30 destinations for solo female travelers: safe and attractive

If you want to know this world on your own and do not know where to start, today I share the best destinations for solo female travelers.

More and more women want to travel and dare to do it alone, but many do not know where to go. But many don’t know where to go, so where is safe? That’s why I’ve compiled a list of 30 top destinations for women traveling alone in 2023.

Personally, I have not traveled to all the destinations I share below and I recommend them to you because I found them safe, and also because they offer many tourist attractions. Of course, there are many, many more cities, but these had a special impact on me. As a woman traveler, you will always have to take certain precautions and keep in mind all solo travelling pros and cons that, unfortunately, as a man are not necessary. But in general, I found all of these destinations to be safe, even if you’re traveling on your own. So, put on the most comfortable travel sneakers you have and let’s go!

London (United Kingdom)

It is the first city that I ventured to visit on my own, when I was 20 years old. And it was one of the best experiences of my life. I was quite naive, to be honest. But going to London quickly taught me how to deal with big cities.

The best: The city’s public transportation. It is very easy to get anywhere by subway. It is a cosmopolitan city, with a lot of history, museums and activities for all tastes.

The worst: Its prices, although at the exchange rate it is not so expensive. And the bad weather. I’ve been twice in London and I didn’t see the sun even once.

Tip: Try to stay in the area of Notting Hill or some central area to avoid walking alone at night in the suburbs.

Here you will find some of the best free things to do in London

Paris (France)

Paris was my first international destination. I went with my family when I was eight years old to attend the opening of EuroDisney and even though I was very young, I remember that I was very impressed. Since that trip, I have been back to Paris 8 more times.

The best: If you are a photography lover like me, in this city you will have enough to take pictures. Every corner has a beautiful building, a striking monument, a museum … and well, its Eiffel Tower. It is an easy city to get around and although its metro system is not as good as London’s, it is manageable.

The worst: Like London, its climate is not the best and it is also quite an expensive city, but you can adjust to a more limited budget.

Tip: I have always tried to stay near Montparnasse station. It’s cheaper and it’s accessible.

Dublin (Ireland)

The Irish capital could be the best choice as a destination for solo female traveling. Personally, it was a city that I found very easy to get around on foot and with very friendly people. I went around Christmas time, so you can imagine the festive atmosphere.

The best: Despite being a capital city, Dublin is a small city. In two days you can visit the main tourist sites on foot. Grafton Street is a completely pedestrian area, full of street music and festive atmosphere that you will fall in love with.

The worst: The weather… during the four days I visited the city it did not stop raining.

Tip: If you want to save money on your accommodation, you can stay north of the Liffey River.

Check what are the 20 best things to do in Dublin

Lisbon (Portugal)

Lisbon is a city that slowly catches your attention. It shares a similar culture and customs to Spain, and the people have that open Mediterranean character.

The best: The prices. It is not an expensive country and if it is the first time you leave Spain, it can be a good option to feel at home, but in a completely different place at the same time.

The worst: It is not the cleanest city in the world… But, except for that, you will love Lisbon.

Tip: If you have time, my advice is to take advantage of one of the days to explore the best things to do in Sintra. In a previous post I shared how to get from Lisbon to Sintra by train.

Amsterdam (Netherlands)

The Dutch have a reputation for being the nicest people in the world and I was able to confirm this when I visited the capital of Netherlands a few years ago. I don’t know if it’s because of the coffee shops or all the other things to do in Amsterdam, but accustomed to the dryness of the Berliners, I was struck by how friendly the Dutch were with me.

The best: Apart from its affable character, Amsterdam is a terribly easy city to get around on foot or by bike. It is a very photogenic city and one I must return to, because I didn’t have a digital camera when I visited!

The worst: If you go in winter, it is very cold. I was there in February and it snowed several times. It is beautiful, but if you are not well prepared you can end up freezing.

Tip: When you are in Amsterdam, take the opportunity to visit the markets. They are huge and the most striking I’ve ever seen in my life.

