Why More Women Are Traveling Solo — and Where to Go First
The best travel destinations for single women combine three things: genuine safety, easy navigation, and experiences worth having alone.
Here’s a quick answer if you’re ready to book:
Top 10 Best Travel Destinations for Single Women
- Iceland — ranked the world’s safest country, ideal for outdoor adventures
- Japan — exceptionally low crime, safe late-night transit, solo-friendly culture
- Portugal (Lisbon) — walkable, welcoming, and great for first-time solo travelers
- New Zealand (South Island) — perfect mix of adventure and safety
- Switzerland — world-class public transport, low crime, stunning scenery
- Austria (Vienna) — ranked 4th on the Global Peace Index, rich culture
- Denmark (Copenhagen) — one of Europe’s safest cities, fully walkable
- Canada (Montréal / Quebec City) — ranked among the safest cities for solo women
- Thailand — popular solo trail, affordable, and traveler-friendly infrastructure
- Botswana — low crime rates, incredible wildlife, and an off-the-beaten-path gem
Solo travel for women has never been more accessible — or more popular. But picking the right destination still matters enormously.
Safety is the obvious starting point. But the best solo trips also hinge on things like walkability, English proficiency, reliable public transport, and a local culture that makes a woman traveling alone feel welcome rather than out of place.
The good news? Dozens of destinations around the world tick every one of those boxes.
Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or your fifteenth, this guide covers the safest and most rewarding places to go — plus the practical tips to make the most of every one.
The Best Travel Destinations for Single Women: Top 10 Global Picks
Choosing where to go can feel overwhelming, but we’ve narrowed down the best travel destinations for single women based on crime statistics, ease of travel, and the “vibe” reported by thousands of solo female explorers.
1. Iceland
Iceland consistently tops the Global Peace Index as the safest country in the world. For a solo woman, this means you can hike, drive the Ring Road, or soak in the Blue Lagoon with an incredible sense of peace. Most locals speak perfect English, and the crime rate is so low it’s practically legendary. If you’re nervous about your first trip, start here.
2. Japan
Japan is a dream for solo travelers. Not only is it safe to walk alone at night, but the culture actually caters to solo dining and solo activities. In cities like Tokyo, you’ll find “women-only” floors in hotels and even dedicated train carriages. It is a place where being alone is respected and normalized.
3. Canada (Montréal & Quebec City)
Montréal was recently voted the safest city in the world for solo female travelers by some indices. It offers a European flair without the long-haul flight for North Americans. The public transit is world-class, and the city is part of the UN Women Safe Cities and Safe Public Spaces Global FPI, showing a real commitment to female safety.
4. Switzerland
If you want a trip where everything works perfectly, go to Switzerland. The trains are legendary for their punctuality, and the levels of serious crime are incredibly low. It’s an ideal spot for women who love nature but want the security of a highly organized society. Before you go, ensure you have SafetyWing Travel Insurance to cover any alpine mishaps!
5. New Zealand
The South Island is the ultimate “choose your own adventure” spot. Whether you want to skydive in Queenstown or enjoy a quiet walk by Lake Tekapo, the infrastructure for travelers is seamless. It’s very easy to meet people in hostels or on group tours, making it one of the best travel destinations for single women who want a mix of solitude and social life.
6. Austria
Vienna is often cited as one of the world’s most livable cities. The coffee house culture is perfect for solo travelers—it’s completely normal to sit for hours with a book and a Melange. Austria also ranks 4th on the Global Peace Index, offering a high level of security for women wandering its historic streets.
7. Denmark
Copenhagen is a “human-scale” city. It’s flat, incredibly walkable, and the bike culture is second to none. It feels safer at night than many major U.S. cities, and the concept of “Hygge” (coziness) makes even a solo dinner feel like a warm hug.
8. Portugal
Lisbon and the Algarve are fantastic for solo women. Portugal is generally more affordable than Northern Europe, and the locals are famously welcoming. It’s a great place to stay in safe-accommodations-for-solo-travelers like boutique guesthouses where the staff treat you like family.
