-packed itinerary! For a country that is small in size it sure offers a lot to visitors. Be sure not to miss the famous Lake Bled , one of the most beautiful lakes on earth.

Of all the countries I visited solo in South America, Chile was not only the safest as a solo female traveller but it was also my favourite. There’s a lot to see in Chile without adding other countries to your itinerary. Start with Santiago and then make your way North to the Atacama Desert , South to Patagonia and if your budget allows, visit the mysterious Easter Island .

The Netherlands

I travelled to The Netherlands solo for ten days on my book tour back in 2017. I still can’t believe my book was translated into another language and better yet, I got to meet my Dutch readers! It was amazing to see how much more there is to see in The Netherlands beyond Amsterdam . You can easily spend 2 weeks travelling the country by train. Be sure to visit other cities like The Hague, Delft, Utrecht and Maastricht!

Of all the best places for solo female travel, Bali has got to top that list. There is perhaps nowhere else on earth as soul-fulfilling as Bali. My favourite area to stay is in Canggu, which has become really popular over the last few years. Regardless, it is still here where you will find the best cafes and co-working spaces, so it is perfect for female entrepreneurs!

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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10 Best Solo Travel Tips And 10 Top Destinations For Women, According To Experts

Take it from women who've been there, done that, had the best time ever .

If you've ever thought about embarking on your own version of Wild or Eat, Pray, Love , you're (ironically) not alone. A whopping 84 percent of solo travelers are women, according to studies led by Booking.com and Condor Ferries . In fact, two thirds of all travelers are women , and 80 percent of all travel decisions are made by women, the George Washington University School of Business reports. Plus, solo travel was rated the second-most popular category of travel by respondents planning future trips in a 2020 survey conducted by travel company Cox & Kings .

Of course, a solitary sojourn poses its own challenges, but "traveling solo is one of the most empowering and fulfilling adventures women can embark on," says Mar Pages and Megan Jerrad of Solo Female Travelers . "It not only opens the senses to new smells, sights, and sounds, but the soul to different perspectives and ways to live life, thus contributing to making the world a more open, tolerant, and empathetic place."

But, before you book that plane or train ticket, here are the 10 best tips and 10 top destinations for solo female travelers—from women who've been there.

1. Just do it.

"It will never be the perfect time, so make now the time to live your travel dreams," says Amanda Black of The Solo Female Traveler Network . While it would be nice to receive a divine signal to get on that plane, if you keep waiting around for that moment when you finally have enough money, your trip is expertly planned, and all the stars align, you'll never get anywhere. Take the leap, and trust that the memories you make along the way will be worth it.

2. That said, it doesn't hurt to start small.

Many prospective travelers make a New Year's resolution to stop waiting on others and take their first solo trip, but then become overwhelmed with where to start. Pages and Jerrad recommend starting small, perhaps with an overnight trip to a nearby city or a weekend trip somewhere in the same country.

Reduce the number of changing variables by going somewhere where the culture is the same as back home, and then increasingly change these variables by next going somewhere where the language or culture is similar (e.g. from the US to Canada). This will help you figure out if solo travel is right for you and build your confidence to travel further. Eventually, you'll feel like a pro, ready to set off to an international destination with a completely different culture.

3. Stash cash in multiple places.

Money is a must when traveling (sad, but true!), so ensuring yours stay secure amid every adventure should be top of mind. "Keep some in your wallet, of course, but that could potentially get lost or stolen," says Black. She also recommends stashing some in your shoes, a hidden pocket in your clothes, and an obscure corner of your backpack. If your day bag gets stolen, you will still have backup bucks in your hotel room.

4. Download and sign up for a safety app.

Having "spent a lot of time last year testing and assessing a variety of safety apps and devices designed for women to call for help in case of an emergency," Pages emphasizes the importance of these tools for solo female travelers. Her top recommendation: UrSafe. (As a result of their app testing, Solo Female Travelers entered into a partnership with UrSafe where members can try the app for free for 30 days.)

The app has a voice-activated safety word that will contact emergency services and/or the police or private security services, depending on what country you're in. Unlike other apps or devices, you don't have to do anything beyond saying the word you have preset, and the camera of your phone will immediately start streaming a video of the situation to your safe contacts. For $2-4 a month, you can stay safe when traveling or wherever you live as UrSafe can be used even when walking home from work. Oh, and these apps also allow someone to track your location, so you can allow loved ones to know where you are and that you're safe. Peace of mind = priceless.

5. Travel on the shoulder season.

ICYDK, shoulder seasons are the sweet spot between the busy tourist season and the low season (which probably has bad weather). It's "the best time to travel to get thinner crowds, good weather, and cheaper prices," says Black.

6 . Get travel insurance.

The prospect of getting sick—alone—in a foreign place is daunting enough. Add the challenges, both financial and emotional, of paying for hospital bills or worrying if you can even afford them, and it's enough to give you a headache...on top of your original ailment.

Take it from women who've been there: "I broke my arm in South Africa and needed surgery, which cost upwards of $20,000 and had me off work for a month," says Pages. "My insurance paid for everything including my mother flying over." On the flip side, Jerrad had an asthma attack without insurance in Eastern Europe and was double stressed making sure nobody called a pricey ambulance to take her to a hospital.

More recently, the duo have seen an increasing number of their community members stranded abroad because of COVID-19, facing large hospital and quarantine bills—even if perfectly well. But word to the wise shopper: It's not enough to buy insurance, says Pages and Jerrad. You need to read the fine print and see if the policy will cover you in case you test positive but are asymptomatic, and in case you are quarantined because of someone you came into contact with on your travels.

7. Research safety in your destination.

Some cities or countries have specific safety concerns that are important to know before you go. For example, sometimes hailing a random tuk tuk or taxi won’t be safe. Black recommends "asking your hostel or hotel to arrange a ride, and always keep your map open to be sure you are going in the right direction."

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Small Crossbody Bag

In other places, mugging tourists may be common, so she advises against carrying a bag. But, if you need one for your travel essentials , "look at a slash-proof option with RFID pockets, especially [if you're traveling] in Europe or cities where petty theft and pick-pocketing is common," says Black.

8. Always get a SIM card with data as soon as you land.

If you have a SIM card and an internet connection, you can address a lot of the worries and fears that solo female travelers commonly share with Pages and Jerrad: loneliness (listen to music or an audiobook or text with friends), fear or embarrassment of eating alone (schedule a video or phone call with a pal), personal safety (an app like UrSafe comes in clutch), fear of getting lost (Google Maps and car-hailing apps, FTW!).

And while it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with key phrases in the local language, Google Translate can help bridge any language barrier that may come up along your travels. The pair praise the translation service's ability to have a full conversation in another language: "I've done it more than once," says Pages.

9. Save money on accommodations.

There are many creative ways to make your travel budget stretch further, and trying to save on what is usually the biggest expense—lodging—is the first place to start. "Try house sitting for a free place to stay in exchange for watering plants or watching pets," says Black. Road tripping and opting for camping or hostels over hotels for even just part of the trip will save you big, too.

10. Plan, but leave room for serendipity.

"It's a good idea to have a general sense of what you will see or do, but it's also important to leave space to breathe and for the unexpected to find you," says Pages. Some of the duo’s best stories from their respective solo travels come from unexpected moments where they met someone new, discovered a cool place that wasn't marked on any maps, or stumbled upon a street musician who sang amazing opera in a back alley. If you are on a check-list trip, you will miss those opportunities—and they're usually the ones you remember most.

What are the best destinations for solo female travelers?

Black, Pages, and Jerrad agree that Iceland is a top spot for solo female travelers because it's super safe with many roads that are easy to navigate. Not to mention, the gorgeous country will take your breath away. (I mean, the Northern Lights? C'mon!) Iceland may be an expensive travel destination, but it's one of the world's most equal countries for women.

2. Barcelona and surrounding areas

There is something for everyone within the city and surrounding areas, from culture and food to history and adventure to even the mountains and the beach, says Pages and Jerrad. In fact, Barcelona is a great first solo trip destination, based on the respondents to Solo Female Travelers' survey in 2020 and 2021. It's not only very safe for women, but also very affordable. Plus with 40 million visitors a year, it's easy to meet other travelers and locals. If you want to get out of the city and explore more of Catalonia, the public transportation options and various day trips means you can enjoy medieval villages, beach towns, holy mountains, and so much more.

3. Greeces Cycladic islands

Greece became an incredibly popular destination in 2020, ranking among the top three bucket list destinations among members of the Solo Female Travelers community, says Pages and Jerrad. Even better: The country has retained this title in 2021. With white washed fishing villas and those gorgeous blue domes, this well-loved sun and sea combo is known for its affordability. Women can indulge in great food, long hours of sunshine (it only rains 20 days a year in Santorini), quaint spots for photo ops and Instagrammable flying dress photo shoots, shopping, and more.

4. New Zealand

Another destination recommended by all three experts, this island is easy to navigate, and is so beautiful that it feels like something out of a picture book (or, ya know, a Lord of the Ring s film). The ​​jaw-dropping nature and breathtaking landscapes offer some of the best outdoor experiences life has to offer—glow worm caves, anyone?—plus, the friendliest people.

Eat, Pray, Love truly left a mark on the rolling hills of Tuscany, turning it into both a top choice for many a female traveler's first solo trip, as well as an overall bucket list destination, says Pages and Jerrad. Whether you have specific experiences in mind or just want to leave it all up to chance, you can likely plan to enjoy the slow life among wine country, olive groves, undulating green hills, and quaint medieval villages.

6. Galapagos

Nature lover ready to spread your wings? The islands are full of incredible wildlife and pretty safe for women traveling solo. Choose a boat tour to be guided around the islands for hikes, go snorkeling, or join nature walks, recommends Black. You can also island hop using ferries whenever you want a change of scenery and to see even more amazing animals.

This hardly-visited country is the spiritual center of Buddhism and the place where GDP has been replaced with Gross Domestic Happiness, says Pages and Jerrad. The peace and calm that one can experience in Bhutan is the perfect background for anyone going through the process of self-reflection and self-healing. For example, Pages visited Bhutan solo after being diagnosed with a serious condition and returned hopeful and at peace with the healing journey she was about to begin.

8. Costa Rica

In recent years, Costa Rica has climbed to the top of the bucket list for many travelers, and has become a very popular destination throughout 2021 among Solo Female Travelers members, says Pages and Jerrad. The country features stunning nature and wildlife and has become a favorite destination for wellness retreats .

The language barrier may feel intimidating, but Japan is so organized and easy to navigate, from ordering food to using the public transportation system, says Black. It is safe, clean, beautiful, and runs more or less on schedule. A Type-A solo traveler's dream!

10. Maldives

Everyone thinks of the Maldives as the ultimate couple's destination, but that's no longer the case, says Pages and Jerrad. With more than a thousand hotels and resorts in the Maldives, there is something for everyone, including those who want to party. Plenty of travelers vacation here solo, whether to take a trip purposefully focused on self-care or simply to disconnect from it all and enjoy a beautiful place. Plus, more and more resorts are offering solo packages complete with butlers who will take your picture when requested and in-villa BBQs for one. So, if you're going to treat yourself (and you should), there's no better place.

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The Best Places for Solo Female Travel in 2024

If you’re planning a solo trip this year, I’ve got some excellent suggestions for you. I asked some of my fellow female travel bloggers to share their recommendations for the best places for solo female travel in 2024, which I’ve included alongside some of my own suggestions from past trips and some of my bucket-list destinations. You’ll find lots of inspiration for solo travel all around the world, so let’s get planning!

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The Best Places for Solo Female Travel in Europe

Europe is a wonderful place to travel alone. The infrastructure is generally excellent, so getting around is easy and there are plenty of options for places to stay in hostels, hotels, Airbnb and more. It is a varied continent with something for everyone. I’ve chosen a few of my favourite solo travel destinations – although you can’t go wrong wherever you choose!

Lisbon, Portugal

I toyed with suggesting Porto instead of Lisbon, but you could always combine the two if you have enough time! Lisbon is a great place to explore on foot, or you can hop on one of the trams to whizz across the city. I also loved taking photos of the trams; they are just so darn pretty!

Foodies will also love Portuguese cuisine, which is cheap and delicious. Don’t miss a day trip to Belem, the home of the pasteis de nata custard tarts, and I’d also recommend taking a cooking class to learn how to make them yourself!

Sintra is THE day trip to take from Lisbon, although spending a couple of days there won’t be time wasted. Sintra is a magical place, home to several fairy-tale castles with gorgeous views from the castle walls. Pena Palace is probably the most colourful castle you’ll ever see, and the sunset from the Moorish Castle is stunning.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of my favourite cities. I spent four years living there before I set off to backpack around South America. The city has everything you could wish for—beautiful beaches, gorgeous architecture, fabulous food, and a nightlife that varies from late-night dinners and drinks in tiny local bodegas to super clubs and live music venues.

Hit La Rambla early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and be sure to stop in at La Boqueria market to pick up some snacks. Stroll around the Gothic Quarter and take a walk along the beachfront, but don’t neglect the other more local neighbourhoods like Gracia which has some fabulous restaurants and Poble Sec.

You can’t talk about Barcelona without mentioning Gaudi, whose bizarre yet beautiful work dominates the city. La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and Casa Batlló are my personal favourite places to admire his work, although there are plenty more to see.

One of the best things to do for solo travellers in Barcelona who want good photos is to join a photo tour so you get gorgeous photos and memories of your trip. Check out our sister site Why Visit Barcelona to help plan your Barcelona trip!

Edinburgh, Scotland

I adored Edinburgh . It’s a beautiful city full of fascinating history, interesting architecture and delicious food. Harry Potter fans will love hunting down the places where J K Rowling found inspiration for her famous books, and there are various tours to join, which will take you to all the sights.

There are lots of things to do in the city too, from invigorating hikes up to Arthur’s Seat to museums packed with artefacts and plenty of lovely places for photographing the very instagrammable city. Nightlife is also great fun in Edinburgh – if you’re into that, I’d suggest staying at a hostel so you can meet people to party with.

