Top Destinations for Solo Women in 2024
Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or a newbie planning your first trip abroad, the world is ripe with incredible destinations ready to broaden your cultural horizons.
Solo female travel has seen a significant uptick in popularity in recent years. Women are setting their sights beyond state lines, saving their pennies, and clicking the 'book now' button for a transformational, solitary odyssey. And is it any wonder?
As more and more people prioritize collecting experiences over shiny things, solo travel has evolved into a vehicle for discovering oneself, enlightenment, and connecting with new people, ideas, and cultures.
Whether you're a solo travel veteran or a beginner planning your first trip abroad, the world is ripe with inspiring destinations ready to broaden your cultural horizons and connect more deeply with yourself and others.
Skip the exhaustive Google search; we've already done the heavy lifting by compiling the most breathtaking and safe solo travel destinations for women in 2024.
4 Questions to Consider When Choosing Your Solo Travel Destination
Is It Safe?
I don’t have to shout this from the rooftops, but safety always comes first when looking for the perfect solo travel destination. Safety isn't a blanket term—it involves factors like violent crime rates, political unrest, healthcare infrastructure, and current outbreaks of infectious diseases like COVID-19.
And while personal experiences from friends and the solo travel community can help steer you in the right direction, they’re not substitutes for your judgment or data from official sources.
Check an official government source like the U.S. Department of State's Travel Advisory. The website provides safety information and assigns each country a safety rating from one to four:
Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Level 3: Reconsider travel
Level 4: Do not travel
You can also check out the Foreign Travel Advice board on the U.K. Government website for a more in-depth guide on tourist safety, health advisories, local customs, entry requirements, and emergency resources for the country you're visiting.
Is It In My Budget?
Cheap solo travel is not only possible, it's something you can pull off wherever you go with a bit of patience, organization, and know-how.
Flights and accommodations usually take up the biggest chunk of your travel budget. Luckily, there are platforms to help you find uber-cheap flights, like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) and Skyscanner. Slash your flight costs by opting for off-season or shoulder seasons.
In terms of accommodation, we recommend Booking.com for cheap hotels, Hostelworld for hostels, dip your toes into house-sitting via Trusted Housesitters, or crash with a friendly local through Couchsurfing (Wait. Is Couchsurfing safe? Read what one solo female traveler has to say about her experience with the app!).
One last thing. If you're traveling on a cruise or with a tour operator, be aware many companies charge a steep single supplement fee. Usually, tour operators advertise their rates based on the assumption that two people will share a room or cabin. The purpose of these fees is to cover the cost of the unused space that a second traveler would have occupied. However, operators are starting to acknowledge the rising number of solo travelers and are reducing or eliminating their single supplement fees.
Is It Accessible?
Public transit is usually cheaper and more reliable than shelling out for a rental car. Depending on your destination, public transit might be the fastest and most convenient method of transportation. Cities like Tokyo, Zurich, and London are known for their robust public transit systems.
But if your destination has limited public transit services or you prefer to use a taxi or rideshare service, make sure these services are safe and reputable before you hail a ride. In some cities, muggers and criminals exploit rideshare services like Uber or local taxis to prey on passengers.
Here are some essential safety tips to remember when hailing a rideshare service on your solo travels.
Is It For Me?
Of course, don’t forget to consider your personal preferences when deciding where to go.
If you’re interested in exploring the local nightlife and hanging out at the beach, Nepal might not be the best choice. But if you’re a foodie looking to immerse yourself in a world of delicious street food and historical sights with a bit of adventure on the side, where better than Tokyo, with its diverse food scene and abundant natural beauty?
15 Best Destinations For A Solo Travel Adventure In 2024
Iceland
Iceland is widely hailed as one of the safest destinations for solo female travelers, claiming the number one spot on the Global Peace Index and boasting the smallest gender equity gap in the world. It also ranks low (that’s a good thing, by the way!) on the Solo Female Travel Safety Index due to its commitment to safety and gender equality. The capital city of Reykjavik is a brimming cultural hub dotted with museums, charming shops, historic churches, and friendly locals. Following your walking tour through the city, indulge in the serenity of the Blue Lagoon's geothermal waters or stroll along Iceland's iconic black sand beaches. Keep your eyes on the sky – if you’re lucky, you might get a chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights!
2. Eastern Australia
Eastern Australia encompasses world-class cities like Sydney and Melbourne. This region offers iconic attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, the expansive Gold Coast, and the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests on Earth. Fun fact: Australia's coastline has around 12,000 beaches. If you visited one per day, it would take more than 32 years to see them all. If you’re looking for an adventure with more elevation, Blue Mountain National Park offers excellent hiking, canyoning, camping, and opportunities to spot unique Aussie wildlife like koalas. Keep in mind Australia is a big place. While you may not need to worry about pickpockets and political unrest, your safety will depend on your specific location. Rely on your intuition, and if you need a quick refresher on tips for safe travel, our solo travel safety guide has you covered.
