Best solo travel destinations for women

20 best solo travel destinations for women

Selecting the right destination is one of the most important decisions for a successful solo trip.

Safety is subjective, but certain destinations consistently rank high on the Global Peace Index and have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to women travelling alone.

Look for places with reliable public transport, strong tourism infrastructure and positive reviews from other solo female travellers. Countries with lower crime rates and a culture of hospitality can make a significant difference, especially for first-time solo travellers.

1. Iceland

Iceland is ideal for women seeking dramatic landscapes (think waterfalls, glaciers and volcanic plains) with minimal concern about crime. Widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, Iceland has extremely low crime rates, progressive values and a strong community spirit. Its small population and well-developed tourism infrastructure make it easy to navigate independently.

More: Consider travel insurance for Europe

2. Japan

Japan combines ultra-low crime rates with a culture that values respect, privacy and politeness. Public transport is famously efficient and clean, making it easy to explore everything from bustling Tokyo to tranquil Kyoto to the exciting Osaka. Solo dining is common, and locals are often happy to help if you're lost.

More: Consider travel insurance for Japan

3. New Zealand

Known for its natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle, New Zealand is a haven for hikers, road trippers and adventure seekers. The country's small size and friendly locals make it easy to navigate, whether you're joining a guided hike around the Milford Sound or exploring the cultural activities and restaurants in Wellington. Safety is high and cultural attitudes toward women are progressive.

More: Consider travel insurance for New Zealand

4. Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its pristine landscapes, punctual trains and low crime rates. Solo women can feel secure exploring alpine villages, scenic lakes and vibrant cities like Zurich and Geneva. The country is also a dream for hikers, with well-marked trails and a culture of outdoor safety.

5. Norway

Norway combines breathtaking fjords with a strong commitment to gender equality and safety. Oslo is modern and walkable, while the country's train and ferry routes give you access to remote, scenic destinations. The long summer days and Northern Lights in winter make it a year-round destination.

6. Canada

A vast and diverse country, Canada is a great option for those seeking adventure without language barriers. From cosmopolitan cities like Vancouver and Montreal to natural wonders like Banff and Jasper, it's well suited for women travelling solo. High safety standards, friendly locals and a welcoming attitude to visitors make travel stress-free.

7. Denmark

Denmark's capital, Copenhagen, is regularly named one of the world's most liveable cities thanks to its safe streets and a strong cycling culture. The country's small size makes it easy to explore charming towns and scenic coastlines. Danish society values equality, making it particularly comfortable for solo women.

8. Finland

Ranked as one of the happiest and safest countries in the world, Finland offers beautiful forests, lakes and snowscapes with a relaxed pace of life. Helsinki is clean and easy to navigate, while Lapland's winter wonderland is perfect for seeing the Northern Lights. Locals are friendly but respectful of privacy and personal space.

9. Singapore

Singapore is one of Asia's safest and most efficient destinations, with extremely low crime rates and a spotless environment. Its public transport system is world-class, making it simple to navigate the city-state's diverse neighbourhoods and attractions. English is widely spoken, and the city's multicultural dining and shopping scene means there's always something exciting to explore solo.

10. Austria

Austria combines rich cultural heritage with exceptional safety and transport systems. Vienna's palaces, Salzburg's musical legacy, and the Tyrolean Alps are all within easy reach by train. The country's strong infrastructure means even rural areas are easy to navigate on your own.

11. Ireland

Ireland is beloved for its warm hospitality and storytelling culture. From Dublin's literary history to the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way, solo travellers can enjoy both urban charm and natural splendour. Locals are famously welcoming, and English-speaking visitors will find communication effortless.

12. Netherlands

The Netherlands is compact, well-connected and easy to explore by bike or train. Amsterdam offers world-class museums and canals, while smaller towns like Utrecht and Haarlem provide a more relaxed vibe. The country's progressive values make it an inclusive and safe choice for women.

13. Germany

Germany combines safety with efficiency. Its cities are well connected by reliable public transport, and travellers benefit from clear signage, strong infrastructure and a generally high standard of living. Solo travel is widely normalised across Germany.