Salzburg (Austria)

Undoubtedly one of the safest and most beautiful destinations for women traveling alone that you will find. I was there in the spring of 2015 and fell in love with it from the beginning. It happened to me a bit like Amsterdam; I was very pleasantly surprised by the affable character of the people. The truth is that I spent one of the best days there. I was not alone, but it is a completely safe place to go on your own.

The best: The musical-cultural character of the city. Every corner of the Austrian city breathes and lives culture. And if you’re a fan of “The Sound of Music” like me, you’ll see a lot of familiar sights.

The worst: To tell you the truth, I didn’t see anything wrong with this city. Maybe the prices? They are a bit more expensive than in Spain, but not exorbitant.

Tip: Visit the city in Spring. The weather is milder and you will be able to enjoy the longer days much more.

While you are in Austria, you could visit Vienna in 2 days.

Munich (Germany)

Across the border from Salzburg is Munich. Undoubtedly, one of the 30 destinations for women traveling alone that you should add to your list. Munich is an elegant city, easy to get around, full of character, and full of history. Also don’t miss to visit some of the most beautiful German castles there.

The best: The friendly character of the people. The people of Bavaria are much more open than the Germans living in the north of the country. Munich is an easy city to get to know.

The worst: I went in February, so the weather was a bit horrible. Winters are harsh due to its proximity to the Alps.

Tip: Spend at least two days getting to know the German city. One of the most famous places is the HB brewery, famous because historical figures frequented the place.

Rome (Italy)

Rome is one of my favorite cities in the world. As with Lisbon, we Mediterranean people have a very similar character and, therefore, when I travel to Rome I feel at home.

The best: Its history. One of the world’s greatest empires was born here and every corner breathes history. The Italian capital has a mild climate practically all year round and is not the most expensive European capital.

The worst: It’s not the cleanest city and can be a bit chaotic, but that’s part of its charm.

Tip: I have a complete guide with places to visit in Rome. Check it out to get the most out of the city.

Prague (Czech Republic)

Prague is a city that I visited while passing through, while visiting Germany, but it left a very good impression on me because of its great cultural and historical relevance.

The best thing: It is a cheaper city than others in neighboring countries. You can walk through practically the entire historic center on foot. If you are here for the first time, this What to see in Prague guide could be useful.

The worst: As with Munich, the winters are very cold. As it is a cheaper destination, the conglomeration is usually important. The locals are not the friendliest…

Tip: Visit the Charles Bridge before sunrise to see it without people and take good pictures.

Barcelona (Spain)

For Latin American readers who are reading this post of destinations for women traveling alone, Barcelona may be a good choice as a first destination in Spain.

The best: Its Mediterranean climate, mild all year round. The large number of attractive places to visit in Barcelona and its prices.

The worst: Compared to Madrid, I think it has a “poorer” cultural offer but it is compensated with its beautiful architecture and street art.

Tip: Visit Park Güell early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Go in the evening to Plaza de España to see the sound and light show (check the show schedule).

San Sebastian (Spain)

I close the Europe section of this list of 30 destinations for solo female traveling by talking about San Sebastian. I know I’m probably not impartial, but for me it’s one of the most beautiful cities.

The best: It’s an easy city to get around, stately and with excellent food. It is one of the cities with the most Michelin Stars per square meter in the world.

The worst: The weather. In the Basque Country it rains a lot. Maybe also that it is a more expensive city than other Spanish capitals.

Tip: I have a post completely dedicated to San Sebastian that I hope will help you plan your visit.

Toronto (Canada)

Toronto was the second North American city I visited on my own and I fell in love with it from the beginning. It is a diverse, cosmopolitan city with many attractions.

The best thing: Toronto’s diversity. It’s kind of like New York, but on a smaller scale and less stressful. The people are very friendly and it’s an easy city to visit.

Worst: The weather. Even when I visited the city in August I had bad weather.

Tip: Take advantage of your visit to Toronto to visit Niagara Falls.