3. Scotland
Scotland is known for its friendly locals, dramatic landscapes, medieval castles, and outdoor activities. A trip to Scotland wouldn’t be one without a jaunt through the panoramic Scottish Highlands. As the highest mountain in the British Isles, Ben Nevis offers outdoor enthusiasts a challenging hike with incredible views. The historic city of Edinburgh is packed with quaint shops, pubs, art galleries, whisky tastings, and historic landmarks. And if you visit in the summertime, you’ll be around for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world. The city of Edinburgh comes alive with performances, comedy shows, and cultural activities during the festival season.
4. Switzerland
Switzerland comes in as the seventh most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index, making it a popular destination for solo female travelers. If you’re clamoring for adventure, take a trip to the Matterhorn, one of the most recognizable peaks in the Swiss Alps. Nestled at its base is Zermatt, a charming mountain village and a haven for skiing and hiking enthusiasts. Unleash your wild side with paragliding, mountain biking, and white-water rafting amidst vibrant green valleys, all while the majestic Alps stand tall around you. And, of course, don’t forget to indulge in some delicious Swiss chocolate and cheese!
5. South Korea
From a numbers standpoint, South Korea enjoys one of the world's lowest crime rates. Seoul's vibrant street life, historic palaces, and K-Pop scene have something to offer everyone. Wander through Insadong, a lively district in Seoul known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and antique shops. Don’t sleep on the unique and mouth-watering street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes) to snack on while you explore the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a side quest to Seoraksan National Park to immerse yourself in scenic beauty, cascading waterfalls, and diverse flora.
6. Vietnam
Over the years, Vietnam has enjoyed a sharp uptick in international tourists (including solo women). The country and its major city centers also sit on the heavily traveled Southeast Asia backpacker track. The great thing about traveling to Vietnam is that there is something here for every adventurer. Whether you want to spend your days exploring museums, eating your way through street food markets, or catching rays at a secluded beach, it’s all waiting for you in Vietnam. Unfortunately, while it’s generally safe for female travelers to wander through Vietnam, street scams and pickpocketing are not uncommon, and you should take special precautions when hailing a taxi, converting currency, or taking a photo with the locals.
7. Ghana
If you’ve been chomping at the bit to explore Africa but aren’t sure which country fits the bill, may we suggest Ghana? The country earned a score of 1.9 on the Solo Female Travel Safety Index along with a reputation for being very friendly and accommodating to tourists. Head to the bustling markets in Accra to explore local artisans, shop for unique crafts, and sample the local fare, including jollof rice and waakye. Or become a student in biodiversity by taking a walking tour above the treetops on the canopy walkway in Kakum National Park.
8. Netherlands
The Netherlands is a land of pure possibility. Frolic through vibrant tulip fields, hop on a city canal cruise, visit the Anne Frank House, and immerse yourself in the impressionist masterpieces of Van Gogh. Sample diverse cuisine, from traditional Dutch dishes to tasty street food like stroopwafels, bitterballen, and krokets. And don't forget to try the famous Dutch beer! The country's reliable safety track record provides reassurance for solo explorers. Even so, it's worth noting that Amsterdam, a popular tourist destination, can attract opportunistic pickpockets.
9. Taiwan
When it comes to Asia's best destinations for solo female travelers, Taiwan takes the cake with its low crime rate and a population recognized for its unparalleled hospitality. Solo female travelers reported feeling safe exploring Taipei's night markets, exploring Qixingtan Beach, taking a bike tour of the city, and touring Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city, known for its rich history and temples.
10. Nepal
Nepal is a haven for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those seeking spiritual and cultural immersion. Popular treks like the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp provide awe-inspiring views and opportunities to connect with like-minded travelers. Nepal recently passed a law banning solo travel to these destinations to prevent novice trekkers from venturing into the mountains alone and generate more tourism for the economy. While group trips may not be everyone's cup of tea, a group tour brings solo female travelers into a shared experience and gives an up close and personal look into Nepalese life and sacred traditions.
11. New Zealand
Choosing New Zealand for your solo journey is a no-brainer – exceptional public transport, a well-organized tourism infrastructure and a low crime rate create the perfect trifecta. Explore the North Island’s pristine beaches and subtropical forests, or venture to the South Island for dramatic glaciers, alpine lakes, and snow-capped mountains. If you have the opportunity, attend a traditional Maori cultural performance in Rotorua and follow it up with a dip in the nearby geothermal hot springs.
12. Portugal
Portugal has emerged as one of the safest countries in Europe, with hardly any incidence of violent crimes and rare occurrences of petty crimes such as pickpocketing. Its reputation has made it a magnet for solo travelers and digital nomads. Portugal caters to solo travelers seeking cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Take a solo retreat to the Algarve coast, taking in the Praia da Marinha's majestic cliffs or the sun-drenched allure of Praia da Rocha. Then, delight your palate with a wine-tasting adventure in Porto, sampling the world-famous port wine in the city where it originates, and explore the city's street art scene through a self-guided walking tour.
Solo wanderers, spill the beans! Which destinations get your top recommendation for solo travel?
