Solo Female Traveler Destinations: 11 Best Places to Visit + Tips
Are you a woman who’s new to the solo game? Want to ease in? Keep reading for the best solo female travel destinations, plus my top safety tips.
Published June 25, 2023, Updated August 2, 2024
When I started traveling, I wasn’t focused on solo female traveler destinations. My trips consisted of going with friends.
But as time passed, many of my travel companions couldn’t come along as frequently as I wanted.
I reached a point where my drive for traveling was so strong that I didn’t want to wait for everyone to find the “right time.” This prompted me to start looking into solo travel.
I must admit, I was terrified of going by myself.
By researching and implementing safety measures (as you always should), you’ll find solo travel to be one of the most healing and satisfying experiences.
Below, I’ll share what I think are just some of the best destinations for solo female travelers and give you my advice for how to feel confident traveling alone.
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11 best countries for solo female travel
If you’re new to traveling solo, I can recommend some great trips to get started! Here are some locations that are considered some of the safest countries for solo female travelers:
1. Japan
Japan is by far known to be one of the top places to travel as a solo female. The country is known for being safe, having excellent public transportation, and friendly locals.
Although it vastly differs from the culture I grew up in, it offered a unique blend of tradition and modernity. It’s definitely a top pick for me.
There’s Tokyo, where you can explore bustling Shinjuku district, enjoy the world-famous street food scene, and visit the Meiji Shrine.
Kyoto will not disappoint with its amazing cultural experiences. Wander through bamboo forests, visit historic temples, attend a traditional tea ceremony, or get fitted for a kimono.
And don’t miss the chance to visit Hakone, known for its relaxing hot springs resorts, or onsen, where you can soak with views of Mount Fuji. (This is #7 on my list of Japan’s hidden gems)
I first visited Japan in 2010, when I moved here for work. I guess this was technically my first solo trip!
In fact, I spent over 6 years in Japan! It will forever be my second home, and I can say that I couldn’t have felt safer while there!
While you’re considering the best solo trips for women, check out my go to booking site for flights!
2. Norway
If you’ve never considered Norway a destination for solo traveler, let me convince you.
Notorious for its low crime rates and focus on gender equality, Norway offers peace of mind and a sense of empowerment for women traveling alone.
And it’s not just a winter destination! The best time to travel to Norway largely depends on what you want to experience.
If you want to witness the Northern Lights, the winter months from late September to early April offer the best chances.
Alternatively, you might be drawn to Norway’s white mountains, blue glaciers, emerald-green forests, and all the exciting outdoor activities to be found there.
Then book your trip during the summer months, from June to August. Plus, this is when you’ll enjoy the Midnight Sun and milder weather perfect for hiking and kayaking!
Oslo, Norway’s capital, is a beautiful city with easy-to-navigate public transport and a rich cultural scene, including museums, galleries, and cozy cafés.
And the charming town of Bergen is not just a gateway to exploring the countries many natural wonders. It’s also a wonderful way to experience Norway’s amazing culture and history.
3. Iceland
Excluding when I lived in Japan by myself, Iceland would technically be my first solo trip. I fell in love with the beauty of this country and spent over a week road-tripping around the country.
It’s a beautiful country best known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and famous Northern Lights.
One of the most popular things to do in Iceland is to road trip the Golden Circle and see waterfalls, geysers, and national parks.
You can relax in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. Or if you’re up for an adventure, take a glacier hike at Sólheimajökull.
It’s a safe and welcoming country with a strong emphasis on gender equality. This is a huge reason Iceland makes it a great choice for first time solo female travel destinations.
If you decide to put this amazing place on the list, just keep in mind the time of year you go and save up, as it’s an expensive place to visit. But I think it was worth every penny!
4. Australia
Australia is high up on the list of solo female traveler destinations, thanks to its sparkling cities and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Renowned for its safety, Australia boasts a low crime rate and a high standard of healthcare, making it an ideal choice for women traveling alone.
Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are not only famous for their cultural and culinary delights but are also known for their friendly locals and efficient public transport systems.
When you want to get outdoors, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef and cruising the Outback offer unforgettable adventures. Or spend your days surfing off Bondi Beach (or lounging on the gorgeous white sand beach).
Australia’s diverse experiences cater to all interests, so you know that solo female travelers will feel both secure and inspired.
5. New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the best solo trips for females. Here, you’ll find warm hospitality, unbeatable scenery, and countless adventures.
You can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hikes along the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the world’s best one-day hikes, with its volcanic terrain and breathtaking views.
You can go bungee jumping in Queenstown. Or visit Rotorua on the North Island to experience Maori traditions and soak in natural hot springs.
You’ll love the culturally rich and tourist-friendly cities in New Zealand, like Auckland and Wellington.
Or do what I did and take a road trip to explore South Island! I rented a car and started in Christchurch. From here you can visit nearby towns and the many national parks.
6. Chile
Chile has long been known as an excellent choice for solo female travelers.
This is largely because of the warm hospitality given to tourists, as well as the well-developed infrastructure that makes exploring solo a breeze.
The capital city of Santiago offers a vibrant urban experience with a thriving arts scene and a top-notch food scene.
And when you’re ready to explore, Chile’s wide-ranging landscapes more than deliver!
There’s the otherworldly Atacama Desert, the lush beauty of the Lake District, and the dramatic fjords and glaciers of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia.
Each region of this South American jewel provides unique opportunities for solo exploration.
7. Canada
For my readers in the US, our northern neighbors offer one of the best places to travel solo female for the first time.
Canada is known for its safety, diversity, and natural beauty. And depending on what your interests are, Canada offers a variety of experiences.
You can explore the vibrant city of Vancouver or the historic streets of Quebec City.