I’d also highly recommend exploring more of Scotland outside the city too; I joined a 5-day tour of Scotland which included visiting Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and Glencoe which was fabulous. This 7-day Scotland itinerary will give you more ideas of where to go.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast is often overlooked when planning solo trips to the UK, but I fell in love with the city. It has a troubled history that is still evident in some places around the city where there are murals and dividing walls between the protestant and Catholic areas of Belfast. A Black Cab tour is a must to learn more about the history.

However, Belfast has changed a lot in the last twenty years or so, and it is now a buzzing cultural centre with an amazing foodie scene. The Titanic Museum is one of the best museums I’ve ever been to, although it’s not cheap! If you’re there on the weekend, then treat yourself to afternoon tea in the ballroom, which has a replica staircase from the Titanic, so you can pretend to be Kate Winslet for the day!

You can also take a trip up to the north coast to see the spectacular Giant’s Causeway, either on a day tour by coach or spend a couple of nights up there to explore the Causeway Coastal Route.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of the best budget destinations in Europe and is great for solo female travellers. It is cheap, and you can find delicious food, drink, and fabulous free things to do in Budapest without breaking the bank.

However, Budapest is not just for backpackers—you can also experience luxury here, relaxing in thermal spas, enjoying the nightlife, and soaking up the culture and history of this fascinating city.

Don’t miss the gorgeous views from Fishermen’s Bastion – best at sunrise if you can get up that early – and the stunning Parliament building on the banks of the Danube. You can take a guided tour inside the Parliament building, which is well worth it, but you’ll need to book a slot in advance.

Foodies will want to check out the Central Market Hall, and I’d also recommend a food tour and a wine-tasting tour to taste some delicious Hungarian wines and find out exactly what to eat in Budapest. Make sure you also spend some time in the old Jewish Quarter, learning about the history and checking out the famous Ruin Bars.

Galway, Ireland

If you’re wondering why I would choose Galway over Dublin, there are many reasons why I prefer this much smaller city; it’s prettier, cheaper, and closer to some of Ireland’s most beautiful destinations, so you can stay here for a few days and explore.

Galway is famous for its pubs and nightlife, and joining a pub crawl is a great way to experience the ‘craic’ if you are a solo traveller. Otherwise, it’s a pleasant town to walk around, watch the street performers and have a meal at one of the pubs or restaurants. Check out the Galway City Museum, walk along the river and watch the sunset over the sea.

A day trip to the Aran Islands was one of the highlights of my trip to Ireland, these islands off the coast of Galway have retained a more traditional culture, with Gaelic being the most common language. I went to Inis Mor and was blown away by the beautiful natural and man-made sights on the island.

You can also take a day trip from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher , another spectacular place in Ireland which is definitely worth a visit.

Bologna, Italy

Food lovers will be in heaven in Bologna . Although there is no bad place to visit in Italy for food, Bologna has to be one of the best. It is a lovely city to explore, with its orange and yellow-painted buildings, miles of porticoes and impressive main square.

A visit to the cathedral’s roof is not for the faint-hearted, but the views are spectacular, as is the sunset from the Two Towers. Don’t miss the tourist train ride up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna si San Luca, either, for impressive views of the countryside around the city.

However, I won’t judge you if you prefer to spend all your time eating and drinking your way around the city. You could take a food tour to find some of the best spots for gelato, freshly made pasta, cured meats and cheeses, or just explore yourself.

One thing you absolutely have to do is take a food tour outside of the city. Some tours include a visit to a parmesan cheese factory, a winery, a prosciutto ham producer, and a balsamic vinegar producer. Some tours also include a visit to the Ferrari factory and a substantial lunch. Food heaven!

The Best Places for Solo Female Travel in Africa

Cape town, south africa.

Solo female travel in South Africa is a rewarding experience. While it’s ideal for solo travellers with little experience, beginners can manage it with their wits about them.

One of the best things about travelling to South Africa is the affordability. If you’re used to travelling in Western Europe or the US, you’ll probably find prices to be about half what you’re used to. Cape Town, in particular, has a plethora of stylish bars, brunch cafes and world cuisine, so it’s a great place to dine for less.

In fact, Cape Town is one of the world’s most underrated cities. There are glitzy neighbourhoods with upscale bars like Camps Bay and hipster, and up-and-coming neighbourhoods like Woodstock with street art and food markets in refurbished warehouses. The city also has some spectacular beaches and excellent hikes up Table Mountain and Lion’s Head.

Another reason to visit South Africa is the fantastic nature and hiking opportunities. The Garden Route is a stretch of coastline running from Cape Town to Durban comprising beach towns and national parks. The scenery is second to none, so it’s a fantastic place to get lost.

Solo female travellers might want to consider the Baz Bus, a backpacker service that drops passengers safely at their accommodation.

By Rose, Where Goes Rose

Cairo, Egypt

Egypt has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember, and I am fascinated by this culture and the people who built the Pyramids of Giza more than 4000 years ago!  Can you imagine walking among all that history where the pharaohs reigned, visiting tombs and statues dedicated to their gods??

However, travelling to Egypt solo isn’t as easy as some of the other destinations on this list so I have partnered with Flash Pack to host an amazing small group trip to Egypt this September, and you’re invited!  The trip is designed for solo travellers between 25-55, so if you’re looking for an epic adventure with a group of like-minded people then this is the trip for you!

Throughout the trip, we will be joined by a local tour leader who will help us to experience the very best of Egypt on this amazing adventure.  We’ll marvel at the Pyramids, sail down the Nile, stroll through the Valley of the Kings and experience the REAL Egypt through authentic local experiences and a few surprises along the way.

This isn’t a backpacking trip, we’ll be staying in 4-5* hotels in a blend of adventure, luxury and unique activities that will make this an adventure to remember!

If this sounds good to you, get all of the details and book your place here !  There are limited spaces available (a maximum of 14) and you can secure your place with a deposit of $300!  Payment plans are available to spread the cost over the next few months if you don’t want to pay the whole amount in one go.

Morocco might be a surprising addition to this post, but I’ve included it as I was due to visit back in 2020 before YOU KNOW WHAT ruined my plans. I admit I was hesitant about going to Morocco as a solo female traveller as I have heard mixed reviews – some women adore it while others had unpleasant experiences here. That’s why I had booked a group tour to explore Morocco safely travelling alone but with a group.

Morocco is famous for delicious foods, bustling markets and maze-like streets. The blue city of Chefchaouen is a popular place for Instagrammers who will revel in the painted houses and pretty doorways, whereas the more adventurous will want to head out to the desert, go hiking in the mountains or surf on the coast.

There are now several companies offering women-only group tours to Morocco or tours focused on specific interests such as food or hiking – or just to cover the highlights of the country.

I had chosen one of the highlight tours, to include Marrakech, Essaouira, Casablanca, the Sahara Desert and more. I’d also planned to join a yoga retreat afterwards near Marrakech, then spend some time surfing. I hope I can do this next year instead and write a full review for you!

The Best Places for Solo Female Travel in the Americas

Toronto, canada.

Toronto is one of my favourite places to travel solo. The locals are friendly; the city is easy to navigate, it’s fairly cheap, and there are many museums to visit.

You should aim to stay in downtown Toronto for the best experience. My favourite neighbourhood to stay in is the Fashion District. It’s filled with cool shops, restaurants, and rooftop bars. Plus, it’s within walking distance from the Entertainment District, where many tourist attractions like the CN Tower are located.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous while you’re sightseeing, check out the Edge Walk at the CN Tower. You’ll literally walk along the rim’s edge 1168 ft above the street.

You should also hang out in Toronto’s Distillery District. It’s a small street filled with old industrial buildings that have been transformed into cool shops and restaurants.

While you’re there, I highly recommend checking out a show at The Second City. They’re famous for their sketch comedy and have churned out some legends including Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, and Gilda Radner.

The best part about visiting Toronto solo is that the locals are beyond friendly. People strike up a conversation fast after they see you’re alone. I guarantee you’ll end your trip with at least one new friend.

By Ally, Ally Travels

Cusco, Peru

Cusco is a special city and a great base for exploring Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s a fascinating place and was the capital of the Inca Empire, which dominated Peru before the Spanish Conquest. Solo travel in Peru has its challenges, but it is definitely worth the effort!

The trek to Machu Picchu is certainly one for the bucket list, although I’d recommend getting in shape and doing plenty of practice hikes before you go! You’ll need to join a guide for the trek, although if hiking isn’t your thing, you can also go to Machu Picchu by train.

Machu Picchu may be touristy but it is popular for good reason – it is mind-blowing. That said, take time to explore some of the other archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley, such as Moray, Maras, Ollantaytambo and Pisac. A trip to see the weaving communities at Chinchero is also well worth it.

Another highlight of my trip was the food in Peru. From fresh ceviche to juicy steak pieces and the less appealing roasted guinea pig, Peruvian food is an adventure!  Try to take a food tour or join a cooking class, as well as stop off at the Chocolate Museum.

Cartagena, Colombia

This brightly coloured colonial city is probably the most popular city in Colombia for foreigners, thanks to the cruise port. If you prefer to get more off the beaten track, then the Colombian coast offers an array of adventures. I’d suggest spending a couple of days in Cartagena, then heading off to explore.

In Cartagena, stroll around the streets of the old town, visit the castle and the gold museum and check out the street art in the Getsemani neighbourhood. Popular day trips from Cartagena include a mud volcano and the white sands of Playa Blanca beach on the Rosario Islands.

Further afield, Tayrona National Park is a beautiful natural park, which is home to indigenous communities who still live in the area. Please be respectful of the park’s rules and regulations as you enjoy the beautiful beaches and forests. The trek to the Lost City through the jungle is another highlight for many, although you’ll need a minimum of 4 days to trek there and back with your guide.

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is one of my favourite places in Mexico. It’s not quite as touristy as Cancun , but it is no longer a hidden gem and is rapidly becoming THE place to go in Mexico. The town is roughly split into two zones, the inland town centre and the beach area known as the Zona Hotelera, where the more expensive beachfront hotels are.

The town centre has cheaper options for accommodation and is just a bike ride away from the beach and the Mayan Ruins at Tulum. You’ll also find more local restaurants in the centre, and some of the tastiest tacos and street food here too!

Along with the beaches and ruins, Tulum has some spectacular cenotes i8u8– natural limestone sinkholes that make for unique snorkelling and diving. Tulum is also within reach of other popular attractions in the Yucatan Peninsula , such as Coba Mayan ruins and Chichen Itza , one of the modern seven wonders of the world.

Antigua, Guatemala

Guatemala may not be at the top of the list for solo female travel destinations, but I loved it here! Antigua is the former capital city of Guatemala, a title that was transferred to Guatemala City after a series of earthquakes in the 1700s destroyed most of the town.

These days, some of the old churches are still in ruins, never having been rebuilt, and are dotted around the town amid the colourful painted houses. Perhaps what is most impressive about Antigua, Guatemala is its proximity to several volcanoes.

Agua Volcano towers over the town, and nearby Fuego can often be seen smoking and spewing lava (the last major eruption was in 2018). Excursions to hike the adjacent volcano for views of Fuego are very popular here, as are climbs of the still-active Pacaya volcano , where you can walk across old lava flows and toast marshmallows in holes in the lava!

As well as volcanoes, you could take a cooking class in Antigua, learn about the local cuisine, coffee and traditions of weaving. I’d also recommend a trip to Lake Atitlan for at least a couple of days, to learn more about the indigenous communities who live in villages surrounding the lake.

To get around Guatemala, it is recommended that tourists get the more expensive shuttle buses instead of the colourful “chicken” buses that the locals use – unfortunately, hold-ups and robberies on the local buses aren’t uncommon.

The Best Places for Solo Female Travel in Asia & Beyond

Kaohsiung, taiwan.

Kaohsiung in Taiwan is the perfect city for solo female travellers. It is a great introduction to Asia. You get the Asian culture, food, and architecture, but it is very modern and not as crowded as many other Asian countries.

Kaohsiung is located in southern Taiwan and is home to some of the best attractions in the country. You can visit Fo Guang Shan Monastery, reverse your luck at the Dragon and Tiger Pagoda at Lotus Pond, and explore Cijin Island.

The best part of all these attractions is that they are completely free! Kaohsiung is extremely affordable, which is another reason it is the perfect destination for solo female travellers.

Taiwan is a very safe country. You can walk around at night alone without any issues. The locals are extremely friendly and are more than happy to help you out if you’re lost or need help. If you look lost, a local will probably come up to you to ask if they can help before you get a chance to ask them for help!

Kaohsiung is the perfect mixture of tastes, sounds, and sights. Be sure to get there soon before the secret of how amazing Kaohsiung gets out, and it gets flooded with tourists!

By Erica, Travels with Erica

Seoul, South Korea

One of the coolest places that I recommend to fellow solo female travellers is Seoul in South Korea. The capital has just so much to offer, each district has its very own vibe.

For high-end shopping and the tallest ice cream cones, head to Insa-Dong. Dongdaemun features an amazing food market while Insa-Dong has more expensive restaurants as well as museums. My favourite district is Hongdae and its attractions  that cover both day and night, ranging from nightly street performances to hip cafes in the day.

My special tip for ladies is to rent a hanbok for half a day and then visit the main sights in the centre for free! See the old palace grounds and temples and feel like a true Queen because people on the street will stop, clap and call you beautiful when they see you in their traditional robes! That, for sure, is a great ego boost. Be prepared to potentially take photos with other people. (That actually happened to me.)

Besides the great food and shopping scene, you should pack hiking boots and try out the wall hike, which leads you around the entire city centre and up to mountainous vantage points. It’s not an easy hike, and you will pass Seoul Tower and two military zones (where they do a quick ID check), but it’s so worth it for the views!! If you collect stamps along the way, you get a free badge to show off to your friends.

While I was in Seoul, I never felt unsafe or weirded out. There was no catcalling, no odd looks, and people were very helpful when I asked them for directions or tips. It’s good to have the places you’re looking for in Korean type.

