8 of the Best Places for Female Solo Travel

Thousands of women are exploring the world on their own. However, it can be intimidating to take your first (or even your second) solo trip. Many women worry about safety and whether they’ll be able to enjoy traveling alone without constantly having to look over their shoulder. Some countries are not the best places for female solo travel because of crime. This is why you must consider the destination you choose when traveling solo as a female.

Thankfully, there are many places you can explore safely as a female solo traveler. The two most important tools you can take anywhere are your common sense and intuition. Preparing ahead of time will help too – you should always research your destination to ensure nothing has changed. Here are five of the best places for female solo travel. 

The Best Places for Female Solo Travel

1. Greece

Greece is a captivating blend of history, culture and scenic views. Begin in Athens, the doorway to Greece, where you can explore ancient sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon. For a more relaxed escapade, head to the picturesque islands of Santorini, Crete, Rhodes or Mykonos.

Legend has it that Delphi was the center of the earth in Greek mythology. Explore how Zeus determined this as you navigate the oracle shrine as well as the ruins of Apollo’s sanctuary.

A culture of hospitality combined with the country’s safety record creates an ideal environment for exploring. Enjoy the Mediterranean cuisine, soak up the sun on beautiful beaches and experience the warmth of Grecian culture.

2. Spain

In 2023, the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security (GIWPS) created a travel index called the Women, Peace and Security Index (WPSI). It ranked global countries for female safety based on research and comparison studies, among other sources. Spain is among the top 10 safest places for women to travel alone.

This beautiful country is filled with bustling cities and gorgeous countryside. In Spain, you can visit museums, tour castles or head to a local festival. Spain has a Mediterranean climate with lots of sun and beautiful weather. The food is incredible and the people very friendly. Even though the crime rate is lower than in other European countries, you do need to protect yourself from pickpockets and scams. Clothes with hidden pockets, portable lock boxes and an anti-theft backpack are travel essentials you can use to protect your valuables.

3. Iceland

Iceland is another fantastic place for female solo travel. The landscape is incredible, with rainbows, waterfalls and quaint churches in every direction. Iceland is considered one of the safest places in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Crime is low, and many people travel there alone. 

Unfortunately, staying in Iceland can be expensive. If you want to be frugal, you can rent a car and camp along your route. Iceland is easy to navigate, especially if you take the ring road around the country’s south. However, you want to watch out for nasty weather starting in the late fall.

4. Germany 

Solo traveling in Germany is also wonderful. This country has incredible cities like Berlin, where you can immerse yourself in the rich culture. You can also travel to the Bavarian Alps to view gorgeous castles and snow-capped mountains. Germany is considered very safe for female travelers. 

Of course, you still need to use common sense when visiting Germany. There are plenty of pickpockets and you shouldn’t walk alone at night, especially in a major city. However, this country is beautiful, full of friendly people and a great place to gain confidence as a female solo traveler.

5. Australia

The land down under is one of the best places for female solo travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. The cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Melbourne are safe, modern and brimming with opportunities to meet fellow travelers. If you’re after adventure, the Great Barrier Reef, the Outback and Tasmania offer unparalleled experiences. Whether hiking through the Blue Mountains, sipping a mocktail on Bondi Beach or indulging in the performing arts at the Sydney Opera House, there’s something for everyone. See how many of the 12,000 beaches you can visit while here.

Australians are known for their laid-back lifestyle and friendly demeanor. It’s easy to connect with locals. The country also boasts a strong emphasis on safety and equality, making it a welcoming place for women travelers.

6. New Zealand

New Zealand is another of the safest places in the world for female solo travelers. There are no snakes on the island and crime is low. This country is stunning and full of friendly people. Although it can be expensive to travel here, you can make thrifty choices and avoid the hefty price tag (after you pay for plane tickets).

This country is the perfect place for solo hikes. You can meet friends along the way or choose to stay to yourself. If you go hiking alone, it’s a good idea to invest in a safety beacon that will work even where there’s no Wi-Fi. That way, authorities can find you in the event of an accident.

7. Japan

If you’d like to travel to Asia, consider visiting Japan. Apart from typical concerns like pickpockets and spiked drinks, this country is considered very safe and one of the best places for female solo travelers. If you want to meet other people as you travel, it’s best to stick to some major cities. However, there’s plenty to enjoy here entirely on your own as well. 

The food in Japan is excellent. This country is full of contradictory experiences – for example, you can slowly soak in ancient temples or ride on a super-fast bullet train. The countryside in Japan is gorgeous and there are many beautiful destinations to visit. If you haven’t considered visiting Japan before, you should definitely put it on your bucket list.

8. Guatemala

Guatemala is a beautiful Central American nation that allows you to discover your inner explorer. Here, you can connect with nature, learn about fascinating human history, and mingle with diverse cultures.

Go back in time at the historic city of Antigua, with its well-preserved colonial architecture. Venture to Lake Atitlan — a stunning body of water surrounded by traditional Mayan villages and impressive volcanic peaks — or visit the ancient ruins of Tikal or Yaxha in the rainforest.

The vibrant markets and cultural festivities offer a deep dive into local life. Local customs make the people incredibly friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere is safe and relaxed, and female solo tourists can walk and shop freely. However, some areas may be unsafe for exploration, so check the travel advisory for recommended destinations and follow the tips therein.

Travel With Confidence

You can 100% travel alone safely as a woman. However, choosing a safe destination can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable. No matter where you go, make sure you take your common sense and listen to your intuition. If something makes you feel uncomfortable, say no and get out of the situation quickly. 

When you travel solo, it’s always important to let friends and family know where and when you’re going. You should have a backup plan for communication, finances and navigation in case something goes wrong. Do your best to blend in and have a fabulous time on your female solo adventure at these best places for female solo travel.