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JourneyWoman Reveals the Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024

by JourneyWoman Staff | Jan 2, 2024

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Last updated on March 1st, 2024

Featured image: Northland, New Zealand , one of 30 less-travelled places recommended by women, for women in 2024 | Photo by Rosemary Neave.

30 first-hand recommendations from female travel experts

In celebration of its 30th anniversary as the world’s first solo travel website for women, JourneyWoman has revealed its “30 Less-Travelled Places for Women in 2024” List. The list was developed with female travel writers and travel experts to focus on off-season travel, sustainability, accessibility and personal safety. For each destination, there are suggestions on ways to are ways to extend travel into a longer stay of weeks or months, and recommendations for women to support women-owned businesses from JourneyWoman’s Women’s Travel Directory , including small group tours, retreats, safe places to stay and small ship experiences. Some of the Directory partners included in the list are Trafalgar Tours , Insight Vacations , G Adventures , Swan Hellenic, Intrepid Travel, Adventures in Good Company, and Wild Women Expeditions .

“In 2024, we want to inspire women to rediscover travel as an adventure,”says Carolyn Ray, Editor and CEO, JourneyWoman. “We hope our list of unique and meaningful places inspires women to think differently not just about where we travel but also how we travel, with a sense of purpose and intention. In the midst of so much conflict and uncertainty, travel offers us the opportunity to learn, expand our understanding of humanity, and to connect with cultures and communities vastly different than our own. Above all, we hope women travel to embrace self-discovery and the wisdom that comes with stepping into the unknown.”

30 Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024

In keeping with JourneyWoman’s ethos of sharing first-hand experiences, the 30 Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024 are recommended by JourneyWoman’s editorial team, female travel writers and experts who have actually travelled to these places. In addition to JourneyWoman Editor Carolyn Ray, contributors include Norie Quintos, Tonya Fitzpatrick, Mariellen Ward, Sandra Phinney , Diana Eden, Karen Gershowitz , Shawna McKinley Robins, Sandra Phillips , Nora Livingstone, Rosemary Neave , Tanzila Khan , Dawn Booker, ​ Rupi Mangat , Leyla Alyanak , Jules Torti, Nancy Drolet, Kathy Buckworth, Christine Winebrenner Irick, Franny Bergschneider and Rue Mapp. Many of the photographs of these destinations are original, taken by these talented travel professionals. 

The 30 Best Places for Women’s Solo Travel in 2024 include North America: Four Canadian destinations made the list, including the Arctic*, Banff, Alberta; Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Abitibi-Temiscaming, Quebec/Ontario. In the US, there are three destinations, including: Cedar City, Utah; Finger Lakes, New York, Maui, Hawaii and Mexico, Oaxaca.  Five destinations in Asia/Oceania  include: Hiroshima, Japan; Kerala, South India;  Bora Bora, Tahiti; Perth, Western Australia and Northland, New Zealand.  In Africa and the Middle East , eight destinations are included: Istanbul, Turkiye; Cairo, Egypt; Petra, Jordan; Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda; Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE); Cape Town, South Africa and Zanzibar, Tanzania. Caribbean destinations include: Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Martinique (French Overseas Territory) South American destinations include the Ecuadorian Andes and Medellin, Colombia. European destinations include: Haugesund, Norway; the Basque Region, France; Splitska, Brac, Croatia; Malaga, Spain; Edinburgh, Scotland; and the Arctic*. Last but not least, our 30th destination is an invitation for women to travel in their own backyard.

(Please note, the Arctic includes: the United States (Alaska), Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark (Greenland), and Iceland.)

Women over 50 in travel

Women are the primary travel decision makers in travel, making 80-85% of all travel decisions. Women 50+ represent over $15 trillion in purchasing power and are experiencing the largest population growth over the next 10 years, according to a recent study conducted in the US by the   Coca-Cola Group and Mass Mutual. JourneyWoman’s previous recent global study,   “The Influence and Affluence of Solo Women 50+ in Travel” , published in December 2022, showed that 70% of women over 50 felt ignored and undervalued by the travel industry, despite representing trillions in spending power. In addition, an April 2023 JourneyWoman survey, “ JourneyWoman Women 50+ 2023 Travel Outlook”   shows that women over 50 are leading the trend of off-season travel to reduce travel costs, focusing on less-travelled places and longer trips, with 81% planning to travel more than two weeks per year. The study revealed that 96% of women are the primary travel decision makers in their households, and that 51% spend more than US$3,000 a week on travel. ​

About JourneyWoman

Founded in 1994, JourneyWoman™ is the world’s first solo female travel resource and one of the most trusted women’s travel brands in the world. JourneyWoman operates the world’s largest  Women’s Travel Directory , providing women with hundreds of women-friendly tours, retreats, guides and accommodations while supporting small tourism businesses around the world. To elevate women’s voices, the award-winning Soul of Travel Podcast joined JourneyWoman in 2023. JourneyWoman also launched the travel industry’s first Women’s Speaker’s Bureau to share wisdom from women over 50 and accelerate diversity.  To learn more, visit  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Twitter , or  LinkedIn . JourneyWoman is a registered trademark of Journeywoman Enterprises Inc.

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We always strive to use real photos from our own adventures, provided by the guest writer or from our personal travels. However, in some cases, due to photo quality, we must use stock photography. If you have any questions about the photography please let us know. Disclaimer: We are so happy that you are checking out this page right now! We only recommend things that are suggested by our community, or through our own experience, that we believe will be helpful and practical for you. Some of our pages contain links, which means we’re part of an affiliate program for the product being mentioned. Should you decide to purchase a product using a link from on our site, JourneyWoman may earn a small commission from the retailer, which helps us maintain our beautiful website. JourneyWoman is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you! We want to hear what you think about this article, and we welcome any updates or changes to improve it. You can comment below, or send an email to us at [email protected] .

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The 15 Best Places To Travel for Solo Female Travelers [2024]

Senior Content Contributor

48 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 58 U.S. States Visited: 40

Keri Stooksbury

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How To Choose a Destination as a Solo Female Traveler

Best places to travel for a solo black female, best spot for sustainable solo female travel: costa rica, best caribbean island for solo female travel: st. barths, best south american destination for solo female travel: chile, safest destination in the u.s. for solo female travel: vermont, best vacation spot for solo female travel: hawaii, best spot for first-time solo female travel: canada, best cheap place to travel as a solo female: spain, best destination for solo female adventure travel: iceland, best ski destination for solo female travel: switzerland, best for foodie solo female travel: taiwan, safest country in asia for solo female travel: singapore, best destination in asia for solo female travelers to experience culture: japan, the safest country in africa for solo female travel: rwanda, best for solo female safari: botswana, best for far-flung solo female travel: new zealand, final thoughts.

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Solo travel travel has skyrocketed in recent years, and females are leading the pack. If you’ve Googled the term “solo female travel” in past years, you’re not alone. According to search engine data , search volume for the term is up 20% compared to this time last year.

If you’re a woman ready to head off on your own, there are some things to consider, starting with your destination. Picking the right destination is key because it encompasses everything important to you — safety, activities, and what type of trip you’ll have. From beachy islands to adventure spots to urban hubs, we detail where you should head on your next solo trip. We also have advice on choosing a destination and some of the safest ones around the world for a female traveling alone.

Consider the following when choosing your next solo travel destination:

Safety: This is a number one concern for many female travelers. Make sure the destination you select seems safe. Consider public transportation options and decent medical infrastructure. The CDC and the U.S. Department of State are helpful resources for general travel health and safety advisories.

Length of Trip: If you only feel comfortable spending a weekend escape alone, you probably don’t want to head to Singapore or Rome. It’s best to stick to nearby destinations if you don’t have much time or prefer not to be alone for long.

Language: Consider language barriers and how at ease you feel leaning on only yourself to translate menus, unknown words, or conversations with taxi drivers.

What You Like To Do: Just like planning any other trip, consider your likes, dislikes, and desired vacation style. If you only want to relax on the beach, a city break in Manhattan isn’t the best choice. Head to the Caribbean instead.

Experience Level: Certain destinations (like those closer to home or not too far-flung) may be a bit easier to start with if you’re not too experienced traveling alone or in general. Likewise, seasoned solo female travelers still have a lot to discover around the world.

Group Solo Travel or True Solo Travel: Female solo travelers can sign up for group tours and retreats. You’re essentially stepping out of your comfort zone and traveling somewhere alone, but when you arrive, you may travel with a group or be among others. If this sounds appealing, youthful travelers may also want to consider solo travel while staying in youth hostels, where you may be surrounded by other like-minded solo travelers.

Safest Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Most solo female travelers should consider other factors when choosing a destination beyond just safety, but if that’s your top concern, we get it. Here are some of the safest destinations to visit for solo female travelers based on statistical data from the World Population Review , the 2023/24 Women Peace Security Index , Bounce , and the Woman’s Danger Index (some of which we’ll include in our top destination picks below):

• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Vermont (ranked one of the safest U.S. states for women )

In contrast, data from the same providers suggests that solo female travelers avoid visiting the following countries, taking into account things like the safety of walking alone at night, attitudes toward violence against women, and other general safety factors. We’re not saying don’t go, but use caution and take proper safety measures if you do decide to visit these countries alone :

• Afghanistan
• South Africa

Ashley Onadele , content contributor for Upgraded Points, suggests solo female Black travelers join certain Facebook Groups, such as Nomadness Travel Tribe , that feature tips from experienced travelers to help find the right destinations. She also advises solo Black female travelers to do the following to stay safe:

“Look at public transportation (bus and metros) to the sites you want to see in the city as well as how walkable the city is. It may be best to stay in a large city and take day trips to smaller areas with a group or other people. Research hotels that are safe for solo female travelers in terms of front desk assistance, night safety, being well-lit, and located close to main roads. Knowing what to expect to pay for things can help you not get taken advantage of.” Ashley Onadele, content contributor for Upgraded Points

The 3 Best Destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America for a Solo Female Traveler

These destinations feature some of the best beaches and unique, memorable landscapes for solo female travelers to explore south of the U.S. border.

Costa Rica is known as one of the safest countries in Central America , as well as one of the most sustainable . It’s perfect for sustainable solo female travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and la pura vida (the simple life). This destination is best for solo travelers who crave female camaraderie but still want some solo time, thanks to the many surf and yoga or surf retreats scattered throughout the country’s stunning terrain. Eco-lodges and other sustainable tourism practices are popular (26% of the country is protected), so if you love to explore jungles, volcanoes, beaches, and all the biodiversity Costa Rica features, hire a reputable guide, contract a solo female travel package, or join a group.

Some of the best areas for solo female travelers are Manuel Antonio, Guanacaste, Puerto Viejo, Monteverde, and Arenal . Stay safe by always choosing official taxis (they’re always red with a yellow sign), not walking alone at night, and following other safety protocols.

This small, upmarket island is frequented by sophisticated luxury travelers, but it’s also one of the safest islands in the Caribbean for solo female travelers. St. Barths’ crime rate is below average , making it perfect for solo female travelers who don’t want to stress too much about safety protocols. Thanks to a variety of luxury resorts , there are plenty of safe and very comfortable places to stay, and you might just make a few friends during a sailing excursion or while strolling the island’s capital, Gustavia. And don’t forget to visit one of the best beach clubs on the island, Nikki Beach.

Your main safety concern is probably the possibility of a hurricane, as Hurricane Irma devastated the island in 2017. Travel outside the Atlantic hurricane season (June through November) for the best weather.

From the dunes of the Atacama Desert to the towering peaks of Torres Del Paine National Park and the glaciers of Patagonia, Chile is for walkers, hikers, surfers, and adventurers . It’s one of the safest South American countries for solo female travelers. However, culture and wine enthusiasts will also enjoy the country, thanks to the historical architecture of Valparaiso and Valle Central, Chile’s main wine region.

Solo female adventure travelers can also visit Easter Island , which is actually closer to Polynesia than Chile. Here, you can visit the famous moai statues at UNESCO World Heritage Site Rapa Nui National Park . Many of the park’s accredited guides are female , and you can contact them to arrange a guided tour.

Save money by flying to Latin America using points and miles . LATAM is Chile’s national airline, but you may also find flights on airlines like Avianca , a Star Alliance member that’s recently become a Bilt Rewards partner .

The 3 Best Destinations in North America for Solo Female Travelers

Solo female travelers who want to avoid language barriers or prefer to stay closer to home have much to do and see around North America. Solo travel within the U.S. is also growing in popularity among solo female travelers. According to search engine data , search volume for this year compared to last year is up 81% for the term “best places to travel solo female in the U.S.” Here are some of the best and safest places to travel alone in the U.S. and beyond in North America.

Vermont is one of the best destinations for solo female travelers, home to hundreds of hiking trails and plenty of idyllic scenery (especially in autumn). It’s likely an easy, long weekend trip for East Coast residents. It is especially ideal for solo female travelers over age 40 as it’s more focused on exploring nature and relaxation than nightlife and parties.

According to a 2023 study by TrustedHousesitters , Vermont has the lowest rate of violence against women, and more women feel safe there than in any other place in the country. In fact, “ women traveling alone make up more than half of all overnight stays in Vermont ,” the study showed. Once there, take in a museum (the state has the most museums per capita of any U.S. state), wander across the many 19th-century wooden bridges, or enjoy some of Vermont’s most delicious products, like cheese, maple syrup, and apples fresh from the orchard.

Solo travel doesn’t always have to be finding yourself; it can simply be about taking a relaxation vacation. Hawaii’s many islands offer so many different styles of vacation for all different types of travelers. Divers, snorkelers, and surfers can enjoy the state’s famous swells and underwater delights, while those who prefer to stay on dry land can enjoy culture, cuisine, and natural wonders or just relax on the beach and soak in the sun year-round. Plus, the island has a low crime rate and is much safer than many other tropical islands and destinations accessible from the U.S. — and you won’t need a passport .

Although Maui was devastated by a recent wildfire, most of the island is open and ready to receive visitors with open arms. Solo female travelers can aid in Maui’s recovery by visiting responsibly and supporting local businesses.

Canada is close, easily accessible from the U.S., and ranked within the top 20 of the safest countries in the world . First-time solo female travelers can delight in the excitement of leaving the country while still staying relatively close to home and experiencing the same language and similar cultural norms. Banff’s gorgeous lakes, Manitoba’s northern lights, Whistler’s ski slopes, and Montréal’s old-world charm hold significant appeal for solo female travelers. Another exciting way to experience the country is via the rails: Canada’s famous Rocky Mountaineer train.

But one of the best destinations in Canada for solo female travelers is Vancouver . The crime rate is low, locals are welcoming, and there’s so much to see and do. Admire the beautiful skyline and water views at Stanely Park , discover hidden art galleries, and hang out along the waterfront at Granville Island . Active travelers should walk through the treetops at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and hike, bike, zipline, or ski at Grouse Mountain .

The 3 Best Destinations in Europe for Solo Female Travelers

Europe is home to some of the safest countries in the world. It’s also known for its incredible history, natural wonders, cuisine, and all-around good vibes, making it the ideal continent for solo female travelers, from beginners to the most seasoned. Here’s where to go:

If you’re looking for affordable and safe places to travel alone in Europe as a woman, start with Spain. Although it’s not the most affordable country in Europe, budget solo female travelers will find plenty of affordable hostels and hotels and cheap food and drinks — a glass of wine or beer can run as low as $2.50. From Barcelona’s famous Gaudí architecture to Seville’s Andalusian charm and the glorious golden sands of endless Mediterranean beaches, solo female travelers are spoiled for choice on where to go and what to do.

Spain is also an ideal country for solo female travelers who are night owls. Many cities, towns, or neighborhoods stay active well into the evening, meaning it’s safe and enjoyable to walk around at night and see how the locals enjoy their balmy Spanish evenings.

Adventurous females who want to explore the great outdoors can do so in Iceland. You’ll probably want to visit using tours and excursions , as many of the most fascinating natural wonders are best enjoyed with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide. It’s a destination that welcomes visitors, crime rates are low, and tourist scams aren’t really a thing. Icelandic folks are simply excited to share the beauty of their country with visitors.

One of the best ways to explore the country safely is by seeing its Golden Circle. This scenic tourist route is home to cascading waterfalls, towering glaciers, geothermic geysers, and Thingvellir National Park . Here, you can actually see the erosion of the earth’s crust, which is something to add to your bucket list, along with the northern lights, visible in many areas of Iceland.

Switzerland’s powdery slopes were practically made for sole female travel. The country, in general, is extremely safe and has excellent infrastructure, which also extends to its ski towns. This way, you can blissfully enjoy the slopes, take advantage of well-maintained ski lifts, and enjoy cozy après-ski afternoons by the fire.

Switzerland has so much to offer solo female travelers in any season — charming villages, hiking trails, and picnics in rolling green valleys. But winter offers even more fun beyond skiing, as indulging in chocolate, fondue, and other alpine adventures (think luge, snowshoeing, and sledding) can help you get in touch with yourself and your inner child.

Make sure to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees and offers additional points on travel purchases — not just airfare and hotels, but also things like taxis, rideshare, and transit tickets, to maximize your points earnings. Our top picks are the   Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card , where you can earn either 3x or 2x points on travel, respectively. Neither card has a foreign transaction fee.

The 3 Best Destinations in Asia for Solo Female Travelers

Backpackers love traveling through Asia for a reason: Many Asian countries are affordable, easy, and generally safe for solo travelers. Here are some of the best ones we recommend for solo female travelers.

Taiwan’s locals are polite and respectful, so females shouldn’t have an issue traveling through most of the country. If you prefer to get out into nature, explore the Taroko National Park (on your own or by guided tour) to discover mountainside temples and the massive Taroko gorge. But Taiwan’s biggest call for solo travelers is often Taipei, a city where eating most of your meals on the street is not only socially acceptable but also the norm.

Not only does Taiwan have clean, comfortable, and efficient public transport (it actually plays delightful classical music each time the metro pulls into a station), the city has numerous night markets where it’s completely safe to spend the evening walking, talking, eating, and shopping. Don’t be turned off by the wafting odors of stinky tofu — make sure to sample xiao long bao (delicious steamed dumplings) paired with bubble tea or Taiwan beer.

Considered the safest Asian country by the World Population Review , Singapore is a tiny country with strict penalties and regulations — even chewing gum was once banned. Female travelers will feel safe wandering the clean and organized streets and enjoying street food at the many hawker centers around the city.

Solo travelers should check out neighborhoods like Little India and Chinatown and wander through the Singapore Botanic Gardens (the very first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Singapore) and Gardens by the Bay . For a bit of fun, you’ll never get lonely at Sentosa Island , which features attractions like a theme park, restaurants, a skywalk, and beaches.

Japan is an orderly, safe country for women, so expect to be able to walk around alone in most places without having to worry about issues. However, Japanese isn’t an easy language, and it may be a bit complicated to navigate certain areas and situations on your own, so just be prepared for possible language barrier obstacles.

Solo female travelers should stay at ryokans (traditional Japanese hotels) to fully immerse themselves in the culture. Spending time at onsens, or hot springs, is the Japanese answer to a spa day, perfect for getting some rest and relaxation in after a busy day touring a city like Tokyo , Kyoto, or Osaka.

The 3 Best Destinations in Africa and Oceania for Solo Female Travelers

Solo female travel to Africa and Oceania isn’t for the faint of heart or beginner solo female travelers. It’s exotic, far-flung, and may be difficult to navigate or present language and cultural barriers. But it can be incredibly rewarding. Here’s where to go.

Although it might not be the most obvious choice for a vacation, Rwanda is an excellent starter destination for solo female travelers who want to begin traveling to Africa. Long known as one of the safest countries in Africa, travelers should still take caution in certain areas and avoid the border areas with the DRC and Burundi. According to BBC , “55% of its parliament is made up of women representatives, and it ranks number one in the world for its gender equality in parliament, according to the WPS. Rwanda also ranks highly in the index’s perception of community safety and is ranked 6th in the world in the  Global Gender Gap index .”

Though it’s not cheap, gorilla trekking is one of the most unique and exciting activities to do in Rwanda. Make your home base Musanze, the country’s second-largest city and the gateway to Volcanoes National Park . Or, if you have your heart set on spotting some of the Big 5, head to Akagera National Park , Central Africa’s largest protected wetland, home to species like zebras, rhinos, elephants, lions, giraffes, and more.

Solo female travelers should consider heading to Botswana outside of peak season (off-speak season in November to May). This is when many tour operators waive solo supplements. Botswana safaris often guide travelers by boat through the Okavango Delta. Because boats are small, tour groups are limited in size. This means you may have the opportunity to make new friends but won’t be overwhelmed by joining massive tour groups.

If you want to support local women by taking a female-led safari, you can even have 1 of the 17 female guides at the tour company African Bush Camps , a company that’s launched a female guide program in hopes of having 25 female guides by 2025. Chobe Game Lodge also has a whole team of female guides known as the Chobe Angels .

If you’re ready to get far from home and off the beaten path, head to New Zealand. The country has many thrilling and exhilarating activities — Queenstown is considered the adventure capital of the world. But if you plan to participate in things like bungee jumping and caving, it’s best to get travel insurance — and make sure it covers whatever adrenaline-pumping activities you plan to do.

One of the most popular things for solo travelers in New Zealand is to rent a camper van and travel around the country at your own pace. Or, consider doing one of the country’s organized trails, Great Walks , which are hikes of varying lengths and difficulties that offer some of the best scenic routes in the country.

Travel insurance is always a good idea, especially if you plan to participate in adventurous activities. Just make sure to read the fine print because some policies exclude things such as scuba diving, for example.

When choosing a destination as a solo female traveler, there’s a lot to consider. Safety should be your first priority, as well as your travel experience, needs, and wants. Consider one of the places on this list for your next trip, where solo travelers will feel safe and enjoy seeing unique and different parts of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is thailand safe for solo female travelers.

While it’s not listed as one of the top safest countries in the world, parts of Thailand are relatively safe for solo female travelers. However, females traveling alone should carefully choose their Thai destinations and take travel safety precautions to avoid incidents.

Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?

The Netherlands is ranked as one of the top 10 safest countries in the world for women by the World Population Review. However, as with any major city, female solo travelers should exercise caution when traveling alone in Amsterdam.

Is Barcelona safe for solo female travelers?

Spain is listed as one of our top destinations for solo female travelers. It’s relatively safe, so females shouldn’t worry too much about traveling alone there. However, there are some neighborhoods of Barcelona, such as El Raval, that it may be best to avoid at night.

Where are safe places to travel alone in India?

While beginner solo female travelers may not want to choose India as their first destination to visit alone, seasoned solo female travelers might consider visiting destinations like the Taj Majal in Agra, Goa, or Rishikesh, all of which welcome tourists and may offer safe and secure travel experiences.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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12 Amazing Destinations for Women Who Are Traveling Solo

These trip ideas make traveling alone fun (and safe).

The best thing about traveling alone is that your experience is truly what you make it. Instead of factoring in budgets, interests and opinions of others, you can tailor your trip to include exactly what you want to do and you won’t have to sacrifice anything. Whether you’re hoping to find cheap places to solo travel and ideal all-inclusive vacations for one, we’ve found the best places that encourage solo travel for women . We've included spots in the United States that are really standouts, as well as international countries.