But with the amazing local transportation network, it’s extremely easy and affordable to get around and navigate the city.

By Annemarie, Travel on the Brain

Koh Phangan, Thailand

Koh Phangan belongs to the best destinations in Thailand and Southeast Asia and is extremely friendly for solo female travel too. The food is cheap and delicious and you can rent a simple bungalow on a beach for about $200 per month.

Koh Phangan has a thriving yoga community. The whole island is dotted with yoga and mindfulness centres, so a trip there can serve as the ultimate self-care retreat. You can also make use of the many yoga teacher-training courses. Vegan food is available not just at expat-run restaurants but also at tiny Thai eateries lining the road.

The only challenge to overcome as a solo female traveller is riding a scooter; otherwise getting around is a pain.

If you dive into the expat community on Koh Phangan, there are a lot of guys ready to mingle. And then there’s the nightlife, with Full Moon parties at its core. If you choose to go to one, it’s best to bring a friend and not to go too wild.

Ultimately, Koh Phangan is a cheap and safe destination  with a lot of diverse things to do.  To stay 100% safe, exert caution at the uber-popular Full Moon parties and wear a helmet when riding a scooter.

By Veronika, Travel Geekery

Kerala, India

Kerala in Southern India is one of the best solo female travel destinations in Asia. Some might be surprised to hear this, because India’s reputation in regard to solo female travel isn’t that good. However, Kerala is quite different in many regards.

Kerala is not only one of the most beautiful states in India but also one of the safest and most developed states. Many of the difficulties solo female travellers face in India simply don’t exist in Kerala, where the people are friendly and helpful.

Kerala is a place of beautiful nature with palm-fringed backwaters, picture-perfect beaches, misty hill stations and national parks teeming with wildlife. It’s a place to pamper yourself and there are excellent resorts as well as Ayurveda and yoga retreats.

Kerala is India at its best and also a great budget destination. Things like accommodation and food are very cheap. For very little money you can indulge in delicious southern Indian food, stay in nice homestays or boutique hotels and travel by train to see India’s most spectacular sceneries.

By Ellis, Backpack Adventures

Tokyo, Japan

With rich culture, incredible sites, and some of the most delicious food on the planet, Tokyo is truly a city that has it all. While Tokyo isn’t typically considered a budget destination, it can be totally affordable. Plus, Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, making it an ideal place for solo female travellers.

When visiting Tokyo, one of your biggest expenses will likely be lodging – hotel rooms in the city can be quite expensive. If you’d like to stay in a hostel, you can find plenty of options. Nui Hostel is a great option close to a ton of Tokyo attractions. If you’d prefer to stay in a hotel, consider staying in a business hotel. APA Hotels are a chain of business hotels that can be found all over Tokyo, and while they’re a little more expensive than a hostel, they’re still very affordable. The rooms are small but perfect for if you’re travelling solo.

Tokyo is home to a ton of amazing activities and attractions, some of which allow you to experience the city’s culture and others that let you see the city’s modern side. For culture, don’t miss a visit to Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Jingu Shrine. A trip to teamLab Borderless is a must to see incredible digital art. More fun attractions and activities to add to your Tokyo bucket list include the Tokyo Sky Tree, go-karting through the city streets, bar hopping in Golden Gai, and trying all the delicious food.

By Sydney, A World in Reach

Singapore is one of the best places for a female solo traveller to visit as it has a very low crime rate and is widely considered one of the safest cities in the world. While accommodation is expensive compared to other cities in Southeast Asia, it is easy for solo travelers to save money by focusing on its amazing free attractions.

There is also plenty of cheap and tasty street food to enjoy at Singapore’s many hawker centres and using public transportation to get around is another money saver. Most of Singapore’s popular tourist attractions can be easily reached using the excellent MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system which is fast, clean and efficient.

Singapore has tons of fun and unique things to do and see. One of the best things to do in Singapore is to walk on the waterfront promenade while enjoying the beautiful views of the skyline and famous landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, Helix Bridge and the iconic Merlion statue.

The indoor and outdoor gardens at the Gardens by the Bay are not to be missed, especially the Supertree Grove, which is lit up at night. The temperature is hot year-round, so female travellers can wear their cutest outfits to take photos at the many Instagram worthy spots in Singapore .

By Matilda, The Travel Sisters

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is an excellent destination for solo female travellers. It’s very safe, and the main areas of interest are well-connected. Also, Myanmar is a gorgeous country that is not as popular as its neighbours Thailand or Vietnam, which means no mass tourism, and you can feel like a real explorer!

Myanmar was the first country where I travelled by myself, and I had an awesome experience. The country is incredibly affordable, especially when you don’t have anyone to split the cost. I found that hostels are the best option for accommodation in Myanmar. I stayed in Ostello Bello, which is a chain of very reliable accommodation in main cities such as Bagan and Mandalay.

The main tourist sites are well connected with cheap local flights or even cheaper and safe night buses that cost just a couple of dollars.

There is so much to discover in Myanmar! Head to Bagan and hire an electric scooter for the day to explore thousands of ancient temples scattered in the area. Catch a glimpse of a rising sun on a hot air balloon. Cycle the Inle Lake loop and go around Mandalay on a tuk-tuk and visit the giant stupa made of gold – the glorious Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.

Most Western visitors will need a visa, which can be easily obtained online.

By Mal from  Raw Mal Roams

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An, Vietnam, is a great place for solo female travellers to visit. This quaint town is so fun to explore and easy to walk around. The vibe here is very relaxed, and it’s easy to spend several inexpensive days here. There are cute cafes to people watch from and lots of historic temples to explore during the afternoon. Most hotels or hostels will have bike rentals, so you can explore the town by bike as well! Cua Dai Beach is a short bike ride down the road and a great place to relax.

Hoi An is also known for making custom clothes. There are fabric shops everywhere, and it’s easy to pick out something from a catalogue or draw a picture of what you’d like to make. You can spend a few days exploring the town while checking in periodically for fittings on your custom outfits.

Perhaps the best part about Hoi An is the lanterns. This town comes to life at night and is lit up with hundreds of lanterns in the shops. Night strolls here are a must, and as a solo female traveller, I have never felt unsafe here. It’s got a lot to see and do and is definitely a highlight of Vietnam!

By Ashley, Jet Set Jansen

Almaty Kazakhstan

If you are looking for a city to travel to solo that has it all look no further than Almaty, Kazakhstan. It’s a city that has history, a great food culture and nature that is unbelievable. Flying into the city you get some breath-taking scenery that makes you want to get out and explore straight away.

You can spend a day wandering Central Park, stopping at the little restaurants that are dotted all through it for an amazing shashlik or a cold drink in the sun. This is where many  families visiting Almaty go, so the park is a great place to meet fellow travellers. Just be warned that there are people walking around with small animals like rabbits, and they encourage you to pick them up and demand payment.

After visiting Central Park, you can catch a Yandex (Kazakh Uber) at Panfilov Park. Here, you can see the Zenkov Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox Cathedral made from wood but without a single nail. The gardens that surround it are beautiful, and you will also see the monuments to fallen soldiers throughout the park.

For nature lovers, a trip to Big Almaty Lake is a must. For solo travellers I’d recommend taking a guided tour there as transport back to Almaty can be difficult. Another epic adventure just out of Almaty is a trip up to the Shymbulak Ski resort, either for skiing in winter or hiking in warmer months. The ride on the cable car is an adventure in itself that will take you all the way 3200 meters above sea level in three amazing sections.

A great way to end your trip is a visit to Kok Tobe. You can visit the Beatles monument and then have dinner overlooking the city and watching the sun go down.

by Bec, Wyld Family Travel

Queenstown, New Zealand

If you’re looking for a destination ideal for the solo female traveler, it’s hard to go past New Zealand. Whether you are in search of epic scenery or adventure, Queenstown on the South Island has something to appeal.

Being a popular tourist destination, and the adventure capital of the South Island, there are plenty of  things to do in Queenstown . If you seek adrenaline, you can bungy jump at the world’s first commercial jump site, white water raft, jet boat, or skydive. Or if you are visiting in the winter, the region is famous for its ski season.

Plus, many Hollywood blockbusters, most famously Lord of The Rings, were filmed in and around Queenstown. So, the number of tour options makes it perfect for the solo traveller to join and meet people.

Queenstown is on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, so if the solo road trip is more your style, there are some truly epic views driving around the lake. You won’t regret taking the trip out to Glenorchy, and for some history, the quaint old gold mining town of Arrowtown is a short drive away. The picturesque town of Wanaka is only an hour.

New Zealand is a super safe country, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. If you happen to be in Queenstown over a weekend, it’s worth joining one of the organized pub crawl events to make some new friends and see the best spots in town.

By Holly, Globeblogging

Melbourne, Australia

Australia is definitely a bucket list destination, and I had the chance to spend nearly 5 months travelling around and ticking off a lot of bucket list experiences.  While Sydney and the Blue Mountains are probably the most popular destinations (aside from Uluru) I actually preferred Melbourne.

Melbourne just oozes cool, with alleyways full of street art, incredible restaurants and cool bars.  Stroll along the riverfront or take a rest under a tree in one of the parks, or check out some of the wonderful museums in Melbourne, such as the fabulous National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) which is one of the best free things to do in Melbourne .

The area around Melbourne is well worth exploring too, such as the Grampians National Park and the Great Ocean Road .  I took a day tour to the Great Ocean Road which was spectacular, with incredible views of the coastline and the famous 12 Apostles, rock stacks in the sea.

I hope these suggestions have given you some inspiration for where to go on your next solo trip. These are certainly some of the best places for solo female travel anywhere in the world!

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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20 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: The Best Trip Destinations in the World (& The 5 Worst!)

by Aileen Adalid Solo Travel 5 comments

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More than ever, women from all over the world are now choosing to travel solo — this comes as no surprise because traveling alone is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. (Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers)

In fact, in America alone, there are about 32 million women who are traveling solo and that number keeps rising every year! But… as the number of solo female travelers is rising, the number of unsafe destinations is also increasing as they are slowly being brought to light.

I long for the day that I don’t have to write about which are the safest countries for solo female travelers; but the reality is that there are just some destinations that are more dangerous than others.

Looking for more solo travel tips?

Check out my solo travel guides and female travel tips !

Thankfully, journalists Asher and Lyric Ferguson helped make my research a lot easier when they created the “ Women’s Danger Index “. They basically ranked the top 50 countries with the most international tourists in order to see which are the worst and safest to visit. To do this, they utilized 8 danger factors as they put more weight on street safety and intentional homicide:

• Safe to walk alone at night
• Intentional homicide for women
• Non-partner sexual violence
• Intimate partner violence
• Legal discrimination
• Global gender gap
• Gender inequality index
• Violence against women attitudes .

As mentioned in their findings…

To measure safety abroad, one cannot look at only data on street safety, rape, or violence. It also depends on the general attitude of the culture, the minutiae of the legal system, and the systematic oppression of local women. These issues can affect everything, from easily getting a taxi alone to having your voice be heard in a conversation, to even needing a male escort for your personal safety. . A lot on our list, such as attitudes toward partner violence may not affect solo female travelers directly, but these factors are a good indication of overall attitudes within the culture.

So for all female travelers out there who are itching to book that plane ticket and tick off their bucket list destinations, below are the top 20 safest countries for solo female travelers (ordered by rank) that are ideal for both first-time and experienced female solo travelers.

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Table of Contents

» Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers «

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Aside from being the second most visited destination in the world (just next to France) , Spain turned out to be the safest country for female solo travelers as per the Women’s Danger Index. After all, it ranks high in street safety along and has low legal discrimination as well as low violence rating against women.

So apart from the aforementioned reasons, there are also plenty of other reasons to visit this beautiful country: its scenic Mediterranean coastlines, endless servings of paella, rich culture, and fabulous architecture such as the Sagrada Familia among many others!

• READ MORE: Spain Travel Guides

2. Singapore

This small island nation is considered the safest Asian country on the planet! The country scores high in more than half of the factors, with 92% of women claiming that they feel safe when walking alone at night — which I also personally find to be true.

So travel to your heart’s content when you’re in such a dynamic destination like Singapore! Marvel at how old and the new seamlessly coexist as it packs a lot of surprises for its visitors despite its small size. Some of the things you must NOT miss? As a start, don’t skip out on the Gardens by the Bay and Skyline Luge !

• READ MORE: Singapore Travel Guides Singapore Layover (Things to Do)

Ireland may not have the best weather, but you’ll love the fact that it has particularly low levels of discrimination, gender inequality, and violence against women. Not to mention, it is a breathtaking destination with laid-back cities, beautiful countryside, and vibrant culture.

So don’t forget to indulge yourself with some beer (how about a glass of Guinness ?) and explore glorious sights like the Cliffs of Moher for an incredible Irish experience!

• READ MORE: Ireland Travel Guides

For many travelers, Austria is an almost perfect country and they even say that Austrians enjoy some of the best quality of life i n Europe . This notion trickles down and reveals itself in the study as it shows how Austria has some of the lowest levels of sexual violence and lowest gender inequality among the countries reviewed.

Aside from being one of the safest countries for solo travelers, Austria is truly a must-see destination for those who have a taste for fine culture .

• READ MORE: Austria Travel Guides

5. Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes and fjords which are not limited to Mount Titlis , Jungfraujoch , and Grindelwald .

Aside from such promising beauty, Switzerland is the seventh (7th) most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Thus, it’s an incredibly safe country for a woman to travel alone. The country even performed very well when it came to street safety and low crime rates — I can attest to this fact because of my personal experiences.

One situation that always comes to mind was when I once left my wallet at a crowded train station to Matterhorn ; I only found out that I lost it when it was sunset ( as it was my cue to go back to my hotel ). ‘Lo and behold, the train staff held on to it and nothing was lost!

• READ MORE: Switzerland Travel Guides

If I say so myself, it comes as no surprise that Norway (or any of the Scandinavian nations) is regarded as one of the most female-friendly countries in the world. With high standards of living, crime rates are found to be extremely low even in major cities such as Oslo and Stavanger .

