Some would say that solo travel is something everyone should experience at least once in their life. Not only do you have the freedom to make your own schedule but you will have full financial control, you can quickly change your plans without the opinions of others, and you’ll have the opportunity to really immerse yourself in the local culture by interacting with the locals. There are many wonderful destinations across the world that are perfectly safe for solo travel, especially for women. But keep in mind, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take proper precautions. You should always inform someone of your itinerary and check in every few days and be sure to keep your passport and money in a safe and protected place. When you’re ready to embark on your solo journey check out our list of the safest places for women to travel alone.
Reykjavik Iceland
Iceland has the lowest crime rate in the world is ranked number one in the Global Peace Index. This means it would be an excellent country to travel to as a solo traveler. Iceland’s tourism has really taken off and you’ll find that many Icelanders speak excellent English which may make your travel experience easy and stress-free.
We recommend starting your journey in the city of Reykjavik. There are plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful city but we highly recommend checking out the Blue Lagoon, the Ring Road, and the Golden Circle.
Tokyo, Japan
Japan ranks within the top ten of the safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. So why not start in the country’s capital, Tokyo. During your stay, we recommend visiting the Tokyo Skytree where you will get an unparalleled view of the city skyline from the observation deck. You may also enjoy taking a trip to Tokyo Disneyland.
Furthermore, Japan offers many great accommodations for solo female travelers that will help you feel even safer. There are women-only train cars on commuter trains, some hotels even offer women-only floors, and finally, eating alone is considered the norm so you’ll never feel out of place.
Rome, Italy
The city of romance is calling your name. Rome, Italy’s capital, is full of famous artwork, stunning architecture, fashion, and delicious food. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful city and what better way to take it all in than to explore it on your own.
Traveling to Rome solo means you’ll have the freedom to make your own schedule. Keep in mind, you’re going to want to explore a lot of Rome on foot, so be sure to pack a pair of comfortable shoes – your feet will thank you! Make sure to visit the city’s breathtaking ancient sites such as Pantheon, Roman Forum, and the Coliseum. You may also enjoy exploring The Vatican City and Saint Peter’s Basilica. And finally, don’t leave the city before visiting one of the local cafe’s and restaurants to indulge in their traditional fare.
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand and is home to 1,400,000 residents. It is known as the “City of Sails” because of the high amount of yachts in its harbor. According to a survey by the Institute for Economics and Peace, New Zealand was ranked the fourth safest country in the world making a great place to travel to as a solo traveler.
Be sure to check out the beautiful beaches and see the ships sailing. Enjoy 3 kilometers of pristine white beaches in the township of Orewa. After a sunny day, relax in the natural thermal springs at the Waiwera Thermal Resort.
Melbourne, Australia
More people are traveling to Australia than ever but there is no question as to why. Australia is admired for its stunning beaches, natural wonders, culture and so much more. As a solo female traveler be sure to add Melbourne, Australia to your bucket list.
Melbourne has a lot to offer between the culture award-winning food. Soak up the sun while you explore museums and while you take in Victorian-era architecture. This city is also laden with live entertainment, dazzling gardens and parks, theaters, and plenty of shopping opportunities. Not only will you feel safe in Melbourne but there is no shortage of activities to keep you busy and entertained! Some other places that worth exploring include Philip Island, Grampians National Park, and The Great Ocean Road.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and it is the largest city with almost two million people in its metropolitan area. Even though this is a bustling city, it is still considered quite safe for solo travelers. This busy city boasts beautiful architecture and renowned shopping.
During your stay, consider checking out the goddess Gefjun fountain, which tells the mythological story of how Denmark was created. Stop by at night, where the fountain lights up with a blue glow, alluding to the magic in the Norse religious history.
Hilo, Hawaii
There are many safe cities for women in the United States, but if you’re looking for a relaxing and adventurous vacation with an unparalleled landscape, you can’t beat Hawaii. Hilo is on the island of Hawaii, also known as the “Big Island” to avoid any confusion over the name. Hilo is the largest settlement on the island, with over 40,000 people.
Be sure to check out the natural scenery with a trip to the Akaka Falls State Park, where a breathtaking 400-foot high waterfall will amaze you. Hilo is also home to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation, so snack on delicious chocolate-covered macadamia nuts as a treat.
New York City, United States
Exploring New York City, as a solo female traveler is not only safe but easy to do too. When you plan your stay be sure to stay somewhere that is close to subway access. The subway will help you get across the entire city on a budget! However, if you don’t feel comfortable traveling alone on the subway there other great options such as using rideshare programs like Uber.