We know you may have concerns about safety, but not to worry: We have already checked in with the Institute for Economics and Peace's 2022 Global Peace Index , which vets each country to measure their "peacefulness" when it comes to society, to ensure that these destinations are high on their list. Another thing we took into consideration was what's been stated on the U.S. Department of State's travel advisories. But before you go anywhere, we encourage you to do your own research and check with a friend who has been there (or better yet, a local).

Iceland tops the Global Peace Index for the most peaceful country in the world. Even the U.S. government says that Iceland has a "a low crime rate ." With its many natural attractions, including Black Sand Beach, Blue Lagoon, ice caps, steaming geysers and more, Iceland is a natural pick for a travel destination.

As if the beaches, architecture and food were not already a major draw, Spain ranks in the top 30 on the 2022 Global Peace Index , making it one of the countries in the world that has improved peace over the last year. Solo travelers will enjoy the country's diverse terrain, offering walkable cities, vast deserts and calming countrysides. Another plus when visiting Spain is that you can easily enjoy tapas for one sitting barside or enjoy street food in a nearby park.

EXPLORE NOW

Denmark is well known for its stunning castles, vibrant towns and villages, as well as famous natural-occurring attractions. The country is also vetted as safe and secure, ranking twelfth on the World Economic Forum's 2021 Travel and Tourism Development Index .

Boasting over 1,200 islands, Croatia is the perfect destination for anyone who loves sailing or outdoor water activities. Its coastal cities also feature gorgeous cobblestone streets, adorable cafés and artisan boutiques. If that isn't enough, the country's low crime rate also makes it an amazing option for solo travel.

For a beachside vacation, Costa Rica is just the place to go. Not only does it have clear blue waters, but you can also visit a national park or conservation areas. Costa Rica is also a less expensive alternative to some European cities, but is just as easy to get around.

It's hard to beat the beauty of Ireland. Go see the Blarney Stone in Cork, have a pint in Dublin or visit a haunted castle in Offaly. The U.S. government notes that the country has a "low rate of violent crime."

Rwanda is actually one of a few countries that are in the blue zone on the U.S. government's website . Meaning, you can exercise "normal" precautions when traveling. You'll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the African country as you can plan to see incredible wildlife in their many National Parks.

Seattle, Washington

Seafood, national parks and adventurous outdoor activities are just a few things that make Seattle a great destination for solo travel. Though the city may get a bad rap for its numerous rainy days, when you do get to experience the sun, you'll have tons to do and the places around the city to dodge the rain aren't too shabby either.

Historic towns and picturesque views will make you fall in love with Austria. With a culture steeped in rich art and architecture, you will find exciting activities like skiing in the mountains or visiting notable landmarks. The U.S. government notes that the country has "one of the lowest crime rates in Europe and violent crime is rare."

You may come for the hot springs, festivals and breathtaking landscape, but you'll want to stay for the variety of places to shop and dine. Taiwan's diverse offerings make it the ideal location for solo exploration.

Washington, DC

The nation's capital is a walkable city with several options for public transportation and a wealth of culture and architecture. You can make your way to the National Mall to visit free museums and the National Monument, or plan to make a trip to one of its 600 parks. If you're looking for shopping, Georgetown offers tons of options from well known retailers to quaint boutiques.

Between the islands and mainland of Greece, you can't go wrong with choosing this country as a vacation destination. Picture-perfect scenery, archeological sites and spectacular beaches make it a place you won't want to miss.

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Home » Budget Travel » Solo Female Travel 101: How to Travel Alone as a Woman in 2024!

Solo Female Travel 101: How to Travel Alone as a Woman in 2024!

Have you always dreamed of travelling the world but never had anyone to tag along with?

Might I introduce you to the wonderful concept of SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL – the idea that you don’t need a friend, a partner, or a sarcastic Disney-esque animal sidekick to travel the world and thrive. Shocking, I know!

There are two big reasons solo travel for women still needs to be talked about:

• Women are often discouraged from things that are seen as traditionally or typically male hobbies (like travelling).
•  Solo travel is more dangerous for women.

I’ve always been that kind of a weirdo that marches her own path. Solo travel was always going to happen for me, so it surprised me when people told me I was “brave” to travel alone. I thought I was just having fun.

Well, it’s been almost nine years since my first lone stint around the globe and my crystal ball tells me there are another nine (or ninety) years of solo travel up ahead. If you’re just starting out, buckle up – here are my best tips for solo women travellers what to consider, where to go and why you’re going to have a kick-ass time.

Why You Should Travel Alone as a Woman

Is it safe to travel alone as a woman, the experience of backpacking alone as a woman, best places for solo female travel, what to pack when you’re a women travelling solo, solo travel for women – dangerously empowering.

Before we get into the substance of the how, lets firstly look at the why – what are the reasons for travelling alone ?

As a female-identifying person, you’ve probably gone your whole life hearing snide little remarks about things you shouldn’t do just because you’re a woman. So when you started planning your gap year and people reacted like you were going on a suicide mission, it’s understandable that you got a little freaked out.

Solo travelling as a woman is actually dope as hell, and it comes with many benefits that fearmongers will never mention.

Sure, us female travellers need to take some more precautions than male travellers but being the (allegedly?) fairer sex comes with its own advantages. It’s annoying that women are still viewed as the weaker sex – regular old damsels in distress. But because of this, women are viewed as trustworthy and unthreatening, and people are often more willing to offer help without even asking. It definitely makes backpacking on a budget easier!

Because backpacking alone as a woman is still somehow considered dangerous and a deviation from the norm, there are lots of wonderful online communities dedicated to giving advice and support to other women travelling solo. Girls supporting girls is dope, and I’ve often heard my male traveller friends say that they wish they had similar support groups.

To top it off: it’s almost impossible to travel alone and not feel the invigorating You-Go-Girl energy overtake your body. When you’re told that you can’t or shouldn’t do something, proving naysayers wrong comes with extra spicy bonus empowerment. It’s time to push fear aside: you should start travelling NOW.

People love to ask solo female travellers: ‘What if something happens to you?’

Well, what if you have the time of your life? What if you come back so wild and empowered that you’re inspired to book your next trip, disown traditional gender roles, pierce your nose, and lead a feminist revolution?

I promise it’s definitely going to be the latter, give or take few things.

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The number one question about solo travel is always how do you travel safely as a woman.

I find it really hard to talk about female travel safety. Balancing between precaution and fear is a tough act: I want to encourage all girls to go out there and travel but I also want to be realistic about the potential dangers of travel. I don’t want to scare you off but I also won’t lull you into a false sense of security.

I’ve heard many of my male friends say stuff like, “Bad things happen to everyone, and I’ve done a bunch of stupid stuff that has put me in danger too!” . Sure, buddy. But travel safety for women isn’t as much about what YOU do as much as it’s about what others might do to you . Travelling alone as a woman, there’s always a risk of harassment and assault.

The truth is, travelling is still more dangerous for women than it is for men. On top of having to worry about overall general travel safety (traffic safety, making your money last, not losing your passport or your mind…), women also have to worry about their physical safety. This is why many first-time solo female travellers try to pick safe places to travel alone as a woman over any other criteria.

Travelling Alone as a Woman Might Be Safer Than Staying at Home

Sure, travelling as a lone woman is not as safe. But neither is life at home.

Travelling somewhere foreign and far-away is freaking scary if you’ve never done it before. After all, stranger danger is instilled in us from a young age, and if you haven’t travelled before, your knowledge of other countries can be quite hazy and based on stereotypes and horror stories.

But what if I told you that travelling might be actually safer than staying at home? The safety ranking of countries by the Global Peace Index shows some countries in, uh, less than great light. Australia is at number 13, the UK is at number 45 and the US all the way down at 121, ranking even lower than such countries as Uganda and Honduras.

Now let’s talk about country-specific crime stats. Most crime in any given country is usually not aimed at tourists.

For example, Turkey is a harrowing place to live as a woman thanks to the lack of legislation protecting them and rampant domestic violence. But for a female tourist, Turkey is a relatively safe (and amazing) backpacking destination .

Even though common violence and disrespect against women can cultivate certain sexist attitudes towards travelling girls too, as a backpacker you’re more likely to just be welcomed warmly as a guest to the country.

Having said all that – obviously nothing fun in this life is entirely without risk (sadly), and as female travellers, you do need to pay more attention than other travellers.

How to Travel Safely as a Woman

Most of the precautions to take while travelling as a woman are the same as at home: be aware of your surroundings and don’t put yourself in stupid situations. (For example, if you’ve lost your friends, money, and phone, you’re lost AND you’re drunk, maybe don’t accept a ride from the guy in a white van. It’s a small miracle I’ve never been murdered even a little bit.)

Your two best friends on the road are street smarts and your gut. I used to think intuition was only reserved for the hyper-enlightened – all my gut ever told me was that it was craving cake. I learned quickly that gut feelings are not an urban legend but absolutely real.

Humans are equipped to pick up subtle clues when shit’s about to go down. That feeling that something is off feels different to nervousness or everyday anxiety, and when you feel it, follow it. It could literally save your life.

While asking for help is cool, don’t let it show that you don’t know what you’re doing. Were you told as a kid that lying is naughty? Forget all about it because you’re about to become the naughtiest kid on the block.

• If someone asks if you’re alone, say you’re meeting a friend.
• If a random guy asks if you have a boyfriend, you definitely do, and he’s very handsome and ripped like The Rock.
• And when you get asked if it’s your first time in the country or city in question, just tell them no, you’ve been there before.

These precautions are not only for your physical safety. Scammers and robbers usually target people who look lost or otherwise gullible but they’re more likely to leave you alone if they feel like you’re a difficult target, i.e. if someone is expecting you and/or you’re familiar with the area.

Weapons and Self-Defence

This is something I’ve seen new solo female travellers talk about a lot: what to carry to keep yourself safe. (I once saw a girl on a Facebook group ask about carrying a small gun on her while interrailing in Europe, to which I say: America, calm yo tits. )

I’ve never carried a weapon on me while travelling. The thing about weapons is that if you don’t know how to handle one, you’re more likely to hurt yourself than a possible attacker. Even that old keys-between-the-fingers trick can actually backfire and hurt YOU if you hold the keys the wrong way.

Let alone the fact that in most places, carrying a weapon is massively illegal. In many European countries, even pepper spray is classified as a weapon and illegal to carry, hard to buy, and/or requires a special licence.

Knowing some self-defence MIGHT come in handy… But if you’re inexperienced with your moves and you’re up against a bigger attacker, you’re probably still not going to come out on top. I’ve never learned any special self-defence moves, nor have I felt like I’ve needed that.

What’s your best weapon? Your phone.

Having a sufficiently charged phone with working internet (always get data in a new country!) is a life saver:

• You can call an Uber instead of walking back in the dark…
• You can keep track of where you are…
• You can even share your location with friends and family!
• You can download safety apps for your phone (and some phones also have a loud SOS alarm available).

I’ve been told that if you get attacked, the best way to get people’s attention is to yell “fire” instead of “help”. Crossing my fingers and touching all the wood to hope that I’ll never have to test how effective that is in practice!

Travel is one thing, but adventuring while broke is a whole other game. Honestly, everyone should try budget backpacking at some point. It takes you off the beaten trail and into some weird-ass sitches.

There will be odd moments with strangers, nights sleeping in funny places, and hitchhiking! (I hope – hitching is dope.)

It’s in these adventurous activities you’ll find the most reward travelling by yourself as a woman. Solo female backpackers get the best adventures.

Staying in Hostels as a Solo Female Traveller

I freaking love a good hostel – and this is coming from an introverted Finnish girl with a natural aversion to talking to people. It’s just such an awesome atmosphere and a sure-fire way to meet other awesome lost souls on the road.

Many first-time solo female backpackers have a weird distrust of sleeping with strangers ( in a dorm , gutter-mind). But let me assure you – most of the time, the hostel experience is completely safe.

Many hostels offer special female-only dorms. They tend to be a tad more expensive than a regular dorm bed but it’s a good option if you feel uncomfortable sleeping around unknown men. (Plus sometimes female dorms come with cool girly stuff like hairdryers and make-up mirrors!)

I love a good mixed dorm so there are other things I look out for when I assess how safe a hostel is.

First of all, if I can help it, I never stay anywhere that doesn’t have safety lockers. I also always carry my own padlocks when packing for the hostel : often you don’t get a padlock from the hostel but you have to buy one.

I prefer combination locks since I’m a bit of a space cadet and don’t fancy losing the keys to my lock. Trying to pick your own lock in a dark dorm in the middle of the night feels very undignified…

I also look at the reviews. Obviously, they tell you about the cleanliness and vibe of the hostel life but I make sure that there are reviews from girls in my age group too – if a 40-something male traveller calls the hostel safe, that doesn’t mean anything to me. Women stay at good hostels for women – not men.

It’s also good to make sure that the hostel is in a good area and near public transportation hubs so that getting there is quick and easy even in the middle of the night.

Hitchhiking as a Solo Female Traveller

Travelling by hitchhiking , in general, bears more risk than more normal forms of travel. You’re quite literally putting your life in the hands of strangers, and as a solo female, you’re more vulnerable to getting picked up by creeps than a solo male traveller. Even though nothing horrendous has ever happened to me, I can’t say for sure that hitchhiking is 100% safe.

Counter argument: the people who have picked me up while hitchhiking have been some of the loveliest folks I ever met. They are usually the kind of people who are willing to go out of their way to help out a poor little backpacker and who just want a little company for the ride. My adventures wouldn’t have been the same without my tales of thumbing rides.

As a solo girl, it’s often easier to get a ride. I’m viewed as non-threatening so people don’t hesitate to pick me up, and finding space for one rider is always easier than for multiple.

What can you do to stay safe, then? The number one thing is to TRUST YOUR GUT. If something feels off, it probably is. I also try not to put my backpack in the trunk of the car. Make sure you have all your valuables on you, for example in a cross-body purse or bum bag, in case you need to get the fuck outta dodge quickly.

I don’t believe in only getting in cars with women or families. They are less likely to stop for a hitchhiker – even if you’re another woman – so finding rides gets more difficult. In a lot of places where hitchhiking is a common method of transportation, like when backpacking in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus, there are also fewer female drivers.

Camping and Hiking as a Solo Female Traveller

Oh yeah, that’s another thing that raises eyebrows every time I tell someone I enjoy hiking alone as a woman. Many people seem to picture all sorts of strange threats: wild forest men breaking into your tent in the middle of the night, wild forest men jumping you on the trail, and wild forest men stalking you on the way… You get the gist.

In my experience, wild forest men are very, very rare. Depending on where you go, you either meet very few other people, or there are so many other hikers that there is safety in numbers. There aren’t many human dangers you need to worry about out in the nature. Instead, any beginner’s guide to hiking can tell you to avoid wild animals, bad weather and precarious cliffs. In a word, the same dangers that male hikers would encounter out in the boonies.

Maybe solo female hiking is considered more dangerous because people are simply not used to girls doing cool ass shit like that. Let the haters hate and smash the patriarchy one trail at a time. Brush up on your wilderness survival skills, know what to pack for hiking , and make sure you’re savvy enough to take care of yourself in the wilderness.

Otherwise, there isn’t any real reason why camping or hiking alone as a woman should be any riskier than for anyone else.

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Sex & Romance

I’m not saying that one of the best parts about backpacking is the fast-and-loose hook-up culture that prevails on the road… But love and sex on the road is almost a guarantee, even if you’re not partaking.

Unfortunately, women face lots of nasty judgement for “sleeping around” at home. This is why backpacking girls find it very liberating to let their freak flag fly without having to worry about getting a permanent reputation.

When you’re dating and having sex while travelling , you have to keep in mind all the normal precautions that you would while dating at home. On top of that, you might encounter some spicy cultural differences. Mostly these differences are fascinating and harmless – sometimes they’re downright disturbing.

In many countries, Western women might be viewed as promiscuous – local men might have only ever seen white women in movies and porn – and because of this, they experience harassment and fetishisation. Backpackers also come with an (unfair?) reputation for being down with the dirty. From Brazil to Australia, I’ve encountered men who thought it was OK to be completely inappropriate just because I was a foreigner and I must be “easy”.

And then there are babies because our bodies are just thusly inclined. If you’re planning on staying somewhere for a while, I’d encourage you to check out the abortion laws in that country.

Because what happens when all precautions fail and you’re stuck somewhere where abortion is totally illegal? Being currently stuck in Indonesia with a mortifying fear of getting pregnant, I praise my IUD every day.

Bottom line is, a smart gal always carries and uses protection.

Top Safety Tips for Traveling Alone as Woman

• Be aware of your surroundings – Ah, so simple, yet so effective… This might include boring stuff like avoiding getting too drunk when you’re around strangers and sitting with your back towards the wall at restaurants.
• TRUST YOUR GUT – That bitch knows what she’s talking about.
• Pay attention to your body language – Research shows that people who seem confident are less likely to get hassled, whether that’s harassment or robbery. Channel your inner Ronda Rousey and square your shoulders, lift your chin, and walk with purpose. If you act like no one could kick your ass, you’re more likely to be left alone.
• Find another woman – If you do get into a hairy situation, you can usually always count on getting help from another woman, whether that’s another backpacking girl or a local grandma with a purse as a weapon.
• Hide your money well – Never keep all your cash in the same stash, and through your feminine wiles, you have many nifty hiding spots to choose from. The bra works but if you don’t want any sweaty boob money, roll up some bills in an empty lipstick container. Another great hiding place is a box of tampons or inside a pad because (allegedly?) a male robber wouldn’t think to look there.
• Solo travel doesn’t have to be lonely – Hostels, Couchsurfing, volunteering, Facebook groups, and even Tinder are all great places to meet other badass travellers – solo females or otherwise.
• Learn to say no – Women are socialised to be too nice, so here’s a tip: you don’t have to be polite to strangers. You don’t owe them anything. If a taxi driver asks for your Instagram, it’s okay to lie that you don’t have one. When a group of smirking teens asks to take a photo with you, it’s okay to refuse if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Kindness is a virtue – but politeness is not a given.

And The Last Safey Tip: Get Insured!

No matter how safe you stay – shit happens. The best travel accessory you can buy is not a foldable water bottle or a funky beach sarong, it’s a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

On the road, anything can happen. Did a monkey steal your brand new iPhone? Did you sprain your back falling down the hostel stairs after one too many pints at ladies’ night? Maybe you woke up one morning realising that the pad thai you had last night liked to fight back…

I thought I didn’t need insurance when I first started travelling but my mum made me get it, and then I just forgot about it and kept paying for it.

Then, on a fateful snorkelling trip to the beautiful reefs just outside of Hoi An, Vietnam, I was swimming back to the boat when the captain decided to do a blind backflip off the edge and landed right on my neck. Yikes! My neck was sore still weeks after so I got it checked up, just in case I might be slowly dying.

Luckily, there is no dramatic plot twist unless me being a bit of a hypochondriac counts as one. The doctors didn’t find anything wrong, but insurance saved me some 2,000 bucks for that reassurance.

At The Broke Backpacker, there’s one travel insurance company we recommend every time: World Nomads. Want to know why? Then read our in-depth review of World Nomads Insurance.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Where to travel alone? Here are some safe places to travel alone as a woman and my thoughts on why “best destinations” is kind of a bad concept.

Why “The Best Solo Female Travel Destinations” is a Misleading Concept

Most lists of the places and destinations that are best for women solo travel are always framed in the context of safety. In my opinion, these destinations can vary from the best places in the world to travel alone .

Here’s the thing: I’ve travelled solo in Asia, the Middle East, South America… all the places people usually say girls shouldn’t go by themselves. And I’ve been fine. More than that: those trips have been some of my favourites.

Safety is not necessarily as much of an issue as you think – but some places are definitely more difficult to travel as a woman. In Iran, even foreign women have to follow strict rules about clothing and behaviour, including wearing a headscarf and not riding bicycles. In India, men would often straight up ignore me when I tried to talk to them. In Brazil, I couldn’t get in an Uber without being hit on.

In some countries, women are expected to stay at home rather than socialise outside. Visiting Singapore was strange because I felt completely safe, however, there were very few women on the streets and that left me feeling on edge. There is something comforting about seeing other women around, and in some countries, the street view is dominated by men.

Emphasising the dangers of a certain country for female travellers enforces stereotypes which are often untrue. There are some spots, though, which I especially recommend for the solo girl gang.

Side note: India is still the ONLY country on my personal blacklist. I travelled around India with a boyfriend, not solo, and even though I could feel feminism leaving my body every time I found myself happy to have him around, I was happy to have him around.

I’ve heard some solo girls have had wonderful experiences solo trotting India, but it is still one of the most dangerous countries for female tourists. On the other hand, solo female travel in Pakistan seems to be picking up…

Top Destinations for First-Time Solo Female Travellers

When it comes to solo female travel, there are some destinations to rule them all.

For the most freaked-out female wayfarers, you really can’t go wrong by travelling to literally the safest countries in the world.

Travelling in Scandinavia is a totally unique experience. Sweden , Norway , Denmark , Iceland , and Finland consistently rank on top of all international peace and safety indexes so they are secure picks for female adventurers travelling Europe alone. Because gender equality in these countries is better than average, female travellers experience minimum harassment.

The downsides? The high standard of living means that travellers need to dish out some serious cash money, and hostel culture isn’t as well developed as in the rest of Europe. That’s fine – you came to stretch your solo wings anyway, right?

The backpackers’ promised land is the gateway to the joys of budget travel for most budding globetrotters.

While backpacking Southeast Asia is massively overplayed at this point, it’s still the top choice for first-time backpackers for a good reason: it’s the perfect balance between adventures and comfort.

The sheer popularity of the region makes it the best possible pick for solo travellers who are new to the game and still a lil’ unsure of themselves. It’s very easy to make friends and you’ll never be alone – there’s safety in numbers.

Because the tourist trail is well set up, travelling around Southeast Asia is super duper easy while still offering adventures aplenty. (Don’t forget to venture off the beaten path too, though; check out Myanmar!)

While backpacking around South America gets a dodgy reputation, it’s a proverbial treasure chest of awesome experiences for the adventurous (and feminine) souls.

For less experienced solo female travellers, Peru and Bolivia are an excellent introduction to the nether Americas: they’re safer than Colombia or Brazil, and way cheaper than Chile and Argentina.

And just to put this marketing spiel into hyper-drive, these two countries also have the most epic, emblematic adventures South America has to offer!

The backpacker trail snaking from the Bolivian salt flats through La Paz , Cusco , and Machu Picchu is like the Southeast Asia of Southern America, meaning that you’ll meet tons of other cool-ass travellers.

First-time backpackers might be seeking a bit of comfort over crazy adventure. This is where Europe sashays onto stage. Adventuring around Europe has been one of the top gap-year experiences for literally ever.

If you’re looking for city culture, and old town romance, the Old Continent is seductively whispering your name.

Party centrals Krakow (Poland), Prague (Czech Republic) and Budapest (Hungary) are household fixtures on the European backpacker trail . You barely even have to try to make friends!

And for a single woman travelling alone, the cobblestoned streets and old buildings are a perfect backdrop for a little holiday romance (or romancing yourself, for that matter).

This one might be a bit surprising – but I felt totally safe backpacking in Iran . It’s definitely not a pick for a first-time backpacker, but for gals craving something different, Iran is absolutely awesome.

