Have you been considering taking a solo trip? Are you unsure where to go or if a solo trip is even a good plan for you? Setting out on a solo journey might stir up feelings of excitement or nervousness, it can be a huge step, and the world is a big place. How do you ensure safety while soaking in the beauty and culture of a new place? Not to worry, I have you covered. I’ve selected 25 destinations for solo travel for women, based on their safety, comfort, and promise of a variety of experiences depending on your particular taste, some of them are personal favorite destinations of mine.
Tips for Solo Travel for Women
Like many solo travelers, you may experience some degree of hesitation or anxiety over the thought of traveling solo, especially if you are planning an international trip. I totally get it, my first solo international trip had me on edge for at least a week prior.
If you are a woman, like me, that can amplify the anxiety, I’ve found safety to be one of my primary concerns. I did give some thought to culture shock or loneliness, but safety and travel plans were what I ruminated on. Let’s try to work on that anxiety
The best way I have found to alleviate that anxiety is to start by researching and picking a safe destination when I am traveling solo. I will say that using common sense is still needed- please don’t try to get close to wild animals, take unnecessary risks in a city, or ignore safety warnings anywhere you go.
I want my page to be as helpful as possible for women solo traveling (and other solo travelers). First I picked out 25 destinations that are safe and worth seeing. I have grouped the destinations in categories (though there is overlap). Some are personal favorites, others are places I have researched.
Second I have included some tips, tricks and essentials that can take some of the worry out of travel and prepare you for your first solo trip. I’ve babbled enough, let’s get into it.
TL;DR: Top Destinations
- Urban Adventures: New York, USA; San Francisco, USA; Tokyo, Japan; Toronto, Canada; Berlin, Germany; Sydney, Australia; Seattle, Washington, USA
- Natural Wonders: National Parks of the United States; Iceland; New Zealand
- Beach Paradises: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Greek Islands; Hawaii, USA
- Cultural Gems: Istanbul, Turkey; Athens, Greece; Paris, France; Rome, Italy; Lisbon, Portugal; Taiwan
- Safe Havens: Costa Rica; Denmark; Netherlands; Norway
- Unique Discoveries: Argentina; Vietnam; Ljubljana, Slovenia; Singapore; Munich, Germany; Adelaide, Australia
I chose these destinations for the blend of safety and the variety of experiences they offer. There is a place on this list for every kind of solo female traveler- Urban exploration? New York or Tokyo. Beach lounging? Grand Cayman or Hawaii. Cultural deep dives? Rome, Paris, or Athens. Wine lover? Tuscany, Paris, or Adelaide. Nature hikes? New Zealand, Iceland, or any of the national parks in the USA. Every destination offers an unforgettable experience.
Beach Paradises
Do you ever just want to walk into a postcard from some tropical destination and spend your day listening to the ocean and relaxing on the beach? I know I do. The destinations listed below are not just breathtaking beach getaways; they are also renowned for their safety, friendly locals, and supportive environments for solo female travelers.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman stands out for it’s white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, but it’s the welcoming atmosphere and safety standards that makes it a go to destination for solo female travelers. Grand Cayman has a well developed tourism infrastructure, ensuring you will have a comfortable and enjoyable vacation. Activities you can enjoy on Grand Cayman include scuba diving along coral reefs, visiting Stingray City, or spending a day on Seven Mile Beach.
Greek Islands
There are over 100 inhabited islands among the 6000 islands and islets that make up the Greek Islands. The islands offer countless beaches and stunning views, coupled with friendly and helpful locals, makes the Greeks Islands and excellent choice for women traveling alone.
The laid-back atmosphere makes the Greek Islands a perfect choice for a relaxing beach getaway, but the more adventurous can enjoy snorkeling or hiking the many trails. Combined the the food culture and ancient history, everyone that wishes to travel solo can find something to love about the Greek Islands.
Hawaii, USA
When I think of Hawaii I think of tropical birds, beautiful beaches, luaus, hula dancers, rain forests and an active volcano (or two). Hawaii is the home of the Aloha Spirit, Aloha means love, affection, peace, compassion, and mercy, and is both a greeting and a culture. It would be hard to find a more welcoming culture.
