Traveling solo can be intimidating. Whether you’re moving across the country or in a city around the world, traveling alone can bring a lot of worries – from the awkwardness of eating alone to more serious safety issues.
But despite any nervousness or uncertainty, traveling alone can be one of the most liberating and rewarding experiences. It provides the ability to immerse oneself in the community and systematically stumble upon those moments of international connection.
Choosing the right destination is important, so we have selected some of the best destinations around the world Best Places for Solo Female Travelers.
List Of10 of the Best Places for Solo Female Travelers
After a lot of research and reading customer reviews, here are the top 10 destinations around the world for solo travel for women.
1. Iceland
From walking the charming streets of Reykjavik to chasing the northern lights to driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can feel at home in Iceland.
And here’s why: In 2021, Iceland snagged the top spot on both the Institute for Economics and Peace’s Global Peace Index and the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap ranking, so safety and gender equality are prized in this beautiful destination.
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. In the city, you can window shop along Las Ramblas, stroll down the beach boardwalk, and wander through the Gaudi-designed Park Güell.
And the dining options are great for a solo traveler, too — you can eat al fresco at waterfront paella restaurants (people-watching is built-in entertainment) or opt for a counter seat at one of the city’s many incredible tapas bars.
3. Seattle, United States
Thanks to the omnipresence of Seattle’s coffee culture, a solo diner (or drinker) is commonplace in the city. Plus, the proliferation of cafes means there’s a rest stop around every corner to enjoy in between visits to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or funky Museum of Pop Culture.
The compact downtown area makes it easy 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 in this Bavarian city, where you can find locals welcoming tourists with a grin, whether you’re at a small mom-and-pop bakery or the touristy Olympiapark tower.
The best way to immerse yourself in the Munich lifestyle? Grab a pint at a local biergarten and get to know the other travelers or locals around you.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country’s low crime rate heightens the appeal. One look at the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik, preserved by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, and all your worries will vanish.
The cobblestone streets guide visitors through artisanal shops and local eats, while a walk along the wall itself offers spectacular bird’s-eye views of the Adriatic coastline.
Other great solo activities include visiting the beach just a few minutes away from Old Town, with plenty of kayaking and snorkeling tours offered along the way.
6. Austin, 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 see the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.
7. Salzburg, Austria
With the Hohensalzburg Castle atop the hill and the Salzach River running through town, the storybook allure of Mozart’s hometown is as inviting as it is charming.
After recreating “The Sound of Music” by visiting the 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.
Bikers should take note: While the entire city is walkable, Salzburg is also one of the country’s most bike-friendly cities, with over 100 miles of paths, which means you can pack way more into a day.
8. Taipei, Taiwan
The capital of Taiwan offers an ideal mix of history and modernity: It’s one part traditional night markets (the perfect place to make a meal out of snacks while shopping for accessories and souvenirs) and temples, and another part high-tech buildings and malls.
Taipei has the bustle of a major Asian metropolis, as well as important urban comforts.
Street signage and public transportation all have names in English — and even though crime is low in the country, the metro system has “Safe Waiting Zone” boxes marked on the platforms, which are monitored closely by video feed, specifically to protect female passengers at night.
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen’s quirkiness caters toward parties of one. You can find centrally located hotels offering single rooms, providing the perfect jumping-off point for your Danish 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 Torvehallerne KBH food hall.
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.
FAQs About the Best Places for Solo Female Travelers
Where is safe for solo female Travellers?
Spain: “Spain is the safest country on Earth for women traveling alone and it’s the 2nd most visited destination (just behind France),” says Fergusson. “This sun-blessed mediterranean jewel performed very well with street safety, low legal discrimination and low violence against women attitudes.”
Can a girl go on a solo trip?
Still, research shows that solo female travel is more popular than ever. Over 70% of American women say they have traveled alone, and Google searches for “solo female travel” increased 230% in 2019, before COVID became a concern.
Is it a good idea to travel by yourself?
Solo travel gives you a chance to listen to your gut and control what direction you want to head. It allows you to reflect on your decisions and discover more about what makes you, you. Spending even a minimal time in solitude will allow you to embark on an inward journey of self-discovery.
Is solo travel lonely?
Not every solo traveler is concerned about being lonely, but we hear it expressed often enough. Fear not! Whether you travel independently or join a group, solo travel can be a very social experience. You can definitely travel alone without being lonely.
Is travelling alone weird?
So if you’re serious about traveling the world on your own, but you’re afraid people will think it’s weird, then take it as a positive signal that you’re doing something authentic and rarely done. Solo travel is weird, but you shouldn’t let the “w” word come between you and the time of your life. Happy travels.