Despite strict dress codes that even foreign women can’t avoid – e.g. having to wear a headscarf and covering your ankles and elbows -, travelling in Iran felt super safe. I was welcomed with hospitality and curiosity anywhere I went. I even met tons of other solo female travellers in Iranian hostels – they outnumbered solo male travellers!

From a feminist perspective, it’s also interesting to see female lives under oppressive legislation like the one in Iran.

Feminist advocates on Instagram have been arrested and silenced, and although many young Iranians live a life much like ours – complete with booze and Tinder – they have to do that all underground.

You’ve probably heard the phrase: when packing, take double the money and leave half the stuff.

That’s the best advice about packing you’ll ever hear, but it’s something that you will only learn after you’ve made the mistake of overpacking yourself. (I should have known that walking across the Balkans with 15 kg on my back in an ill-fitting backpack would be… not fun.) Often you can get away with travelling with just one bag !

Paying attention to the weight of your backpack is especially important for solo female backpackers. Now, I’m not calling girls weak… I’m just saying that personally, I have often struggled to hoist my toddler-sized backpack on the overhead rack on trains and buses without help. And, it’s difficult to continue being a badass solo female backpacke r when you have back problems.

All backpacks are not made equal. It’s important that the weight you carry is distributed evenly, and many standard or unisex backpacks might not be a good fit for a girly frame. Most brands have a range of awesome backpacks for women . The friendly folks at your local outdoor store can also help you measure yourself and find you the perfect backpack.

What to Pack as a Solo Female Traveller

Now that you’ve stripped off most of the unnecessary things from your pack, let’s go and add some real essentials. These are some items I have wished I’d added to my backpacking packing list back when I was a newbie:

• Sustainable sanitary products – In many non-Western countries, finding period products is surprisingly difficult. Tampons? I don’t know her. But choosing reusable options now is easier than ever. On shorter trips, you can stock up, but during longer runs, a backpack full of period products just sounds like a punchline to a weird joke. I highly, highly recommend getting a period cup, and it’s reusable for years so it’s environmentally sustainable. (Get it a few months before the trip though to practice… there is a learning curve but I promise it’s worth it!)
• Beauty products – Many backpacking girls decide to go without make-up which is great. I personally don’t – and if you’re like me, you’ll want to make sure your make-up is sweat-proof! Other travel toiletries to pack are dry shampoo and skin cleaning products. In Asia, almost every facial cleanse sold in stores is marketed as “whitening”, which, uhh… let’s just have the discussion about how problematic that is some other time.
• Birth control – It sucks, but you have to think about this. But if you’re going on a longer trip, you might have trouble filling up your prescription on pills since the same brands are not available everywhere. Pick up a packet of condoms from home as well: in many places, it’s impossible to find big ones. (And a smart gal is always prepared, even if her partner isn’t!)
• Appropriate clothes – Depending on where you’re going, you might need to pack skirts or trousers that cover your ankles or shirts that cover your shoulders and cleavage. Getting a lightweight sarong is a great idea since it can be used to quickly cover up your legs when entering a temple or swung onto your shoulders and head when going into a church.
• Bikini and underwear – Mid-trip shopping is all fun and games until you go pull up XL sized bikini bottoms and get it gets stuck mid-thigh. Asian sizing is TINY, so if you’re headed to Southeast/East Asia and are anything above size 0, it’s best to do your bikini shopping at home.

Despite what some people might say, it turns out that the world, after all, isn’t a bad place. Actually, it’s pretty dope, especially for badass girls who fearlessly go against ill-informed nay-sayers and fearmongers. Growth begins at the edge of your comfort zone.

Travelling solo has literally been the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. It’s become a big part of my identity and even shaped the career I went into – anything digital just so I could keep travelling till I dropped. Sure, I had fun when I was traipsing around with a handsome English boy or touring ancient ruins with a global group of rascals I met at a hostel, but the best moments for me have always been with myself.

There is beauty in being alone and learning that it’s fine. You don’t NEED another person to travel the world; the only things you need are your own hunger to see more things and a teeny tiny bit of courage.

And when you realise that you can do that -you can just go out there and travel the world alone, that is such a fucking empowering feeling. Suddenly there isn’t anything you can’t do. The confidence boost that you get knowing that your own little hands are enough to carry you is incredible.

Once you learn that, there is nothing holding you back. That kind of power is almost scary.

When so many people tell you that you shouldn’t travel alone and then you prove them wrong – it feels like some epic superhero tale of an underdog rising up as a champion.

So pack your bags and go out there. The whole world is waiting for you, so why would you wait for anyone else?

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Elina Mattila

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16 Comments

Solo female travel is empowering, liberating, and immensely fulfilling. It’s about embracing independence, discovering oneself, and navigating the world on one’s own terms. Don’t let fears or doubts hold you back; seize the opportunity to explore solo and create unforgettable adventures.

You really had an incredible experience. I feel so scared when I travel alone, especially during dark. Women are also free to roam around the world alone but that shouldn’t be at the cost of risking their life.

I absolutely love the article on traveling alone as a woman! It’s so refreshing to see content that encourages and empowers women to explore the world on their own terms. As a seasoned solo female traveler, I can attest to the incredible growth and self-discovery that comes with embarking on solo adventures.

The tips provided are not only practical but also incredibly important. Planning, research, and awareness are key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. It’s wonderful to see suggestions for female-friendly accommodations and local insights on various destinations. These details can make a huge difference in a woman’s travel experience.

Moreover, I appreciate the emphasis on self-confidence and trust in one’s instincts. Traveling alone can be a transformative experience, and it’s fantastic to see this article encouraging women to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the world with open arms.

To all the ladies out there considering solo travel, I say go for it! It’s an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and create lifelong memories. With the right preparation and mindset, there’s no limit to where your solo adventures can take you. Thank you for sharing this valuable information and empowering women to explore the world independently!

Empowering and informative! This guide is a must-read for any adventurous woman ready to explore the world solo in 2023.”

Solo female travel empowers, defies norms. Safety matters, but bravery stems from exploration and self-discovery. Adventure awaits, embrace it.

Hi Elina, as an Iranian girl who LOVES to travel I was so shocked and extremally happy to see that you have enjoyed traveling in my country and even include it in your top destinations!!! thank you for all the helpful tips as well, I will graduate uni soon and I hope to hit the road after that 🙂 your words were very helpful, tnxx I have been waiting soooooo long for this!!!! I am so excited for this new chapter :)))

As a woman who has been sheltered by mummy and daddy my entire life. Even now I have children, and still I haven’t seen the world. I’ve always wanted to travel and see the world backpack everywhere that’s been one of my dreams since middle school earlier even I’ve always imagined myself on the road in little villages in Rome the Mediterranean in Europe in America in rural s walk-in through the forest and traveling to little vintage shops me by myself and me with my kids and/or husband/boyfriend. Meeting new faces everywhere I go, connecting on a spiritual level with other kind souls. But I’m 35 years old now and that’s never going to happen. It seems I’m doomed to live the same unhappy life my parents lived. I’m even hard on finding employment. Then again at least my girls are safe. That’s what matters the most.

One of my other dreams backpacking the entire Pacific Crest Trail with some experienced backpackers. Maybe I’m destined to be an unannounced assumed introvert, maybe not only time and space till tell.

nices its so osm

Hey Elina, I’m actually thrilled that you are encouraging girls as well as women who actually want to travel safely! It’s true as said, women are more strong and courageous. They also have the right to do what they want. Thank you for showing all the important things needed to carry & do.

Great post Elena. I hitched Europe, Australia and NZ for 2 years when I was 23 ( 36 years ago) and it was the frickin’ best adventure I’ve EVER had.

You really had an incredible experience. I feel so scared when I travel alone, especially during dark. Women are also free to roam around the world alone but that shouldn’t be at the cost of risking their life.

Traveling solo makes me nervous, but the idea of looking confident can actually scare off people is starting to grow on me. I’ve heard that before so I guess it really does work!

These Tips Are Very Useful. Learning Street Smarts Is Important when Traveling along with Remaining aware of yourself and your belongings at all times

Travelling solo as a female can be quite challenging and unpredictable. However, after reading your post, I am sure that every female traveler should read it and learn a lot from it! Excellent tips and advice!

Some useful tips there on solo female travel. I’d say it’s better not to step out when it’s dark…travel alone but not at the cost of risking your life. I have traveled alone quite a lot, and the biggest lesson I have learnt is that you need to trust your instinct. Don’t do something obviously foolish!

An excellent right up and a must read for any female traveller, thanks for putting this together!

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8 Destinations for Female Solo Travelers, According to the Pros

By Shannon McMahon

Empowering, exciting, challenging: Few things are more rewarding than solo travel—and pre-pandemic, research showed it was on the rise, especially with women. Sure, you might have to ask a complete stranger to take that photo of you walking across Tokyo 's Shibuya Crossing or standing outside of Barcelona 's Sagrada Família, but it's a small price to pay for the freedom to plan a trip exactly how you want it, when you want it. 

That said, traveling alone isn't always easy; choosing the right destination can be equal parts exhilarating and overwhelming when you (and you alone) are responsible for all the research, travel planning, and packing. And while there's lots of data-fueled consensus out there about the “safest” places for women to go alone, some of the most beloved spots for a solo getaway are places that might not cross the radar of those big-city rankings, yet boast welcoming locals, walkable old towns, and vibrant food and art scenes. To help you start planning that first post-vaccine solo trip , we tapped six experienced solo travelers for their tips. Here, the places that stood out to them the most when they saw them firsthand—totally alone—and why some of them couldn't pick just one.

This story was originally published in October 2018. It has been updated with new information.

Granada, Nicaragua

Getting off the beaten path is no problem in Central America, especially alone and as a woman. “Nicaragua is an exciting under-the-radar option to consider traveling solo [to], and in the many times I have visited, I have met several other women traveling solo throughout the country,” says Katalina Mayorga, co-founder of El Camino Travel and the Casa Violeta hotel in Granada. “Not only is it welcoming, but it has everything Costa Rica has plus more, and at a much more accessible price point. You have volcanos, expansive deserted beaches, colonial towns, rich culture, and stunning boutique hotel options galore.”  If you're looking for a place to stay like a local, Mayorga recommends embedding yourself into “towns like Granada, Popoyo, and San Juan del Sur [that] have super tight-knit communities of foreigners from around the world. They are really welcoming to travelers passing through and openly bring you into their community with open arms. I have been invited to private dinners, jam sessions, secret surf spots, and artist studios.”

Istanbul, Turkey

Celebrating your return to travel by plotting a far-flung getaway? Consider using a solo trip to cross a destination off of your bucket list, like Condé Nast Traveler contributing editor and Nomadness Travel Tribe founder Evita Robinson did in Turkey in 2019. “Turkey had lived on the top of my bucket list for years. Through photos, and stories of Nomadness Travel Tribe members who'd gone, I fell in love with images of the Blue Mosque and the fantasy-like nature of Cappadocia,” says Robinson.

“As a solo trip, a gift to myself, I traveled to both Istanbul and Cappadocia in November of 2019. Istanbul immediately sucked me in. The people, the energy, the food, the favorable conversion rate! I was hooked. I appreciated the safety I felt; I found myself outside, on my own, at a packed restaurant, enjoying pizza, my journal, and wine at 1 a.m. It reminded me of New York. I'm always soothed by the call to prayer in countries, and hearing that in Istanbul only added to the calm I felt there. I walked everywhere I could. It's the city dweller in me. The flight to Cappadocia was quick, and to finally see its playfulness and wonder in real life was breathtaking. To date, Turkey has been one of my most fulfilling and safe solo trips I've ever taken in my life. I can't wait to go back and explore more.”

Portland, Oregon

For outdoor adventure paired with big-city culture, follow rock climber and photographer Nikki Smith 's advice for staying stateside. “My favorite cities to visit have great outdoor access close to, or in town. Portland, Oregon’s Forest Park has over 80 miles of beautiful trail,” says Smith, who contributes to rock-climbing guide books and has notched first ascents in over 150 locales. “Lush ferns line the pine needle-covered trails shaded by towering western hemlock and Douglas fir trees. After a long trail run, Portland’s famous food scene allows even the most discerning eater to find a delicious après-meal. I love that I can be outdoors all day, and then throw on a dress and go to an amazing art exhibit, dinner, and drinks, all within a few-mile radius.”

Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas

Another outdoor locale that Smith recommends as a favorite place to visit solo? Las Vegas—but far from the city's Strip. “One of my favorite places to visit alone in the colder months is Las Vegas. Most people's idea of Vegas is the strip, but there is so much more,” says Smith. “Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area is host to miles of amazing hiking, biking, and running trails, as well as a world-class rock climbing destination. I usually stay in the Summerlin area as it’s closer to Red Rock and much quieter than downtown. You can find great restaurants, bars, and shopping in the area, but you are still a short drive to downtown if you want to go out for a wild night.”

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Alone time in Europe almost needs no introduction, but if you're finding it hard to choose one place, take a page from the travel book of Martinique Lewis , a diversity in travel consultant and president of  Black Travel Alliance . “I absolutely adore Amsterdam as a solo traveler. Even though you come alone, you leave with a whole community of people who welcomed you,” says Lewis who is also a member of Traveler 's advisory board . “Especially for Black travelers, there are so many different communities to tap into, like Amsterdam Black Women, which can be found on Facebook and on Instagram . They changed my trip 100-percent as I participated in their meetups. Jennifer Tosch's Black Heritage Tours also introduced me to other travelers and some ins and outs of the city. Amsterdam is super safe, and you can get anywhere with Google Maps. I highly recommend it.”

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv's beaches, food, and nightlife scenes are treasures of delight for any traveler, but Washington Post travel-advice writer Natalie Compton swears by the city for solo travel in particular. “There were about a million reasons Tel Aviv was one of my favorite places to travel solo. It's a city for people-watching, appreciating sunsets, all of the magic you're too busy to enjoy at home,” says Compton. “The food, the ocean, the markets, the climate were all obvious selling points, but the hospitality was what made me feel less like a person visiting Tel Aviv and more like someone truly experiencing it. Everywhere I went—restaurants, nightclubs, surf shops—there was someone friendly ready to embrace a lone foreigner. If you're a person who loves sitting at a bar and seeing where life takes you, Tel Aviv is for you.”

Cartagena, Colombia

If you're looking for a solo adventure abroad and speak some Spanish, Jessica Nabongo , the first Black woman to have visited every country in the world, says to consider colorful Cartagena. The cobblestoned port city tops her list of places she's visited solo (which includes dozens of locales), and without hiring a local guide. “Cartagena was an easy place to do solo, I didn't take public transit because it is small enough to walk everywhere on your own,” says Nabongo. “It felt safe, and people are so nice. I'm someone who loves to talk to local people to get recommendations and in Cartagena, in particular, people were so open to helping me.” Nabongo notes her Spanish is limited, and that visitors should feel open to practicing their language skills with the locals. 

Luang Prabang, Laos

For a further-off solo escape, Nabongo also holds Luang Prabang, Laos among her top solo adventures without a guide. “It was very easy to navigate by riding a bike, and you get there and this spirit of zen just comes over you,” Nabongo says. “My favorite thing about it was the alms giving [ceremonies], waking up at 5 a.m. when the people line the streets to give food to the monks, clad in their orange robes. It's so beautiful in so many ways, and just the way in which the community is supporting them and you can see it.”

14 Best Destinations for First-Time Solo Female Travelers

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

What makes a good destination for first-time solo female travelers? You want a destination that thrills you — but as a first-timer, you don’t want to bite off more than you can chew.

My first solo trip ever was to Buenos Aires, Argentina when I was 23 — and while I was already an experienced international traveler, I actually got robbed on my first day. I survived and had a great rest of my trip, but in retrospect, I should have eased myself in with a gentler destination.

So where would have been a better choice for a first solo trip? I created a list of 14 places. Each of these places has three major things in common:

English proficiency. You don’t have to worry about a language barrier here — even if the official language is different, enough locals are fluent in English that you’ll be able to get by.

Good travel infrastructure. Lots of accommodation options and restaurants, lots of activities and cool things to do, and it’s easy to get around on transportation.

Safety. These destinations are all very safe, particularly in the areas that tourists visit. Of course, anything can happen anywhere, and you should always take measures to stay safe.

Read More: Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Let’s take a look — the best destinations for first-time solo female travelers!

Table of Contents

Somewhere Near Where You Live

Your first solo trip doesn’t have to be a long, complicated, fly-in adventure! If you’re completely new to solo travel, and especially if you haven’t traveled much, I recommend starting small.

Go visit a destination within a few hours of your home, and stay one or two nights. That’s it. Keep the stakes low.

This is good because it gets you used to the rhythms of solo travel in an environment that feels familiar. “Oh — so this is what it’s like to eat alone.” “Oh, wow — I only needed 45 minutes at that museum, not two hours!”

As someone from the Boston area, I really loved visiting the Berkshires solo for a few days.

Are you in the Chicago area? How about Milwaukee? I was surprised how much I enjoyed this city!

Are you around South Jersey, Pennsylvania, or DC? I really loved Maryland’s Eastern Shore . A really beautiful place that I knew nothing about before going.

And in New York, you can’t beat my little town of Hudson or the North Fork of Long Island .

Speaking honestly: if you start with a big, complicated solo trip, it might dissuade you from ever going. Especially now, when international travel is hairy. Instead, get your feet wet with a nearby trip.

Now that we’ve gone over that, let’s move on to the destinations!

Iceland might be one of the best first-time solo female travel destinations on the planet. It’s easy to reach, with nonstop flights from several US cities; it’s incredibly safe, like leave-your-purse-on-a-park-bench-and-no-one-will-touch-it safe; everyone speaks English; and there are so many unique landscapes and organized day tours.

You can base yourself in tiny-but-funky Reykjavik and take a variety of day trips, or do a road trip around the country on the Ring Road. I love Iceland’s South Coast for the variety of landscapes: giant waterfalls, black sand beaches, the glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón.

Signature Experiences: Snorkel the neon, ice-cold waters of Silfra , go horseback riding with Iceland’s shaggy horses, see the Northern Lights if you time your trip right, go glacier walking and ice climbing, visit the Blue Lagoon for a soak before your flight home.

Caveat: A lot of people plan Iceland trips around seeing the Northern Lights, but even if you time your trip right (in the winter or during the spring or fall equinoxes), you might not get to see them. Know that this is a gamble going in, and plan lots of other fun stuff.

Join a tour: If you’d like to visit Iceland with a tour group, G Adventures has a 7-day Iceland trip that circles the island. You can see all of their Iceland tours here .

READ MORE: Why Iceland is Great for First Time Solo Female Travelers

If you dream of rainforests and beaches, ziplining and volcano-climbing, toucans and sloths, allow me to introduce you to the nature-filled gem of Central America. Whether you want to hike, bike, and raft or simply laze on a gorgeous beach during the winter months, Costa Rica is a solid choice.

A lot of people think that Central America is unsafe for women traveling alone. I’ve traveled Central America extensively solo and I disagree — with the right research and preparation, Central America can be traveled very safely.

And Costa Rica is the easiest Central American country to navigate as a newbie solo traveler. It’s phenomenally safe and has very strong travel infrastructure, each town exploding with different tours and activities you can try. And Ticos (Costa Ricans) are amazing people!

Signature Experiences: Learn to surf on the Pacific coast, go zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, watch sea turtles on the beach at night, hike to hot springs on an active volcano, go wildlife-watching in Corcovado National Park.

Caveat: Some Costa Rica travelers end up isolated from the public on their trips. To avoid this, I recommend avoiding big resorts and instead staying in small guesthouses or hotels within walking distance of a bustling area.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Costa Rica with a tour group, G Adventures has a nine-day Costa Rica trip that goes to some of my favorite spots, like Monteverde. You can see all of their Costa Rica tours here .

READ MORE: Solo Female Travel in Costa Rica: The Guide

Asheville, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a small city that will put a smile on your face, allow me to recommend the wonderful town of Asheville, North Carolina! This small city nestled into the Blue Ridge Mountains is home to an art scene, a beer scene, and tons of awesome shops and restaurants.

But if you’re looking to meet good people on your trip, Asheville is my top recommendation in the US. I still can’t get over how NICE and GENUINE everyone was — especially since so many Ashevillians grew up elsewhere. As a native New Englander, I’m not a big fan of overly sweet southern manners, but Asheville is “Mountain South.”

Asheville is the perfect size for a long weekend getaway — and don’t be surprised if you start wondering if you could live here.

Signature Experiences: Visit the over-the-top Biltmore Estate, go on a local farm-to-table food tour, go tubing down the French Broad River on a hot day, visit the galleries in the River Arts District and get to know the affable artists, go on a “blind date with a book” at Malaprop’s Bookstore.

Caveat: Asheville is easy to see on foot and by Uber, with one big exception: the Biltmore Estate, which is best done with your own car. You might end up paying for a rental car that you only use one day.

READ MORE: 14 Reasons to Fall in Love with Asheville, North Carolina

If you are dreaming of spectacular islands in the Mediterranean, let me point you toward the Adriatic instead. Croatia is one of the countries I know best (I even won Croatia’s top travel writing award in 2021!), and it never fails to stun me with its sheer beauty.

Many people think that Croatia is Eastern Europe, and is thus unsafe or difficult to travel. None of that is true ( and calling Croatia “Eastern Europe” is a good way to get punched ). I think Croatia is fantastic for solo female travelers because everyone speaks English, there’s tons of travel infrastructure, and the roads are in excellent condition, making it a perfect road trip.

Not only that — island-hopping in Croatia is cheaper than the most popular Greek islands or the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and Croatians are more Central European in personality than Mediterranean, meaning that things are organized and get done on time.

Signature Experience: Walk the city walls of Dubrovnik , hike through the waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes, take a boat trip around Vis to the Blue Cave, go on a bike tour to wineries in Korčula , marvel at the incredible sunsets of Rovinj or Zadar .

Caveat: Once you get onto the smaller islands, it tends to be the same food over and over. Good food, and primarily seafood, but it gets old quickly. Get your fill of different cuisines in Zagreb , Split and Dubrovnik!

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Croatia with a tour group, G Adventures has an eight-day Croatia sailing trip that visits several islands. You can see all of their Croatia tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Croatia: The Guide

If travel is about the people you meet, Ireland is the best destination in the world. Irish people are the highlight of their country: outstandingly friendly and welcoming, always eager to tell a story, with lilting accents that sound like music. Oh, and they won’t hesitate to take the piss out of you, which is how you know they like you.

Beyond that, Ireland is home to stunning natural landscapes, interesting small cities, and fascinating ruins. It’s an excellent destination for a road trip — albeit one driving on the left side of the road — and some of the most memorable moments are in little towns you discover on a whim.

Many Americans visit Ireland to explore their Irish ancestry, and it can feel like “coming home” in lots of ways. But even if you don’t have a drop of Irish blood, you’ll instantly feel welcome.

Signature Experiences: Visit the remote island of Skellig Michael , find your favorite picture-perfect town in the Ring of Kerry, have a night out to remember in pub-drenched Galway, explore the geological wonder of Giant’s Causeway, listen to “trad” music in local pubs.