Hawaii is a great destination for a woman traveling on her own, with the only real drawback being the price (it’s expensive compared to many places). Hawaii has a variety of activities, including surfing, parasailing, exploring hiking trails in Volcanoes National Park, or relaxing on a beach.
Urban Adventures
Are Urban jungles, rather than the tropical kind, more your speed? Each of the major cities I have chosen for this list have a vibrant city center along with the relative safety a solo traveler needs to feel secure. Though these cities are considered safe, there can be some elements of scams, petty crimes and even violent crimes, so exercising appropriate caution, and using common sense, is a must.
New York, USA
New York is truly a destination that has it all, the iconic skyline, Broadway shows, live music, art galleries, museums, and amazing food culture. The shopping in New York is as iconic as it’s skyline with everything from high-end luxury stores to independently owned boutique shops.
It would be impossible to list everything you can do in New York here, but these are the “bucket list” places- the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State building and Rockefeller Center. The streets are fairly walkable and the public transportation system is vast and fairly easy to navigate, and much cheaper than a taxi or uber.
I visited New York for the first time last year and I really enjoyed my time there. I stayed just off Times Square and I was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of people. If you are an introvert I would consider staying a few blocks off Times Square.
My favorite experiences where walking in Central Park, visiting the museums, seeing a Broadway show (I saw “The Book of Mormon” it was hilarious), and just the vibe of the city. Oh, and the smell of the nuts they were roasting on almost every street, they were worth it, so good.
San Francisco, USA
San Francisco’s charm lies in its eclectic neighborhoods, iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, and a food scene that’s as diverse as its population. Along with it’s famous bridge, San Francisco is well known for it’s cable cars, street cars and trolly busses, the cable cars are the last that remain in operation anywhere.
In addition to Golden Gate Bridge and the cable cars, other notable attractions in San Francesco include Alcatraz, Fisherman’s wharf and Pier 39, and one of the largest and oldest China town’s in the United States.
If you have your fill of the city San Francisco is also close to Muir forest’s 1000 year old redwood forest, and only 50 miles from Napa Valley, where you can have wine tastings in the heart of California’s wine country. For women on a solo journey, this city promises safety alongside adventure.
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo offers a mesmerizing blend of traditional and futuristic experiences, making it a captivating destination for solo female travelers. Tokyo, and Japan in general, is known for its safety, cleanliness, and efficient public transportation.
While in down-town Tokyo, be sure to check out Shibuya Pedestrian Crossing, known as the “times square of Tokyo.” It’s the largest pedestrian crossing in the world, with a few thousand people crossing at every green light, it’s also where many of the “Tokyo Dance Trooper” videos were shot (if you are old enough to remember that trend from years ago).
Like New York, there are too many things to do and see in Tokyo to mention in this short section of this post, but notable areas you’ll want to see are the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Sensoji temple, Ueno Park, and Tokyo Skytree.
Sydney, Australia
When you think of Sydney you probably immediately think of the Sydney Opera House, I know I do. It was a dream come true when I got to see if for the first time a few years ago. Sydney is one of those cities that just has a vibe about it, I recommend walking around Circular Quay, at Sydney harbour, and stop at the shops and restaurants, take a ferry to the zoo, or walk to the Sydney Botanic Gardens.
I know Bondi Beach is the “go-to” beach, but consider taking the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, it’s about 6km (3.75 miles) long, and the views and beaches are worth it. Remember a water bottle (there are refill stations along the walk), your hat, and your sunscreen, and make a day of it.
Seattle, Washington, USA
Like Sydney, Seattle is a city that just has a vibe and it’s a great place for any woman looking to travel solo. The city is growing fast and is a hub for companies like Amazon and Microsoft, so it’s filled with trendy restaurants, bakeries, bars and hang outs.