Further, New York has plenty of activities for solo travelers. Consider taking a walk through Central Park, visit a museum, or see a Broadway show by yourself. You may also enjoy one of the sightseeing cruises on the Hudson River, or browsing through the Brooklyn flea market. Make sure you don’t leave before trying the famous New York-style pizza. There are also plenty of other great food markets through NYC where you can indulge without having to dine alone at a restaurant.
Oslo, Norway
Every year, Scandinavian countries show up in the top 10 lists for equal treatment of women. Not only that but Norway is known as one of the safest countries in the world. This is mostly due to the fact that Norway has extremely low crime rates even in major cities such as Oslo. So if you plan on visiting this beautiful country be sure to visit the country’s largest city and capital, Oslo.
During your stay, don’t miss your chance to explore the remarkable Vigeland Sculpture Park. This stunning and thought-provoking art park attracts over 1,000,000 visitors every year. The park was created by Gustav Vigeland and boasts over 200 pieces of iron, granite, and bronze art. After a day appreciating the culture, finish the day with a visit to one of the city’s bustling cafes or restaurants.
Vancouver, Canada
Not only is Canada ranked in the top 10 of the safest countries in the world but Vancouver is one of the safest cities to travel to in Canada. That said, we highly recommend starting your travels in Vancouver, British Columbia. There are a plethora of fun things to do and not to mention, the landscape is a sight to see in itself.
During your stay, consider exploring the Capilano Suspension Bridge or visit the Vancouver Aquarium. You may also enjoy hiking up Grouse Mountain. But as always, be sure to inform someone of your itinerary especially if you plan on engaging in isolating activities such as hiking.
Marseille, France
While anywhere in France would make for an amazing (and safe) vacation, check out the opulent Marseille for a unique trip. This historic city is filled with culture and heritage. It is the second-largest city in France with a population of almost 3,000,000 people in its metropolitan area.
The city is also nestled along the Mediterranean coast, giving it prime beaches and delicious seafood meals. But be sure to take a bus or taxi to visit the beaches, as they can be so popular that parking is almost non-existent. Enjoy boat rides to nearby islands and watch out for the underwater remains of the téléscaphe – underwater cars that transported tourists through the beautiful water in the 1960s.
Montreal, Canada
Get a small taste of Europe without having to pay a fortune and explore the city of Montreal, Canada. First of all, generally speaking, Canadians are very friendly and Canada is a well-known safe country. That said, as a solo female traveler, you’ll surely feel safe while you explore this stunning city.
Between the rich culture, stunning cobblestone streets, and French restaurants, Montreal has a lot to offer. Enjoy a Canadian specialty such as poutine (fries with gravy and cheese), and be sure to take a stroll down Saint-Paul Street to take in the renowned European atmosphere.
Helsinki, Finland
Finland is one of the safest countries in the world and is an excellent place to travel to if you love nature. You’ll have ample opportunities to see the breathtaking Northern Lights. We recommend starting your trip in Finland’s capital city, Helsinki. It’s the largest city in Finland, with over 1,300,000 people in its metropolitan area.
Helsinki boasts amazing architecture that features numerous Art Nouveau style buildings. In fact, the city was chosen to be the World Design Capital for 2012 by the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design. You may also want to consider taking a walking tour to really take in the city’s beauty. But when you’re ready to escape the hustle and bustle of the city we recommend traveling to Lemmenjoki National Park which is the largest wooded reserve in Europe. There are also plenty of other natural areas and lakes worth exploring too.
Dublin, Ireland
According to the Global Peace Index, Ireland ranks number 12 among the safest places in the world so be sure to add Ireland to your travel wish list. Ireland is full of scenic views, historic sites, and plenty of charm that you’ll remember forever.
Consider starting your trip in the country’s capital city. There is plenty to see and do in Dublin such as a tour of the Dublin Castle, exploring Pheonix Park, or exploring one of the many beautiful Cathedrals that Dublin has to offer. After a day of exploring, check out one of the local pubs for delicious food and drink. Not only are the pubs a great place to get to know the locals but you may even run into another solo traveler.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
According to the Global Peace Index, the Netherlands ranks in the top 20 of the safest countries in the world. If you’re not sure where to start, we highly recommend starting your travels in the Netherlands’ capital city, Amsterdam. Solo travel is so popular here that you’ll likely run into another female solo traveler along your journey.
Amsterdam received the nickname “Venice of the North” because it has many beautiful canals. This charming city has something for every type of traveler whether you enjoy history, partying, and mingling with the locals, or prefer to simply take in the scenic views. Some of the top things we recommend doing include a scenic tour of the city on a river cruise, exploring the Van Gogh Museum as well as Anne Frank’s House, and if you like beer you may also enjoy taking a brewery tour at the Heineken Experience.