See the magnificent Rocky Mountains in Banff National Park. Or discover the rugged Gros Morne National Park, where you can take a boat tour through the fjords of Western Brook Pond.
My trip to Alberta was truly remarkable, and I have a ton stops in Canada that I can’t wait to check off my list!
8. Portugal
Portugal is another safe and affordable location with a rich history, a beautiful coastline, and charming cities.
Its cities are walkable, public transport is reliable, and locals are friendly, making it easy to navigate and feel at ease.
Also, it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations if you’re interested in exploring European culture.
In Lisbon, you can visit historic sites like Jerónimos Monastery and São Jorge Castle, as well as ride the historic Tram 28.
Head to Porto for a taste of Portuguese culture, with its famous port wine cellars and amazing architecture (including the the Lello Bookshop).
If you’re interested in history, don’t miss the ancient town of Sintra, with its fairytale castles and lush gardens.
I specifically spent some time in Lisbon, Lagos, and Sintra (which you can read about here).
9. Singapore
If you’re a woman traveling alone, another place that makes a fantastic first-time destination is Singapore.
The south Asian country offers safety, modern comforts, and cultural richness that can’t be matched.
Singapore is especially known for its impeccable cleanliness and efficient public transportation that makes moving around the city a relaxing and positive experience.
Head to Orchard Road and Marina Bay, both of which are perfect for shopping and dining. And the historic precincts of Chinatown and Little India show the city’s multicultural heritage.
When you’re craving nature, there’s the breathtaking Gardens by the Bay.
You can head to Sentosa for the day to enjoy a variety of fun activities, ranging from kayaking and speedboat tours to bungee jumping. Or stay at one of the island’s sparkling resorts, like the Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa.
10. Costa Rica
Probably one of my favorite destinations, Costa Rica is a Central American gem famous for its biodiversity, eco-tourism, and adventurous spirit.
Costa Rica is one of best countries for solo female travel, offering a safe and enriching outdoor experiences.
There are the lush rainforests of Corcovado National Park, which boasts some of the best wildlife spotting in the world.
There’s also the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve where you can walk along hanging bridges high above the forest floor.
Or if you want to get on the water, head to Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean coast and peak sea turtles nesting on the beaches.
I visited Costa Rica in 2014, and my time there was filled with amazing experiences, like kayaking in the bioluminescence and white-water rafting.
There was a sketchy driving experience up the Nicoya Peninsula (future blog post, so stay tuned).
Word of caution when traveling here, you may never want to leave!
11. Scotland
Scotland’s picturesque landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals are all reasons why I’ve included it on my list of the best places to travel solo as a woman.
Whether you want to explore the Scottish Highlands, visit historic castles, or enjoy the vibrant city of Edinburgh, Scotland has something for everyone.
If you like history and Irish culture, spend your days wandering the colorful streets of Dublin. Visit historic sites like Trinity College or enjoy the pub scene with traditional Irish music.
Or head to Galway, known for its colorful buildings, craft market, Irish folk music, and welcoming spirit.
Ireland also offers many opportunities to take in breathtaking views on a coastal hike, like The Cliffs of Moher in the south or the Isle of Skye in the north.
And a must-do is a scenic drive along the Ring of Kerry. Take all day (or multiple days) exploring rural seaside villages, stunning verdant landscapes, and abandoned medieval structures.
I spent over a week on the ultimate road trip through Scotland, and I can say the beauty and history of this place is amazing!
Essential Tips for First-Time Solo Female Travelers
Let’s be very clear: As a solo woman, travel destinations can’t just be assumed to be the best place for you. Traveling solo or with companions, you should always factor in safety.
I’ve been traveling solo for several years now. I’ve learned several ways to make sure my experiences are not only safe, but also unforgettable!
Here are my best tips for solo female travelers:
Prioritize Your Safety
When traveling alone, especially as a woman, thorough research is crucial. Investigate the safety of your destination by checking travel advisories and reading recent traveler reviews.
Understanding local customs, laws, and emergency contacts can also help you stay informed and prepared.
Embrace Budget Travel Without Compromising Safety
Traveling on a budget in solo female traveler destinations doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your safety.
Opt for affordable yet reputable accommodations and use budget airlines or trains, but always prioritize secure options. Also consider travel insurance and keep your belongings secure.
Pack Wisely
Pack light and focus on essentials to make travel more manageable. Bring only what you need and ensure you have copies of important documents like your passport and visa.
Additionally, research the local dress code to blend in and avoid drawing unwanted attention.
Choose Accommodations That Cater to Your Needs as a Woman
Select accommodations that prioritize safety and comfort for female travelers. Look for hostels or hotels with good reviews, secure lockers, and female-only dorms or floors.
Properties that offer 24-hour reception will only add to your peace of mind and help you sleep at night!
Making Connections Along Your Journey
Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone! I recommend engaging in local experiences such as cooking classes, guided tours, or group activities to meet fellow travelers and locals.
These opportunities provide a chance to connect with like-minded adventurers. And it’s nice to know that someone is nearby who can look out for you.
I dive into these tips and more in a lot more detail in my post, Safety Tips Every Solo Female Traveler Should Know. So, make sure to check that out.
And remember, regardless of your chosen destination, it’s always essential to research local customs, follow safety guidelines, and trust your instincts while traveling alone.
Discover the Top Solo Female Traveler estinations
I’ve shared with you just a few of the many first-time solo female travel destinations available to you.
As a woman, yes, the world can feel very big at times. But as a world traveler, you also come realize just how amazing the world is!
I encourage you to do your research, book your first solo trip, and embrace adventure fearlessly. Trust me, you’ll find traveling as a solo female traveler to be both empowering and transformative.
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