Caveat: In Ireland and throughout the British Isles, it’s common to “shout” beers — one person buys a round of beers for the whole group, and then the next person buys the next round. I recommend opting out of this because it can get you very drunk, very fast, with people who can hold their liquor better than you. Just say you’re only having one drink tonight, and nurse it.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Ireland with a tour group, G Adventures has a nine-day Ireland trip that includes both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. You can see all of their Ireland tours here .

Read More: Visiting Skellig Michael, Ireland’s Most Stunning Destination

Ah, Amsterdam — the land of canals and bridges, superb art museums and historic sites, stroopwafels and smoked Gouda. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and nowhere else in the world looks quite like it.

A lot of people associate Amsterdam with the Red Light District and sex tourism, and thus think that it’s too wild or unsafe for solo female travelers. I disagree with this emphatically. This is a tiny corner of a large, safe and diverse city, and anyone can easily avoid the sex stuff.

I think the Netherlands has the best public transportation system in the world, and it’s so easy to travel all over the country (and beyond!) by train. Finally, everyone in Amsterdam speaks perfect, fluent English. In fact, asking an Amsterdammer “Do you speak English?” is tantamount to an insult.

Signature Experiences: Take a canal boat cruise around the city, eat a warm caramel-drenched stroopwafel off the grill, spend your day museum-hopping around the Museum Quarter, go out for an elaborate Indonesian rijsttafel meal, take a day trip to Rotterdam or Delft or The Hague.

Caveat: Amsterdam attracts groups of drunk young men, mostly Brits, who come here for the illicit activities. I’d recommend steering clear of party hostels, which tend to be a bit wilder than in other European cities, and choosing accommodation far from the Red Light District.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Amsterdam with a tour group, G Adventures has a six-day Paris to Berlin trip that includes Amsterdam. You can see all of their Amsterdam tours here .

Read More: Sexy Dutch Design in Amsterdam and Rotterdam

My long-term solo travels began in Thailand, and what a great choice that was. Right away I fell in love with this country, a land of gorgeous beaches, misty blue mountains, one of the best megacities on the planet, and $7 hourlong massages.

Asia can be tough as a first-timer — it’s a big cultural change, and on top of that, you might be disoriented by a big time difference. But Thailand is probably the easiest place to meet Asia for the first time. Thai people are so friendly, the food you’ve likely seen before, there is plenty of English signage, and prices are nice and cheap (especially so in the north, less so on the islands).

On top of that, Thailand has excellent travel infrastructure and options for every price point. You can walk into a travel agency, say you want to go to another city the next day, and they’ll prepare all the tickets you need! It couldn’t be easier.

Signature Experiences: Go shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai, get foot or body massages every day, learn to ride a motorbike around the mountains of Pai, go to the island of Koh Lanta and enjoy the best sunsets in the country.

Caveat: Most solo travelers in Thailand tend to be young backpackers; if you’re outside this group, it might be hard to meet people you have something in common with. Try joining organized activities to meet other people.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Thailand with a tour group, G Adventures has a 14-day Thailand trip that includes a stop on my beloved Koh Lanta. You can see all of their Thailand tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Thailand: The Guide

Australia is the epitome of a bucket list destination. From kangaroos and koalas to the Sydney Opera House, images of Australia have dwelled in our imagination since childhood — and because it’s far away and expensive, it’s worth investing in a quality trip.

While Australia has cool cities, the nature is what makes Australia exceptional. Whether you snorkel or dive Australia’s reefs, trek into the national parks of the Outback, take a boat to Rottnest Island to meet the quokkas , or beach-hop along the coast, make sure you prioritize getting out into nature.

Sometimes I hear about Australia travelers who only visit Sydney and Melbourne on their trip, and as much as I love both those cities, they really missed out!

Signature Experiences: Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge , go snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, explore the hidden coffeeshops and arcades of Melbourne , see koalas and kangaroos in the wild, watch the sunrise over Uluru in a million different colors.

Caveat: I don’t recommend driving in extremely rural parts of Australia as a first-time solo traveler. The isolation factor plus the kangaroos-jumping-in-front-of-cars factor makes it risky. Keep your driving to more populated areas, or skip driving altogether.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Australia with a tour group, G Adventures has a 14-day Australia trip that goes from Sydney to Cairns. You can see all of their Australia tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Australia: The Guide

Savannah, Georgia

There was a time in my life when I was living in New York and visiting Savannah often — I felt like the city was my mistress of sorts. And it couldn’t have been more different and lovely, stately brick homes edged by oak trees dripping with Spanish Moss.

I feel like Savannah is one of the places every American has to visit at least once — it’s just so special and unique. I love the food here, I love the historic homes, I love the cafes, I love the shopping, and I love the sweet-yet-sinister ambiance that is depicted so well in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil .

Savannah, like Asheville, works very well as a long-weekend destination. Here is my recommended three-day Savannah itinerary.

Signature Experiences: Learn about Savannah’s spirits on the superb Dead of Night tour, have a family-style lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, browse for gorgeous home wares at the Paris Market, explore the historic homes or take an architecture tour, spend a day at Tybee Island, Savannah’s beach .

Caveat: Savannah attracts a lot of couples, and if you join a group tour, you may be the only person who isn’t part of a couple. Be prepared for that going in, and you won’t be surprised.

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Savannah, Georgia: The Guide

One of my Scottish friends likes to say that if Scotland had better weather, it would be the best country in the world with absolutely no competition. I could easily see that (and have experienced a few scintillatingly beautiful days in Scotland).

Scotland just feels magical, from the storybook-like streets of Edinburgh to the cliffside castles that dot the country, to the beaches of Scotland’s 790 islands, some of which are home to Caribbean-clear water. On top of that, Scots have fantastic accents and are wonderfully friendly and welcoming.

You might think that Scotland would pair well with Ireland — stunning landscapes, friendly people — and you’d be right. Go to one or go to both, and you’ll feel very welcomed. Also, it’s an excuse to buy a lot of tartan.

Signature Experiences: Walk all the way up Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, try to spot Nessy on Loch Ness, drive through the gorgeous landscapes of the Isle of Skye, explore the local whisky distilleries, dance all night long with Shetland Vikings at Up Helly Aa .

Caveat: You can see a ton of Scotland by public transportation, but for the really special and more remote parts, you’ll need to have a car — and driving on the other side of the road can be a challenge.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Scotland with a tour group, G Adventures has a 7-day Scotland trip that hits up my beloved Edinburgh and Skye, among other spots. You can see all of their Scotland tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Scotland, England, and Wales: A UK Guide

Atlantic Canada

Canada’s four Atlantic provinces — Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador — tend to fly under the radar a bit . But they are some of the most scintillating places to visit in the country, especially as a solo female traveler.

Sometimes I joke that my blood pressure is at its lowest whenever I’m in Canada. Canada is just so EASY and CLEAN and FRIENDLY and BEAUTIFUL. And Atlantic Canada is full of beautiful landscapes, brightly painted cottages, and so much fresh seafood.

There is so much to see in Atlantic Canada that you’re best off choosing a single province and doing it in depth. I’ve done that twice, in Newfoundland and in Nova Scotia, and I can’t wait to return to them again!

Signature Experiences: Drive Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail , go moose-spotting in Cabot Highlands National Park or Gros Morne National Park , hike or bike along the red beaches of PEI, become an honorary Newfoundlander at a Screech-In ceremony, eat as much lobster as humanly possible.

Caveat: The best time to visit Atlantic Canada is during the summer months, when you have the best weather — but the summer season is very short. (Though I did enjoy an early fall trip to Nova Scotia!)

Read More: What’s It Really Like to Travel Newfoundland?

New York City

My home, my love, my energy. I lived in New York for four years and loved every bit of it (and miss it daily!). It’s a travel dream for quite a few people, and it’s one destination that absolutely pays off. Everywhere feels like you’re in a movie.

What I love most about New York is that you can be whoever you want to be there, even changing whenever you feel like it, and you’re both accepted and ignored. Take a trampoline fitness class in Tribeca! Go out for Sri Lankan food in Staten Island! Join a protest in lower Manhattan! Go to an off-off-off-off Broadway show in an office building in midtown!

New York is one of the safest major cities in the US, with most high crime areas being places where tourists would never end up. And New Yorkers are friendly and helpful — but efficient and always in a hurry. If you need help, ask in the fastest way possible and you’ll get an equally fast reply.

Signature Experiences: Ride the Staten Island Ferry and enjoy the free views, go on a food tour in the global neighborhood of Jackson Heights, Queens , party all night at a warehouse event in Bushwick, explore the Botanical Gardens followed by lunch in the Bronx’s Little Italy, explore the food and architecture of Harlem .

Caveat: Many first-time New York visitors end up doing the same cliché things over and over: Times Square! Central Park! Fifth Avenue! Then they get home and say they could never live there. Well. We don’t live in those places, either. Get out of midtown, get into the other boroughs, and explore neighborhoods that have more locals than tourists.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in New York City

Some states are worth every bit of hype. Colorado is one of those places. Filled with the gorgeous Rocky Mountains, Colorado is all about getting outdoors, with some of America’s best hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Colorado is a great place to try out a new outdoor activity — maybe whitewater rafting, mountain biking, or even sand boarding! And if you’re apprehensive about hiking solo, as I was, there are plenty of guided hikes and activities you can join. It’s a great way to make new friends, too.

Colorado is also home to cool cities like Denver and Vail that have a lot to explore: museums, breweries, and one of the most spectacular concert venues around.

Signature Experiences: Go hiking with llamas in Vail, visit the Tajik teahouse in Boulder, see a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, gorge yourself on brunch food at Snooze or desserts at D Bar, go sand boarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Caveat: You’ll need to watch your drinking, especially when you arrive. Colorado’s altitude leads you to feeling more intoxicated than usual. I had one glass of red wine on my first night in Vail and was loopy for hours. Locals recommend drinking a lot of water.

Read More: Vail, Colorado, Might Be Better in the Summer!

There are plenty of other spots, too!

There are plenty of other places that didn’t make this post. Some because I haven’t been — like New Zealand and the Canadian Rockies — and some that I think are better suited for solo travelers with more experience, like Mexico , Japan , and Belize .

If you’re a very experienced traveler, and just haven’t traveled solo yet, you might have an easier time in destinations with a language barrier — like Paris or Italy — or places where you need to be more on guard about safety, like Colombia or South Africa .

Finally, there’s traveling solo to Antarctica . Which is easy, and I loved every minute of it — but it’s all the most special if you save it for a milestone.

But it’s entirely up to you. Solo travel is about going wherever you want, whenever you want — and that’s one of the things I love most about traveling solo.

More on Solo Female Travel:

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Why You Should Always Consider the Source

How to Survive Pre-Trip Anxiety

See our full Solo Female Travel hub here.

Where would you recommend for a first-time solo female traveler?

15 Best Places to Travel Alone Female Travel Guide 2024

Empowering solo adventures: unveiling the best places for travel alone female.

Best Places for solo female travel:

Keep reading if you’re looking for the best places to travel alone female travel Guide.  Traveling alone as a woman for five years, I’ve found this lifestyle incredibly enriching and empowering. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and confidence-building that I wouldn’t trade for anything. The beauty of solo travel lies in the freedom it offers: the freedom to explore the world at your own pace, to meet new people from diverse backgrounds, and to create memories that last a lifetime. In this blog post, I will share with you my handpicked top 15 destinations that are perfect for solo female travelers.

• Explore the ultimate adventure destination in New Zealand.
• Soak up the culture, coastal beauty, and eco-adventures in Japan, Portugal & Costa Rica.
• Enjoy spiritual renewal & vibrant cities on solo female retreats to Bali and Amsterdam!

1. New Zealand: The Adventure Capital

New Zealand is an excellent choice for solo female travelers, providing a safe and varied journey ideal for your upcoming solo female traveller escapade. With an impressive safety rating of 10/10, you can confidently explore this dream destination. The breathtaking landscapes of the South Island and North Island, from glaciers and fjords to beaches and national parks, provide endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Thrill-seekers will enjoy exciting activities, including skydiving, bungee jumping, dolphin watching, and hiking trails. And for those looking to venture off-grid, public transport is readily available to take you to the lesser-known gems of New Zealand. Some highlights include the vibrant city of Wellington, adventure-packed Queenstown, the picturesque Abel Tasman National Park, and the mesmerizing Waitomo Caves. Consider renting a van for a prolonged trip to engage fully with New Zealand’s breathtaking nature. This allows you to:

• Explore at your own pace.
• Fully appreciate the beauty of the country
• Take boat tours
• Experience helicopter rides landing on Fox Glacier

2. Japan: A Cultural Experience

Japan is one of the safest countries for solo female travelers. The organized public transportation system makes navigating your way through favorite cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka easy. As a first solo women traveler, you’ll appreciate the low-interaction dining options, which allow you to enjoy a meal without feeling overwhelmed by social interactions. Tokyo and Kyoto are home to some of the most exciting themed cafes, perfect for women traveling solo. 

These cafes are intriguing and incredible places to explore solo and make new friends. Despite the language barrier, Japan is incredibly accommodating to solo travelers. Perfect for a first solo trip. Before you leave Japan, explore one of the excellent Japanese cafes. Some of these establishments include:

• Wonderland Cafés
• Robot Restaurant
• Maid Cafe Tokyo
• Owl Cafe Tokyo

3. Portugal: Coastal Charm

Portugal is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. As a solo female traveler and Blogger, it is one of my favorite travel destinations. Coastal beauty, friendly locals, and impressive architecture make Lisbon a perfect destination for a solo journey. Porto is another stunning Portuguese city, within 2 to 3 hours from Lisbon. With a perfect safety rating of 10/10, you can confidently explore the charming streets of Portugal’s cities and towns.

I recommend spending at least four nights in Lisbon to soak up the city’s culture and charm. From breathtaking hilly vistas and beautiful shorelines on the Atlantic Ocean to fascinating museums, Lisbon truly is a solo traveler’s paradise. Don’t miss the National Azulejo Museum, the charming Alfama district, and the majestic St. George’s Castle.

If you have more time, you might want to prolong your stay to travel beyond the city and uncover the stunning natural beauty of the nearby countryside. Portugal’s stunning beaches, boat tours, and picturesque old towns make it one of the most unforgettable European destinations for solo travel.

4. Costa Rica: Eco-Adventure Paradise

Costa Rica is an eco-adventure haven for solo female travelers. Not only is it safe, but it offers many fun, adventurous activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, this Central American gem has something for solo female travellers.

Experience fun activities like surfing on the Pacific coast, zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, or witnessing the beauty of sea turtles on the beach at night. Hike to the soothing hot springs on an active volcano or go on a wildlife-watching adventure in the Corcovado National Park.

For a comfortable and pleasant stay, consider reserving small guesthouses or hotels within walking distance of a lively area. This will allow you to connect with other solo travelers while exploring the natural wonders of Costa Rica. Costa Rica is the perfect destination for your next solo trip. It is a combination of its stunning beaches, beautiful rainforests, and friendly locals.

5. Ireland: The Emerald Isle

Ireland is one of the best places to travel alone as a female. The friendly locals make this destination perfect for first-time solo female travelers. Additionally, Ireland has stunning landscapes and fascinating ruins. With a perfect safety rating of 10/10, you can confidently explore the country’s stunning sights. The Irish are known to be extremely friendly and welcoming, so visit a local Irish Pub to connect with locals.

If you want an authentic Irish experience, venture out to the small towns and countryside, enjoying the fresh air and stunning scenery. Emerald Hills is primarily known for friendly locals and authentic Irish charm. Some of the small-town destinations have been listed below. :

• Skellig Michael
• The Ring of Kerry
• The Giant’s Causeway

6. Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland, often called the land of fire and ice, is one of the best places to travel alone as a woman. She is known as one of the safest countries for safe destinations for solo female travelers. This Nordic country offers an unforgettable experience, from unique landscapes and Nordic lights to adventure tours.

Explore the remarkable landscapes of glaciers, waterfalls, crater lakes, lava fields, and volcanoes that have earned Iceland its nickname. If you’re craving an adventure, check out one of their many tours. From hiking expeditions to waterfall hikes and social group tours, Iceland allows you to explore stunning landscapes in a safe and social environment.

Enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders, such as whale watching, visiting Vatnajökull Glacier’s ice caves, and chasing the northern lights during the darker months from October to April. The safety and beauty make Ireland one of the best, safest solo Female travel destinations.

7. Bali, Indonesia: Travel Female Travel Spiritual Retreat

Bali, Indonesia, is among the best places for solo female travelers. He provides a spiritual sanctuary, beautiful natural landscapes, yoga retreats, and a positive environment for solo female travelers. Bali is known for its soul-fulfilling experiences, incredible cafes, and co-working spaces perfect for Nomads.

Your dollar will also go far in Bali, one of the most affordable countries. Experience the best of Bali, from the trendy area of Canggu to the spiritual haven of Ubud and the stunning island of Uluwatu. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, explore the nearby islands like the Nusas, Gilis, and Lombok.

Bali is truly a vibrant place with something for every solo Traveler. Whether you’re interested in yoga, meditation, or breathtaking landscapes, Bali is a perfect destination for solo female travelers searching for a spiritual retreat.

8. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Canal City

Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a safe and stunning canal city that provides solo female travelers with a balanced blend of history, art, and culture. It is undoubtedly one of the best definitions of solo female travel. Navigating the city center is a breeze because of an excellent public transportation system.

Museum-hopping is a must-do in Amsterdam, with famous institutions like the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and Van Gogh Museum. Be sure to stroll along the picturesque canals or join a boat tour to experience the city’s beauty. The Dutch are fluent in England, making Amsterdam an ideal destination for solo female travelers. Amsterdam is perfect if you’re a solo female traveler looking for a charming European city.

9. Canada: Natural Wonders

Canada’s natural marvels, hospitable locals, and expansive landscapes make it an excellent choice for solo female travelers. From the stunning landscapes of Atlantic Canada to the beautiful Rocky Mountains, Canada is great for solo female Travel.

Explore the breathtaking views of Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail, and go moose-spotting in Cabot Highlands National Park or Gros Morne National Park. For some great seafood, eat lobster on the red beaches of Prince Edward Island. With so much to see and do, Canada offers endless adventure and exploration for solo female travelers. Whether you’re a nature lover, a city explorer, or seeking a friendly and welcoming environment, Canada is the perfect destination for your next solo adventure.

10. Australia: Down Under Delights

In the Southern Hemisphere, Australia is one of the best solo female travel destinations. There are many attractions, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant activities in famous cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Women travelers can enjoy diverse natural beauty and meet friendly locals and vibrant urban centers. Australia is an ideal destination for solo female travelers looking to experience the best of both worlds.

Try activities like scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, surfing the waves of the Gold Coast, or exploring the rugged beauty of the Outback. There’s no shortage of excitement Down Under. Australia’s sunny weather, diverse wildlife, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination for solo female travelers.

Australian Solo Female Destinations Ideas

• Fraser Island
• the Gold Coast
• the Whitsundays
• Magnetic Island

11. Italy: Food and History

Italy is known for its great culture and history, so explore the captivating history of Rome—must-visit sites like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, explore the beautiful countryside of Tuscany, sipping wine in charming hilltop towns and indulging in delicious Italian cuisine. No matter your interests, Italy offers a wealth of experiences for solo travelers, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the wonders of food and history.

Italy is one of the most visited countries with a rich history, tasty cuisine, and picturesque countryside. Some of the best solo female travel destinations in Italy include:

• The ancient ruins of Rome
• The rolling hills of Tuscany
• The beautiful canals of Venice
• The stunning Amalfi Coast
• The charming villages of Cinque Terre

12. Thailand: Tropical Paradise

Thailand’s tropical paradise is an Ideal Destination for solo female travelers. This stunning Asian country has amiable locals, stunning beaches, and budget-friendly travel prices. Visit the bustling Bangkok, or relax at the tranquil islands of the Andaman Sea. Thailand has something to offer every type of traveler.

Experience the vibrant street life of Bangkok and indulge in mouth-watering Thai cuisine. Also, check out the stunning temples in Chiang Mai. For a more relaxed pace, unwind on the white sand beaches of Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, or Koh Lanta, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea. Thailand is the perfect destination for solo female travelers seeking a tropical paradise.

13. Scotland: Highland Beauty

The Highland charm of Scotland, hospitable people, and breathtaking landscapes make it a desirable destination for solo female travelers. Explore the historic streets of Edinburgh and the breathtaking Isle of Skye. Discover the charming city of Edinburgh, with its iconic castle perched atop a volcanic rock. Venture further to explore the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the magical Isle of Skye. For a truly unique experience, join a group tour to explore the remote corners of Scotland and uncover its hidden gems. Scotland offers diverse activities for different types of solo female travel. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a city girl, Scotland is the perfect destination for your next solo adventure.

14. Copenhagen, Denmark: Solo Travelers Safe Haven

Copenhagen, Denmark, is one of my favorite cities. Danes are incredibly welcoming, kind, and always ready to help if you need directions. Denmark is known as one of the happiest countries in the world, and Copenhagen is also one of the safest European cities. Solo Female travelers will instantly feel safe while exploring the lively city. Copenhagen uniquely blends history, contemporary design, and a bustling food scene. The architecture is also quite impressive. Enjoy Nyhavn’s colorful houses and the Black Diamond’s innovative architecture.

To learn about the city’s history, visit world-class museums like the National Gallery of Denmark, the Design Museum, and the Royal Danish Library. No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without experiencing the lively café culture and sampling traditional Danish dishes like smørrebrød and herring. Why visit Copenhagen? With stunning architecture, friendly locals, and rich cultural heritage. Copenhagen is one of the best European Travel destinations for solo female travelers.

15. Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria, is a stunning, picturesque city with a fascinating rich culture. Known as one of the best cities to live in the world, it is no doubt one of the best destinations for solo female travelers. Vienna has impressive architecture, top-tier museums, and a vibrant café culture. Do not forget to visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and catch an opera show at the State Opera House.

If you’re an Art and history enthusiast, Vienna has many historic museums, including the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Belvedere Museum, and the Albertina. And for those who appreciate modern design, Vienna’s contemporary architecture – from the futuristic Gasometers to the iconic Hundertwasserhaus – is sure to impress.

Whether sipping coffee in a traditional Viennese café, exploring the city’s historic sites, or admiring the latest architectural wonders, each activity is a unique experience. Vienna is a perfect destination. It offers solo female travelers a unique and unforgettable European expertise.

Are you ready for an adventure? Let’s talk about the top 15 destinations for solo female travelers. We start with New Zealand. Its stunning landscapes are a sight to behold. Next, we have Japan. It’s a cultural wonderland that’s just waiting to be explored.

Then there’s Portugal. It’s all about coastal charm and laid-back vibes. And Scotland? It’s a highland beauty that will leave you in awe. These destinations offer a world of unforgettable experiences. Each one is unique.

Are you an adrenaline junkie? New Zealand is calling your name. More into history and culture? Japan will fascinate you. Do you prefer serene landscapes? Portugal is your go-to. Love majestic highlands? Scotland is the place for you.

No matter what you crave, there’s a destination on this list for you. So, what are you waiting for? The world of solo trips is waiting. Each journey is a chance to discover new places. But that’s not all. You’ll also discover more about yourself.

Traveling solo is an opportunity for self-discovery. It’s a chance for personal growth. And let’s not forget about making unforgettable memories. So, go ahead. Take the plunge. Embrace the freedom. Soak up the experiences. Let these journeys shape you into the best version of yourself. Ready to pack your bags?