With that said, it’s a must to try and do a road trip through this wonderful European city and chase the northern lights , hike to the famed Trolltunga or explore Arctic fjords !

• READ MORE: Norway Travel Guides

7. Portugal

Portugal makes it to this list of the safest destinations for female travelers and it scores big points not only for its magnificent scenery but also for its good track record with women’s rights and cultures.

Some of the things to look forward to during your visit are the vibrant city of Lisbon , the dramatic views over Christ the King , and the turquoise-blue waters .

• READ MORE: Portugal Travel Guides

Officially called the Republic of Croatia, this Mediterranean paradise features sapphire waters and pristine days — perfect for those who are seeking that premium European summer experience! Thankfully as well, crime in Croatia is relatively low, making it extremely safe for solo traveling, especially for females.

So don’t miss out on this country’s beauty and consider booking yourself a tour of the Plitvice Lakes or a sailing experience . I went solo on a 7-day sailing trip from Split to Dubrovnik before and I met a lot of amazing people, ate a lot of amazing Croatian delicacies, and did a lot of amazing experiences. True enough, it was one of the most amazing Eurotrip activities that I’ve done!

• READ MORE: Croatia Travel Guides

Canada attracts solo travelers for its safety, solid women’s rights record, and diverse range of scenery. In fact, of all the countries in North America, Canada is considered the safest destination for women travelers. Besides, Canadians have this worldwide reputation of being the friendliest people, and you’ll soon see why once you set foot in this spectacular country.

To add, it is home to a wide range of landscapes, including centuries-old forests, snow-covered mountains, breathtaking countrysides , and pristine lakes.

• READ MORE: Canada Travel Guides

Did you know? This Eastern European country is regarded as the safest place in Europe according to OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) and it’s mainly due to its low crime rates and positive attitude towards tourists. Even in the capital of Warsaw , though there might be some petty crimes here and there, solo travellers and female travelers alike will still feel relatively safe, especially with how hospitable Polish people are.

For some of the top must-do’s, I recommend rediscovering the story of World War III by stopping at Auschwitz and the Schindler’s Factory .

• READ MORE: Poland Travel Guides

11. United Kingdom

Comprised of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, this historic state packs a lot of allure for visitors of any kind — no matter if it’s from their bustling cities such as London or peaceful countrysides like Windsor .

To date, much like most European countries, traveling to the United Kingdom is very safe. For years, it is regarded as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers given that violent crime is rare. Though one of the reasons why it is placed a bit lower in this list is on how it ranks low on gender inequality and this can be somehow attributed to the pervasive ‘lad culture’ that has developed in the UK. Still and the same, for as long as you keep your wits with you, travel is generally regarded as safe.

• READ MORE: United Kingdom Travel Guides

12. Netherlands

The Netherlands is a famous European destination where tradition and innovation intertwine. There is much to be desired here: from tulip fields to romantic city canal cruises , from Van Gogh paintings to the gnawing history of Anne Frank , and so much more!

And as a solo female traveler, you will be needing some caution especially in big cities like Amsterdam — but still and the same, the Netherlands is generally a safe country to explore in (your biggest concern might just be pickpockets) . Besides, the Dutch are laid-back folks who are fairly polite; plus, I have traveled to this country far too many times by myself, and I have never felt unsafe.

• READ MORE: Netherlands Travel Guides

France is the most sought-after destination in Europe, and due to this popularity and ensuing crowdedness, it’s expected that most females don’t feel fully safe at night (especially in the big city of Paris ) . Nevertheless, it still earns its spot as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers because of how it puts high regard for women’s rights.

Truth be told, the country has a low gender gap according to Ampersand. Moreover, catcalling and street harassment are outlawed and placed with hefty on-the-spot fines.

So don’t let any of your fears stop you from flying to this popular destination as you finally witness the majestic Eiffel Tower , visit the Louvre Museum , explore the fantastical castle island of Mont Saint Michel , drive through the French Riviera , and more!

• READ MORE: France Travel Guides

14. Denmark

As I previously mentioned, you should always expect Scandinavian countries to be on the list of safest countries for solo female travelers. Visitors will have little to worry about when it comes to crime, and women travelers also don’t have much to worry about when it comes to harassment. Crimes still occur, that’s a fact, but common sense should keep you out of trouble.

To make the most of your stay in Denmark, don’t forget to explore the Tivoli Gardens , take a trip to the ancient city of Roskilde, look for fossils at Møns Klint, sail a real Viking ship with the Viking Ship Museum, and so much more!

• READ MORE: Denmark Travel Guides

When it comes to solo travel, Italy is an outstanding destination: it’s relatively safe and plenty of sights or activities to keep you occupied for a while! One of my favorite destinations in the country is Rome and even if it’s crowded, female travelers like I do will generally feel safe while exploring key places like the Colosseum , the Sistine Chapel , and Roman Forum among many others!

Of course, let’s not forget the other stunning cities of Florence , Venice , Naples … aaah , I can go on and on about Italy! All in all, there is just so much to see in this country, and as a solo traveler, you will be indulging in a lot of rewarding experiences.

• READ MORE: Italy Travel Guides

16. Czech RepubliC

Rates of violent crimes are low in the Czech Republic, and even most of Prague’s areas are safe to walk around even after dark. The country just so happens to be low on the list given the bad rating for its global gender gap. But as per usual, just use common sense much like how you would in any place in the world (even your home country) and you’ll be fine here as a solo female traveler.

There is much to see, after all, in this amazing country: the Charles Bridge along with the grand Prague Castle , the quaint town of Český Krumlov , and many others.

• READ MORE: Czech Republic Travel Guides

This Scandinavian wonder earns its place in this list of safest countries for solo female travelers due to its secure and progressive environment for women. The reason why Sweden scored lower than the other Scandinavian countries is mainly due to its low rating for non-partner and intimate partner sexual violence, as well as the global gender gap.

These factors aside, Sweden is still one of the safest countries in the world and you can enjoy a number of activities, namely: chasing after Northern Lights through Lapland, hiking through the King’s Trail (Kungsleden), etc. etc.

• READ MORE: Sweden Travel Guides

18. Germany

Germany is also incredibly safe, not just for solo female travelers but also for other kinds of travelers as well. Plus, with a highly efficient rail network to take advantage of, tourists can move between central cities and most places in between with great ease!

And of course, aside from being a safe country to travel to, Germany has so much to offer — from magical castles like Neuschwanstein to stunning natural sights of Zugspitze , from vibrant Oktoberfest festivities to enriching city tours , and more!

• READ MORE: Germany Travel Guides

With over hundreds of inhabited Greek islands, tourists are highly unlikely to experience crime or violence — even more so for women. Hence, Greece is a very safe country to travel to at any time.

You might need to put more caution when traveling to more popular places like Athens, but in general, most destinations are safe with petty crime being the main crime you might have to pay heed to. But as long as you do basic precautionary measures, your trip should be smooth sailing!

Speaking of sailing, apart from trying sailing trips , you should also try sailing (or flying!) to other places to experience incredible sights such as that of Santorini , Crete , and others!

• READ MORE: Greece Travel Guides

I gotta admit, I expected Japan to be ranked higher on this list because it’s truly one of the safest countries for solo female travelers. Case in point, I’ve been traveling to this destination solo for probably more than 15 times now; I’ve walked through tiny alleys by myself in the wee hours of the night, and yet I have never felt unsafe nor encountered dangerous individuals.

So it truly came as a surprise to me to see that in the Women’s Danger Index, Japan ranked 20 out of 50. But then I realized that indeed… Japan has some problems when it comes to gender equality and attitudes toward women given that its society is still fairly misogynistic (which is deeply rooted in its old traditions and history) .

That aside, Japan is generally safe and it is even ranked 6th among the most peaceful countries in the world! With that in mind, it ticks all the other boxes: lively cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hiking trails, and delectable cuisine. Beyond the well-known cities of Tokyo and Kyoto , don’t forget to explore its off-the-beaten-path spots too such as the Chubu region.

• READ MORE: Japan Travel Guides Japan Itinerary Guides

– – –

» Other Safe Destinations «

As you may have noticed by now, the Women’s Danger Index is only limited to the top 50 most popular destinations in the world for international tourists, so there are off-the-beaten-path (yet safe) countries that this research has missed out on as well as some other key destinations, namely…

1. New Zealand

I was actually surprised that this was not included in the previous top 50 list; nevertheless, New Zealand or ‘ Middle Earth ‘ (for Lord of the Rings fans) is the perfect destination for those who love adventure, sports, and nature. It is one of the safest countries in the world for solo female travelers and backpackers too given that it is the 2nd most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index.

• READ MORE: New Zealand Travel Guides

2. Australia

Australia , just like New Zealand is considered one of the safest countries in for solo female travelers. The Australian metropolis even continues to hold the crown as the Most Livable City , according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. The locals are also known for their warm hospitality and good cheer that’s why a lot of solo travelers consider backpacking around the country safe.

• READ MORE: Australia Travel Guides

Iceland has some of the lowest crime rates and it’s ranked number one as the most peaceful country in the world on the Global Peace Index! The country is also one of the best destinations for solo female travelers in search of an ultimate female adventure journey (or a road trip at that!). After all, the country is a haven for travelers who love the outdoors, with numerous waterfalls to explore , glaciers to hike and geothermal spas to soak in .

• READ MORE: Iceland Travel Guides

4. South Korea

South Korea is actually #21 on the Women’s Danger Index, so I thought that it’s worth mentioning this in this list of safest countries in the world especially because it IS safe. Much like Japan, I’ve had no problems traveling around the country as a woman; the only issue why South Korea scored low is its attitude towards women due to its society that’s similar to Japan. But don’t let this dissuade you from traveling to this amazing destination!

• READ MORE: South Korea Travel Guides

When it comes to world standards, Taiwan’s crime rate is low; so much like its other East Asian countries , it’s a destination that is pretty much safer than many other places in the world. And as a solo female traveller, you’ll love the array of things to do in Taiwan !

• READ MORE: Taiwan Travel Guides

The only explanation why this Scandinavian country is not in the top 20 is because it was not regarded as the top 50 most visited countries in the world. Nevertheless, much like its neighbors, the country is a haven for solo women travelers who are seeking for a range of exciting sights and activities!

• READ MORE: Finland Travel Guides

7. Philippines

I’m not just saying this because of bias, but primarily because the Philippines IS a safe destination for solo girl travelers. After all, the Filipinos are probably the friendliest and most hospitable people that you’ll ever meet. Add the fact that English is one of the 2 official languages in the country, you won’t have a hard time going around the islands. Just use your best instincts and ‘street smarts’ at all time to not be targeted for petty crimes.

• READ MORE: Philippines Travel Guides

8. Indonesia

Single travelers should never shy away from Indonesia’s charms because they hardly face any real threat or danger. A lot of solo travelers, after all, have been to this amazing country and they have all had a great time! Just don’t throw your common sense out of the window and you’ll have a smooth Indonesia trip right from day one.

• READ MORE: Indonesia Travel Guides

9. Thailand

This is truly a favorite destination in Southeast Asia and while Thailand is generally safe, you should still be wary of your surroundings, as well as some of the cultural norms (e.g. some temples don’t allow women, you shouldn’t sit beside Buddhist monks in public transport, etc.) . There’s much to be said about attitudes toward women, but still, it’s a relatively secure destination for females.

• READ MORE: Thailand Travel Guides

10. Namibia

This has got to be the safest country for solo travelers in Africa especially since the locals are friendly and that most towns exude a safe atmosphere for tourists (the biggest danger that you might face are wild animals) . Just do your research beforehand and you’ll be fine!

» 5 Worst Countries for Women Traveling Alone «

• DISCLAIMER : The countries in this list are those that ranked the poorest on the Women’s Danger Index that collects the top 50 most-visited countries worldwide. Naturally, this does NOT mean that you shouldn’t travel to these countries — in fact, it’s the opposite. . You should still go especially if you want to, BUT just take note that you must exercise caution due to the country’s bad record or attitudes toward women. If you’re still not confident, it doesn’t hurt to travel with a companion!

1. South Africa

When I first visited Africa, Zambian locals expressed worry when I told them that my next solo destination was South Africa . “Are you heading alone to Johannesburg?” , they asked. When I replied ‘ Cape Town ‘, they breathed a sigh of relief and added, “that’s fine, just be aware of your surroundings especially since you’re alone.” I found it odd how they reacted like that, but after careful research, their reaction made sense because the country has historically treated women cruelly, not to mention the high crime rates.

My trip to Cape Town went smoothly and though there were a few moments that I felt unsafe, I still thoroughly enjoyed my stay there! It might be because I spent most of my time driving around tourist areas ( it’s said that most crime takes place in the townships ); nevertheless, just exercise caution at all times and behave conservatively.

It might not be a surprise to you to see Brazil in this list of worst countries for solo female travelers because if you do a Google search, most articles won’t sugarcoat the reality that it’s a dangerous country — not only for women but for men too. It has a high rate of crime and most embassies will caution you to never walk alone at night and to never resist any robbery attempts.

It’s still fine to travel alone, but if you ask me, this is not the best place to start with especially if you’re a newbie or beginner solo traveler.

This is yet another surprising discovery when I went through the Women’s Danger Index because I have also traveled to Russia alone but I have never felt unsafe there — not even in the big cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg . But indeed, that’s just my experience. Apparently, this vodka-loving destination is one of the worst when it comes to legal discrimination and general attitudes towards women.

Safety is, of course, never guaranteed wherever you may be in the world but some places are riskier than others. Mexico is one of those places and this may be also expected by some of you especially because it has low ratings when it comes to street safety and violence.

Other solo travelers might argue otherwise and I’m a bit on the fence with that. I traveled to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, as well as Tulum in 2021 at a time when some cartel shootings just happened and there were a lot of army folks doing their rounds — it added a sense of security but it still felt unsafe at some times. My whole trip ended with no incident and I believe that some areas are safer than others (e.g. Valladolid); but I guess what I’m just trying to say is: just do your research and be cautious, and I’m sure you’ll be able to gauge your level of comfort.