There are the iconic attractions that Seattle is known for- the OG Starbucks, the iconic Space Needle, Pike Place Market and it’s famous pig and gum wall (I personally avoided this, but I understand it is a sight to behold), but there’s also some lesser known attractions and activities. There is the Fremont troll, gasworks park (but look out for the geese, they’ll chase you), and Kerry park where you can get a great photo of downtown with Mt. Rainer in the backdrop.
If you are a fan of Bigfoot, and really, who isn’t? Seattle is one of the best places, outside of possibly Willow Creek, California, to get the best Sasquatch merch.
Toronto, Canada
Toronto sits on the shore of Lake Ontario and holds the honor of being Canada’s largest city. Toronto is known for it’s eclectic neighborhoods, awesome food scene, friendly locals, Tim Horton’s on every corner, and safety, making it a great solo vacation destination.
Toronto has many neighborhoods and districts that are worth visiting, before you head there I would pick out the areas you want to see, as there are a lot and the city is beautiful.
There are several “must sees” in Toronto, I’ll list a few of them here, it’s really a matter of what you enjoy doing. Toronto, like Seattle, has it’s own tower- the CN Tower, which happens to be located between two other attractions in the Rogers Centre (where the Bluejays play) and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. In addition a trip to the St. Lawrence market is highly worth it, if you are a hockey lover the Hockey Hall of Fame is Located in Toronto, and the Distillery District is pretty awesome.
Stopping by Nathan Phillips Square will get you a photo of the “Toronto” sign, I stopped by after dark and got a pretty awesome picture of the sign and the lit buildings in the area, which I posted in this article.
If you want the best pictures of Toronto’s skyline, I highly recommend taking a ferry out to Center Island (and see it’s park while you are there) and take the picture there. This section has gotten a bit long so my last recommendation is actually booking one of the group tours that goes to Niagara Falls, I don’t normally recommend a tour, since they always seem so rushed, but in this case it’s a great way to get to the falls and see a few other sights.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a city with beautiful, historic buildings and landmarks, combined with sleek modern architecture, but somehow it works. Berlin’s efficient public transport and welcoming atmosphere make it easy for solo travelers to navigate and connect with the city’s unique vibe. Berlin is known for it’s night life, historic landmarks, parks and gardens, it’s cafe culture, and it’s many museums.
The most famous tourist destinations that you might want to check out are: Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Under den Linden and Alexanderplatz, all are worth seeing according to locals on Reddit. Besides the most famous stops you can check out Museum Island, which houses five museums, including the Pergamon, the Altes and the Bode. If you are into theater Friedrichstadt-Palast boasts the “largest revue theatre in Europe,” and honestly, I think it looks like a really great time. Lots of colorful sets and extravagant costumes, it’s on my Berlin checklist when I make my way there.
Natural Wonders
Do you like trees more than people? Are your favorite people actually animals? Are you trying to escape a population center and look at something other than cars and shops? These locations might be places you want to check out.
National Parks of the United States
The United States was the first country to create a national park system and has some of the most famous parks in the world. There are 63 national parks in the US that you can choose from (and over 300 more sites that are landmarks, nature preserves, or monuments). I have visited several parks and monuments and I had a great time at all of them.
The most famous parks are Grand Canyon National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and Yosemite National Park and all of them are amazing. Not only can you see cool things like geysers or a huge canyon (not in the same park), but they are also safe, from a human standpoint, for women embarking on solo journeys.
The parks are great places for hiking, camping and seeing wildlife. There are trails for all levels of ability in many parks, several have ADA compliant trails, so people of all fitness levels can enjoy the parks. You can also choose to find areas less visited where you can enjoy solitude. It all depends on what kind of visit you want to have and your abilities.
While the parks are safe for travelers, you do need to use common sense, these parks are still wild places. Please stay on marked paths, especially in Yellowstone, where you can find incredibly hot bodies of water and acid filled pools. Don’t wander off into the wilderness if you don’t have the skillset. Also give wildlife space- they are wild animals despite some being used to people. That really cool bull moose or bear does not want to be in your selfie, I promise.