FAQ Travel Alone Female

What are some tips for staying safe as a solo female traveler.

Research your destination, book safe accommodations, stay alert, and avoid walking alone at night – these are the best tips for staying safe as a solo female traveler.

Are group tours a good option for solo female travelers?

Group tours are an excellent option for solo female travelers, offering solo travellers both security and the chance to meet like-minded people on their journey.

How can I make friends while traveling solo?

Make new connections by staying in hostels with common areas, joining group activities or walking tours, and starting conversations at cafes or attractions. Get out there and meet people!

What is the best way to navigate public transportation in foreign countries?

To navigate public transportation in foreign countries, research before traveling, take advantage of maps and transportation apps and don’t hesitate to ask locals for assistance.

How can I budget for a solo trip?

Take some time to plan and budget smartly for your solo trip! Look into accommodation and transportation, set a daily spending limit, and find free or low-cost activities to help make the most of your journey.

Grace Ashi is the founder and Editor of Metropolitan Girl.

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The best places for solo female travel in 2024

Women everywhere are jetting off to explore new cultures, and these are the easiest, safest, and coolest places to do so

Solo female travel is having a moment – according to a recent survey, over half of Gen Z women would consider travelling abroad alone. That means more women than ever are  heading off to far-flung destinations in search of new friends, different cultures and memorable experiences. But where should they go, and what should they know? 

A few countries are known to be relatively safe and easy to navigate for women looking for an adventure, with well-trodden backpacker routes, friendly locals and the chance to meet new people – or spend some good quality alone time. Here are nine of the best destinations for solo female travellers and good-to-know advice on how to stay safe.

India-Jayne Trainor is a British-Australian travel writer based in London. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts.

RECOMMENDED: ✨ The  best places in the world to travel alone 🏡 The most beautiful small towns in the world 🌃 The best cities in the world

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The best destinations for solo female travel

1.  Sri Lanka

The tiny teardrop island of Sri Lanka is like India in miniature but with its own unique charm, making it the perfect first stop for female travellers wanting to dip into South  Asia . It’s popular with backpackers and perfectly sized for a week or a month spent exploring the ancient Unesco-listed sites like Dambulla and Sigiriya or visiting tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya. And for some blissful downtime, the golden beaches of Arugam Bay, Mirissa and Hikkaduwa promise beachfront hostels, surfing and delicious local food.

2.  Portugal

Portugal  has made a name for itself as the perfect solo travel destination thanks to a growing number of digital nomads moving there. Amongst the Baroque castles and palaces, hiking trails and sweeping beaches, you can also find trendy backpacker hangouts and an increasing number of co-working spots and cute cafes for snacking on pastel de nata . The Douro Valley is home to rolling vineyards, Lisbon ’s cobbled streets are packed with history, and in the southern Algarve , whale-watching and watersports await. Plus, it’s simple to navigate by car, train and bus. 

3.  Czechia

The food is tasty, the drinks are cheap, and the cities are breathtakingly beautiful – what more could a solo female traveller want? In Czechia ’s capital of Prague , visitors can wander the narrow streets, visiting the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and the Old Town Square. For those who aren’t used to solo travel, walking and cycling tours of the city make it easy to meet people too. There’s low crime, major sights are walkable, and loads of dreamy day trips – have you seen the picturesque town of Český Krumlov?

4.  Japan

Japan is one of the safest destinations in the world, not just for solo travellers but for anyone who visits, thanks to its respectful culture, etiquette and traditions. Cities like Tokyo can seem overwhelming, but Japan has everything from female-only train carriages to women’s hotels to make you feel secure. Simple and efficient transport, like the superfast bullet train, can take you from volcanic hot springs and snow-capped mountains to white sand beaches and cascading rice terraces in one trip. Best of all, dining alone in Japan is considered completely normal! 

5.  Guatemala

Central America is slowly catching up to an influx of independent travellers, and Guatemala has never been more popular with solo female travellers due to hostels and tour routes popping up everywhere, great infrastructure and affordable food and attractions. Meeting new friends is a breeze, as most people follow the same trail, visiting the stunning Lake Atitlán, the ancient pyramids at Tikal and sparkling blue falls at Semuc Champey. The colourful streets of Antigua are also the perfect base for attempting Guatemala’s famous hike up Acatenango to watch Volcano Fuego erupt at sunrise. 

6.  Vietnam

When it comes to the safest destinations for women  backpacking in Southeast  Asia ,   Thailand and Vietnam still vie for the top spot – but Vietnam is a good place to start. With a well-trodden tourist route, stretching from the capital of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh in the south, the country encompasses mountains, beaches, islands and ancient villages like Hoi An and Hue, plus some of the region’s best cuisine. Whether you make the journey by train, sleeper bus or scooter, thousands of other solo travellers will be making the same trip.

7.  Australia

Australia holds a major draw for independent travellers, thanks to the scenic tourist route along the East Coast and simple visa process, making it safe and uncomplicated to plan, particularly if it’s your first time down under. Sydney ’s buzzing beaches, food scene and postcard-perfect landmarks, like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House , are a dazzling introduction to the country, while further north, the Great Barrier Reef offers snorkelling cruises and jeep tours on Fraser Island . All of this comes with almost guaranteed sunshine, friendly Aussies and cute wildlife – just don’t think too much about the other critters.

8.  Greece

A solo trip to Greece is a real-life Mamma Mia movie waiting to happen. The country is a good beginner destination for those looking for sun, sand and a dose of history on their own. Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities, brimming with ancient wonders like the Acropolis, Parthenon and Panathenaic Stadium. Modern hotels and hostels mean you’ll travel in comfort and can dine out on Mediterranean cooking at affordable prices, plus the popular islands of Corfu , Kefalonia and Kos have the blue waters, beaches and pretty towns you’ve seen in the movies and are simple to reach by boat.

9.  New Zealand

Whether you choose the North or South Island or combine them both, New Zealand is one of the safest countries for solo female travel. You can self-drive or join tours while in the country, exploring fjords, mountains, glaciers and beaches. The wild landscapes are perfect for adventure and road trips, starting in Auckland , Queenstown or Christchurch , where hostels and hotels are concentrated. It’s an epic outdoor destination, so nature lovers are well set up for hiking, swimming and kayaking, while the slightly higher costs mean there are always other solo female travellers keen to buddy up.

How to stay safe as a solo female traveller

Before you go

Packing smart isn’t about what to wear; however, dressing to respect local cultures is important. Make copies of your passport, driving licence and visas to keep to hand, along with money and a phone charger or power bank, so you’re never without a connection. Consider using a money belt or backpack with anti-theft security and u se locks on luggage where possible.

Download useful apps

If you’re going somewhere unfamiliar, download apps such as maps.me, so you have directions available even when you’re offline. If you want to meet other travellers, download Tourlina, which is exclusively for women, or Backpackr to meet people of all genders (or you can always change the settings on dating apps to connect with people as friends). Consider using safety apps like BSafe, which live-tracks your journey to a chosen contact. 

On the road

You can still be spontaneous as a solo female traveller, but researching before you go away ensures you know important information, like your general route, essential local contact numbers and any common scams.

Read reviews of tours, guides and hotels, and always have travel insurance. Finally, stay open-minded, try to meet new people and don’t forget it’s your trip – if you need a break, want a five-star stay or want to join a group again, there’s no one to stop you.

Read our full guide on how to stay safe as a solo female traveller

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9 of the best destinations for women to travel solo — now or in the future

Editor's Note

In a pre-COVID world, solo travel, especially for women, was on the rise.

But if you're a woman wanting to travel alone, how do you decide where to go? According to a survey, key factors for solo travelers when deciding on a destination include safety, cost, quality of the scenery and that English is widely spoken.

From bustling cities to wild natural landscapes, these are nine of the most welcoming and interesting spots for women to visit, especially when traveling alone. With some still closed to Americans, now is the time to start your planning.

Destinations that are open now

Berlin, germany.

Germany is open to American tourists again as of June 18 and with a low crime rate, excellent public transportation, a high level of spoken English and progressive vibes will make pretty much anyone feel at home in Germany's capital city . With plenty of hostels and free tours, you'll be able to easily meet other solo travelers in a low-pressure environment. Berlin also has a fantastic public art trail, so wandering the city on foot is especially easy (and entertaining).

TPG tip: The Marriott's Moxy Berlin Ostbahnhof (one of the millennial-facing brand's two Berlin properties) is a great hostel-inspired space where you'll easily make new friends but also have plenty of privacy. Room rates start at less than 15,000 points during low season.

The Grand Hyatt Berlin is also a great option for redeeming points also starting at 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night. The luxury hotel is close to public transportation and also has a spa on property as well as room service — for those days when you've had enough sightseeing.

Open to American tourists and known as one of Africa's safest countries thanks to its longstanding democracy, Botswana is an ideal spot if you're a female solo traveler wanting to visit this continent, especially because English is the country's official language. Many lodges focus on eco-tourism , meaning they are small, intimate spaces where you can get to know your fellow lodge mates around an evening campfire. Because many safaris and excursions are done in groups, Botswana is a great option if you'd rather not be entirely alone on your solo trip.

TPG tip: Many hotels, lodges and safaris will waive the solo supplement during the off-season and some even market themselves as "no solo supplement safaris," focusing instead on grouping together solo travelers.

While Malta is currently open to American tourists, only 38 states are currently on the Amber list of places to travel from. A small country where most locals speak English, Malta is where many Europeans flock to during summers to take English courses and enjoy the gorgeous beaches. A country where small children play outside until midnight and walking around alone at night is no big deal, solo women travelers can expect to feel safe at all hours of the day. Socialising is common, as many visitors come hoping to practice their English and locals love making new friends. Grab your camera and snap colorful boats, crashing waves and UNESCO ruins.

TPG tip: Distances between cities and villages may be too far to walk, but the buses are easy and ferries and water taxis can also quickly get you from A to B.

Destinations to plan for future travel

Taipei, taiwan.

Taiwan may not be open to Americans just yet, but it is right up there with Japan in terms of safety -- and Taipei is much cheaper for a solo traveler to visit than Tokyo. With an immense offering of budget and boutique properties, as well as large brand hotels that are also well-priced (think Kimpton and Hilton), solo women are spoiled for choice when it comes to lodging options. Free walking tours are offered in many neighborhoods and are an excellent way to link up with like-minded travelers, as are street food tours. TGP tip: Taipei's metro system is clean, organized and safe. It even plays classical music when the trains approach.

Taipei Skyline. (Photo by Sharleen Chao/Getty Images)

Montreal, Canada

We're still anxiously awaiting Canada's reopening but we can dream in the meantime. While Montreal isn't the most exotic destination on this list, it's friendly, welcoming and safe. While you likely won't run into language barriers, you might want to download a translation app , just to be safe. (At least refresh your French basics.) When the weather is nice, renting a bike at an automated BIXI station is a fun and safe way to explore the city. Consider bedding down in the eclectic Plateau neighborhood or enjoying the mesh of English, French and Italian cultures in Little Italy.

TPG tip: The STM metro system is cheap, safe and easy to use, especially during snowy winters when you want to escape the cold.

Read more : How to travel solo — and why you absolutely should

New Zealand

New Zealand, unfortunately, closed its borders again after the short-lived Australia-New Zealand travel bubble resulted in new COVID-19 cases for both countries. Even still, the country is one of the safest in the world, according to the Global Peace Index . Solo travelers can enjoy beaches and hiking trails on the North Island, and should definitely take time to experience the café culture in Auckland. Adventure tourists may decide to head instead to the South Island to explore cliffs, lakes and glaciers. Want to make friends and get a taste of the local land? Do what's called WWOOFing: Willing Workers On Organic Farms, a system where you work on a farm in exchange for accommodation and food.

TPG tips: The biggest danger to solo travelers in New Zealand is probably the outdoors. Take extra care when hiking or doing any extreme sports alone. When necessary, hire a guide, tell your hostel or hotel where you're heading and always dress and pack properly for the activity.

Currently, travel to Singapore is limited to travelers from select countries and the United States isn't on the list. But Singapore deserves a spot on your list of safest places for future solo travel. A place that's become safer and safer as the years go on, it's the perfect jumping-off point for solo women to see South East Asia. After all, it's organized, clean and English-speaking. Sure, there's plenty to do in the luxury travel realm (think fancy hotels and massive shopping centers) but a budget traveler will feel just as comfortable sampling the famous street food at hawker stalls and exploring colorful Chinatown and Little India.

TPG tip: One reason Singapore is so safe is that the country has many laws to maintain public order. Watch yourself when it comes to littering, jaywalking and even gum chewing.

Read more : 11 of the best apps for solo travelers

Santiago, Chile

A dream for now, Chile was number 28 on the Global Peace Index in 2018 and the capital city has an especially low crime rate. Once you venture beyond Santiago, you can enjoy skiing in the Andes , trekking in the Atacama desert and even enjoy bicycle wine tastings. In terms of stunning natural scenery, the wild Chilean landscapes are hard to top. Plus, the entire country has a huge hostel culture (with both budget and high-end options), making it easy to find new friends. Prefer to stay in town? Santiago has many accessible lookout points, fantastic museums and delicious restaurants, too.

TPG tip: Uber is a widely used and safe mode of transport in Santiago. But beyond the capital, English is not widely spoken. Definitely brush up on your school Spanish before traveling to Chile.

Melbourne, Australia

In addition to the failed travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand, Australia plans to remain closed to international travel until 2022 . But if you love art and music, Melbourne may be a perfect match for you. Known for its coffee culture (flat whites in particular), the city's coffee houses are relaxing and safe spots to hang out in. While the city itself is very walkable, you can hop on the free City Circle tram line to get around, too. And, of course, Australia is an English-speaking country with an excellent position on the 2018 Global Peace Index .

TPG tip: The Royal Botanical Gardens are a great hangout for solo women travelers, thanks to the parade of events hosted here such as moonlight cinema screenings and guided tours. And if you're planning ahead, the hip W Melbourne will enter the city's somewhat lackluster hotel scene in 2021.

Bottom line

Traveling solo is really rewarding and exciting -- you'll probably have a completely different experience than if you are traveling with friends or a partner. However, being on your own comes with its risks so if you fancy a solo adventure -- especially if you're female -- hit up one of the above destinations to ensure your time is fun, but safe too. If you have your heart set on a destination that's still closed to America, start planning now and do it right.

Additional reporting by Ashely Onadele.

The 20 Best places for solo female travel

So, you’re looking for the best places for solo female travel?

You’ve come to the right place. For the last eight years I have been travelling the world solo. I have crossed 6 continents, entered almost eighty country borders and had such a fun time along the way.

It hasn’t always been easy travelling the world solo as a woman, but it has certainly been a challenge. If I were to pick just one thing that has made me who I am today, it would be solo travel.

But I was nervous when I first started solo travelling as a woman.

I was twenty years old when I took my first adventure overseas alone. I was a bit of an introvert, more inclined to read a book at night over bar hopping.

But over the years I have become so fond of solo travel that despite having friends I could travel with, I still prefer to go solo. Here’s why, how and the best places for solo female travel!

The best places for solo female travel

When it comes to choosing a destination for a solo adventure, as a woman some destinations are inherently better than others.

Whether it be that they are safer or easier to travel alone, these destinations are my top picks.

Each of these destinations I have visited alone, so I’m coming to you with first-hand recommendations of the best solo female travel destinations. All of them are tried and tested!

New Zealand

There are few destinations as whimsical and ethereal as New Zealand . With epic mountain ranges and endless landscapes to enjoy, New Zealand is the capital of adventure travel . This is a great choice for solo females as New Zealand is safe but more importantly, there are plenty of activities and adventures to keep yourself busy. I’d recommend opting for the South Island and if you’re up for it, rent a van to explore solo!

Next on our line up is a country that never ceases to amaze me – Japan . This is hands down one of my favourite countries to explore and even better, it is perfect for solo female travellers. If you’re looking for a quick escape, you can see the highlights of Japan in just 7 days . Alternatively, you can take your time and spend up to a month riding trains around the country. My favourite cities include Kyoto , Tokyo and Osaka. But my favourite experience of all was staying with Buddhist Monks.

Onwards to Canada: the land of open landscapes, long highways and incredibly friendly locals. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Canada a handful of times over the past few years and each visit is better than the last. Cities like Vancouver are a great place to start, however my all time favourite experience was driving the Icefields Parkway . There’s something so magical and surreal about a length road trip on your own.

Germany will forever hold a special place in my heart as it is the first country I ever lived as an expat. Around 6 years ago I grew tired of non-stop travels and after a year on the road, I settled in Berlin for a few months. It was one of the best experiences of my life for so many reasons. But most of all, I just loved German culture. There always seems to be something quirky to experience or enjoy, especially in Berlin. Germany is a great country to explore solo by train and even better, to live as an expat. Berlin is full of them!

I’ve always wanted to explore the countryside of France with a boyfriend (probably French) in tow. But guess what? Life had other plans. I visited the countryside of France solo and had a blast. There’s something so endlessly romantic about this country, that it took me a while to want to visit alone. But once I did, I wished I had done it sooner. Europe is filled with great destinations for solo travellers so don’t just stop there. Scan the rest of this article for some great add-ons!

Spain is one such perfect add-on for your European itinerary. I’d recommend a solid three month stint in Europe if you really want to see it all. Alternatively if time is not on your side, you can really see a lot of the continent in just one month. A great itinerary would include France, Spain, Italy and Croatia. Whilst in Spain, make sure you don’t miss Barcelona – this city has my heart!

There are few trips that are as prominent in my mind as my time in the Scottish Highlands . The scenery can be so surreal that you begin to believe the tales of fairies and giants (no kidding!) If I could choose anywhere to return to solo and spend more time, it would be far away in the Scottish Highlands. I did my trip in one week but I’d recommend two.

Another trip I wish I spent longer on is my visit to Sri Lanka . This tropical oasis has become increasingly popular of late as an alternative to Bali and indeed, it is the perfect place to have your own Eat Pray Love moment. There are some great yoga retreats and surf camps on offer, so you can also meet fellow travellers.

A lot of women ask me on Instagram what I’d suggest between a solo trip to New Zealand and a solo adventure in Australia . The answer is: why choose just one? You can travel by plane between Australia and New Zealand in just a few hours, so this is a great combination for solo female travellers. When in Australia be sure to take your adventure outdoors into the Aussie outback. You won’t regret it! If you’re more of an island gal, check out these secret islands in Australia .

I don’t know if I love Italy as much as a love pizza or I love pizza as much as I love Italy. Regardless, I love eating pizza in Italy. Adventuring around the Italian countryside and once-in-a-lifetime cities like Rome is one of my favourite pastimes. This is a country perfect for solo travellers as it is full of history, great food (hello carbs) and so much to explore. I’ll never tire of Italian adventures.

Another great alternative to Bali for fans of the book Eat Pray Love is nearby Thailand. This is one of the first countries I visited back in 2010 and I instantly fell in love. There is something so mesmerising about the temples, matched with the chaos of Thai street markets. If you’re a solo traveller who prefers to get lost in the thick of it, Thailand is a great place to do just that.

When I first landed in Portugal some 6 or 7 years ago my instant reaction was “how did it take me so long to get here?” There’s something about the city of Lisbon that feels so inviting – the sea of colours, fun bars to discover and great food. The locals are extremely warm and welcoming, so it is little wonder I returned a few years later to explore the South of Portugal . I’d recommend at least four nights in Lisbon, with a further week or two if you plan to adventure through the countryside.

United States

The United States sometimes gets a bad reputation for not being adventurous enough. I disagree. There are so many adventures to be had throughout the States, from epic cities like New York City through to soulful escapes in Arizona. I will never tire of exploring this country!

Some of my favourite adventures include travelling to upstate New York , road tripping through Arizona and exploring Joshua Tree in Southern Californi a .

There are many ways to get around and see the United States. Road trips are the most popular way to travel cross-country, although there are some great train journeys to be had within state lines. If you are spoiling yourself for a birthday or special occasion, Limo Find offer some great shuttle services ranging from buses to private cars.

Montenegro is one of the most surprising countries I have visited. I had never heard about it before I was invited to speak at a media conference, so I jumped at the opportunity to go. This country in the South of Europe is incredibly underrated and one of my favourite finds in the past two years. It is extremely safe to visit solo – I rented a car for a two week adventure.

Iceland will forever be one of my favourite countries. Before I even visited I was obsessed. If you can time your visit outside of the colder months (no one likes driving in a snow storm) Iceland is one of the best places for solo female travellers. Who doesn’t love an epic adventure!

Malta is a country that surprised me when I visited a few years ago and I only wish I had have spent more time there. This is a great add on to an itinerary in Greece or Italy, as it is a short flight away and much cheaper than other countries with mass tourism.

If you’re looking for a country in Europe that is flying under the radar, look no further than Slovenia . I recently spent two weeks exploring the country solo in a rental car and it was a jam-packed itinerary! For a country that is small in size it sure offers a lot to visitors. Be sure not to miss the famous Lake Bled , one of the most beautiful lakes on earth.

Of all the countries I visited solo in South America, Chile was not only the safest as a solo female traveller but it was also my favourite. There’s a lot to see in Chile without adding other countries to your itinerary. Start with Santiago and then make your way North to the Atacama Desert , South to Patagonia and if your budget allows, visit the mysterious Easter Island .

The Netherlands

I travelled to The Netherlands solo for ten days on my book tour back in 2017. I still can’t believe my book was translated into another language and better yet, I got to meet my Dutch readers! It was amazing to see how much more there is to see in The Netherlands beyond Amsterdam . You can easily spend 2 weeks travelling the country by train. Be sure to visit other cities like The Hague, Delft, Utrecht and Maastricht!

Of all the best places for solo female travel, Bali has got to top that list. There is perhaps nowhere else on earth as soul-fulfilling as Bali. My favourite area to stay is in Canggu, which has become really popular over the last few years. Regardless, it is still here where you will find the best cafes and co-working spaces, so it is perfect for female entrepreneurs!

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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30 BEST Places in the USA for Solo Female Travelers in 2024

05/07/2023 by Kristin Addis 28 Comments

The United States is gorgeous, from sea to shining sea. I love being from such a huge and varied country with all kinds of different landscapes, cultures, and sights. If I spent my lifetime only exploring the States, I’d have so much variety it would still feel like I’d traveled far and wide.

It’s incredible that in one country you have some of the highest mountaintops, tropical beaches and icy glaciers, and rocky deserts with some of the most breathtaking formations on planet Earth.

So for those who want to test out solo traveling at home before they go abroad, or if you’re from elsewhere and want to see what the US has to offer, you’ve made a great choice. But with so many options, you might be wondering where to start. For a visual tour, watch the video below, or keep reading for an explanation of each below:

These are some of my favorites in the USA, plus the advice of several other solo female travelers to get you started:

Table of Contents

1. Maui, Hawaii

I forgive you if you don’t think of Hawai’i when you think of great places to travel solo, and I wouldn’t have either until I actually went to Maui alone last year. It was fantastic! There was so much to do , from a women’s surf school to driving the Road to Hana to joining snorkeling trips.

I thought I would be surrounded by honeymooners, but I actually found that people were very outgoing and friendly, coupled off or not. I highly recommend Maui solo, much to my surprise!