This came as yet another surprise for me because I regard Iran as one of the safest countries in the Middle East (I guess it just scores low as compared to the rest of the top 50 most-visited places worldwide) . Though for you, you might have expected this because of how the media portrays this country; however, I urge you to do your own research so you can see how a lot of solo female travelers had no problems journeying through this country alone. You just need to prepare for some things first (e.g. knowing how wearing a hijab is mandatory in the country, knowing how there’s gender segregation in public, etc.) and you’ll be fine.

Solo female travel has since become a worldwide trend and I hope that this article helped give you some ideas on the safest countries to travel to!

Of course, there’s the reality that despite this assuring list, the chance of being harassed is still possible — however, this should never stop you from pursuing your travel dreams! A lot of women have gone through such adventures and YOU can too.

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Wonderful post! I’ve been eyeing Switzerland for a solo trip but never got the time. Once the borders are open, I will make this my first destination to travel in 2021.

You’ll definitely love it! I hope you get to go soon :D

I find all countries in South East Asia considerably more safe than ANY in mainland Europe or the UK. The reason for this is that predatory men are considerably more interested in Asian women than in taking on a European woman traveller. The countries that are predominantly Buddhist have a completely different mindset and you are very unlikely, if you take a modest and respectful approach, to experience crime. Quite the reverse…l understand that if you expose yourself to full moon parties, excessive alcohol consumption and red light districts this may not be the case.

Thanks for sharing our research, Aileen. I loved your commentary and personal experiences you included throughout the article.

I’m glad you like it! Thank you as well for the amazing research. :D

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15 Best Solo Trips For Women, According To Travelers Who've Done Them

Here’s where to venture out on your own this year.

Women and femme folks face unique challenges when exploring the world alone. Though I’ve visited 57 countries with no plans to slow down, I’ll admit there are concerns about safety and women’s rights that men will never have to deal with when it comes to solo travel. The way I see it, though, these are also global problems that don’t belong to any one country, and I’ll never let them stop me from seeing the world. While safety should be priority and precautions should always be taken, they shouldn’t stop young women who want to travel alone. If you’re one of those young women, and you need some inspiration to help get you started on your own journey, these are the best places for solo travel for women in 2022, according to four people who travel alone all the time.

When it comes to my personal solo travel, I always take the time to research where I’m going and how my gender presentation may impact my experience. I look into how local women are generally treated, the experiences other female and femme travelers have had in these places (according to vetted blogs and social media), and what kinds of laws exist in the city or country to protect and support women who have experienced gender-based harassment. If you’re looking for another resource to help make the most informed decision about where to solo travel, there’s a whole index from the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace, and Security that measures which countries excel at promoting women’s well-being (and which don’t).

But data can only tell us so much, which is why I asked several globetrotting women where they’d recommend like-minded solo travelers to visit. From select regions to entire countries, here are the 15 solo travel destinations they chose for women traveling alone.

1. Slovenia

While everyone was taking Game of Thrones tours or yachting in Croatia, Faith Yi , 34, from Brooklyn, New York, was exploring Slovenia, its less traveled neighbor to the north. Yi, who’s a travel publicist, has been to 25 countries, and finds the solo travel experience to be freeing and empowering. In Slovenia, that sense of freedom mixed gorgeously with the country’s natural beauty.

“With mountains, forests, and lakes galore, the country feels straight out of a fairy tale,” she says, calling Slovenia “energetic without being overwhelming.” Yi says, “Slovenia has culture, cuisine, and scenery. I explored farmers markets nestled in the foothills of mountain ranges, restaurants, and town squares across Ljubljana and Bled.”

But Slovenia is more than just a great photo op. Yi says it was only after visiting Slovenia that she found out the Global Peace Index ranked it as one of the top 10 safest countries in the world in 2022 . “I honestly didn’t feel like anyone ... treated me differently for being Asian or a woman. I was just another friendly visitor spending my coins,” she says. For added safety while traveling alone, Yi recommends sharing your rough itinerary with close friends and never telling strangers where you’re staying or going.

Ranking at the top of the 2022 Global Peace Index, Iceland has a reputation as the world’s safest and most equitable destination for solo female travelers. Yi has been there twice — once while road tripping and a second time doing a farm stay with a local family — and says it’s a very safe and welcoming place for solo travelers or small groups.

“[The local family members] were quintessential Icelanders who loved welcoming visitors to their country and went out of their way to show us experiences you couldn’t find in a guidebook,” Yi says. She recommends heading outside of Reykjavik if possible and renting a car to take yourself to the waterfalls, geysers, and black sand beaches for which Iceland is known.

Yi has nothing but good memories of the locals she met across Vietnam. She also especially loves the fact that so many women run their own businesses in the country and have clear autonomy over their work. “Women were out and about living their lives or working day or night, which contributed to the pulse of the city,” she says. In addition to meeting countless other female travelers, Yi says she felt very safe with other tourists and local tour operators, whether she “was on a private street food tour or going spelunking in the Hang Tien cave system.”

One memory that stands out to her as an example of good faith is when a local woman went out of her way to help her. “I lost my Fitbit at a restaurant, and the female host I was staying with insisted on taking me on her scooter in the pouring rain to go back and look for it,” she remembers.

4. The Netherlands

Yi says progressive attitudes among the Dutch people span generations, and that was something she found inspiring when she traveled to the Netherlands. Talking about a conversation she had with her two female neighbors from the area, Yi says, “When I asked about dating, marriage, and gender equality, I learned that many couples never get legally married and choose to build their lives together without the official paperwork, which I found very empowering.”

Beyond more modern perspectives on gender equality, the country is also really easy to navigate via train and is filled with good options for Airbnbs. And Yi knows other young women traveling solo will appreciate the ability to do their own thing, which she found super easy in the Netherlands. “I love making time to take myself out to a nice restaurant and sit at the bar and strike up a conversation with the bartender/server,” she says. “The Netherlands is a fantastic place to not feel self-conscious doing that.”

5. Portland, Maine

When most international travel was on hold in May 2021, Yi looked within the United States for solo travel. Buses and trains got her to Portland, Maine, where she could easily get around the city, meet fellow female travelers, and eat all the lobster she wanted without worrying about her safety.

Yi ended up at a seafood shack, where she struck up a conversation with a retired school administrator from Arkansas. Later at a craft cocktail bar, she sat with two tipsy sisters from Boston who were on a girls trip, and they became friends. “I encourage you to eat alone, sit at the bar, and take yourself out on a solo date whenever you can,” she says. “Don’t just hole up in your room with takeout — unless that’s your vibe.” Loneliness can be one of the major challenges of solo travel, so being in a city like Portland, where it’s easy to meet people, is a huge plus.

Born and raised in Belize, Gisselle Hernandez , a 26-year-old writer, social media expert, and travel writer, says the country’s size makes it a great place for young women to travel alone. “Roughly the size of Massachusetts, it’s easy to navigate from one region to the next,” she says. “Public transportation makes it convenient to get from sand-clad islands to jungle-laden Western Belize in less than a day,” she adds.

Belize’s diversity of cultures and ethnicities also makes it ideal for solo female travelers from all backgrounds. In addition, most of the locals are extremely welcoming to travelers and often speak more than one language, which is helpful when traveling alone as a woman in a foreign country.

7. Merida, Mexico

“I’ve always been a fan of walkable cities, but my favorite is history-laden Merida in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula,” Hernandez says, adding that the city’s layout and the ease of getting around makes it a must-visit for young female solo travelers. “Staying near the Centro Historicó means you can walk to every major cathedral, museum, and authentic Latin restaurant in less than 20 minutes,” she says. The city boasts ancient architecture, spires, and stonework, and Hernandez says, “Most of the residents are used to history buffs and expats finding their way to Merida and are more than willing to give you advice on things to do.” While she says Merida is extremely safe, like any other large city, it’s best to keep close to the Centro Historicó and not walk near the outskirts. She also recommends using Uber, as taxis can price gouge tourists if they’re not careful.

8. Big Sur, California

While it may be a popular travel destination in general, Big Sur is also one of Hernandez’s top spots for solo traveling young women. “Everything they say about Big Sur is true — the stunning vistas, the quaint towns, the precarious yet exhilarating highway,” she says. “As an introvert who enjoys traveling alone, there’s no greater joy than to drive along the Pacific Coast Highway on no one’s schedule but your own.”

Her favorite part about renting a car in San Francisco is that she can make as many pit stops as she’d like. “As a popular road trip, you’re bound to meet like-minded travelers along the coastal towns, which makes traveling alone much less daunting,” Hernandez adds.

9. Mexico City, Mexico

Maria Mallory, the 30-year-old solo traveler behind MariaTheWild , has visited around 35 countries, sometimes solo, sometimes with a group. Mallory says solo travel really opens you up to meeting locals and new friends, and forces you to practice the local language as well as try things you may not be able to when you allow a group to dictate the daily routine.

Not only is Mexico City a huge city with many possibilities for exploration, but Mallory says it’s also a great base for meeting other travelers and friendly locals. “There are lots of good hostel options in the trendy, safe neighborhoods you want to situate yourself within, and they usually will organize group tours like going to a lucha libre show, a street food tour, or a trip to the floating village of Xochimilco,” she says. “You don’t even have to worry about finding other friends — they just appear. Just sit back, practice your Spanish, and enjoy some amazing tacos with your newfound buddies.”

10. Lake Atitl á n, Guatemala

“This is a truly special place, and being able to be here for as long as you can will give you a new take on life,” Mallory says. “With 11 villages along this volcanic lake in rural Guatemala, you’ll take boats to explore each one and meet travelers along the way who are doing the same.” She says not only is the beauty of the lake unparalleled, but the cheap prices of accommodations just might make you want to move here. She suggests volunteering at the local yoga retreats or hostels if you have the flexibility and time to do so.

11. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai in Thailand has a special hold on Mallory after she studied abroad there in college. With so many backpackers going in and out of the city, she says, it’s easy to meet friends at the bars, swimming spots, street markets, restaurants, and temples. “I’ve been able to make lifelong friends by opting into some of their adventures with them, like when we took a motorbike all the way to a mountain town together called Pai,” she says. Mallory says Chiang Mai is also a great hub for digital nomads looking to work remotely.

12. Oaxaca, Mexico

Mallory also recommends Oaxaca in Mexico for solo travelers, calling it a magical destination. “It’s becoming more well-known amongst backpackers moving through Central America, but that isn’t a bad thing,” she says, adding that locals and other travelers quickly begin to feel like family in this city.

“There are some good hostels, like the one I stayed at called Casa Angel that had a daily happy hour on their terrace and would open everyone up to mingling and later, doing salsa lessons together,” she says. “It feels safe to walk around and explore the charming courtyards, especially once the sun sets and the mezcal begins to flow.”

13. Bali, Indonesia

“Bali is, almost to a fault, very friendly to travelers seeking a cheap destination in the sun,” Mallory explains. In addition to its numerous yoga retreats, Bali is a restorative space to eat nutritious food, swim in the clear ocean with manta rays, and absorb the local culture, she says. “This is a great place to meet others who are exploring Indonesia with similar goals, and have a friendly and open disposition,” she says.

14. Barcelona, Spain

Melissa Vitale , 29, a New York-based public relations company owner and avid traveler, has been to 17 countries and especially loves Barcelona for solo travel. “It doesn’t matter if you’re alone or with a group of friends, there is always something to do in Barcelona as a young single woman,” she says. There’s art, culture, shopping, and more. “Have a round of tapas and sangria and lay on the beach topless without harassment,” she suggests. “And, check out Bijoux Indiscrets , an empowerment-forward brand for women based in Barcelona.”

15. Paris, France

“What woman doesn’t dream of going to Paris?” Vitale says. “Everyone thinks it’s the city of romantic love, but in reality, it’s the city of self-love when you go out with yourself or some girlfriends.” Vitale says it’s incredibly empowering to take yourself places you’d only thought you’d explore with a partner. “Eating alone in a cafe is très chic ,” she says, “and compared to a big U.S. city (I’m looking at you, NYC), the prices are less expensive for a great night out: a three course dinner with drinks is usually less than two courses and a cocktail in New York after you add in tax and tip.”

Faith Yi , New York-based travel publicist

Gisselle Hernandez , Belize-based travel writer

Maria Mallory , Cincinnati-based budget and solo travel blogger

Melissa Vitale , New York-based owner of a public relations agency

Solo Female Travel in England: A Local’s Guide

07/05/2024 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This is a guest post by Goya Galeotta, a London based travel blogger.

Having called the UK home for over a decade, it is safe to say I’ve crisscrossed my way through this incredible country from the southernmost tip of England to the northern reaches of Scotland — sometimes solo, sometimes with family and friends in tow. So, whether your travel plans include navigating the hustle of London, where I live, or soaking in the cosy vibes of the Lake District, you can consider me your go-to source for mastering the art of travelling through England.

In this guide, I will share some firsthand tips, sprinkle in some real-life tales, and give you the inside scoop on ensuring your solo adventure is not just safe but downright legendary. So, grab your map (or let’s be real, your phone) and let’s hit the road together!

Table of Contents

Solo Female Travel Safety in England

England is generally safe for solo female travelers, including major cities like London and Manchester. With reliable law enforcement and well-established safety measures, instances of crime are relatively low. Public transportation, including trains, buses, and the London Underground, is considered very safe with CCTV, station staff, and transport police. 

Yet, like anywhere else in the world, it’s vital to stay vigilant , especially in quieter spots or when out and about late at night. It’s always a good idea to keep your belongings close , just to give those pesky pickpockets a run for their money, especially in crowded areas.

TIP: Make sure you know the emergency numbers (which may be different than in your country) and get comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances. 

Getting Around as a Solo Female Traveler

Navigating England as a solo female traveler is a breeze, especially in cities where public transportation, including buses, trains, and the tube, is affordable and user-friendly. Walking or cycling within the city is also a convenient option. 

