15 Best Destinations for Solo Female Travelers
I’ve been travelling solo as a woman for years now — and the question I get asked more than any other, whether it’s in a comment, a DM, or from someone sitting next to me on a train, is some version of “but is it safe to go alone?”
Here’s my honest answer: it depends entirely on where you go and how you go. There is no destination in the world where the risk is zero. But there are places where solo female travel is not just possible but genuinely wonderful — where you feel looked after rather than watched, free rather than cautious, and where going alone actually becomes the best part of the trip.
I’ve put together this list based on a mix of personal experience and research. These are places I’d recommend to any woman thinking about her first solo trip — or her fifteenth. Some are international, some are closer to home than you think. All of them are worth it.
Before the International List — A Word About India
I know most lists like this jump straight to Europe and skip the country we actually live in. And I understand why — solo female travel in India comes with its own complicated conversation. But I’d be doing you a disservice if I didn’t say this upfront: India has some genuinely incredible destinations for solo women travellers, if you know where to go.
Rishikesh is one of my top picks for first-time solo women travellers in India. It’s spiritual, safe, and has an entire ecosystem built around solo travellers — yoga retreats, river cafes, guesthouses full of other women doing exactly the same thing. You will not feel alone for a single moment.
McLeod Ganj in Himachal Pradesh has a calm, welcoming energy that’s quite different from most Indian hill stations. The Tibetan influence, the cafe culture, the trekking community — women travelling alone here consistently feel comfortable and at ease.
Hampi in Karnataka is extraordinary for solo women — a slow, archaeological wonder where most people arrive alone and end up staying longer than planned. Gokarna is a quieter alternative to Goa that solo women rate as one of their safest and most enjoyable beach experiences in India. And Coorg, if you just want hills, coffee plantations and absolute quiet for a few days, does that better than almost anywhere.
Your first solo adventure doesn’t have to be a flight away.
Finland
For those who love the outdoors, Finland, the country of the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, is the ideal vacation destination. More wilderness areas exist, such as the area with the most lakes in all of Europe and Lemmenjoki National Park, the largest forest reserve on the continent. According to the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report from the World Economic Forum, Finland is the safest nation. Finland is one of the safest countries overall and one of the safest countries in Europe for women travelling alone!
Canada
Canada has many landscapes, including lakes, snow-capped mountains, and ancient forests. Its isolation makes it particularly gorgeous and well worth the trip. These cities also offer a unique appeal and a multicultural vibe. Women are said to feel the safest travelling to Canada in the Americas. Canada is home to many of the world’s safest cities for female travellers travelling alone.
Georgia
It’s simple to understand why Georgia experiences a steady increase in tourists each year. There are many reasons to travel, including the cities, mountains, beaches, and wine-growing areas, even before you consider the cost-effectiveness, the wine, the people, and the fantastic cuisine. However, even with the apparent linguistic and cultural barriers, it is safe for women to travel alone.
Georgia is ranked as the seventh safest country in the world by the 2017 Crime Index Rate due to its shallow crime rate. In addition, the Georgian police, formerly notorious for being extremely corrupt, have greatly improved and can now be trusted. Other than this, most safety assurances and arrangements can be made through Georgia tour packages.
New Zealand
For fans of the Lord of the Rings, New Zealand, often known as Middle Earth, is a country of otherworldly landscapes and the perfect vacation destination for anybody who appreciates adventure, sports, nature, or any combination of the three. This little nation’s two major islands have drastically varied topographies. On the North Island, you may take advantage of beautiful beaches, erupting volcanoes, and bright lakes. The South Island’s terrain is radically different, with snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and a vast stretch of open water teaming with seals and whales.
The Institute for Economics and Peace ranks New Zealand as the fourth-safest travel destination in the world. In addition, numerous studies indicate that New Zealand is the country where women are the safest worldwide. Without a doubt, it’s among the safest locations in the world for female backpackers and lone travellers!
Uruguay
The inhabitants of this little country, which is near to Brazil, are charming and kind. You may take pleasure in Montevideo’s beaches, which provide a striking contrast to the city’s bustling downtown. Punta del Este, the most popular tourist destination in Uruguay, offers beaches, historical monuments, and tranquil locations where you may unwind. Colonia del Sacramento is a charming, more secluded section that you may explore. Uruguay, to date, has one of the lowest rates of crime in the Americas.
Switzerland
The central European nation of Switzerland has much more to offer than just top-notch watchmakers. It is a country with diverse, beautiful views and urban landscapes that eventually give way to breathtaking natural ones. It is also a nation rich in cultural diversity. Switzerland is ranked as the seventh-most peaceful country in the world by the Global Peace Index (GPI). It is one of the most certain regions in Europe for female solo travellers.