Book your stay in Maui here.

Book guided tours in Maui here .

2. The Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places for adventurous solo female travelers. With volcanoes, world-class dive and snorkeling sites , interesting beaches, and miles of hiking trails, there’s more to discover on the Big island than any other island in Hawaii. In fact, it’s larger than all of them, combined! After visiting more than six times, my favorite things to do are swim with the Manta rays at night, hike to the Captain Cook memorial, and join boat tours.

It’s easy to meet friends through activities, at the beach, and by going on day tours. The island is easy to navigate with a rental car, as there is one main road that circles the entire island. Most people consider going to the more tourist-heavy islands like Oahu , but the Big Island is amazing, too.

Book your stay in The Big Island here , or consider staying in a real treehouse (!).

-READ MORE-

The perfect Hawai’i Big Island itinerary

The best beaches on the Big Island of Hawai’i

24 amazing things to do on the Big Island of Hawai’i

3. Alabama Hills, California

The Alabama Hills is BLM land, meaning it’s owned by the public (the Bureau of Land Management), with arches, beautiful views of the eastern Sierras, and lots of Hollywood history. I did a solo road trip here and enjoyed every minute of it. If you are a photography lover, the Alabama Hills has plenty of photogenic stops, including the popular Movie Road (pictured above), Mobius Arch (go at sunset!), Boot Arch, and Miss Alabama herself.

As a solo traveler, you’ll get lots of solitude in the Alabama Hills and the other deserts on my California deserts road trip , which I loved. This is one of the beautiful things about traveling in this part of the world: all the wide-open spaces and the spiritual vibe. Plus, you can’t beat the stargazing or the sunsets!

The ultimate Alabama Hills, California guide

4. San Francisco, California

Whenever people who aren’t from the state visit California, almost everyone ends up falling in love with San Francisco. As a native Southern Californian, it’s in my DNA to roll my eyes and find this offensive, but deep down, I silently agree. The Bay Area in general is beautiful and temperate, and has a unique culture. My European friends often say it has a charm that reminds them of home.

I love it for the ease of getting around on the BART system, how small and contained the city itself is, and how picturesque and multicultural it is. Try a yoga or meditation class, head there during Pride, or see some live music at the Outside Lands festival. It’s the perfect place to jump off from or end up in when on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway too!

Book your stay in San Francisco here.

5. Big Sur, California

I’ve looked on every continent and I still haven’t found anywhere as beautiful or majestic as Big Sur on the central coast in California, though it’s seen its fair share of disasters lately. Still, when accessible, McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the dreamiest waterfalls I’ve seen.

Big Sur is a fantastic place to unwind. If you want to meet others, the campsites can be pretty social. However when I’m out there, I find the best companions are the dolphins and whales jumping out of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, and the squirrels and deer on the trails.

For more on my favorite state and national parks in California, check out my musings on Alamo’s Scenic Route.

Book your stay in Big Sur here.

6. Lake Tahoe, California

One of my favorite spots to explore on my own is in my backyard – Lake Tahoe! There are nearly limitless trails to discover (like in Emerald Bay ) during the summer months , including Tallac pictured above.

For those who don’t feel comfortable hiking or biking on their own, there are multiple companies that offer guided tours . There’s also much to do that doesn’t have to do with hiking, like taking pictures at some of the most beautiful parts of Lake Tahoe , especially in springtime . If you’re into skiing, sledding, or just taking a scenic gondola ride, winter in Lake Tahoe has so much to offer as well.

Need a place to stay? We’ve got you covered with a list of the best Airbnb’s and boutique hotels .

7. Mendocino, California

If you’re looking for moody coastline, crashing waves, spotted seals, incredible sunsets, adorable BnBs , and an abundance of inspiration, Mendocino is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

This is more of a retreat for those who want some peace and quiet. Walk along the coastal bluffs, explore Van Damme State Park, check out the glass sand beach in Fort Bragg, and eat delicious food at the Noyo Harbor Inn.

8. Mt. Rainier National Park, Washington

When it comes to national parks in Washington , Rainier is easily my favorite. It’s such a prominent volcano, you can see it from most major freeways and suburbs of Seattle. Hiking around it is also easy enough, with trails like the Skyline trail serving up beautiful views all along your way.

Rainier is a popular national park, so if hiking solo , you’ll rarely be truly alone.

9. Seattle, Washington

If you want to visit a city teeming with activity but still find time for solitude, head to Seattle where the various neighborhoods and activities provide opportunities for both, sometimes even on the same day. Here you’ll find cultural foods , fantastic museums , and beautiful public parks. Talented local musicians perform throughout the city on most nights, so you’ll hear jazz, experimental, rock, punk, metal, baroque, blues, hip-hop.

You can navigate the city via public transit by day, or taxi/ride-share by night. Seattle is very solo-traveler friendly, so you’ll notice other people dining and enjoying the musical ambiance alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out and get past that ‘Seattle Freeze’ as people are friendly once you start the conversation.

Book your stay in Seattle here.

10. Portland, Oregon

The beauty of Portland is that a solo traveler can be as social as they’d like in the city and then retreat to the forest for solitude at any time. Portland is just a short drive away from the Columbia River Gorge , where you’ll find the majestic Multnomah Falls, among others.

In the city, you’ll enjoy bearing witness to all of Portland’s quirks, like its quintessential underground donut scene . Biking is quite popular in Portland, and you can join in on the cycling fun by taking a bike tour that focuses on the city’s vibrant art and poetry culture.

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas wouldn’t have been the first place that I would have expected to be awesome traveling alone, but with so much to do, it’s actually perfect! People are in a good mood. They’re there to be social and have a good time. I almost always make friends when I visit, whether with a group, or by myself.

There are fun indoor activities like the famous wax museum, Madame Tussaud’s , and there’s so much to see that isn’t on the strip, like the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam . These are my favorite day trips to take from Las Vegas. Las Vegas is also an excellent jumping-off point if you want to explore Reno (below). You can plan your road trip based off this guide .

12. Reno, Nevada

My current hometown , Reno is truly the biggest little city in the world. Because of it’s pretty small size but excellent amenities, Reno a wonderful place to travel alone. It’s a hub for those looking to get lucky at our casinos, and the perfect spot for events like the balloon race each September, when hundreds of hot air balloons take to the sky. Thanks to the art, food and culture boom of the last decade, there are tons of funky little cafes and restaurants.

If you love nature, there’s a place for outdoorsy people, too, who want to hike or ski in and around Lake Tahoe. You’ll find bobcats, the extraordinary lake, migratory birds, hiking trails, mountains, salt pans, sand dunes, brilliant stars, and hundred-year-old trees. In Reno, you’ll have the time and space to take it all in.

13. Page, Arizona

Page is the jumping-off point for several of Arizona’s most beautiful places. I was blown away in particular by Horseshoe Bend and of course the famous Antelope Canyon. Since this part of the world attracts so many travelers, I found it easy to have conversations with others who were free-camping with me, and even made a friend when I ventured to the paid campsites for a shower (but not in the shower itself, we met in the parking lot later, I swear).

If you’re considering which of the two canyons to visit, I did a comparison of Lower and Upper here , though both are worth checking out for different reasons!

Book your stay in Page, Arizona, here.

See tours available in Page here .

14. Moab, Utah

Utah is one of my favorite states to road trip through solo . I’ve done it twice and I’d do it again!

Although Zion National Park is gorgeous, and I love the national forests around Provo, it’s Moab that I find the best as a solo female traveler. Moab is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. There are tons of parks like Canyonlands and Arches National Parks as well as Dead Horse Point State Park . Basically it’s one of the most gorgeous areas on earth, with a high concentration of incredible rock formations and free campsites, and plenty of things to do .

I tend to find that when a place attracts people because of common interest, especially something outdoorsy, it tends to be social. Moab is no exception. It’s a favorite amongst van-lifers, which means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet others on the trails, in cafes, and at viewpoints .

Book your stay in Moab here .

15. Sun Valley, Idaho

Idaho really must be one of the most beautiful states in the wintertime . I stayed in Sun Valley for a winter and fell in love with the tranquil views, the spectacular sunsets, and snowmobiling when my legs were too tired from snowshoeing and skiing.

Sun Valley is a quaint town with fantastic skiing and snowshoeing, natural hot springs, and locals who are more than happy to have a conversation with visitors and newcomers. If you want to venture outside of Sun Valley, there are tons of amazing hot springs to check out. You can find my itinerary here .

Book your stay in Idaho here , or stay in a cozy, heated treehouse !

16. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in Montana is a magical slice of outdoors heaven that is perfect for solo travelers with an adventurous spirit and who thrive in solitude. Here you’ll find crystal-clear lakes, abundant greenery as far as the eye can see, and some of the best stargazing in the US.

Don’t be intimidated by the park’s size, because it’s totally doable to visit for just a couple of days. Check out everything you can do in Glacier National Park in just 48 hours for inspiration.

17. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe seems like the more upscale, artsy, and design-focused part of New Mexico — and I love it! While other parts of the state have their own character, Santa Fe served up that quintessential Southwestern vibe that most people picture when they think of New Mexico.

This is where you’ll find some of the finest restaurants, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA). The Meow Wolf Museum was a trippy wonderland, and the galleries of Canyon Road had me enchanted. It’s a solo traveler’s paradise, with many awesome things to do .

18. Bayfield, Wisconsin

Midwesterners are known for being friendly, and they lived up to their reputation when I visited Bayfield, Wisconsin. It’s an artsy town with outgoing residents, and it’s small enough that it feels intimate, yet big enough that there is plenty to do. Join a kayaking or boat trip, or take a drive around to the various orchards.

There are plenty of beaches and quirky hangouts as well, and camping opportunities abound. If you visit in the winter, the famous caves ice over, which looks incredible. If you’re into photography and the outdoors, then you will absolutely love this little town on Lake Superior, the jumping-off point for the Apostle Islands .

Book your stay in Bayfield here.

19. Chicago, Illinois

Visiting such a large city solo gives you a sense of anonymity that can be exciting. When I lived in Chicago, I loved going on solo adventures all over town and discovering cultural gems, quirky restaurants, and unexpected museums. Each neighborhood in Chicago has a personality of its own, filled with endless adventures. Whether you’re staying for a couple of days or a few weeks, you can be sure that Chicago lives up to the hype of its being one of the most fascinating cities in the country.

No matter if you visit during the frigid winter or the lively summer, don’t miss out on an architecture boat tour — Chicago is bursting with history, and many stories come to the surface through its unique architectural history. You can also take a tour of the legendary Art Institute of Chicago before opening hours, for a VIP experience.

I recommend that solo travelers choose accommodations that are in the Loop (downtown) area or close to an L train (Chicago’s metro) for easy access to public transport. This will give you the freedom to move around town without having to navigate the buses or use rideshares, which can get expensive, especially if you’re on your own.

If you are looking for ways to save money, check out all these incredible things to do in Chicago for free !

20. Detroit, Michigan

Although it’s known as the Motor City, there’s so much more to Detroit than cars and engines. It has a reputation for being one of the most historically rich destinations in the country, let alone the Midwest. It’s famous for its contributions to music, industry, and architecture especially.

Start your solo trip to Detroit with a walking tour that highlights the city’s beauty and architectural gems. You also won’t want to miss a trip to Belle Isle, a massive, 982-acre island park home to a conservatory, aquarium, museum, and nature center. Who knew you could find a peaceful green paradise in such an industrial place?

That’s what makes Detroit so special for a solo trip, though. You could spend hours walking around town, getting a feel for its urban flair, and then head somewhere else to connect with nature and find solitude.

There is so much to do in Detroit , you might find yourself going back over and over again for a solo trip or otherwise.

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is the perfect place for solo female travelers ; there’s something for everyone here (check out our vegan guide !). You’ll find a fascinating and rich cultural history, one that you can discover over a long weekend, and then of course NOLA is known for Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras . If it’s your first trip, stay in a boutique hotel on Royal Street, right near the allegedly haunted LaLaurie Mansion , or check out our list of boutique hotels in New Orleans . While you may have heard of the Garden District and the French Quarter, you absolutely cannot miss the Bywater district where you’ll find hipster art and culture with a Southern twist.

Though New Orleans is a large city, you can easily get around via public transportation (bus or streetcar), or navigate on foot. You’ll be surrounded by tourists and locals and as with any city, exercise precautions. Our New Orleans packing list will help pack to get the most out of your trip.

Book your stay in New Orleans here.

22. Austin, Texas

In recent years, Austin has completely exploded in popularity. More and more young people are choosing to transplant themselves to this hip Southern city, and I can’t blame them. There’s so much to do there — from catching live music to the summer street festivals and top-notch museums, this city has it all.

Austin is the perfect solo destination for travelers who enjoy meeting other people on the road. It’s very social, with bustling restaurant, café, and bar scenes. Go vintage shopping at North Loop Vintage Shops, see the city via bike tour , or connect with your inner child at the Museum of Ice Cream . It’s no wonder Austin is such a popular destination for travelers, solo or otherwise.

23. Big Bend, Texas

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s certainly how it felt exploring Big Bend National Park . The sky, the landscape, and the wide open spaces felt endless. Plus, Texans are friendly.

Check out the Windows, watch the sunset on the Rio Grande, and hike til your heart’s content in one of the biggest national parks in the system.

24. Nashville, Tennessee

Famously a destination for girls’ trips and bachelor bashes, Nashville has a bit of a reputation for being a party city. Maybe as a solo traveler, this is exciting to you. If it’s not, no worries! There is much more to Nashville than its vibrant nightlife.

Nashville is bubbling over with historic sites, street festivals, live shows, and much more. It’s also one of the cheapest destinations in the USA and has plenty of free things to do . The Tennessee State Museum and Cooter’s Place Museum are among many free museums one can visit; there are also plenty of parks and the legendary Music City Walk of Fame.

When you travel solo, you don’t have anybody to split transportation and accommodation costs with, so finding affordable destinations makes a big difference in how much you can stretch your dollar. Nashville is my top pick for an affordable solo trip.

25. Islamorada, Florida

Also known as the Village of Islands, Islamorada is a beautiful destination for a solo traveler. The best time to visit is during the winter or early spring when hurricanes are raging somewhere else. When you get here, it’s super easy and affordable to navigate the town with the free taxi-service in electric vehicles called Freebee .

Islamorada has beautiful snorkeling (interested in snorkeling in Key Largo ?), awesome fishing opportunities, and uninhabited mangrove islands to explore. If you rent your own boat, you can go to some of the best off-shore reefs and fishing spots; if you rent a kayak, you can check out the historic ghost town of Indian Key. 

Water-based activities aren’t for everyone though, so hop on the road and drive over to Windley Key to walk along giant walls of carved limestone. Islamorada also has a thriving local arts culture, supported especially by the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District. Plus there are beautiful beaches (check out the best beaches in Key Largo ), and vibey restaurants where you can find locally caught seafood, live entertainment, and activities like feeding the tarpon. Uniquely situated among the rest of the Florida Keys, you can also conveniently take a bus north towards Key Largo or south towards Key West , stopping at tropical destinations along the way like those in Marathon and Big Pine .

Book your stay in Islamorada here (the hotel also offers fishing charters!).

26. Miami, Florida

Colorful and vibrant, Miami stands out as one of the most unique cities in the US. Between hearing salsa at all hours of the day in Little Havana and finding murals from world-renowned artists throughout the city, your senses will be delighted here.

If you thought Miami was all about crowded beaches and roaring nightclubs, think again. It’s a great place for solo female travelers, because of the abundance of things to do in Miami . Plus, the city has an excellent reputation for being extremely hospitable, and even quite safe in general.

Whether you are looking for a beach vacation where you can soothe your worries with a dip in the ocean or a full-on intercultural experience, you’ll find it in Miami.

27. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is dripping with Southern charm, and definitely has plenty to do to keep any solo traveler occupied. Some travelers describe it as the closest thing to a fairytale, and judging by the elaborate architecture, towering oak trees with Spanish moss, and overall historical atmosphere, I think they’re right.

Fall in love with Savannah by hopping on an e-bike tour to see the city’s highlights. As it’s such a globally recognized soul food destination, get a taste by taking a food tour . Both of these activities are great if you want to have a bit of social interaction with other travelers, but if you want to hit the town solo, make sure to spend time strolling through the Historic District and River Street.

Ready to be enchanted? Check out this ultimate Savannah Guide for more ideas of what to do and where to eat.

28. Washington, DC

Our nation’s capital city is undoubtedly the mega-hub for incredible historical sites and museums, such as those at the National Mall . Personally, I prefer going to museums solo, so I can move through each exhibit at my own pace. I’m that girl that needs to read every placard and see every little thing, so going by myself gives me the freedom to do that without holding anybody else up.

If this is also you, Washington DC will be heavenly to visit alone. Get up before dawn to see the way the rising sun illuminates the Lincoln Memorial, because nobody can stop you. This city is truly magical at sunrise, before the hustle and bustle of the day begins.

You can also grab a seat on a historic hop-on-hop-off landmarks tour for another self-paced option. Or, if you prefer your history lesson a bit spookier, check out this haunted history ghost tour .

The Northeast

29. cape cod, massachusetts.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a family-friendly beach destination. Because it’s safe, easy to explore and absolutely gorgeous, it’s especially suited to solo female travelers. It’s also only an hour away from Boston and Providence.

If you have a car, you can more efficiently explore the ocean beaches and epic sand dunes. On the bay side, you’ll get breathtaking sunsets, which are even more spectacular at low tide when the colors reflect off the sand flat puddles.

If you like to hike, try the 25-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail , which runs from Wellfleet to Dennis. You can rent a bike in outposts along the trail and deviate to marshes, lakes and cranberry bogs. If you’re looking for a more relaxing adventure, Wellfleet has drive-in movies and a weekend flea market. Gay-friendly Provincetown has restaurants serving the legendary clam chowder, nightlife, shop-til-you-drop opportunities and whale-watching excursions .

Book your stay on Cape Cod here.

30. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley nothing like New York City , yet the Big Apple is only an hour away. Here you’ll find farmers markets and mom ‘n’ pop shops in place of grocery stores and chain restaurants, and gorgeous views accessible via many outdoor activities, such as rock climbing and hiking. Some of the best rock climbing is at “the Gunks,” or you can explore trails at Harriman or Bear Mountain State Park or experience the Walkway over the Hudson .

There are so many pocket towns, called “hamlets,” where you can walk through orchards, browse in art galleries, and skip along the railway. The valley is also an excellent place for a road trip, especially during the fall when all the leaves are starting to change color.

Though the United States is huge, and no list could ever do justice to the wealth of places to see and experience, these are a few of our favorites. I hope this list helped you to get a sense of where to start — or continue — your solo journey.

If you have some favorite solo spots to share, please tell me in the comments below!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Ijana Loss says

01/21/2018 at 7:31 am

I’ve actually been kind of thinking I wanted a list like this for a while! There are tons of articles about the best places in the USA to visit, but this list pertaining specifically to solo travel is great! And I love how many of these places don’t need a car to get around; I would much rather use public transport or my feet if possible

Kristin says

01/22/2018 at 2:22 am

Which is a rarity back home, but I agree!

01/21/2018 at 3:32 pm

Hey there! Glad you have added a post about the US, this is awesome. I love the Western US in my travels, hard to believe it is the same country! Here are my thoughts to add to this nice post plus some Eastern US call-outs solo or with friends, hope this is helpful as I have traveled a lot of the East:

1. Minneapolis and New Orleans: travel 3-4 hours north of Minneapolis to Lake Itasca, and an hour downstream of New Orleans and you will get to see the beginning and end of the mighty Mississippi River! There is St. Paul, MN, Minneapolis’ sister city, interesting history and it is the capital of Minnesota. You can walk in comfort for miles through downtown Minneapolis even in winter through the Minneapolis Skyway System, an engineering achievement.

2. Oregon coast: One of the most breathtaking views and experiences I have ever had was a rare sunny day along the Oregon coast. I got to see the coastline specifically near Florence, Oregon with rocks sitting on the beach several stories tall, temperate rain forests (not all rain forests are tropical) with trees hugging the cliff sides maybe 1000 feet steep if not more, sliding down to the beautiful blue ocean. Then there are the huge sand dunes (not like Namibia, but really neat). June is the best time to get it to clear up, that is the catch, having the weather cooperate (visibility).

For those who are on the Eastern side of the US, besides Cape Cod you’ve got:

3. The warm ocean beaches stretching from North Carolina (south of Cape Hatteras) to Florida: NC is quiet/quaint, South Carolina lots to do, so need to avoid busy season, Charleston, SC my favorite for history, Georgia coast for nature (loggerhead nesting) or for rustic privacy (11 private islands) or resort fancy vacations, Florida for tropical feel or exciting Miami, or more relaxed feel of the Gulf coast, or see the Everglades, swim with manatees and dolphins. 4. The FL Keys: Drive it or bike it, includes incredible bridges like the Seven Mile Bridge over the water 5. Niagara Falls, 6. New York City (you can go solo here, I have, the food is great, Manhattan is fun, 15% is park land, can do it too at a reasonable price if flexible), 7. Washington, D.C (use mass transit you are set, so much history and history being made, Smithsonian, it’s all free! Saw every museum then they built 3 more!), 8. West Virginia-Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway down to NC Smoky Mountains: For those into mountains instead of beaches, not as steep as the West, but so green, lush, and prehistoric (most diverse species of trees in North America)! 9. Maine coastline up to Canadian border: Gorgeous, rocky coastline, ending your trip at Pembroke, ME and see the “Reversing Falls” (yes the tides are so big there that the roaring cascades stop and reverse, need to get there 1 hour or so before high tide). If go into Canada, Bay of Fundy tide change biggest in the world. You can do a lot of this by bike! I have this in my travel plans soon!

I’d love to visit the Keys

02/27/2018 at 6:25 am

Yes, the Keys are great and offer some fantastic diving opportunities among other things. Morehead City, NC as well as Flower Garden Banks off Texas are great options as well in this regard! (but nothing like Rajat Ampat I am sure and I can only speak for the East Coast, I bet you could list off the top of your head spots to go out West! 🙂 ).

04/25/2019 at 3:58 am

Omg – you have to go to the Keys. I think Key West is closer to New Orleans than Miami. And, while you are at it jump down to the BVI.

Brittany Quaglieri says

01/22/2018 at 11:37 am

As a born-and-raised Cape Codder, I enthusiastically second it as a great destination for solo travelers! I take a solo trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket (sometimes both!) every year. Thanks for including me in this post!

03/15/2018 at 11:08 am

GReat list! I would add Portland Oregon, and Eugene and Bend Oregon!

JD White says

03/23/2018 at 10:46 pm

Wow, what a list! I’d have to agree on San Francisco. I definitely left my heart there last April! Have you considered exploring more in the prairie regions? I might have some suggestions!

03/25/2018 at 8:20 pm

Feel free to add them here!

Alissa M says

05/28/2018 at 4:17 pm

Charleston SC is also a gorgeous destination & one easy to traverse solo. Historic neighborhoods are breathtaking.

One can easily walk much of the city, along with a free trolley and many bicycle cabs

05/29/2018 at 12:51 am

Thanks for the addition! I’d love to check out the South.

03/28/2019 at 11:46 pm

Hi Kristin,

I’m planning a trip to Alaska for northern light in September, I want to visit some places in the west coast of US after 1 week in Alaska.