However, if your adventure takes you to the countryside, be aware that public transport might not be as extensive. In rural areas, where the charm of England’s countryside unfolds, consider planning your journey more meticulously. 

Guided tours can be a fantastic choice to delve into your destination’s history and culture. If you decide to drive, remember we drive on the left-hand side of the road!

Best Places in England for Solo Female Travelers

As a solo female traveler and a Londoner, I can confirm that there’s indeed no end to solo adventures in this bustling city. 

London is a city that never sleeps; it’s bursting with musicals, theatres, museums (so many of them free!) and parks where you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Richmond Park are some to consider. The city also boasts iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. For book lovers, visiting the British Library is a must. And if you’re in the mood for some shopping, Covent Garden and Carnaby Street offer a fantastic experience.

There are also countless cafes and bars where you can sit back and watch the world go by or restaurants where you can treat yourself to meals by the best chefs. Not sure where to start or don’t want to eat alone ? There is almost always a food tour starting somewhere near you!

Strolling along the Thames riverside, exploring markets like Borough Market teeming with stalls offering delicious street food from around the world, or simply soaking in the city’s history wandering its streets are some of my favourite pastimes. And if you’re a wine lover, don’t miss out on Gordon’s Wine Bar!

2. Manchester

Manchester is not only home to some of the friendliest locals and liveliest pubs, making it a treasure trove for solo adventurers, but it is also a city that celebrates art in all its forms. The Whitworth Art Gallery and the Manchester Art Gallery are must-visit spots for art enthusiasts, while The Manchester Craft & Design Center is a hotspot of creativity.

When not marvelling at the art scene in Manchester, consider soaking up the trendy vibes in the Northern Quarter, tasting what is on offer at Mackie Mayor’s food court where you can eat without ever feeling alone, and spending a lazy afternoon at The Petit Paris Deli (especially when they have tables out in the sun)!

And don’t forget to visit The Pankhurst Centre — where Emmeline Pankhurst and the suffragette movement started their fight for women’s voting rights!

Oxford’s timeless beauty and intellectual ambience create the perfect backdrop for a solo exploration that’s both serene and intellectually stimulating.

You can take a tour of the University of Oxford and its beautiful colleges, each with its own story to tell. Or, visit the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and Radcliffe Camera, an iconic Oxford landmark. 

But the city’s real charm lies in its quaint shops and eateries. Scriptum stationery shop is a personal favourite, filled with unique finds. The Handlebar Café and Kitchen is a cosy spot for a solo meal, offering delightful dishes that will make your day.

4. Cambridge

Cambridge, with its rich history, picture-perfect streets and safe, welcoming environment, is a dream destination for solo female travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the culture and beauty of this gorgeous town. 

One of the best ways to explore Cambridge is by punting down the River Cam. It’s a unique and fun experience that offers beautiful views of the city’s historic colleges.

Don’t forget to stop by Fitzbillies and try their famous Chelsea bun. This sweet, sticky bun is a Cambridge tradition and a must-try for any food lover.

A city steeped in history, Bath is a solo traveler’s dream. 

You can start your visit at the well-preserved Roman Baths , an ancient site that speaks volumes about the city’s past (just remember, no swimming allowed!). After exploring the historic baths, you can head over to the Thermae Bath Spa and unwind in the rooftop pool, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the city. 

For bookworms , a trip to Persephone Books is an absolute must. This unique publisher and bookseller specializes in out-of-print works by female writers, presenting them in timeless covers with period endpapers — a true treasure trove for bibliophiles!

​​And when it’s time to eat, make sure you stop by Sally Lunn’s, one of the oldest houses in Bath. Here, you can enjoy the famous Sally Lunn Bun, a delicious local delicacy that’s as much part of Bath’s rich culinary heritage as its baths.

Bristol is a lively city that’s steeped in history, yet buzzing with modern energy. It’s renowned for its thriving arts scene, with countless galleries, theatres, and live music venues. Don’t miss the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and the historic harbourside.

York is a beautiful walled city whose medieval charm comes alive in the form of its town walls, overhanging timber-framed buildings, and the iconic York Minster, one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe known for its stunning stained glass windows. 

As you wander through The Shambles, an ancient street said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, you can almost see the flicker of candlelight in the windows, the rattle of wooden carts, and if you listen closely, perhaps the whisper of spells being cast. 

The city also offers a taste of its confectionery traditions at York’s Chocolate Story , where visitors can delve into the city’s rich chocolate-making history. For a touch of elegance, the Countess of York provides a unique afternoon tea experience set in a beautifully restored railway carriage. And if you’re looking for a special memento, Azendi Jewellery offers exquisite pieces that capture the city’s blend of history, architecture, magic, and luxury, making York an enchanting destination for solo travelers.

8. Cornwall

With its rugged cliffs, soothing rhythm of waves, and charming villages inviting you to wander their narrow lanes, Cornwall is a haven for a solo female traveler. 

Here coastal hikes (such as the one from Kynance Cove to Lizard Cove) are not just about the breathtaking views but also offer an introspective journey. Each step tells a story, and every vista is a moment to breathe in solitude.

Falmouth, with its quaint streets and harbour views, is a personal favourite. You can wander along its coastline, explore Pendennis Castle, or simply unwind at Gyllyngvase Beach. After a day of wandering, you can unwind with a beer at the Pandora Inn, a charming 13th-century inn located right on the Restronguet Creek and for dinner, you can check out Harbour House in Flushing, known for its fresh seafood and harbour views. 

Don’t miss out on visiting the iconic St Michael’s Mount – a tidal island with a medieval castle perched on top. And of course, don’t forget to try some of their local gins and Cornish pasties!

9. Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a quintessential English countryside that has become synonymous with picturesque beauty. Its rolling hills, honey-coloured stone cottages, and charming villages create scenes straight out of a storybook. 

If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram and been captivated by a video featuring idyllic English countryside views, chances are it was filmed in the Cotswolds. It’s a place that effortlessly encapsulates the allure of rural England, making it a preferred destination for photographers, influencers, and travelers seeking serene beauty. 

For the best pictures, don’t forget to head to Castle Combe Village, Bourton-on-the-Water (often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds), St Edward’s Church in Stow-on-the-Wold, the vibrant Sudeley Castle Gardens, and Arlington Row in Bibury.

Remember that the Cotswolds can get quite crowded during high season, so if you prefer a peaceful escape, consider visiting during off-peak times.

10. Lake District

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in the North West of England is the country’s largest national park, covering 912 square miles and boasting breathtaking landscapes.

If you like hiking, don’t forget to climb Scafell Pike. As England’s highest peak, it offers a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views. Don’t fancy doing it alone? Don’t fret; there are guided walks available! 

After a day of hiking or boating, reward yourself with a slice of Bakewell tart – a local delicacy you can’t miss! 

When to Go and What to Bring

The best time to visit England is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is generally mild, and there are plenty of festivals and events to attend. However, keep in mind that this is peak season, so flights and hotels may be more expensive.

Alternatively, you can visit in the spring or fall, when the crowds are smaller, and the weather is still pleasant. 

For me, however, the best season to visit would be Christmas. England, London especially, truly comes to life at Christmas . The city transforms into a sheer spectacle of lights and festivities. Streets are adorned with twinkling lights, Christmas markets spring up offering a delightful array of treats, and there’s an infectious spirit of joy in the air. It’s a sight to behold and an experience that truly encapsulates the magic of the season. 

When it comes to packing, make sure you bring comfortable clothing and shoes for exploring the city and its surroundings. Don’t forget to pack a rain jacket or umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable; and of course, a universal adapter for your electronics.

There you have it – a wrap on the ultimate guide to solo female travel in England. I have thoroughly enjoyed being your virtual travel companion but now England awaits your exploration!

About the author: Goya Galeotta is a travel blogger and foodie based in London, UK. With a passion for history, culture and cuisine, she loves exploring off-the-beaten-track destinations and discovering the hidden gems of each place she visits.Goya loves to share her insights and advice with other travellers looking to experience the same. Follow her on Instagram @ goyagaleotta and join her adventures on the blog

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32 Best and Cheapest Places to Travel Solo as a Female in 2024

Thinking about going on a solo adventure? Don’t worry; it’s easier than you think.

Check-out first-time solo female travel destinations in Europe and the US, or choose budget-friendly options like Iguazu Falls in Argentina and the laid-back vibes of Costa Rica. 

Whether you’re a seasoned or first-time traveler, we’ve got you covered with solo travel tips. From all-inclusive getaways to charming European escapes, read on so that you can make the right choice for your solo journey.

Best Places for Female Solo Travel in Europe

1. reykjavik, iceland.

Solo female travelers will be captivated by Reykjavik’s unique natural beauty and safety. Accommodations can be pricier , especially during the summer. 

Visit during the shoulder seasons to save money and experience milder weather. Explore the Blue Lagoon , marvel at the Gullfoss waterfall , and embark on a Northern Lights tour for an unforgettable adventure.

2. Munich, Germany

Munich’s blend of culture, history, and modernity appeals to solo travelers. Accommodations vary, with budget options available. 

March to May offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Popular activities include checking out the  Nymphenburg Palace , enjoying a traditional beer garden, and immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Viktualienmarkt .

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s charm, affordability, and stunning views make it a gem for solo female travelers. Accommodations range from hostels to boutique hotels. 

Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Things to do include strolling through the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, indulging in custard tarts, and admiring the panoramic vistas from São Jorge Castle.

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik’s history and coastal beauty will enchant solo female travelers. Hotel rates may vary from season to season, with summer being the peak time. 

Visit during the transition from fall to winter for a more budget-friendly experience. While here, you can walk the city walls, explore Lokrum Island, and immerse yourself in the local culture along the Stradun.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is a great place to visit alone. The city is a mix of the old and the new, with different types of places to stay, even on a budget.

The best time to go is during the summer, but the spring and fall are also good times to visit because the weather is nicer and there are fewer tourists. 

Some popular things to do in Copenhagen include going to Tivoli Gardens , seeing The Little Mermaid statue, and enjoying the lively atmosphere at Nyhavn.

Related: Best European Cities to Visit in Winter

6. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is compact and friendly , and there are different types of places to stay, no matter what your budget is.

The best time to visit is from April to May, when the weather is nice and there are fewer tourists. 

Some fun things to do in Ljubljana include walking along the river and taking a peek at Plečnik’s Ljubljana, visiting the Ljubljan Castle for great views, and spending time at Central Market.

7. Vienna, Austria

Solo travelers are sure to enjoy Vienna’s elegance, music, and history. There are lots of different places to stay, regardless of your budget.

The best times to visit are in the spring and fall, when the weather is nice. Some fun activities to do in Vienna include visiting the Stephansdom , looking around Schönbrunn Palace , and drinking coffee at cafés.

8. Ghent, Belgium

Ghent’s medieval charm and relaxed atmosphere make it a hidden gem for solo female travelers. Budget-friendly and luxury lodgings are available. 

Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer tourists. You can wander through Gravensteen Castle , enjoy a boat tour along the Leie River , and embrace the local arts and music scene.

9. Lyon, France

With its delectable food, interesting history, and fun cultural scene, Lyon is a good place to visit alone. There are different types of places to stay, no matter what your budget is.

The best times to visit are from September to October , when the weather is nice. Some fun things to do in Lyon include sightseeing tours to the Théâtres Romains de Fourvière and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, eating traditional food, and learning about the city’s history.

10. Bergen, Norway

Bergen’s stunning fjords and colorful waterfront create a picturesque setting for solo female travelers. Accommodations can be pricey, especially during the summer . 

Visit during the shoulder seasons for a more budget-friendly experience. Common activities include riding the Fløibanen funicular, exploring Bryggen Wharf , and embracing the city’s maritime heritage.

Best First-Time Solo Female Travel Destinations

11. barcelona, spain.

Barcelona’s vibrant culture, Gaudi’s masterpieces , and Mediterranean charm appeal to solo female travelers. Accommodations range from budget hostels to upscale hotels. 

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Ogling at the Sagrada Familia, strolling along La Rambla , and savoring tapas in local markets are just some of the fun activities to do here.

12. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City’s European ambiance and historic sites make it a unique destination for solo travelers. Accommodations vary, and summer is the peak season . 

Visit during the fall for colorful foliage and fewer tourists. Things to do include exploring the cobbled streets of Old Quebec and Battlefields Park and embracing the city’s French heritage.

13. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo’s blend of modernity and tradition offers a dynamic experience for solo female travelers. There are different types of places to stay based on your budget.

September through November provide pleasant weather for visiting. Travel back in time by visiting the Tokyo National Museum and exploring Ginza for some much-needed retail therapy. Also, visit iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Sky Tree and immerse yourself in Japanese pop culture at Akihabara.

14. Berlin, Germany

Berlin’s eclectic vibe, historical significance, and affordability make it a must-visit for solo travelers. Lodging ranges from budget hostels to trendy boutique hotels. 

Summer offers vibrant street festivals, while spring and fall provide mild weather. Discover the remnants of the Berlin Wall, explore world-class museums on Museum Island , and embrace the city’s artistic scene for a notable experience.

15. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei’s blend of traditional temples and modern architecture creates a fascinating backdrop for solo female travelers. Accommodations cater to various budgets. 

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather . Famous activities include exploring the historic Longshan Temple , ascending Taipei 101 for panoramic views, and savoring street food at the bustling night markets.

16. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s artsy culture, diverse neighborhoods, and culinary scene cater to solo travelers. Options for different budgets are available when it comes to lodging.

Spring and fall are ideal times to visit . Discover street art in the laneways, explore the Royal Botanic Gardens , and indulge in world-class dining experiences.

17. Prague, Czech Republic

Solo female travelers will find Prague’s compact size and friendly locals inviting. Average prices for accommodations and meals are affordable, making it budget-friendly. 

Spring and early fall are the best times to go, enjoying pleasant weather without the summer crowds. During your visit, you can check out Prague Castle , stroll across Old Town Square , and savor traditional Czech dishes.