14. Portugal

Portugal offers a warm, relaxed atmosphere in both its vibrant cities and coastal towns. Lisbon and Porto are filled with history, tiled streets, and lively café culture, while the Algarve boasts some of Europe's best beaches. It's an easy country to get around by train or bus, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

15. South Korea

South Korea has become a popular destination thanks to K-pop, K-dramas and an enticing mix of tradition and modernity. Seoul is fast-paced and full of energy, but it's also remarkably safe, with excellent public transport and a late-night dining culture that makes exploring easy. Solo women will also find comfort in South Korea's vibrant café scene and welcoming locals, many of whom are keen to practice English.

16. Taiwan

Taiwan is often overlooked but consistently ranks highly for safety. It offers efficient transport, welcoming locals and a strong culture of respect, making it easy to explore independently.

17. Spain

Spain is generally safe for travellers, with lively cities, strong tourism infrastructure and a culture that embraces socialising. While petty theft can occur in busy areas, overall safety levels remain high.

18. Belgium

Belgium is compact, easy to navigate and well connected by rail. Cities like Brussels, Bruges and Ghent offer a mix of culture and convenience, with a generally safe environment for solo travellers.

19. Slovenia

A small but stunning gem in Central Europe, Slovenia offers fairytale towns, pristine lakes, alpine scenery and a calm, safe environment. It's a fantastic choice for women looking to escape the crowds and embrace the outdoors. Ljubljana is walkable and filled with riverside cafés, while Lake Bled and the Julian Alps are perfect for outdoor adventures. Low crime rates and friendly locals make it ideal for solo exploration.

20. Estonia

Estonia is a clean, digitally advanced country with low crime rates and strong safety standards. Tallinn's historic old town is particularly walkable and interesting. The country is known for being clean, organised and traveller-friendly.

Why group tours are great for solo female travel

In countries where language barriers, cultural differences or safety concerns may be more pronounced, joining a group tour can provide an added layer of safety. Travelling with a guide and a structured itinerary reduces uncertainty and can help you navigate unfamiliar environments with greater confidence.

Group tours also create opportunities to meet like-minded travellers, which can enhance both safety and enjoyment. Many operators cater specifically to solo travellers, and some offer women-only tours, providing a more comfortable and supportive environment.

Some operators also offer 'no single supplement' deals, particularly for cruising, so you can book a private room or cabin without paying the typical penalty fee for not having double-occupancy.

Many solo travellers adopt a hybrid approach: exploring some destinations on their own while booking guided tours for specific areas or activities that feel less accessible or safe solo.

How to choose the right tour operator

When selecting a group tour, research is key. Look for reputable operators with strong safety protocols, experienced guides and positive reviews. Make sure the itinerary aligns with your comfort level, travel style and expectations.

Consider the following:

• group size - smaller groups often offer more personalised experiences.
• activity level - some tours are relaxed and cultural, while others may involve hiking, cycling or other physical activities.
• accommodation style - would you prefer boutique hotels, shared rooms, or luxury retreats?
• pace and itinerary - some travellers prefer slow, immersive travel, while others enjoy ticking off multiple cities in one trip.

Look for detailed reviews and speak to the tour operator about your concerns or preferences before booking.

Best tours for solo women

Female-only tours

Numerous travel companies now specialise in women-only tours, offering everything from luxury escapes to adventure treks.

For example, Intrepid Travel runs inspiring Women's Expeditions to Morocco, Cambodia, India, Nepal, Peru, Türkiye, Bhutan, and Saudi Arabia.

"Our Women's Expeditions are all-female trips led by local women, offering unique access to communities and experiences not usually available on mixed tours," explains Intrepid Travel ANZ General Manager Yvette Thompson.

Another inspiring choice is Bench Africa's Explore Kenya Ladies-Only Safari Tour, featuring an immersive wildlife and culture safari with an English-speaking female guide.

Mixed-gender tour groups

Solo women can also join a mixed-gender tour group, with trips offered to all corners of the world.

"Intrepid Travel's most popular trips for solo female travellers are Premium Japan, Central Asia: Five Stans, Vietnam Express Southbound, (and) Morocco Uncovered," Thompson says.

Australian tours

Before jetting off overseas, many solo female travellers find it worthwhile to explore Australia. Travelling domestically can be a useful way to build confidence before tackling long-haul solo adventures.

Australian rail journeys are a great way to discover new parts of the country, such as The Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin), the Indian Pacific (Sydney to Perth), the Overland (Melbourne to Adelaide) and the Great Southern Railway (Brisbane to Adelaide).

Australian operators also offer women-only tours across the country. These range from wellness retreats in Byron Bay to adventure tours in Tasmania and guided walks along the Great Ocean Road.

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