My questions are: 1. Can you share typical places suit for solo traveler in the west coast as I plan to spend 1 week there? I’m not into shopping 2. Is it safe for girl to travel alone there 3. Are there public transportation eg: subway, bus

The itinerary is : Ho Chi Minh city –> Alaska –> West Coast –> Ho Chi Minh city

Thank a lot advance. Leu

04/01/2019 at 5:14 pm

Hi Leu, There will probably not be dorms in Alaska that you can use. I wish that hotel availability was better there. It might be more expensive but worth it! I would travel there solo, though Anchorage does have some crime. Sadly the public transport in Vietnam is much better than in the US so renting a car is best!

George Fox-Edwards says

04/30/2019 at 5:49 am

I wish I’d read this post when I roadtripped the West coast of the US! So much adventure to be had, let alone epic sights to see. Can’t believe I’d never heard of Moab before, that’s been swiftly added to the bucket list!

05/01/2019 at 6:23 pm

Moab is soooo awesome!

Solo Female Traveler says

09/13/2019 at 8:29 pm

Oh my gosh. My next travel destination: The Big Island! I definitely believe Hawaii is the most friendliest place and ideal for solo travelers. Amazing post! 🙂

09/16/2019 at 1:37 am

John Harper says

01/11/2020 at 4:42 am

Las Vegas is on my bucket list. This list is awesome to explore USA. What time do you recommend to visit Big Sur?

01/12/2020 at 9:32 pm

Probably September. The weather is still nice and the kiddies are back in school so fewer tourists. However that’s close to our burning season which seems to be a yearly thing now so hard to say.

02/07/2021 at 6:36 pm

I’ve been looking where to vacation as a solo female for a year now. I want to pull the trigger this March. I’ve narrowed it down to Utah or South Dakota. History and mountains are my interest. Thanks for the website. It was very informative

02/09/2021 at 9:43 am

Denise says

09/12/2021 at 10:57 am

I am turning 50 in March and would like to plan a trip that involves being active : like hiking , yoga beaches . Any advice ?

Mikaela says

03/02/2022 at 8:54 pm

I am planning a little solo road trip around the Southwest this spring and am really wondering about the free campsites you mentioned around the desert, especially Utah! I am sure I would stumble upon them somehow during my wandering, but for the sake of some broad planning and peace of mind, could you reccomend some free campsite areas? How did you find them, asking around or a cool website or both? Any tips are greatly appreciated ??

03/07/2022 at 10:09 am

Yes, look specifically for Bureau of land management areas on maps. When you are on BLM land, look for little side roads. Those almost always lead to an area where you can camp. You just have to be at least a mile from the road and not visible from major roadways. You also have to leave no trace so keep in mind that these areas do not have any services including bathrooms. Quite often, you will also need a 4WD vehicle. You can also look at freecampsites.net or the dyrt. Sometimes those are decent resources.

Chrish Smith says

03/02/2022 at 9:55 pm

I read a lot of Blog Post on Solo Travel but this blog are really interesting and I never read blog topic like this. Your writing skill Awesome!

03/07/2022 at 10:07 am

12/01/2023 at 6:13 am

My name is Donna,I would like to go on a Solo weekend, where no driving is involve,just walking from sites to sites and affordable. And Amtrax is my way of getting to my weekend getaway. 3-4 hours is my train ride.

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Solo Vacations: The 20 Best Places to Travel Alone in the U.S.

These destinations make traveling solo easy — and extra fun.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Traveling alone is all about freedom and independence — freedom to go where you want, when you want, and independence in your ability to visit new places and meet new people without the crutch of a travel companion. It's not for everyone, but those willing to venture off on their own are rewarded with a compromise-free vacation and unforgettable experiences. Exciting things just seem to happen when you're traveling solo.

But where to go? If you're just testing the waters of solo travel, you might want to stay close to home, which is where these U.S. destinations come in handy. Whether you dream of a spa vacation with plenty of time to relax and reset, a trip packed with activities, or a soul-searching expedition, these U.S. destinations cater to the solo traveler, thanks to their ease of transportation and large selection of things to do.

Ready to book your next solo trip? Read on for the best places to travel alone in the U.S.

Naples, Florida

If you have your heart set on a beach vacation, consider Naples, a relatively small community in southwest Florida. There are plenty of ways a solo beach traveler can occupy themselves in Naples. You can check out the beach at Naples Pier, go kayaking in the mangroves , or hit the links at one of the area's 90+ golf courses. If you're looking for an activity that will leave a big grin on your face, book a dolphin watching cruise from Marco Island , just 30 minutes south of Naples. Plus, the city was ranked number one in a recent list of safest places to live the U.S. , thanks to its low crime rates.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston may be a big city, but it can often feel like a small town. Thanks to its walkability, you'll be able to explore the city's historic center on foot and can take the T, the local subway system, across the Charles River to Cambridge. In Boston, you'll find a wellspring of history and culture in museums like the fun Boston Tea Party Museum and the impressive Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , the site of one of the world's most famous art heists.

Boulder, Colorado

Those looking for quiet solo travel in the U.S. can spend their days exploring the mountains and hills surrounding Boulder. Eldorado Canyon State Park is just 20 minutes south of downtown, the approximately two-mile trail up Flagstaff Mountain is just 15 minutes to the west, and the iconic Flatirons (red sandstone formations) are less than 10 minutes away by car. And If you're feeling social, head to Pearl Street Mall , a bustling pedestrian-only street with some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and bars.

Portland, Oregon

Not everyone feels comfortable eating out at a restaurant alone, especially when traveling solo, but Portland makes mealtime a nonissue, thanks to its bustling food cart scene. There are many food cart parks scattered about the city where you can go and peruse a diverse offering of cuisine, from pizza to Senegalese, and enjoy your meal in a atmospheric and fun shared space. Food aside, Portland's reliable transportation, great parks, and community vibe make this city an easy choice for people traveling alone. Between the good meals, you can also enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or browse the shelves at the famous Powell's Books .

Asheville, North Carolina

Pierre Leclerc Photography/Getty Images

If your perfect vacation includes hiking and biking during the day and gulping down beers with new friends at night, there's arguably no better place than Asheville, a city situated in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. Bikers will want to tackle the Blue Ridge Parkway , while hikers can head to the Craggy Pinnacle Trail (an approximately one-mile hike with serious views) or climb Mount Pisgah (2.6 miles round-trip). After a day in the mountains, reward yourself with a beer on the pup-friendly patio at Wicked Weed Brewing .

Sedona, Arizona

Traveling solo may be the only time you're able to truly check out from the grind and relax. That's why spa destinations like Sedona are so perfect for solo travelers. In addition to beautiful scenery, Sedona is packed with spas and wellness offerings. For a full resort experience, book a stay at the Amara Resort and Spa , or test out a few of the city's plentiful day spas: A Spa for You and Sedona's New Day Spa are long-standing favorites.

Charleston, South Carolina

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Art lovers will find themselves in their element in this colorful coastal city in South Carolina. The small city of Charleston is home to over 35 fine art galleries and hosts an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month. If you're hoping to make some art yourself, the French Quarter is sure to inspire, while the city's warm southern hospitality will make you feel right at home. If the temperature is right, you can even take a trip out to Isle of Palms, to enjoy some quality time on the beach.

Nashville, Tennessee

If your idea of a dream solo trip is getting out and meeting new people, book a ticket to Nashville and let the city of music connect you to others. The Basement​​ , a live music venue known for its cozy vibes and spacious patio, is a must, as is 3rd and Lindsley . Just don't leave the city without trying the spicy fried chicken at Hattie B's . A trip to Nashville is also a chance to try out one of its best hotels like the classic Hermitage Hotel.

Portland, Maine

This may be the second Portland on the list, but this one has a coastal advantage. From the seaside city you can hop on a ferry or boat charter, or eat your way through the city's best lobster rolls at Luke's Lobster . When you're not out enjoying the water or stuffing your face with deliciously fresh seafood, you can meander in and out of the shops and boutiques at the historic Old Port.

San Francisco, California

When you're traveling solo, public transportation is key (no one wants to foot the bill for a weekend full of Uber rides). That's where cities like San Francisco shine. Between Muni buses, trains, streetcars, and cable cars, you can get to every corner of the city without hopping in a cab. Surrounded by beautiful bay views and offering easy access to experience a Redwood forest in Muir Woods , there are plenty of things to do in and around San Francisco.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, and home to quaint B&Bs and beautiful Victorian homes, Bayfield is a warm and welcoming coastal destination and one of the loveliest small towns in the U.S. Solo travelers can roam the intimate downtown or head to the nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , best known for its series of caves that freeze during the winter months.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Just off California's iconic Highway 1 is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a small beach city on the Monterey Peninsula that will capture your heart the moment you see it. Traveling solo is no problem here, as the city offers plenty to do — surfing, sea animals, and a village-style center that feels like it belongs in a storybook. However, solo travelers may feel most at ease exploring the many art galleries like the Carmel Art Association and Bennett Sculpture .

Boise, Idaho

Boise is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Solo travelers will find riverside walking and biking trails that run right through town, skiing (in the winter) and hiking (in the summer) at the city's Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area , and easy access to mountain towns like McCall and ski areas like the rapidly growing Tamarack Resort .

Savannah, Georgia

 Marje/ Getty Images

Savannah's welcoming nature makes solo travel a breeze. If you're feeling social, join a haunted pub crawl through town or book an architectural tour . And if you're looking for a quiet escape, rent a bike and explore the history-rich city on two wheels. The best time to visit Savannah is in the fall and winter, when the temperatures are cooler and you can embrace the spooky spirit during Halloween when the city goes all out with on-theme activities .

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As you might guess, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors since the early 1900s. For solo travelers, there's nothing like a serene soak in the natural thermal waters found on the historic Bathhouse Row, followed by a refreshing drink of spring water and a lazy hike through the dense woods at Hot Springs National Park . In addition to the gorgeous scenery of the park, you can also discover it's unique history as a wellness destination .

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole may be home to a world-renowned ski area , mouthwatering cuisine, and high-end galleries, but you'll still find Old West-style bars where cowboys throw back PBRs (check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar ). It's the perfect place to throw on a Stetson and dress the part for a night or two. The town itself offers plenty to do when you're not drinking or skiing, like rodeo nights at the Jackson Hole Rodeo and incredible pastries at the James Beard-recognized Persephone Bakery .

Seattle, Washington

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

If you want access to nature without sacrificing big-city amenities, Seattle offers an ideal balance. Spend a couple of days checking out Pike Place Market (don't miss a cup of mac n' cheese from Beecher's ), going to the top of the Space Needle , and visiting the Museum of Pop Culture before hopping aboard a ferry and getting away from it all. From the heart of Seattle, you can take a boat across Elliott Bay to Bainbridge Island and onto Olympic National Park , home to both glacier-capped mountains and 70 miles of wild coastline.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

It's been said that one can hardly be called an architect if they haven't designed something in Minneapolis — the city showcases work from Jean Nouvel, Herzog & de Meuron, César Pelli, and Frank Gehry, among others. The city's love of design is also noticeable in the hotel scene, where sophistication meets Midwestern hospitality. So, while it's perfectly acceptable to wander through the city looking up, you don't want to miss a cruise on one of the famous bike paths, which wind past lakes that are perfect for a dip in the summertime.

Salt Lake City, Utah

It may be Utah's largest city, but Salt Lake City doesn't feel like a giant metropolis. Maybe it's the fact that it's surrounded by mountains or the open expanse of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island State Park to the west. Either way, this friendly city has everything a solo traveler could want — great food (check out Feldman's Deli ), plenty of sun-drenched days, and easy access to both the mountains and water. Among the many things to do in town, you will also have your pick of exciting day trips to nearby state parks, or you can use the city as a launchpad to explore Utah's stunning geology at national parks like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon .

Fort Collins, Colorado

dlewis33/E+/Getty Images

If you're a beer lover, head to Fort Collins, a Colorado town with plenty of heart and really good beer. Start your tour of the city in the taproom of New Belgium Brewing (the company behind Fat Tire) and follow it with a pint at a few lesser-known breweries — we recommend Zwei Brewing Co. , Maxline Brewing , and Black Bottle Brewery . By the end of the day, you'll have your own beer-loving posse to explore the city with. Solo travelers will love the atmosphere of the downtown area, which is so charming it was the inspiration for Walt Disney when designing Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland.

10 Cheap Places to Travel Solo as a Female

As a woman, there is a lot to keep in mind when deciding to travel on your own. Beyond your interests and wanderlust list, it's also important to consider safety. Budget also comes into play. Solo travel, male or female, means not necessarily being able to share the cost of accommodations with a partner or friend. That can mean paying more for overnight stays. For whatever reason you're on a budget, we think you'll find these cheap solo travel destinations for females a great resource.

Before planning your next solo travel trip, checkout HomeExchange as well and how it's a great way to travel affordably and get important insights into your destination from like-minded locals who can offer further insights for solo female travelers.

Cheap Places to Travel Solo as a Female in the US

Harbor springs, mi: our waterfront favorite for solo female travels.

Harbor Springs is a charming lakeside paradise on the shores of Lake Michigan. It's our waterfront favorite for solo female travelers who aren't looking to spend a fortune in famous beach towns. The small community is safe and welcoming so you'll settle in quite nicely for a solo stay here. You can enjoy waterfront strolls, and in warm spring and summer months a swim off the sandy shores of the lake for a rejuvenating dip in the turquoise waters. For water sports enthusiasts, Lake Michigan always has local offerings that won't disappoint.

Berkley Springs, WV: Bargain Spa Destination for Ladies of Leisure

Another small town favorite of ours is also a spring town. This time Berkeley Springs in West Virginia. Its claim to fame is that's America's first spa town! The local spa offering remans quite enticing today, with local mineral springs where you can soak it all in. For ladies of leisure who want to indulge in a some self care without spending too much , there a tons of local day spas to cater to whatever service you might be looking for. The local culture of rest and relaxation gives it a friendly atmosphere solo female travels will find reassuring, with pricing that is as friendly as the people are!

St. Augustine, FL: An Affordable European Alternatiive

St. Augustine is full of beautiful colonial European architecture and steeped in history. This makes it an affordable alternative for anyone female solo traveler who might otherwise pay a pretty penny to cross the pond for a taste of Europe. While it can be more expensive to live here than other Florida beach towns, budget travellers will appreciate St. Augustine's abundance of free attractions . Free activities include admiring the architecture of Flagler College and enjoying panoramic views from the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse. It's also fun to visit the the city's historic Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park . It's considered a great destinations for solo travelers who continually say they feel safe throughout its neighborhoods.

Austin, TX: Friendly & Affordable Big City Living

If you're in the market for great food, music, and friendly and fun locals than Austin is a great city destination that won't break the bank. It has a relatively high safety rating and is considered especially safe in popular tourist areas. Attractive pricing and taxes has led to a big boom in the city, drawing many companies to setup shop here and enticing young and dynamic employees to follow suit. The result is a youthful and vibrant city spirit with so much going on. It's our top pick for a city destinations for anyone looking to get out and experience a bit of culture as a solo female traveler without breaking the bank .

San Diego, CA: Sea, Sun, Surf, & Safety

Another great safe city destination for solo females travelers is San Diego. We like San Diego as it's a safer destination statistically speaking than other big coastal California cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. Violent crime rates are consistently lower here and it's considered a safer city to live in and visit. So if you want some laid back coastal California vibes for your solo female trip, pick this So-Cal city. You can catch some surf, enjoy dining in the downtown district, and visit historic sites like the old Town San Diego which was the first European settlement in California. While it's an expensive you live here, San Diego still has plenty of affordable neighborhoods close to downtown with attractive pricing .

Cheap Solo Travel Destinations Abroad as a Solo Female

Sevilla, spain: savings in the safest city in spain.

There are a few reasons we love Sevilla , Spain as one of our cheap solo travel destinations for females. For one, it's consistently ranked among the safest cities in Spain. It's large enough to enjoy a wide range of things to do, while calm enough to feel safe and secure. In Spain, the streets tend to stay lively late, so even in the evening you can enjoy walking everywhere in this city without feeling vulnerable and alone. For all it has to offer, it remains quite affordable as well. Plus, one of the solo traveler perks of Spain is you can dine out affordably on your own by enjoying tapas for casually dining everywhere.

Berlin, Germany: Berlin is Ideal for Budget Female Travelers

This is an excellent choice for solo female travelers seeking a safe destination. Berlin ranks as one of the safest cities in Europe , with low crime providing peace of mind for female travelers exploring alone. Berlin also won't break the bank either. Its cost of living index is lower than many other major European cities. Public transportation is safe, efficient, and reasonably priced. You can visit landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, admire street art in neighborhoods like Friedrichshain, and indulge in delicious and affordable street food at markets such as Markthalle Neun. With its combination of safety, affordability, and activities, Berlin is a top choice for solo female travelers seeking affordable adventure.

Dublin, Ireland: Solo Female Budget Travelers are in Luck

A 2022 study ranked Ireland as the safest destination for solo female travelers. With a great national safety rating, and an affordable to visit capital city, Dublin is another one of our cheap solo travel destinations for females. Exploring the city's history is also affordable , with many museums and historical sites offering discounted or free entry. From strolling along the River Liffey to visiting iconic landmark like Trinity College, there are lots of free things to do. You can also explore the gardens and grounds of Dublin Castle for free. The Irish are also known for being incredibly friendly while will make solo travelers feel welcome.

Montevideo, Uruguay: Safety & Savings in South America

South America can be super enticing for budget travelers, but its reputation for safety, especially for female solo travelers can be a bit questionable. If you're keen to go to South America but want to play it safe as a woman on her own, we recommend Uruguay. The  Global Peace Index for   2023 ranked Uruguay as the top country in South America for safety . Where better places to start than its capital of Montevideo with a laid-back atmosphere, great weather, and beautiful beaches. There is also art deco architecture to enjoy, tango, and tasty local food.

Seoul, South Korea: Cheap Solo Travel Destination for Females in Asia

Seoul is repeatedly praised as being a very safe city , making it an ideal destination for solo travelers to visit. While the cost of living in South Korea is steadily increasing, it remains entirely feasible to explore its capital on a budget. With an extensive and reasonably priced transit network, diverse dining choices that cater to various budgets, and an array of affordable activities and attractions, South Korea offers ample opportunities for a wallet-friendly travel experience. This captivating destination can be surprisingly affordable, allowing travelers to make the most of their visit without breaking the bank.

Use HomeExchange for Cheap Places to Travel Solo

When is comes to traveling along as a woman, the world is your oyster. Especially if you know what to expect and how to budget for solo travel. That's why HomeExchange is one of the greatest resources for cheap places to travel solo as a female. With GuestPoints or reciprocal exchange, you don't have to worry about covering the cost of accommodations on your own because you don't pay out of pocket. Plus, hosts are locals and likeminded travelers ready to give you the best insights and tips to get the most out of your trip while staying safe and feeling comfortable wherever you decide to go. Sign up today and start exploring all the possibilities...

10 Cheap Places To Travel For Solo Female Travelers

• Lisbon, Portugal: Relatively inexpensive accommodations in safe hostels, stunning views, and a thriving backpacker scene make it great for solo female travelers.
• Chiang Mai, Thailand: Low crime rates, plenty of things to do, and relatively inexpensive prices make it ideal for female solo travelers, with hiking and a fun party scene.
• Galway, Ireland: Live music, cobblestone streets, and friendly people make Galway a safe and budget-friendly city for solo travelers, with private hostel rooms for less than $25.

When traveling safely , it's important for women to understand what destinations offer relatively inexpensive accommodation, great things to see and do, and peace of mind. These spots balance the allure of being cheap solo vacation destinations with being welcoming to solo travelers and female-identifying people. Put one or several on the bucket list and start exploring!

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is an ideal spot for solo female travel , and Lisbon is no exception. Solo female travelers can find relatively inexpensive accommodations in safe hostels and experience lovely European charm with stunning views, grand architecture, and hospitality. It's also very walkable and has a thriving backpacker scene.

• Top Safety Tip: Opt for female-only dorm rooms if staying in a hostel
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: Lisbon is super walkable and has a tremendous backpacking community to meet up with
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: One can find a great hostel room for less than $15 a night

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand's crime rates are low and keep dropping , making it the ideal place for female solo travelers to journey safely. Plus, there are plenty of things to do, it's relatively inexpensive, and one can't beat the weather and food. While Bangkok is always an excellent bet for travel, the northern city of Chiang Mai is charming, cultural, and surrounded by lovely mountains.

• Top Safety Tip: Be careful riding on motorbikes, especially on winding mountain roads
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: There's plenty of hiking and a fun party scene where one can meet other travelers.
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: One can see everything, stay in a nice spot, and eat delicious food for less than $50 a day

Related: 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Charming Region In Thailand

Galway, Ireland

Ireland is a very good country for female solo travelers, and Galway is one of the safest cities . Enjoy tons of live music, beautiful cobblestone streets perfect for exploring, tasty food, and super friendly people. It's pretty safe in the heart of Galway, although the waterfront can get a bit lonely at night.

• Top Safety Tip: When walking late at night, stay in well-lit areas and away from the waterfront
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: It's a vast, walkable college town with plenty of live music, hostels, and pubs.
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: One can find private rooms in hostels for less than $25

Pamplona, Spain

Pamplona, Spain, is famously safe with very low crime levels . Although this city is most famous for its running with the bulls, there are plenty of other things to enjoy in Pamplona, including a fun cafe culture, excellent museums, and some of the best food in the country.

• Top Safety Tip: Always ask for a menu with prices, as sometimes tourist places overcharge
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: It's got a thriving city center and plenty of things to do that are fun alone or with a group.
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: There are plenty of low-cost and free walking tours to show you the best of the city.

Prague, Czech Republic

The Czech Republic's crown jewel, Prague, is very safe for solo travelers . With a lovely Old Town, stunning Prague Castle, and plenty of tiny streets to explore safely, Prague is a magical place. While one can roam freely at most times of day or night, pickpocketing still does happen.

• Top Safety Tip: Prague is very safe, but pickpocketing and crimes of opportunity still happen, so stay aware
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: It is a great backpacking community, super safe to walk even at night.
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: One can find plenty of hostel dorm rooms for around $10 a night .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Beautiful Buenos Aires, Argentina, is full of fantastic things to see and do . It's also extremely safe for solo travelers , surrounded by lovely nature, and has excellent food and hospitality. Since pickpocketing does happen, it's a smart idea only to carry the cash one needs.

• Top Safety Tip: Separate credit cards and cash
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: Free walking tours give one an excellent opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: One can get a great steak dinner for about $20

Vienna, Austria

There are plenty of things to do in Vienna , and it's also one of the safest cities in Austria for solo travel . Save money by staying in hostels and wandering through the stunning streets of Vienna for free. There are lovely cafes on every corner, plenty of street art, and a fun, unique vibe that makes it a joy to visit.

• Top Safety Tip: Watch belongings if taking overnight transportation
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: It is super safe to explore by oneself day or night
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: There are plenty of free walking tours all around the city

Related: 10 Things To Do In The Danube Valley: Complete Guide To Austria's Most Beautiful Destination

Geneva, Switzerland

Although Switzerland is a more expensive European country, there are plenty of ways to save money in places like Geneva. The Geneva City Pass gives discounts on top sights, plus visitors can enjoy free or discounted hiking around Geneva. Check out the lakes, enjoy delicious food, and have a ton of fun in this fabulous city .