18. Krakow, Poland

Krakow’s rich history and welcoming atmosphere make it a great introduction to solo travel. Accommodations and meals can be easy on the wallet, allowing for an immersive experience. 

Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer tourists. You may visit the UNESCO-listed Old Town , pay respects at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial , and discover the city’s vibrant arts scene during your visit here.

19. Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s tropical paradise offers relaxation and adventure for solo female travelers. It has various places to stay that cater to different budgets. 

The dry season from April to October is ideal. Popular activities here include engaging in yoga retreats, exploring ancient temples like Uluwatu , and indulging in Balinese cuisine. 

20. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s vibrant energy and affordability make it an exciting choice for solo newcomers. Accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury hotels. 

November to February provide cooler temperatures . Visitors usually explore iconic temples like Wat Arun , shop at bustling markets, and sample street food. Also, navigate the city via tuk-tuks and riverboats for a memorable adventure.

Best Places to Travel Solo as a Female in the US

21. savannah, georgia.

Savannah’s historic charm, Southern hospitality, and walkable layout make it a welcoming destination for solo female travelers. Accommodations range from historic inns to modern hotels. 

Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens . On your visit here, you can stroll through Forsyth Park , admire antebellum architecture, and imbibe its colorful past via the Savannah history tour .

22. Seattle, Washington

Seattle’s scenic beauty, coffee culture , and vibrant arts scene create an appealing setting for solo travelers. Places to stay vary, with options for different budgets. 

September and October provide the best time for exploring. Visiting the iconic Space Needle , exploring Pike Place Market , and taking a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island are some of the common things to do here.

23. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans’ lively music, rich history, and unique cuisine offer an unforgettable experience for solo female travelers. Accommodations range from charming guesthouses to upscale hotels. 

February-May are ideal times to visit. Go explore the French Quarter’s lively streets, indulge in beignets at Café du Monde , and immerse yourself in the city’s jazz heritage while visiting here.

24. Maui, Hawaii

Maui’s stunning landscapes, warm beaches, and aloha spirit make it a paradise for solo travelers. Places to stay range from resorts to vacation rentals. 

April and May offer pleasant weather. Relax on the golden sands of Ka’anapali Beach , embark on the Road to Hana adventure, and witness a mesmerizing sunrise atop Haleakalā for a rewarding adventure.

Related: Best Places To Visit in the US For Couples

25. Austin, Texas

Austin’s live music scene, eclectic culture, and outdoor activities appeal to solo travelers. Premium hotels and budget hostels are available.

September through November are ideal for exploring. While visiting, you may experience live music on Sixth Street , visit the Texas State Capitol , and enjoy outdoor activities along Lady Bird Lake .

26. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe’s artistic vibe , adobe architecture, and cultural richness offer a unique experience for solo female travelers. Boutique inns and charming lodges are available.

September through November provide pleasant weather for exploring. Wander through historic Canyon Road’s art galleries, visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum , and immerse yourself in Native American heritage for an extraordinary experience.

Cheapest Solo Trips for Females

27. marrakech, morocco.

Marrakech’s vibrant markets , stunning architecture, and rich history create an immersive experience for solo female travelers. Accommodations range from traditional riads to luxury hotels. 

March-May brings a burst of vibrant colors. Explore the bustling Medina , visit the Bahia Palace , and embrace the flavors of Moroccan cuisine for a memorable adventure.

28. Lombok, Indonesia

Lombok’s pristine beaches, serene landscapes, and adventure opportunities offer a tranquil escape for solo travelers. Budget bungalows to upscale resorts are the available places to stay.

The dry season from April to October is ideal. Things to do include relaxing on the white sands of Kuta Beach , hiking to Sendang Gile Waterfall , and exploring the Gili Islands .

29. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai’s cultural richness, temples, and outdoor adventures make it a top choice for solo female travelers. Accommodations are available to cater to different budgets. 

The cooler months from November to February are the best times to visit. Explore the historic Old City, visit Doi Suthep Temple , and participate in cooking classes and elephant sanctuaries for an epic journey.

30. Iguazu Falls, Argentina

Iguazu Falls’ awe-inspiring natural beauty and lush surroundings create a mesmerizing experience for solo female travelers. Accommodations range from budget lodges to luxury resorts. 

The dry season from May to September offers clear views. Witnessing the breathtaking power of the falls, exploring the surrounding rainforests, and taking a boat tour for an up-close encounter are some of the popular things to do here.

31. Costa Rica

 Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems, adventure activities, and eco-friendly ethos make it a haven for solo travelers. Eco-lodges and beach resorts are the various lodging options available.  

The dry season from December to April is ideal for visiting. Popular activities include exploring the Arenal Volcano , ziplining through lush canopies, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Engage in sustainable tourism and embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle .

32. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s affordability, thermal baths, and historic charm make it an ideal destination for budget-conscious solo female travelers. Lodging has different options, including hostels. 

March to May are ideal for mild weather and fewer crowds. You can relax in the thermal baths of Széchenyi or Gellért, stroll along the Danube Promenade , and admire and stroll through Fisherman’s Bastion for a memorable experience.

How to Travel Cheap as a Solo Female Traveler

Traveling on a budget as a solo female doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or safety. 

By choosing the right times to travel, opting for budget accommodations like hostels, and utilizing cost-effective transportation options, you can stretch your dollars while making the most of your journey. Research local deals and use travel apps to find discounts on attractions and activities.

Safety Tips for Female Solo Travel

While solo travel can be incredibly rewarding, it’s important to prioritize safety. 

Research local customs and dress codes, stay aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. 

Connect with fellow travelers and locals, and consider using reputable travel apps for navigation and communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

The amount varies depending on your destination, travel style, and duration. Research and budgeting can help you estimate costs.

Solo trips can range from a weekend getaway to an extended adventure. It’s all about what fits your schedule and preferences.

Solo travel can be incredibly enriching, providing opportunities for self-discovery and cultural immersion.

Solo travelers come in all ages, from young adventurers to seniors seeking new experiences.

• Travel Tips You Need To Know for Your Next Trip
• How To Travel On a Budget

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Victoria Omololu is a fashionista exploring the world on a budget. She co-founded Only Earthlings in 2023 to show her travels in North America, Europe, Africa, and everywhere else. Victoria loves writing about travel tips, itineraries, packing guides, and taking photography from all over the world.

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14 Best Places for Women to Travel Alone in the United States

L adies, let’s talk about solo travel – everyone seems to have a love-hate relationship with it. There’s something liberating about exploring the world on your own, but there’s always that pesky fear of safety . I’ve been there, but after traveling solo quite a bit, I can confidently say that the fear is often overrated. There are countless safe and beautiful places to explore, even here in the US. So, if you’re a single woman seeking a new adventure without the pressures of navigating a group, keep reading! Let’s dive into some of the best places for women to travel alone in the United States .

A Gal’s Best Solo Escapades in the USA

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing island getaway or an adventure-filled trip to the great outdoors, there’s a safe and fun destination out there for you.

Portland, Oregon

Views from Portland City Grill

Portland is perfect for women who love unique experiences and scenic beauty. With an eclectic food scene, atmospheric bars, and bike-friendly streets, Portland provides an unforgettable experience to any solo traveler. Enjoy a day trip to Mount Hood for some stunning views, or explore the Pearl District to see the city’s vibrant street art. Alternatively, unwind at a local spa or hang out at one of the many coffee shops for an all-around relaxing experience.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is the quintessential destination for coffee lovers and adventurers alike. The Emerald City is teeming with picturesque parks and forests, as well as some of the best shopping destinations in the US, including Pike Place Market . If it’s your first time in Seattle and you’re into hiking, the Summit at Mount Rainier is a must-visit. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal at any one of its Michelin-starred restaurants or enjoy a laid-back sunset at Golden Gardens Park. I recommend staying at the Kimpton Palladian Hotel in Seattle

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a gem of a location for solo female travelers. Known for its healing powers, Santa Fe attracts visitors from all over the world making it the perfect place for anyone looking to rejuvenate their mind and body. Visit cultural landmarks like The Santa Fe Opera, the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, or stroll around the Santa Fe Plaza. Take a guided walk or bike tour of the city to learn more about the rich history of New Mexico. I recommend staying at Bishop Lodge . 

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona will blow your mind with its vibrant shades of red rock formations and unique hiking trails. It’s the perfect place for women who love exploring the great outdoors. After a strenuous yet inspiring hike, treat yourself to delicious, healthy snacks at one of the many local organic cafes. Sedona is also known for its strong spiritual culture. Visit one of the many retreat centers available to connect with yourself and recharge.

Miami, Florida

If you’re seeking a fun and carefree solo adventure, Miami is the perfect place. Miami is full of energy, from its year-round sunny weather to Latin-inspired music and cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing day on South Beach or sail to the nearby islands for some swimming, snorkeling, or diving adventures. The Wynwood Walls Art District is a colorful feast for the eyes and offers ample photo opportunities. Miami is a sunny, vibrant destination for any independent traveler. I recommend staying at Faena Miami . 

New York City, New York

The city that never sleeps is a dream come true for solo female travelers who crave excitement, diversity, and access to world-class attractions, food, and shopping. Although it can be overwhelming at first, New York City has a well-connected transport system, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of things to do and see.

You can stroll through Central Park, visit museums like the Met or MOMA, attend Broadway shows, indulge in international cuisine, and meet people from all walks of life. While it’s true that New York can be expensive, there are many free or affordable activities and accommodations, especially if you avoid peak seasons and tourist traps. I recommend staying at Margaritaville Times Square . 

Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a charming, historical, and hospitable city, Charleston should be on your radar. Known for its elegant mansions, cobblestone streets, and southern hospitality, Charleston blends past and present in a unique way. You can take a carriage ride through the historic district, savor traditional low-country cuisine, watch the sunset on the beach, or attend festivals like the Spoleto Festival USA.

Charleston is also a walkable city, with many attractions within a few blocks of each other. While you’re there, you can also visit nearby towns like Beaufort, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island for more sightseeing and relaxation.

Austin, Texas

If you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a fan of vibrant cultural scenes, Austin should be on your radar. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin offers over 250 live music venues, from honky-tonk bars to outdoor festivals. You can also enjoy savory Tex-Mex cuisine, shop at quirky boutiques, and attend events like South by Southwest or the Texas Book Festival.

Austin is also a bicycle-friendly city, with many bike lanes and rental options, and a welcoming city for solo women travelers who want to immerse themselves in a diverse and creative environment. I recommend staying at The Otis Hotel.  

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Located just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape. With beautiful views of the Puget Sound and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, you’ll never be bored on this island paradise. Take a stroll through the town’s many art galleries and boutiques or rent a bike and explore the island’s scenic trails. And, with one of the lowest crime rates in the state, you can feel safe and secure while enjoying all that Bainbridge Island has to offer.

Door County, Wisconsin

If you’re looking for a charming small-town vibe, Door County is the perfect destination for you. With over 250 miles of scenic shoreline and numerous state parks to explore, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside, sample local wines and cheeses, or simply relax on one of the area’s picturesque beaches. And, with a low crime rate and a friendly small-town atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home in Door County.

Big Sur, California

For anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Big Sur is the ultimate destination. This rugged stretch of California coastline is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, as well as numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities. Take a dip in a secluded hot spring, stroll along the beach, or simply marvel at the jaw-dropping views. And, with a strong sense of community and a low crime rate, you can feel safe and secure while exploring this stunning destination.

Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’re looking for a destination that’s both beautiful and affordable, Salt Lake City is the perfect choice. With numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions to explore, as well as stunning natural beauty just a short drive away, you’ll never be bored in this vibrant city. And, with a crime rate that’s well below the national average, you can feel secure while enjoying all that Salt Lake City has to offer.

Kauai and Oahu, Hawaii

Of course, we can’t talk about safe and fun places for women to travel without mentioning Hawaii! Both Kauai and Oahu are great destinations for solo female travelers, with plenty of natural beauty to explore, delicious food to sample, and fun activities to enjoy. Whether you’re hiking through lush rainforests like Maunawili Falls in Oahu, Hawaii , catching some waves on a picture-perfect beach, or simply soaking up the island vibes, you’re sure to fall in love with these stunning destinations.

Conclusion:

We’ve come to the end of our list of the best places for women to travel alone in the United States. Solo traveling as a woman can indeed be daunting, but these locations make it easy to unwind, relax and explore. Each destination boasts something unique and exciting suited to every kind of travel style, be it laidback, adventurous, or healing. Whichever option you choose, embrace the freedom that solo travel brings, and soak in the local cultures and experiences. Remember, you are an independent, capable woman, so go ahead and scratch that wanderlust itch!

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers

Advice for First-time Solo Travelers: Insider Tips

Get Travel Insuranc e

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flight s

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner ! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo , another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO .

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator . If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar . They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations .

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit ! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars .

UPROXX’s Best Place To Solo Travel For Beginners: Belize

You know those moments in nature that leave you wondering, “how is this even real life?” Those time-stopping experiences where you’re just utterly present to the miracle of being alive? Yeah, that’s the sensation travelers live for. It’s not that you can’t feel that in your hometown, it’s just that it’s a feeling that is a lot easier to come by when you’re out of your comfort zone.

And in our experience, those “pinch me” moments happen even more frequently during solo travel abroad. If you’ve never ventured out of the U.S. alone and are itching to embark on your first solo-travel adventure, especially one that’s budget friendly , consider traveling to Uproxx’s favorite Central America destination for solo travel beginners: Belize!

Why Belize is Perfect for Beginner Solo Travelers

Location, Location, Location

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melanie ✢ Travel & Wellbeing (@livinginflowco)

Belize is the northernmost country of Central America, anywhere from only two, to a quick six hours by plane from the U.S. Truly, it’s a cinch to get to Belize. In fact, United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Jet Blue, and Frontier Airlines all fly direct to Belize’s International Airport (Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport). And land borders connecting to Guatemala and Mexico make Belize the “gateway country” for the Central America backpacking route.