Belgium
Belgium’s reputation as a must-see destination in Europe is not accidental. With a plethora of historical sites, top-notch amenities, and several other tourist attractions, the country is a beautiful gem. While in Bruges, the backdrop is suitable for a love play, you may wander the lanes of Brussels and admire its old architecture. Belgium is ranked as the tenth best country for women travelling alone by the International Women’s Travel Center. The popularity of Belgian study abroad programs make it the ideal location for young women travelling alone to meet other young people.
Austria
In the eyes of many tourists, Austria is the perfect country. They assert that because Austrians have one of Europe’s most significant levels of life, problems tend to disappear there. The government also has incredibly distinctive landscapes like snow-capped mountain peaks, lush green forests, and crystal-clear lakes. As a result, the International Women’s Travel Centre ranked Austria the fourth best country for women travelling alone. Austria is also one of the safest countries in Europe for solo travel.
Iceland
Iceland is well befitting its name, considering ice covers 15% of its landmass. You could go exploring and discover tunnels even on the ice. Despite its name, there is a lot of fire in the country. You read it right; this region is home to at least 20 active volcanoes. Iceland offers visitors some breathtaking views of the ice and the fire. The capital of Iceland, Reykjavik, is charming and boasts thriving nightlife. Iceland is ranked top on the Global Peace Index (GPI) with one of the lowest crime rates on the planet. Iceland is one of the top destinations for single women seeking female adventure travel.
Japan
Both incredibly cutting-edge technology and traditions that extend back thousands of years can be found in Japan. There is, however, a lot more to say about this country. It is necessary to visit Tokyo, a sizable metropolis recognized as the world’s cleanest and most well-run. And there is also Osaka, a lovely, modern city with a wide range of activities. We also suggest you travel off the beaten path in Japan to locate less-touristy but fantastic destinations in addition to seeing the most well-known sites. Japan is ranked sixth among the world’s most peaceful countries according to the Global Peace Index (GPI). Japan is one of the safest nations in the world for female solo travellers!
Chile
Chile is a stunning nation with many attractions to please even the most discerning travellers. These include the majority of Patagonia’s untamed natural beauty and the Atacama, the driest desert in the world. In addition, it boasts crowded beaches, historic cities, and fantastic camping spots. The capital city of Santiago is particularly outstanding, with mountains on all sides and a wide variety of activities to satisfy all interests.
Another excellent alternative for lone female travellers is a small group excursion. Examine the top Chilean tours. On the Global Peace Index, Chile is placed 24th and has a low crime rate.
Dubai
In a study conducted by the travel insurance provider InsureMyTrip, Dubai ranked third among the safest cities for female solo travellers. According to the website, 84 per cent of solo female passengers are female. The research was conducted to identify the safest areas for this category of travellers to better serve them.
Dubai is a safe place for women to visit since most of its public transit has a “women’s only area,” and the city has a low overall crime rate. However, the report emphasizes that women should wear modest clothing in public settings; therefore, it is crucial to learn about Dubai’s laws and strict dress code before visiting. Luxury yacht rental is also a safe tourist attraction for solo female travellers to experience in Dubai.
Spain
Barcelona is a relatively walkable city, so you won’t likely get lost if you have some form of a map. You can wander along the seaside, window shop on Las Ramblas, and tour the city’s Park Güell, which was created by Gaudi. Additionally, there are many excellent dining options for solo travellers, like tapas bars with counter seating and waterfront paella restaurants where you can enjoy people-watching.
Germany
This Bavarian city exhibits the jovial German attitude. No matter where you go, whether it’s a small mom-and-pop bakery or the famous Olympiapark tower, you can find people smiling and greeting guests. So, what is the best way to explore Munich to the fullest? First, get a beer at a neighbourhood Biergarten to socialize with surrounding visitors and residents.
Croatia
Croatia is now more accessible than ever, and its low crime rate strengthens its appeal. The 6,365 feet of spotless walls surrounding the medieval coastal city of Dubrovnik will allay all your worries with just one sight. Walking along the wall offers visitors stunning Adriatic coastline vistas, while the cobblestone lanes take them past local eateries and handicraft shops. Going to the beach in Old Town, where there are many kayaking and snorkelling excursion possibilities, is another excellent solitary activity.
The Honest Truth About Solo Female Travel
No list can make a destination completely safe — and I’d never promise you that. What I will say is this: the women I’ve met on the road, the experiences I’ve had going alone to places I was nervous about, the confidence that comes from navigating a new city entirely on your own terms — none of that would have happened if I’d waited until it felt completely safe.
Start somewhere that feels manageable. Do your research. Trust your instincts when you’re there — they’re usually right. And connect with other women who travel solo, because that community is one of the most generous and helpful ones you’ll find anywhere.
The world is bigger and kinder than we’re often told. Go find out for yourself.
Have questions about solo female travel — in India or anywhere else? Drop them in the comments. I read every single one.
Be a responsible traveler!
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