Iceland
Iceland, known as the land of fire and ice, offers an unparalleled solo adventure for those drawn to its dramatic landscapes. Its vast glaciers, thundering waterfalls, and geothermal springs make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Solo female travelers will find Iceland exceptionally welcoming, with its reputation for safety and a friendly local community eager to share their culture and natural wonders. Exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain not only promises adventure but also the tranquility of its remote expanses, making it a perfect destination for women looking to venture into the wild on their terms.
New Zealand
New Zealand is a mosaic of breathtaking landscapes, from the misty fjords of Milford Sound to the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. For solo female travelers, New Zealand’s well-established network of walking tracks and the Kiwi culture of hospitality offer a safe and supportive backdrop for exploring its natural wonders. Whether you’re bungee jumping in Queenstown, trekking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or witnessing the glowworm caves in Waitomo, New Zealand caters to every level of outdoor adventure. Its unique combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and serene landscapes make it an irresistible destination for those seeking a solo adventure in the lap of nature.
Cultural Gems
Each of these cities promises solo female travelers an unforgettable experience of cultural immersion, safety, and self-discovery.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul—a city where East meets West—offers solo female adventurers a chance to wander through history. From the majestic Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, Istanbul encapsulates centuries of diverse cultures. The city’s ancient temples, vibrant streets, and the Bosphorus Strait serve as a testament to its rich history, making it a perfect spot for those intrigued by the confluence of civilizations.
Athens, Greece
Yes, Athens is one of the Greek Isles, and yes I already listed the Greek Isles, but Athens is special, and worth it’s own mention. I have not personally been to Athens yet, but it’s on my bucket list, and I think it should be on yours too.
As a mythology buff, I personally can’t wait to see the Parthenon, The Acropolis, the temples of Hephaestus, Olympian Zeus, and Athena Nike, and Panathenaic Stadium. Honestly there are so many monuments in Athens that I want to see that my list gets daunting. I am thinking of taking a couple guided tours when I visit, I will report back when I eventually make my way there.
The safety and friendliness of the locals makes Athens a great spot for solo travelers, especially women.
Paris, France
Paris is synonymous with romance, art, and history. Solo female travelers can revel in the artistic aura of the Louvre, enjoy serene walks along the Seine, and marvel at the Gothic architecture of Notre Dame. The city’s rich history is palpable in every corner, while wine tasting in charming cafés offers a taste of the French lifestyle. Paris is a city where solo travel for women transforms into an elegant adventure.
Rome, Italy
Rome invites solo travelers to step back in time to the era of emperors and gladiators. The Eternal City is a living museum, with ancient ruins like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum narrating tales of yore. Solo travel for women here is as enriching as it is secure, with countless cultural sites to explore and friendly locals to guide your journey.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s allure lies in its blend of traditional charm and modern vibrancy. Solo female travelers can explore ancient temples, sample exquisite Portuguese wines, and lose themselves in the picturesque streets of Alfama. Lisbon’s rich history and welcoming culture make it a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and cultural enrichment.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is a haven for those who delight in the finer things in life—rolling hills, world-renowned vineyards, and a rich tapestry of history. Solo travel for women in Tuscany means days filled with wine tasting, exploring Renaissance art, and discovering small, medieval towns that dot the landscape. The region’s beauty and tranquility offer a serene yet engaging solo adventure.
Taiwan
Taiwan is an island of wonders, offering solo female travelers an unparalleled mix of modernity and tradition. From the bustling streets of Taipei, home to the impressive Taipei 101, to the tranquil beauty of Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan caters to every type of adventurer. Enjoy the convenience of efficient public transport, the warmth of Taiwanese hospitality, and the island’s mouthwatering street food. Taiwan’s commitment to safety and its compact size makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a solo journey filled with cultural discovery and natural wonders.
Each of these destinations provides a unique opportunity to dive deep into the world’s cultural heritage, offering solo female travelers a chance to embrace the beauty of ancient civilizations, the art of wine tasting, and the timeless stories of our rich history.