But you might want to stay a while before heading elsewhere. Here’s why.

Activities and Culture

Belize is high key an adventure traveler’s dream, and one of Central America’s most culturally and ethnically diverse countries. Despite being really small, like the size of Vermont, there’s so much to do here.

Stay on Caye Caulker or in San Pedro (Ambergris Caye’s party town) to snorkel and scuba dive Belize’s Great Barrier Reef one day, then climb moss-covered Mayan ruins and spelunk caves around the jungle town of San Ignacio the next (don’t miss the ATM cave tour !). Try a Mayan chocolate-making tour in San Ignacio and learn Garifuna traditional drum and dance in Hopkins.

There are many hostels around the country, so you won’t have trouble making friends to have fun with! If you’re into waterfall hikes, I recommend Mayflower Bocawina National Park, and if you’re going to rent a car in San Ignacio with friends (worth it!) stop at Rio on Pools for the afternoon.

Less Language Barriers

Belize was the first country I visited on my solo backpacking journey that began two years ago (it hasn’t really stopped, I just have suitcases now). One of the main reasons I chose Belize to start my travels in is because the official language is actually English!

It wasn’t until I was traveling in Spanish-speaking countries that I realized how hard it is to organize basic travel and lodging and connect with others without speaking the language. Just sayin’, this is a major plus if you don’t speak Spanish.

Easy Currency Conversion Rate

Belize’s national currency is the Belizean Dollar (BZD), which is honored at $.50 to $1USD. You don’t need to change all your dollars to BZD, either, since all around the country food vendors, hotels, hostels, national parks, and transportation services will happily take your USD.

You might have heard that Belize is expensive, which I ~sort of~ disagree with, considering the prices of Costa Rica and even Nicaragua right now. You can backpack Belize cheap staying in hostels and traveling by chicken bus, or you can stay in decent hotels for $45 a night for privacy if you’re more comfortable with that. I did a mix of both!

The classic Belizean street food are fry jacks, which are sort of like a fried pancake you can get plain or stuffed with meat or veggies. My favorite was a breakfast fry jack stuffed with eggs, beans, and cheese.

Don’t sleep on Garifuna food, like Hudut (pictured above) which you can find easily in Hopkins. That coco-nutty fish stew had me in a chokehold! Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye are full of BBQ stands with fresh grilled fish and lobster for decent prices ($12~). But there’s also a number of “western” type health-food spots where you can get your smoothie bowls and other granola-people food.

Reliable Infrastructure

One of the most important factors that make a country perfect for beginner solo travel is the infrastructure. But Belize has decades of tourism experience under its belt, with tourism being a major part of its GDP.

Belize has a reliable energy grid, airports, ferries, paved roads, organized ground transportation, and comfortable accommodation and dining options. Basically, with some planning and organization, you won’t have a hard time traveling comfortably in Belize all on your own!

• Best Online Advisor for Low Fees 
• Best Online Advisor for Diversified Investing
• Best Online Advisor for 529 Plans
• Best Online Advisor for Financial Planning and Personal Development
• Best Online Advisor for Retirement Saving
• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Online Financial Advisors 2024: Find the Right Fit for Your Needs

Paid non-client promotion: Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate investing products to write unbiased product reviews.

What Are Online Financial Advisors?

A financial advisor is a catch-all term that includes financial planners and investment advisors. Most online advisors offer investment management — whether it's carried out by a human or a sophisticated computer algorithm — and financial planning services or tools.

Types of Online Advisors

The main types of online financial advisors are: 

• Robo-Advisors: Automated investment platforms (aka robo-advisors) use algorithms to generate a custom investment portfolio based on an individual's risk tolerance, goals, and time horizon. Robo-advisors typically offer low-cost ETFs as a cost-effective way to instantly diversify an investor's asset allocation and mitigate risk. 
• Human Advisors (Virtual): Financial advisors that offer personalized financial planning and investment advice online through virtual meetings, email, and other virtual communication channels. 
• Hybrid Models: Some online brokerages offer hybrid financial advice, combining automated investment advice and management through a robo-advisor and one-on-one consultation from a human advisor. 

Benefits of Using Online Financial Advisors

Online financial advisors allow you to ditch the in-person hassle and access expert financial guidance from your phone or home computer. Online financial advisors leverage investment technology and generally low-cost compared to traditional in-person consultants.  

Not only does it make investing more affordable for many individuals, but clients can more easily adjust and monitor their investments on their own time. Robo-advisor and hybrid online advisors typically offer online dashboards and tools for convenient managing and monitoring. 

Compare the Top Online Financial Advisors 2024

For this list, we didn't consider online advisors that match clients and advisors for comprehensive financial  planning services, such as Zoe Financial or Facet Wealth . Instead, we focused on tech-driven firms where you can access an automated and personalized portfolio and consult a professional for advice when needed.

Here are our top picks for the best online financial advisors as picked by Business Insider editors in 2024.

SoFi Automated: Best Online Advisor for Low Fees 

SoFi Automated Investing supports individual investment accounts, joint accounts, traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SEP IRAs, and 401(k) rollovers.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No account minimum or management fees to invest
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Goal planning and automatic portfolio rebalancing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Range of other account options across SoFi website
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. SoFi offers complimentary CFP access across all accounts
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No tax-loss harvesting
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No socially responsible portfolio options

SoFi Invest is one of the best investment apps and the best investment apps for beginners. It's a great platform for US investors who are looking for an intuitive online trading experience, an open active or automated investing account, and assets like cryptocurrencies.

• Promotion: None at this time.
• Consider it if: You're new to investing and want to leave the trading decisions to professionals.

SoFi Automated Investing offers individual and joint taxable brokerage accounts , traditional IRA, Roth IRA, and SEP IRA.

SoFi stands out for its lack of advisory fees, free one-on-one consultations with CFPs, portfolio diversity, and goal-planning features. SoFi builds a personalized investment portfolio based on your risk tolerance, goals, and time horizon. Additional SoFi membership perks include loan discounts and career counseling. 

What to look out for: SoFi doesn't have tax-loss harvesting features and limited portfolio diversity. 

SoFi Invest review

Betterment: Best Online Advisor for Diversified Investing

Betterment offers individual or joint accounts, IRAs, trust accounts, and cash reserve or checking accounts.

$0 to open, $10 to start investing ($100,000 for premium plan)

$4 per month (or 0.25%/year) for digital plan; 0.40%/ year for premium plan; 1%/year for crypto portfolios

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No minimum for standard investing account
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Goal-based planning, tax-loss harvesting, charitable giving, and socially responsible investing available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Access to certified financial planners
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Mobile app with external account syncing options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. You'll have to pay to consult a human advisor, unless you have the premium plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. $4 monthly fee (or 0.25% annual fee)

Betterment is best for hands-off investors who want to take advantage of professionally built, personalized ETF and cryptocurrency portfolios. The platform offers CFP access, so it could suit those in search of additional guidance from human advisors.

• App store rating: 4.7 iOS/4.5 Android
• Consider it if: You want access to robo-advice with multiple service levels.

Betterment Investing offers individual and joint taxable brokerage, traditional IRA, Roth IRA, SEP IRA, inherited IRA, and trust.

What stands out:  Betterment is a robust trading platform offering premium plans with unlimited access to CFPs through phone or email. Investors can use the platform's goal-setting feature, ESG investing, automatic rebalancing, and easy-to-use financial dashboard. 

What to look out for:  Accounts with a $100,000 balance can upgrade to get advisor access, but the annual fee increases from 0.25% (an industry low) to 0.40%

Betterment review

Wealthfront: Best Online Advisor for 529 Plans

Fund your first taxable investment account with at least $500 in the first 30 days of account opening and earn a $50 bonus.

$1 ($500 for automated investing)

$0 for stock trades. 0.25% for automated investing (0.06% to 0.13% for fund fees)

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Low annual fee for investment accounts; crypto trust investments available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Tax-loss harvesting, portfolio lines of credit, 529 college savings plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cash account
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Mobile app and investing and retirement tools
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. You need at least $100,000 to utilize additional investment strategies
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No human advisor access

Wealthfront is one of the best robo-advisor options if you're in search of low-cost automated portfolio management, and one of the best socially responsible investing apps for features like tax-loss harvesting, US direct indexing, and crypto trusts.

• Consider it if: You're balancing several goals and want to streamline your finances.
• Promotion: Fund your first taxable investment account with at least $500 in the first 30 days of account opening and earn a $50 bonus.

Wealthfront Investing offers individual and joint taxable brokerage, traditional IRA, Roth IRA, SEP IRA, trust, and 529 savings plan .

Wealthfront is one of the best online financial advisors for college education savings and cryptocurrency trusts. You can borrow up to 30% of your investment balance at a low interest rate with a portfolio line of credit. Wealthfront also offers personalized recommendations with smart financial planning software. 

What to look out for:  On-staff financial advisors don't offer personalized advice

Wealthfront review

Ellevest: Best Online Advisor for Financial Planning and Personal Development

Ellevest offers two investing portfolios to fit your needs.

$1 - $240 (varies by portfolio)

$54 - $97 annually; $5 or $9/month

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Personalized, automated investment advice with a $0 minimum requirement
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Monthly plans include discounted access to certified financial planners
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Automated IRA accounts and 401(k)/403(b) rollovers available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Private wealth management for individuals, families, and institutions who have at least $1 million to invest
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No active trading opportunities available; money is mainly invested in stock ETFs and bond ETFs
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. You can only open individual investment accounts and retirement accounts; joint accounts or custodial accounts not available

Ellevest is one of the best robo-advisors for goal-focused investing. It could be a good fit if you want automated investing and retirement accounts.

• Consider it if: You're looking for a one-stop shop for financial planning.

Ellevest offers individual taxable brokerage, traditional IRA, Roth IRA, and SEP IRA (all held at Folio Investments).

Ellevest is a comprehensive financial advisor and trading platform built around women's unique needs and challenges. Investors get access to an extensive library of content and advisor-led workshops. Additionally, Ellevest offers a socially responsible investment portfolio and monthly progress reports. 

What to look out for:  Financial coaching costs extra (but members get 30%- 50% off). Access to retirement account management requires an upgrade.

Ellevest review

Ameriprise Financial Investments: Best Online Advisor for Retirement Saving

Ameriprise Financial Services has been operating for 130 years Ameriprise Financial Services is licensed in all 50 states but only has 10 physical locations throughout the US; it's currently headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Varies by account

$500 annual advisory fee, 2% AUM

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Access to personal finance research and investment tools
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Fiduciary financial advisor access
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Various account and investment options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. High account minimums
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Difficult to navigate website
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complex fee structure

Ameriprise Financial Services is a brokerage and financial advisory firm best for experienced, passive investors interested in using the site's financial planning services, wealth management tools, and fiduciary advisor access.

Ameriprise Financial Investments offers three managed account options that can be opened as an individual brokerage account, traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, Simple IRAs, SEP IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 529 plans, and Coverdell education savings accounts (CESA). 

Ameriprise Financial Investments is one of the largest registered investment advisors in the US and is best for experienced investors looking for advanced charting and investing features. You'll get access to fiduciary financial advisors for consultations or account management. 

What to look out for: Ameriprise 's managed account fees are high, and it has a complex fee structure. 

Ameriprise Financial Services review

How Much Do Online Financial Advisors Cost?

Financial advisors providing financial advice often charge by the hour, typically between $100 to $300. Advisors creating a comprehensive financial plan tend to charge a flat rate between $1,000 and $3,000. 

If you hire an advisor to manage your investment portfolio, you'll be charged a percentage of your account balance, typically between 1% and 3% annually. In comparison, that's much higher than the fees that the best robo-advisors charge; you get the added benefit of building a relationship with a trusted source who can adjust your strategy as needed, provide personal recommendations, and answer questions when they arise.

How to Choose the Best Online Financial Advisors

The best online financial advisor for you depends on your goals, risk tolerance, investments, and time horizon. If you're a new investor interested in passive investing, an online robo-advisor is likely a good place to start. On the other hand, if you're looking for professional insight and a customized financial plan, you're better off with access to a human advisor through phone or video calls. 

You can also meet with an expert in person for financial guidance. So if you prefer to meet face-to-face, here are some tools to find some in your area:

• This is a database of all CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals who are authorized to use their CFP® marks by the CFP® Board and are accepting new clients.
• Using the advanced search function, you can choose from over 40 focus areas you're looking to get help with and include your current amount of investable assets.
• Click here to visit the CFP Board website .
• This database helps connect young professionals — those in generations X and Y (millennials) — with individual advisors.
• Every advisor holds the CFP® certification, is a fiduciary , does not require a minimum net worth to take on new clients, and does not earn commissions.
• Click here to visit XY Planning Network .
• This platform maintains a database of fee-only financial advisors, not specifically CFP® certificates, who commit to a fiduciary oath once a year. 
• You can filter by location to see a list of advisory firms in your area.
• Click here to visit the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors website .

Online financial advisors are generally trustworthy. The best advisors follow the fiduciary rule, meaning they operate in their clients' best interest and are fee-only. This means client fees are their only compensation, and they don't earn a commission when they invest in certain funds or buy financial products.

Not everyone needs a robo-advisor, but beginners or passive investors looking for a hands-off approach to stock trading may prefer how cost-effective and convenient robo-advisors are. Affordable financial advisors can be hard to come by, so robo-advisors are a great alternative for many people. However, a financial advisor may be better if you need specific advice on your finances or investment strategy or if you're too overwhelmed or confused by your money to plan for retirement or invest in the stock market. 

The cost of an online financial advisor varies from platform to platform and advisor to advisor. The cost largely depends on the services, licensing, account balance, and complexity. Robo-advisors typically charge lower fees than human advisors. 

Why You Should Trust Us: Our Methodology

We Reviewed the best online financial advisors using Business Insider's methodology for rating investment platforms . We compared a long list of Registered Investment advisors (RIAs), considering fees, investment selection, access, ethics, and customer service. The best online advisors have top marks in all five categories. Investment platforms are given a rating between 0 and 5.

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