9. Thailand
Thailand has been a staple of the solo travel circuit for decades. While you should always stay aware in crowded areas, the “Land of Smiles” has a well-trodden path that makes it very easy to navigate. From the mountains of Chiang Mai to the islands in the south, the infrastructure for solo women is robust.
10. Botswana
For women seeking a safe African safari experience, Botswana is a top choice. It has low crime rates and a stable political environment. Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta, is known for its friendly locals and a growing community of female travelers.
Best travel destinations for single women in the United States
If you aren’t ready to cross an ocean just yet, the U.S. has some incredible solo-travel-hotspots-for-beginners that offer culture and safety.
- New York City: Don’t let the movies scare you. NYC is one of the best places to be alone because everyone is alone. You can dine at a bar, visit The Met, or walk the High Line without anyone batting an eye.
- Savannah, Georgia: This is a peaceful, compact city perfect for a slow-paced solo weekend. The historic squares are walkable, and the “Southern Hospitality” is real.
- Sedona, Arizona: Ideal for wellness seekers. Between the red rock vortexes and the world-class spas, it’s a place designed for self-reflection and healing.
- Nashville, Tennessee: If you love live music, Nashville is perfect. You can head to Broadway, grab a seat at a bar, and enjoy world-class musicians while meeting fellow music lovers organically.
- Portland, Oregon: Known for its quirky culture and incredible food scene, Portland is very solo-friendly. It’s also a great base for day trips to the Columbia River Gorge.
- Washington D.C.: With so many free museums and monuments, you can fill your days without spending a dime. The city is highly walkable and has excellent public transit.
Why these are the best travel destinations for single women
What makes these places stand out? It isn’t just a lack of crime. It’s the “Solo-Friendly Infrastructure.”
| City | Safety Score | Walkability | English Proficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reykjavik | 9.5/10 | Excellent | High |
| Tokyo | 9.2/10 | Excellent | Moderate |
| Copenhagen | 9.0/10 | Excellent | High |
| Vienna | 8.9/10 | High | High |
| Montréal | 8.7/10 | High | High |
We look for destinations with high English proficiency so you never feel stranded. We prioritize walkability and public transportation because nothing feels more vulnerable than being stuck in a remote area without a ride. Finally, we look for friendly locals who are used to seeing women traveling independently.
Essential Safety Tips and Cultural Etiquette for Solo Travelers
Even in the safest countries, being an “intuitive traveler” is your best defense. We always recommend taking a few standard precautions to ensure your trip remains stress-free.
- Share Your Itinerary: Always make sure someone at home has a copy of your hotel addresses and flight numbers.
- Download Offline Maps: Apps like Google Maps allow you to download areas. This is a lifesaver if you lose cell service in a winding European alley.
- Carry a Power Bank: Your phone is your lifeline—for maps, translation, and rideshares. Never let it die.
- Respect Modest Dress Codes: In destinations like the UAE or Jordan, dressing modestly (covering shoulders and knees) isn’t just about respect; it actually reduces unwanted attention. Always carry a light scarf in your bag for visiting religious sites.
As mentioned in this TEDX talk on solo travel fears, it’s okay to be scared. The key is to prepare so that your fear doesn’t stop you. Check out our solo-female-travel-safety-guide for a deeper dive into staying secure.
Common mistakes first-time solo travelers make
We’ve all been there! To make your first trip smoother, try to avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overpacking: Dragging a massive suitcase through cobblestone streets makes you a target and exhausts you. Pack light!
- Arriving at Night: Try to time your flights or trains to arrive in a new city during daylight. It’s much easier to find your hotel and get your bearings.
- Ignoring Your Intuition: If a street feels “off” or a person makes you uncomfortable, leave. You don’t owe anyone politeness at the expense of your safety.
- Lack of Research: Knowing which neighborhoods are “sketchy” beforehand saves a lot of stress. Read our solo-female-travel-safety-guide-2 for more on neighborhood vetting.