Safe Havens
These countries are known for their high safety standards, friendly locals, and ease of navigation, ensuring that solo travelers can explore with peace of mind. Let’s delve into what makes each of these destinations a must-visit for women embarking on solo adventures.
Costa Rica
For those craving adventure amidst lush rainforests and pristine beaches, Costa Rica is a sanctuary. Known for its “Pura Vida” lifestyle, this country offers a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure. Solo vacations here mean zip-lining through cloud forests, relaxing in hot springs, and encountering wildlife up close. Costa Rica’s commitment to safety and eco-friendly tourism makes it a reassuring destination for women traveling alone, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature’s wonders worry-free.
Denmark
Denmark, with its charming cities and hygge culture, is a haven for solo travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and modern Scandinavian lifestyle. Copenhagen’s bicycle-friendly streets and English-speaking locals make navigating and connecting a breeze. Denmark consistently ranks high in safety and happiness indexes, ensuring that solo vacations here are as secure as they are enjoyable. From the colorful Nyhavn harbor to the serene countryside, Denmark offers a safe, welcoming environment for women to explore on their own.
Netherlands
The Netherlands offers an enchanting mix of historic architecture, vibrant culture, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a top pick for solo travel. Cities like Amsterdam, with its iconic canals and museums, are perfect for those who love to explore on foot or by bike. The Netherlands is renowned for its tolerance and open-mindedness, providing a safe and friendly setting for solo female travelers. Whether you’re browsing through tulip markets or enjoying the lively café culture, you’ll find a sense of belonging and safety here.
Norway
Norway’s breathtaking landscapes of fjords, mountains, and northern lights provide a spectacular backdrop for solo vacations. Beyond its natural beauty, Norway offers a strong sense of security, with low crime rates and high standards of living. Solo travel here invites you to embark on outdoor adventures, from hiking to fjord cruises, within a safe and supportive environment. Norwegians’ proficiency in English and their hospitality further ease the journey for solo women travelers, making every moment in Norway an empowering experience.
These destinations not only offer stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences but also prioritize the safety and comfort of solo travelers, especially women.
Unique Discoveries
The allure of exploring the unknown, meeting new people, and experiencing cultures on your terms is undeniable. But where does one start? Argentina, Vietnam, Ljubljana in Slovenia, Singapore, Munich in Germany and Adelaide, Australia are not only safe destinations, they are places to experience culture and adventure unique to their location.
Argentina
Argentina, with its passionate tango, vast landscapes, and cosmopolitan cities, presents a thrilling solo vacation spot for women. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the majestic beauty of Patagonia, Argentina offers a safe and welcoming environment for solo explorers. Engage with the local culture through a tango class, savor the world-renowned Argentine steak, and lose yourself in the natural splendor of the Iguazu Falls.
Vietnam
Vietnam is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights, making it a compelling choice for solo female travelers. The country’s rich history, friendly locals, and affordability also add to its appeal. Navigate the chaotic charm of Hanoi’s streets, cruise through the serene Halong Bay, and indulge in the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, all while feeling supported and safe on your solo journey.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, the heart of Slovenia, is a hidden gem in Europe, offering a peaceful and secure atmosphere for solo vacations. This charming city is known for its green spaces, friendly atmosphere, and a rich tapestry of cultural events. Wander through the picturesque streets, enjoy the café culture, and explore the nearby Lake Bled. Ljubljana is perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration on their solo trip.
Singapore
Singapore’s futuristic skyline, lush gardens, and melting pot of cultures make it an exceptional destination for solo female travelers. Renowned for its safety, cleanliness, and efficient public transport, Singapore offers a hassle-free solo travel experience. Dive into the diverse culinary scene, visit the iconic Gardens by the Bay, and shop in the bustling markets. Singapore ensures a comfortable and enriching solo adventure.