• Top Safety Tip: Watch out for pickpockets and keep valuables in a purse or front pockets
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: There's tons of great hiking around the city, and it's safe to go it alone
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: One will find plenty of free hiking and cultural attractions all around Geneva .

Halifax, Canada

Beautiful Halifax is Nova Scotia's capital and a great place for visitors to enjoy the gorgeous Canadian Atlantic coast fully. This city is quirky, friendly, and full of exciting things to see. Plus, the friendly vibe makes it ideal for solo travelers.

• Top Safety Tip: Be careful swimming in Halifax Harbor
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: There is great public transportation that can take one to different parts of the city quickly and cheaply, so one doesn't need to spend tons of money on solo taxis.
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: One can enjoy great deals on pints and food at some of the city's iconic restaurants.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is one of the most cost-effective cities in Europe . It's eclectic, beautiful, and very walkable. The twin benefits of a safe city and inexpensive European fun make Zagreb very attractive to solo travelers.

• Top Safety Tip: Separate cash and cards and only carry what one needs
• Why It's Great for Solo Travelers: It's very easy to navigate public transportation and see all of the city on foot
• What Makes it Budget-Friendly: There is tons of accommodation options for roughly $20-$25 a night

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14 of the best destinations for solo female travellers

Discover the best destinations for solo female travellers, from rugged iceland and norway to the sugar-fine sandy beaches of new zealand and french polynesia.

L ong gone are the days when solo adventures were the domain of men. In fact, it’s estimated 84 per cent of solo travellers are female. In the words of Annie Lennox: “Sisters are doin’ it for themselves”. Feeling secure is always a priority, but there are plenty of safe places to stray off the beaten path. We’ve put together a bucket list of top travel destinations that are rated the safest for solo female travellers — places with high gender equality and low crime rates. These are destinations where it’s easy to meet people, mingle with friendly locals and heed the call of the open road.

Main photo: a traveller in Lisbon, Portugal (Alamy)

Best for foodies Spain has a lot to offer, whether you want to strap on your dancing shoes or soak up the artworks of Dali, Picasso and Gaudi. Explore the tapas bars of Barcelona , the toe-tapping flamenco halls of Madrid , the ski-able peaks of the Pyrenees and the wave-raked west coast ideal for surfing. The Women’s Danger Index study has ranked Spain the safest country for female solo travellers. However, it hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons in 2023, after several young women on holiday in Mallorca reported being gang-raped. Both groups were reportedly foreign tourists rather than locals.

Where to stay Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia is in the centre of Barcelona, near Gaudi’s La Pedrera building. It has comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar with excellent city views.

Best things to do in Barcelona

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Best Spain tours

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2. Singapore

Best for shopping The skyscraper-clad island nation of Singapore is smaller than some cities, but not only is it consistently ranked as the happiest country in Asia according to the World Happiness Report, it’s also considered the safest. With (sticky) summer temperatures all year round and spotless streets, it’s a shopping-mall metropolis famed for its cocktails and the only place in the world where the street-food stalls win Michelin stars.

Where to stay The luxury Naumi hotel has a whole floor dedicated to female travellers.

Best things to do in Singapore

Safest countries in the world

Best for city slickers Few countries fuse ancient and modern as seamlessly and intriguingly as Japan . Spend one day sleeping in a ryokan (traditional inn), soaking in hot springs or meditating with monks and the next gawking at neon-lit skyscrapers and sampling first-rate sushi. Japan is consistently ranked within the top ten safest countries in the world and you’ll find women-only subway cars and zero cat-calling. Best of all, dining alone is considered normal.

Where to stay The Akihabara Bay Hotel, an all-female capsule hotel in Tokyo .

Best things to do in Tokyo

Best for adventure Locals may have Viking blood coursing through their veins, but in 2021 the Global Peace Index ranked Iceland the most peaceful country in the world. This land of fire and ice is an adventure playground made of black-sand beaches, gnarly lava fields, volcanic geysers and troll-guarded valleys. Come winter, the sky can be streaked with the northern lights; the midnight-sun summers bring festivals aplenty. It’s home to only 360,000 so it’s easy to feel at ease amid the large-town mindset.

Where to stay The hippest hostel is Kex Hostel in Reykjavik .

Best things to do in Reykjavik

Best Iceland tours

5. Sri Lanka

Best for city slickers Frenetic India can feel full-on for solo travellers; Sri Lanka is the calmer, safer, alternative. With eight Unesco world heritage sites — including the ancient rock-top palace of Sigiriya and fresco-filled Dambulla caves — it provides tiers of vivid-green tea terraces, sandy beaches, towns lined with British, Dutch and Portuguese architecture and some of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. What’s more, the predominately Buddhist locals are peaceful and welcoming — just be sure to dress modestly.

Where to stay The female-friendly four-star Pledge Scape, Negombo.

Best Sri Lanka tours

6. New Zealand

Best for hiking Smaller than Australia, cheaper and home to Kiwis famed for their down-to-earth friendliness — New Zealand makes solo travel easy. And when you add in epic scenery — made famous by films such as The Lord of the Rings — featuring fjords, rugged mountains, rolling hills, sandy beaches and glaciers to hike, bike, swim and explore, it’s a compelling package. Plus, when you’re done you can dine on the freshest lamb and scallops and sip craft beer.

Where to stay Te Wahi Ora Women’s Retreat on Auckland’s west coast.

Best things to do in New Zealand

Where should I go in New Zealand?

Best for music lovers Rated one of the safest countries for solo female travellers by theWomen’s Danger Index and with excellent gender equality, landlocked Austria has a fairytale combo of castles and palaces set amid Alpine peaks, glaciers and waterfalls. While away the hours in the coffeehouses of Vienna , listen to the strains of Mozart, Strauss and Schubert (all born here) and indulge in plates of schnitzel and sachertorte. It’ll all have you yodelling like Maria from The Sound of Music.

Where to stay La Pura, Europe’s only health resort just for women.

8. Netherlands

Best for art lovers Equality is the calling card of the Netherlands — after all, it was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage — and its crime rate is low, so solo women can roam without concern here. We suggest starting in ever-evolving Amsterdam and biking to and fro between its clutch of world-class art museums: from the Rijksmuseum (filled with the Dutch masters) to the Van Gogh Museum and Rembrandt House.

Where to stay Amsterdam’s only female-only hostel, Hostelle.

Best things to do in Amsterdam

Best for bar lovers The weather may be wet, but the welcome is warm — Ireland is frequently hailed as one of the friendliest destinations in Europe. So rent a car and take in the green vistas of Connemara and Killarney national parks, peer over sheer cliffs on the Wild Atlantic Way, and look for leprechauns at Carlingford Lough. Finish the day by raising a glass of Guinness in a snug pub as local players gather for a traditional Irish music session.

Where to stay Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa charges no single supplements.

Most beautiful places in Ireland

10. Switzerland

Best for fresh air Neutral Switzerland is consistently at or near the top of gender equality surveys and is a very safe destination for solo travel. It’s also often heralded for quality of life, thanks in large part to its scenery: from the Toblerone-featured Matterhorn and Alpine mountain-encircled Interlaken, to the car-free medieval town of Lucerne and the blue Lake Geneva. Spend days hobnobbing with the glitterati in St Moritz, swimming in Bern’s city-centre river, or gorging on the world’s best chocolate.

Where to stay The women-only Josephine’s Guesthouse in Zurich.

Best for road trips Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the world, Norway also ranks high in gender equality surveys and is very female-friendly. Get steamy in Oslo’s riverside saunas, explore endless fjords in a rental car, discover Viking ships and visit up-and-coming Bodo, which will be a 2024 European Capital of Culture.

Where to stay The Grand Hotel in Oslo has a Ladies’ Floor designed by women for women.

Best things to do in Norway

12. French Polynesia

Best for beaches The Polynesians’ closeness to Mother Nature has bred a respect for the feminine and when you live in a palm tree-fringed, blue-sea paradise there’s little need for crime. And don’t believe it’s just a destination for honeymooning couples either. Solos can join cruises offering single cabins or even dormitories, rent a car to explore Mo’orea, or learn to scuba dive.

Where to stay Pick the private island of Vahine — aka the Island of Women.

13. Uruguay

Best for getting off the beaten track Squeezed between its brasher big brothers Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay is South America’s smallest and safest country — and politically stable to boot. Spend days admiring Montevideo’s architecture and sinking your teeth into an asado (barbecue), ride horses across flat and endless plains in the company of gauchos (cowboys), bubble away in hot spring and drink caffeine-rich maté with locals.

Where to stay The one-of-a-kind Casapueblo, near Punta del Este.

14. Portugal

Best for architecture lovers Awarded four out of five stars by solo women for ease of travel, Portugal is regularly listed among the Women’s Danger Index safest countries. Get lost amid Lisbon’s collision of Roman, Gothic and Baroque architecture and its riot of fifteenth century azulejos (tiles), laze on beaches visited by Atlantic breezes, listen to the sad strains of Fado music and gorge on delectable pastel de nata (custard tarts).

Where to stay Female travellers rate Zuzabed in Lisbon .

Best things to do in Lisbon

Best Portugal tours

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Inspired to find a holiday deal but yet to book your trip? Here are the best women-only tours * from our preferred providers.Or find a solo package deal with Jet2Holidays * or TUI *.

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The 13 best weekender bags for women in 2024, tested & reviewed.

Despite its name, the weekender bag is ideal for a variety of trips.

The Best Weekender Bags for Women

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Although they're available in traditional duffel styles, weekender bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them a luggage category of their own. Designed for overnight trips or a few days away, they can also be used as a personal item or carry-on bag depending on airline size restrictions.

Based on recent consumer reviews and our own testing, we've determined the best weekender bags for women – perfect for business, solo travel , girls trips , romantic weekend getaways and more.

Best Overall: BÉIS The Weekender

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Leather: Monos Metro Carry-All Duffel

Best with shoe compartment: calpak luka duffel.

• Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag

Best Duffel: Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag – XL

• Best With Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Best Rolling: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best organization: pakt one travel duffel – 28l, best for business: tumi voyageur contine weekender, best affordable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best luxury: mz wallace nik duffel.

• Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Best Foldable: LOJEL Niru – 24H Overnighter

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors).

Price: $108 or less

What started as a trendy bag is now a travel staple. The Weekender by BÉIS combines the right amount of style and efficiency, with features including a bottom compartment for shoes or other large items, a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate 13- and 15-inch devices, and a trolley sleeve. There's also a zippered exterior pocket, plus three additional pockets and a key leash inside. Largely made of poly canvas, The Weekender is structured yet provides just the right amount of "give" for squeezing those last-minute items in. The Weekender is available in a variety of colors and comes with a detachable strap.

What our editors say:

This is the weekender bag I didn't know I needed. To say it lives up to the hype is an understatement. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $260 or less

This vegan leather duffel has a classic look and is available in four colors, plus it provides numerous built-in organizational details. The exterior has a front slip pocket, and each end has a pocket with a magnetic snap closure. Inside, the bag features a soft cotton twill lining, a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a spacious zippered pocket and a slip pocket on each end of the bag.

For carrying, use the two top handles, the trolley sleeve, or the removable and adjustable padded strap. Made of ultra microfiber vegan leather, this structured bag resists scratches and abrasions, making it a standout choice for a leather weekender bag.

This vegan leather duffel exudes timeless luxury. Its structure makes it easy to pack, all of the pockets help keep you organized, and its polished look makes it appropriate for any getaway. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Price: $128 or less

While you can find several bags with specific shoe compartments, the unique design of the CALPAK Luka Duffel stands out. The exterior zippered compartment makes it easy to reach your spare pair whether you're ready to put your walking shoes on or you need to access that pair of flats after a business meeting. When not needed, the shoe compartment lays flat on the interior of the bag to give you more room for your weekend getaway essentials.

Constructed with a lightweight polyester, the bag is structured but not bulky. There are nine pockets (including the shoe pocket), along with a trolley sleeve, two shoulder-length handles and a removable carrying strap.

To say I love this bag is an understatement. I bought it a couple of years ago for my wedding, and it's been a go-to ever since. I adore the shoe compartment, which works well for flats or sneakers, and it lays flat if I don't need an extra pair of shoes. There's tons of organizational pockets, it has a trolley sleeve, it works as a personal item on a flight, and it's cute! – Rachael Hood

Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag in Cotton

Price: $120 or less

Vera Bradley's Large Travel Duffel Bag remains a classic choice for weekender bags. Available in a variety of patterns and solid colors, the latest cotton version of this bag includes four exterior pockets (one zipped, three slip) for easy access to the essentials, plus three elastic mesh pockets inside. The quilted material makes it especially lightweight as well as washable. Note that this same style in performance twill is slightly smaller, at 20 x 12.5 x 11.5 inches.

I love the simplicity of this bag. It holds everything I need, and after more than a decade of use (and several trips through the washing machine), it's still in excellent condition. – Amanda Norcross

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $245 or less

The stylish yet durable Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag in the extra-large size stores 35 liters of belongings and comes with a shoe bag, a detachable mesh pouch and a crossbody strap. If that's not enough, you'll find several mesh pockets inside for organization, including a zippered laptop sleeve that can fit most 16-inch laptops. On the exterior of the bag, the neoprene luggage sleeve is perfect for attaching the duffel to a rolling suitcase, and a small pocket above the handle can securely hold your phone or ID.

Plus, this duffel is a great choice when it comes to sustainable travel . The lining is made from recycled plastic water bottles, and the bag is 100% vegan. This weekender also comes in air mesh material.

I love the zippered shoe bag – which is big enough to fit a pair of small boots or a couple pairs of sandals – as well as buttons on the sides that allow the bag to be clipped down for more streamlined travel. Additionally, this weekender duffel is surprisingly lightweight for how durable it is. – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Best with Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Price: $295 or less

Featuring a clamshell design, this waterproof nylon bag opens flat for easy packing. There are two separate zippered interior compartments as well as an internal padded 16-inch laptop compartment. The thoughtfully designed weekender makes it easy to separate your travel essentials while maximizing packing space. On the exterior, there's a large front zippered pocket for reading materials, and the back features a hidden pocket behind the trolley sleeve for small items like your boarding pass or passport. For added versatility, the bag has two leather carrying handles and a removable shoulder strap.

This bag was a wow from the moment I opened it. The clamshell design makes packing a breeze. You can separate your clothes from other essentials and stow your laptop in its designated sleeve that is protected in the center of your bag. Since everything is divided, you can easily reach in to get your laptop out without spilling anything from your bag. – Rachael Hood

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Price: $165 or less

From the laptop pocket to the trolley sleeve, this mini bag packs a punch. There's an exterior front pocket for reading material or your boarding pass, an interior compartment with room for two to three outfits, and a small exterior zippered compartment that works well for a phone charger or earbuds. This rolling bag fits perfectly under the seat on most planes (even the small regional jets) and can be trolleyed with a larger carry-on or checked bag for added convenience.

For a weekend getaway or quick business trip, this is my go-to bag. I can maximize the packing space with compression packing cubes , put my laptop in the interior sleeve and fit all the essentials in this compact rolling style. It works well as an underseater or it easily fits in the overhead bin. I'm on and off flights with ease! – Rachael Hood

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $285 or less

This 2.0 version of the crowdfunded Pakt One is beloved for good reason, with a variety of useful organizational features. This carry-on duffel opens clamshell-style for easy packing, and a 16-inch padded laptop pocket separates the two main compartments. The 28L size of this bag may be able to fit under the seat on certain airlines if it's not fully packed, but at full capacity it is better suited to the overhead bin. If you want a bit more space, consider the 35L, which also fits carry-on size guidelines .

On one side of the exterior, a zippered pocket doubles as a luggage sleeve for attaching it to a suitcase; on the other side you'll find two zippered pockets, one of which has multiple smaller pockets and a key clip inside. Built-in accessory straps on top of the duffel allow you to secure bulkier items such as a jacket or tripod. There's also a hideaway side pocket for your water bottle that can be stashed when not in use. The duffel is made of recycled nylon with a water-resistant coating, and the company is committed to eco-conscious production, which includes plastic-free packaging.

I am super impressed by the thoughtful design of this weekender duffel. The organization is top-notch, and it folds up when not in use so it doesn't take up too much room. I've been able to fit around three to four days' worth of clothing, plus my toiletries, my laptop and a pair of shoes. The adjustable padded shoulder strap is pretty comfortable too. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $575 or less

This sophisticated style works well for business trips, weekend getaways and everything in between. This TUMI weekender is separated into two compartments. The upper compartment has a laptop sleeve (for an up to 13-inch PC or 14-inch MacBook), a removable interior water bottle holder, a large zippered pocket, a slip pocket and a key leash. The lower section is ideal for shoes or business documents; it can be reached through a zipper at the base of the upper compartment or accessed on the outside through a zipper. The exterior nylon shell has a front zippered pocket, a phone slip pocket and a trolley sleeve.

From the sleek exterior with contrasting metal hardware details, genuine leather accents, monogrammable leather charm and all the interior features, this bag perfectly blends function and elegance. It's rather lightweight, yet still holds a shape, and it can even be used as a work bag if needed. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

For less than $60, the Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag is a steal. The lightweight bag has a quilted exterior and a spacious interior, which makes this weekender option an ideal carryall for travel, work or the gym. It includes a medium interior zippered pocket and two small open pockets, plus 9-inch handles and a removable 25-inch crossbody strap. It's easy to wipe down when dirty, or you can even throw it in the washer. What's more, this bag can easily be used as a personal item, neatly fitting under the seat on most planes.

I've had this bag for six years and it's still in great shape. It fits a surprising amount of clothing and accessories, and its straps are plenty long enough so even when it's filled to the brim, it's comfortable to carry around. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Price: $325 or less

This understated quilted duffel has a lightweight construction, a hidden back slip pocket, a trolley sleeve, a phone slip pocket and two large zippered front pockets on the outside. There's also a pocket on each end for water or other items. The interior of the MZ Wallace Nik Duffel has a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, four slip pockets, a zippered pocket and a removable zippered pouch. The sleek quilted bag has Italian leather accents and provides a chic look for work or leisure trips. It also folds relatively flat for easy storage when you're not out exploring.

I've seen a lot of travelers with these bags over the years, and I can see why. I love the feel of this bag; it feels luxurious, yet it's not flashy or over the top – truly quiet luxury at its finest. I especially love the two large front zippered pockets, as you can put your 3-1-1 bag and other items you need to reach while traveling so you don't have to rifle through your whole bag in the security line. – Rachael Hood

Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Price: $350 or less

Flexible with a very large top opening design, this weekender bag works well for packing clothing and gear that may not fit well within a structured bag. The expandable bottom compartment has a removable divider for shoes or other items, and it can be accessed inside the bag or from the outside. There's a trolley sleeve, a removable shoulder strap and top carry handles depending on your needs. This large bag is great for weekend ski trips or bringing along your pillow . It can be a carry-on bag on most airlines, but it will need to go in the overhead compartment because of its size.

This bag works well for car trips, and it has space to pack for two people going on a weekend getaway. I really like the pliability of this bag, and I think it is a good choice for when I need to pack a pillow, a winter coat, cowboy boots, wrapped gifts or other larger items that don't necessarily fit in a small duffel. – Rachael Hood

Price: $155 or less

Constructed with 100% recycled nylon, this bag is ideal for travelers who are short on storage space. It folds flat into its storage pouch – which can be used for organization within the bag when traveling. The interior has a spacious zippered pocket for small items. The size of this bag is ideal for an overnight trip with room for toiletries, essentials and a full change of clothes. For a longer weekend trip, there's also the Niru 48H Weekender .

The size and quality of this bag are superior to other folding totes I've tried. It's very sturdy, the handles are comfortable to carry, the front slip pocket is convenient, and the leather details are a nice touch. – Rachael Hood

Also Recommended

LeSportsac Deluxe Large Weekender: Many travelers (our team included) love this bag. It's durable, offers several exterior and interior pockets, and folds down compactly when not in use.

Nomad Lane Bento Bag: This bag has exceptional organizational features (including a toiletry pouch and an electronics organizer), but it may be a little small for a weekender. If you want a personal item that fits under the plane seat, the Bento Bag is an excellent option for short trips or light packers.

Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender: Sophisticated yet understated, this nylon weekender bag with Italian leather trim is a classic travel bag. It is spacious and looks appropriate regardless of the setting. However, it does lack a luggage trolley sleeve, which makes it a bit limited in terms of carrying options.

Samsonite Virtuosa Weekender: This sleek and simple bag from the well-respected luggage brand is a solid choice, if slightly small for a weekend's worth of belongings. The Virtuosa Weekender has some convenient storage pockets and a luggage sleeve, but the strap can be a little uncomfortable when the bag is heavy.

How We Tested

Our team packed and tested more than 25 weekender bags from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see if you can pack for a weekend getaway in each bag, along with the durability, details and overall functionality. After taking these weekender bags on an array of car, plane and train trips, we've selected these weekender bags the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Travel Purses
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

The Best Places to Travel Alone

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Weekend Getaways

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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09/04/2024   05:00 (GMT+07:00)

Vietnam among best places for solo female travelers in 2024

British magazine time out has selected the nation among its list of best places for solo female travelers in 2024 who are heading to far-flung destinations in search of new friends, different cultures, and memorable experiences..

When it comes to the safest destinations for women backpacking throughout Southeast Asia, Thailand and Vietnam compete for the top spot. However, Vietnam is placed sixth on the world’s list and is a good place to start, the article wrote.

With a well-trodden tourist route stretching from the capital of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh in the south, the country boasts mountains, beaches, islands, and ancient villages like Hoi An and Hue, as well as some of the region’s best cuisine, Time Out reported.

Whether travelers make the journey by train, sleeper bus, or scooter, thousands of other solo travelers will also be making the same trip, it added.

Topping the list is Sri Lanka which is popular among backpackers as it is perfectly sized for a week or a month spent exploring the ancient UNESCO-listed sites.

Others places to make the list include Portugal, the Czech Republic, Japan, Guatemala, Vietnam, Australia, Greece, and New Zealand.

• Hoi An among world’s Top 10 best solo travel destinations
• Solo travelling, a new trend among young people
• Hanoi tops list of favourite places in Asia for solo travelers

travel news

Foreign media and vietnam tourism.

Complete list of winners from the 2024 CMT Music Awards

The 2024 CMT Music Awards took place on Sunday night at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas

Complete list of winners from the 2024 CMT Music Awards:

Video of the year: Jelly Roll, “Need A Favor”

Female video of the year: Lainey Wilson, “Watermelon Moonshine”

Male video of the year: Jelly Roll, “Need A Favor”

Group/duo video of the year: Dan + Shay, “Save Me the Trouble”

Collaborative video of the year: Carly Pearce featuring Chris Stapleton, “We Don’t Fight Anymore”

Breakthrough female video of the year: Ashley Cooke, “Your Place”

Breakthrough male video of year: Warren Zeiders, “Pretty Little Poison”

CMT performance of the year: Jelly Roll, “Need a Favor” from 2023 CMT Music Awards

June Carter Cash Humanitarian Award: Trisha Yearwood

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