Practical packing essentials and must-have apps
Technology is a solo traveler’s best friend. Here is our “must-have” list:
- VPN: Use Nord VPN to keep your data secure when using public Wi-Fi in cafes or hotels.
- eSIM: Instead of hunting for local SIM cards, use an app like Sim Local to get data the moment you land.
- Anti-Theft Gear: Consider a crossbody bag with locking zippers or a scarf with a hidden passport pocket.
- Translation Apps: Google Translate’s “camera feature” can translate menus and signs in real-time.
How to Combat Loneliness and Meet People While Traveling Alone
One of the biggest myths about solo travel is that you’ll be lonely. In reality, you’re often more social because you’re more approachable than a couple or a group.
- Join Walking Tours: This is our #1 tip. Whether it’s an Old Town Walking Tour or a street art tour, you’ll meet people within the first hour of arriving.
- Stay in Boutique Hostels: Many modern hostels offer “pod” beds or private rooms, giving you the social atmosphere of a lounge without the lack of privacy.
- Co-working Spaces: If you’re a digital nomad, hubs like Canggu in Bali or Lisbon are filled with other solo professionals.
- Social Media Groups: Join private Facebook groups for solo female travelers. They are great for finding a “dinner buddy” or asking for real-time advice.
For more ideas on where to find your tribe, see our list of beginner-friendly-solo-travel-cities.
Budget-friendly tips for the best travel destinations for single women
Traveling alone can sometimes be more expensive because you aren’t splitting the cost of a room. Here’s how we keep costs down:
- Eat Like a Local: Hit up street food vendors or food halls like Torvehallerne in Copenhagen. You get gourmet food for a fraction of restaurant prices.
- Public Transit Passes: Always check for 24-hour or 72-hour transit passes. They almost always pay for themselves after three rides.
- Travel in the Shoulder Season: Visit Europe in May or September. The weather is still great, the crowds are thinner, and prices for cheap-countries-to-travel-alone drop significantly.
- Self-Catering: Book an apartment with a kitchen once in a while. Cooking breakfast or dinner can save you $20–$50 a day in expensive spots like Iceland.
Finding community in solo-friendly hubs
Some cities just “get” solo travel better than others.
- Lisbon, Portugal: A magnet for solo explorers. The hilly streets are lined with “miradouros” (viewpoints) where people gather to watch the sunset—it’s very easy to start a conversation here.
- Montréal, Canada: The “Plateau” neighborhood is filled with students and artists, making it very easy to blend in.
- Canggu, Bali: This is the capital of the “laptop and latte” lifestyle. If you want to meet other female entrepreneurs, this is the place.
Check our solo-friendly-city-guides for detailed neighborhood breakdowns.
Frequently Asked Questions about Solo Female Travel
Is it safe for women to travel alone internationally?
Yes, absolutely. While no place on earth is 100% crime-free, many international destinations have lower violent crime rates than major U.S. cities. With basic research and common-sense precautions, women can—and do—travel safely almost anywhere.
How do I meet other travelers without staying in a hostel?
Walking tours, cooking classes, and “experience” bookings (like a desert dinner in Marrakech) are fantastic ways to meet people. You can also use apps like Bumble BFF or join local Meetup groups centered around hobbies like hiking or photography.
What are the best times of year to visit these safe destinations?
For Europe, the “shoulder seasons” (April–June and September–October) offer the best balance of safety, price, and weather. For Southeast Asia, the dry season (November–February) is ideal. Always check if your destination has specific “off-seasons” where some services might close.
Conclusion
Traveling solo is one of the most empowering things a woman can do. It builds a level of self-reliance and confidence that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. You learn that you are capable of navigating a foreign subway system, ordering a meal in a language you don’t speak, and, most importantly, enjoying your own company.
At PrimeFinHub, we believe that the world is meant to be explored. We curate immersive cultural spots tailored for independent exploration so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Ready to start planning your next adventure? Find More info about destination services and let’s get you out there!