Munich, Germany
Munich, the Bavarian capital, combines traditional charm with modern vibrancy, offering a rich cultural experience for solo travelers. Visit during Oktoberfest for a taste of Bavarian culture or explore the city’s historic architecture and world-class museums at your own pace. Munich’s safety, coupled with the friendly nature of its residents, makes it an ideal spot for women traveling alone, looking for a mix of history, culture, and fun.
Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide is a hidden gem in Australia. Adelaide was the first planned city in Australia making it an extremely walkable city, with a decent public transportation system. Adelaide’s CBD is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens, making it far more relaxed than Sydney or Melbourne, and, in my opinion, a great choice for a first solo trip. Adelaide is the festival capital of Australia, with huge event such as Adelaide Fringe, which is the largest open-access festival in the Southern Hemisphere and lasts 31 days (and nights!), and 10 other major festivals held through-out the year. In addition Adelaide is known for it’s food scene, it’s wine scene, and it’s coffee scene.
If you couldn’t tell, Adelaide is one of my favorite destinations, I personally recommend heading to the Adelaide hills and enjoying the scenery and checking out Cleland Wildlife park, I held my first koala there and I was so excited. In the CBD spending an hour or two in the Central Market is well worth it, there are so many vendors (mostly selling food items), and there are many places to get lunch. I am not big into wine, but the Barossa Valley is beautiful and there are many wineries where you can enjoy a wine tasting.
Essential Packing List for Solo Female Travelers
Now that we have a destination in mind, lets talk about travel essentials. Anything from the right luggage or pillow for the plane can make the trip so much more enjoyable. We’ll also include a list of packing essentials, an air travel checklist, and some tips for packing.
Best Luggage for International Travel
Choosing the best luggage for international travel is the first step toward a hassle-free journey. Look for lightweight, durable options with spacious compartments and secure locks. Hard-shell suitcases with spinner wheels offer ease of mobility through airports and city streets, while built-in TSA-approved locks keep your belongings safe. A quality piece of luggage can withstand the rigors of travel and provide peace of mind as you explore new destinations.
Best Travel Pillow
Long flights or bus rides can take a toll on your body, but the best travel pillow can make all the difference. A memory foam or inflatable neck pillow that supports your head and neck in a natural position can help prevent stiffness and discomfort. Look for a pillow with a soft, washable cover for hygiene. A good travel pillow ensures you arrive at your destination rested and ready to explore.
Travel Backpack for Women
A travel backpack for women is designed with comfort and functionality in mind. Opt for a backpack with multiple compartments for organization, padded shoulder straps for comfort, and security features like lockable zippers. A backpack that fits your frame and has enough space for your essentials yet is compact enough for day trips, is ideal for solo travelers who need versatility and ease of access to their items.
Best Travel Purse
The best travel purse combines style, security, and practicality. Look for a crossbody bag with RFID-blocking technology to protect your personal information, sturdy straps that are difficult to cut, and enough compartments to keep your essentials organized and accessible. A travel purse that can hold your passport, phone, wallet, and a small water bottle, while keeping your hands free, is indispensable for solo explorers.
Best Travel Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial while traveling, making the best travel water bottle a must-have. Choose a durable, leak-proof bottle made from stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Insulated options that keep your drinks hot or cold for hours are great for any climate. A collapsible water bottle can save space in your bag when not in use. Always have water on hand, especially in areas where clean drinking water is not readily available.
Best Compression Socks for Travel
Long periods of inactivity during flights can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. The best compression socks for travel promote circulation, reduce swelling, and lower the risk of blood clots. Look for socks that offer graduated compression and are made from breathable, moisture-wicking material for comfort. Compression socks are a small investment in your health and well-being on long journeys.
Other Essential Items
Beyond these key items, consider packing a multi-country power adapter, a portable charger, a lightweight travel towel, and a compact first aid kit. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are must-haves for protection against the sun, while a sturdy lock can secure your belongings in hostels or public spaces.
Packing smart is the secret to a successful and enjoyable solo travel experience. These essential items provide comfort, convenience, and security, letting you focus on the joys of discovery and adventure. With the right gear in your travel arsenal, you’re ready to embrace the world and all its wonders, one destination at a time.