Vancouver (Canada)

On the opposite side of Toronto, is the second city of Canada. Different from Toronto, but also unique.

The best: It is a small city. You can visit it in a couple of days without major complications.

The worst: The weather. It rains a lot, so be prepared to bring an umbrella.

Tip: Vancouver is surrounded by nature. Escape one of the days to visit Lynn Canyon. You will love it.

Seattle (United States)

On the other side of the border and next to Vancouver is Seattle, in the United States. In terms of safety, it seems to me one of the safest destinations for women traveling solo in the country.

The best thing: The atmosphere of the city. Being smaller in size, it’s like being in a big town.

Worst: The weather. Like neighboring Vancouver, it rains a lot.

Tip: You must visit the first Starbucks establishment. In a previous post I wrote where it is located.

San Francisco (United States)

It is one of the largest cities in the United States and the one I know best. For a while I lived near San Francisco and maybe that’s why I have a good memory of this great city.

The best: Being one of the most “European” cities, it is more compact and easier to navigate. It has a unique character, with different buildings and facades.

The worst: It is a dirty city and has a microclimate a little weird…

Tip: You should cross the Golden Gate Bridge from one end or the other to see the city from a different point of view.

Chicago (United States)

Chicago is my favorite city for solo adventures in the United States. For many reasons, but mostly because despite being a big city, it is not stressful like New York. Although it is not the safest destination, I had to include it in this list of destinations for women traveling alone.

The best: Its long avenues, green spaces and museums. It is a very photogenic city.

The worst: Its weather. And the lack of security outside the center. If you go, always stay in the downtown area. The problem is due to gang activity in the ghettos, but downtown is safe, quiet.

Tip: If you are looking for something more spicy, you could be interested in visiting one of the most famous sex museums.

New York (United States)

New York is a city I know quite well. It is not my favorite city, but it is a place you must visit once in your life.

The best: It is a city where there is everything. It is the most cosmopolitan place in the world and there is something for everyone. It is the city that never sleeps. A continuous frenzy.

The worst: It is a dirty city, very stressful and expensive.

Tip: I have this post dedicated to 20 of the best places to visit in New York.

Guanajuato (Mexico)

Guanajuato was the first Mexican city I visited in my life and I fell in love with it from the first steps I took.

The best: It is a colorful, cultural, friendly and very easy to walk around. It is also one of the safest and quietest cities in Mexico.

The worst: I really have nothing to say about Guanajuato because I liked everything.

Tip: Get lost in its streets and, at night, enjoy the estudiantinas (music similar to that of the tunos in Spain).

San Miguel De Allende (Mexico)

Neighbor of Guanajuato, it is a small historic city and also very quiet. It is heavily inhabited by Americans and being small can be a good choice as a destination for women traveling alone.

The best: It is a small city with charm and character. It is the cradle of Mexico’s independence from Spain, so it has a lot of history.

The worst: Perhaps its size, it is a small city and can be seen easily in one day. For this reason, I recommend visiting it together with Guanajuato.

Tip: Have churros with chocolate for breakfast at the cafeteria San Agustin. You will love it.

Cancun (Mexico)

I conclude my American section of destinations for solo female travelers with Cancun. If you like to be relaxed in your travels and enjoy the beach, this is your destination.

The best: It is a well-known destination, with a mild climate all year round and very affordable prices. It is surrounded by impressive Mayan archaeological sites.

The worst: For the reasons mentioned above, it is a very crowded area.

Tip: Take advantage of your visit to Cancun to spend the day at Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Explore the hidden gems of Grutas de Tolantongo

Kathmandu (Nepal)

I start the Asian tour of this list of destinations for women traveling alone with Kathmandu. The reason is none other than that I visited it by surprise and I arrived in the Nepalese capital very upset after visiting India. There are many hikes around Kathmandu, and it was a balm for me – I felt safe from the very first moment. There are many women backpackers traveling on their own in Nepal.

The best: It is a very economical destination and ideal for mountain and nature lovers. The people are very welcoming and friendly.

The worst: It is still a developing Asian city and is a bit chaotic.

Tip: Let yourself go and explore the city on foot. Get lost in its streets and savor its exquisite food. Nepal, in general, is a country you will love.

Read also: Panagbenga Festival

Tokyo (Japan)

Japan was the first Asian country I visited solo in my life (except Turkey, but it is more European). Although it was a trip I made with friends, Tokyo is a destination that you can visit on your own.

The best: It is one of the safest cities I have ever visited in my life. It is incredibly clean and the people are very friendly. Although it is not the cheapest destination, the prices are affordable.

The worst: Tokyo’s train system. It is an incredible mess because there are three companies operating the lines and they are not interpenetrated.

Tip: Get a PASMO pass exclusively for tourists to save on transportation. And here is a guide to the most unusual places in Japan.

Hong Kong (China)

One of the great surprises of my adventure around the world and that’s why I decided to add to the best destinations for solo traveling women alone list. Hong Kong is a kind of Asian New York, cosmopolitan and never sleeps.

The best: It’s an incredibly easy city to get around. It has sensational and very cheap public transportation, which compensates for the higher prices of food and accommodation.

The worst: Like New York it is a city with frenetic activity that never stops. Sometimes it can get a little tiring.

Tip: Climb Victoria’s Peak at sunset to see the city skyline from there. It is worth it.

Singapore

The most expensive city-state in Asia. That’s how I would define this destination, but it was still a place I enjoyed a lot. Here you will find the best places to visit in Singapore.

The best: It is one of the safest cities in the world. Ultra modern, cosmopolitan and diverse. It has many cultural and religious attractions as I shared in a previous post.

The worst: Its exorbitant prices. There are cheaper places, but you will have to look hard and carefully. Without realizing it, I spent $50 on a plate of chicken and fries.

Tip: Go to Marina Bay Sands at sunset to see the skyline light up and watch the sound and light show afterwards.

Yogyakarta (Indonesia)

This city is a bit under the tourist destination radar at the moment, and I want you to get to know it before it is exploited. That’s why I include it in this list of destinations for solo female travelers. It was one of my biggest surprises.

The best: The friendliness of the people. In my life I had never met so many people willing to help, without wanting anything in return. It made me think about Islam and the image projected of Muslims. It is also the cheapest place I visited in Asia.

The worst: You are in a developing city in Asia, so get used to the chaos.

Tip: Go one day to the Borobudur temple and do it at sunrise, although it is more expensive it is worth it.

Sidney (Australia)

We enter the final stretch of this list of 30 destinations for women traveling solo and we do it with the most distant continent for me, Oceania. Sydney is one of the most famous cities in the world and it had to be on this list. Check if Sidney is one of the best Australian cities to live in.

The best: Despite being a big city, it has a village-like character due to how laid back Australians are. It is an easy city to get around both on foot and by public transport. You can see the main sights in two days.

The worst: It’s too far away and a bit expensive. It doesn’t have the same diversity as New York or Toronto in my opinion.

Tip: Take a day to get out of the city and visit the Blue Mountains, a natural park located two hours from the city.

Queenstown (New Zealand)

I conclude my list of best destinations for solo female travelers with New Zealand. I put a city because actually so far I have talked about specific destinations, but any place in New Zealand is fascinating.

The best: its incredible landscapes, its people and how easy it is to get around the country. This, with Canada, is the place where I have felt the safest traveling, to the point where I would go alone to take pictures at night in hidden places.

The worst: To say the least, it is a little bit more expensive than the ones mentioned above.

Tip: Rent a car and drive around the South Island at your own pace. In a previous post I talked about the best places to visit in New Zealand.

These are the 30 destinations for women traveling alone that I recommend if it is the first time you dare to travel a new country alone. Now I’m going to try to solve the doubts that surely cross your mind before traveling alone for the first time.

I hope all this information has helped you when deciding to travel alone in safe countries. You will love the experience!