20 Best Places to Travel Solo Female for an Amazing Time

Solo travel is changing the tourism industry rapidly. Many travelers now want to travel alone, with a Skyscanner survey indicating that 54% of travelers are considering solo travel in 2023. You might be one of the many looking to travel solo, and most likely, you are also a female traveler. As a solo female traveler myself, I love and encourage anyone to travel solo if they can. Solo travel is a practice of self-love, introspection, independence, and new experiences. You challenge your current biases and perspectives by putting yourself in new and sometimes uncomfortable situations. Of course, you want to visit the best places to travel solo female!

It’s important to consider which destinations promote a positive traveler culture. What makes a travel destination great is how friendly the locals are, whether it is easy to get around, and whether the language barrier is tolerable. All the destinations in this list are relatively safe, at least safe enough where I felt comfortable visiting. So, from my travel experience, here are the 20 best places to travel solo female!

The 20 Best Places to Travel Solo Female

Taipei, Taiwan

Where you can wander around alone at 2 AM and live your best life.

Now, I’m not promoting bad decisions by any means, but I have never felt safer than being in Taiwan. As a female traveler, you rarely get a chance to walk alone at night and not have a care in the world. Because you know nothing will happen to you. And that feeling of safety extends to every facet of life there. That makes it one of the safest and best places to travel solo female.

Additionally, public transit is exceptionally clean and fast, the food is cheap and fresh, and there is so much to see and do. Visit the gorgeous Taroko National Park, Yehliu Geo Park, and hike up Elephant Mountain. Explore all the night markets that make the social fabric of Taiwanese life. Taiwanese people are so, so, so friendly, and it’s so easy to strike up a conversation with the store owner or the stranger at a bus stop waiting with you. A caveat is that the language barrier here is quite high. However, you can get by in Taipei with Google Translate, pointing, and gesturing.

Singapore

Enjoy award-winning and culturally rich experiences, food, shopping, and lifestyle.

This tiny country packs a punch! Where old meets new, Singapore is an incredible melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. You can find a range of activities to do, from hiking, cycling, shopping, lounging, relaxing, and, most importantly, eating. Visit heritage hawker centers, the social fabric of Singaporean life, where everyone comes to share a meal. Walk around Marina Bay and visit all the historic neighborhoods, each with its distinct vibe.

Because Singapore is so small, it’s easy to get from place to place—public transit is also stellar. There’s a large expat community in Singapore, so you’ll have no trouble meeting people from around the world. It’s easy to immerse yourself in local life because, quite frankly, it’s everywhere. Locals frequent places that tourists visit (perhaps it is popular because the locals enjoy it), making it all the more charming.

I highly recommend this as the first Asia destination for any solo traveler who has not been to Asia. It’s more Westernized than other Asian countries, so the transition is more gradual if you come from a Western country. English is also spoken widely, so the language barrier is low. However, Singlish may be hard to understand (haha).

If you want to go here, read this: The Best Things to Do in Singapore for Easy Planning

Bangkok, Thailand

You’ll be hot, sweaty, and happy!

Thailand is known for having some of the friendliest people in the world, making any travel experience good. It’s also rich in culture, where you’ll find Buddhist temples everywhere, which will blow your mind. Food is plentiful, fresh, and affordable, and you can spend hours walking around the night markets. Locals are friendly and helpful, making you feel welcome if you travel alone. You can also join many tours to see temples that are hard to get to.

Bangkok is quite safe for women and is easily connected through public transportation. If you’re on a budget, the US dollar or stronger currencies go further here. Thailand has a large backpacking culture, so if you want to travel solo by hosteling, there’s a lot of support. This is probably one of the best places to travel solo female if you wish to backpack!

Da Nang, Vietnam

A coastal city where you can ride on the back of a motorcycle with the sea breeze.

Hanoi and Saigon are great to visit, but the real gem of Vietnam is Da Nang. It’s a coastal city in the middle of Vietnam known for its fresh seafood, sandy beaches, and coconut coffee smoothies. It’s similar to Busan in South Korea! Take a stroll along the Han River, admire the blooming flowers, and relax on the beaches. A huge night market happens every night, selling fresh seafood, fruit smoothies, and all the phone cases and accessories you can only dream of.

It’s a great destination for solo travelers because of how accessible everything is. Grab (the equivalent of Uber in Vietnam) is constantly available, and you can even ride on the back of a motorcycle! Da Nang is a charming city full of things to do, with immaculate vibes. Knowing basic phrases in Vietnamese is helpful, but it’s very easy to get around if you know English. In 2023, Vietnam has exploded in popularity with backpackers, making it one of the best places to travel solo female this year.

Bali, Indonesia

Where rich, cultural heritage meets arts meets nature.

This destination is one of the most popular travel destinations for its beautiful nature, scuba spots, and kind people. I’m sure you’ve already heard of all the waterfalls you can see, beaches to visit, and enormous rice paddies. Because it sees millions of visitors annually, Bali has a strong tourism structure. There are many taxi drivers, tour guides for hire, and more. However, if you visit Bali, I highly suggest venturing out of the tourist bubble and interacting with the locals.

Aside from the beautiful views, Bali has an incredibly rich history and culture. Tourists often overlook Balinese culture, but it’s incredibly rich and interesting to learn about. You can take a cooking class from a local, visit a local market, pay respects in a Hindu temple, etc. Locals love it when you ask them about their culture and want to know about the history of Bali.

If you want to go here, read this: Where to Eat Like a Local in Kuta, Bali

Sydney, Australia

There’s nothing more magical than seeing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House at night.

P. Sherman, 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney? If you’re a Finding Nemo fan, Sydney is probably on your bucket list destinations. But besides the Disney association, Sydney is a bustling city that is incredibly easy to navigate and experience. Trains, trams, and buses frequently come and are very reliable. The entire region is well connected by train as well, so going to and from neighborhoods is easy!

Sydney’s central business district (BCD) is bursting with energy. There are so many amazing restaurants, cafes, and shops to try—you’ll never run out of things to eat! You can enjoy and walk around so many green spaces, like Barangaroo in the CBD or Sydney Olympic Park. Better yet, the city is lined with beautiful beaches, like Bondi Beach, with iconic rock swimming pools. Australia is on the higher end in terms of price, but it is worth every penny. It is also extremely safe, and taking the train or bus back at night is normal and comfortable.

Wellington, New Zealand

Stroll around an eclectic, bustling city that feels like a small town (and where Ed Sheeran lives)!

The capital of New Zealand, also known as “Windy Wellington,” packs a punch of culture in its sprawling city. It sits between hills and a harbor, making for great hilltop views. It’s also the gateway to New Zealand’s South Island. Wellington holds the reputation and name as New Zealand’s foodie capital. It has more cafes per capita than New York and is home to many award-winning restaurants.

You’ll be immersed in so much culture, from art to food to history and nature. It’s truly the place to be for a well-rounded trip. The public transit is reliable, and the city’s central area is readily walkable. New Zealand is also an extremely popular backpacking country, and many start from one tip of the island and travel to the other. As a result, solo travel infrastructure is extensive and supportive.

If you want to go here, read this: All You Need to Know to Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Tokyo, Japan

Frolick around the largest city in the world.

An introvert’s dream. It’s no surprise that Tokyo is on this list. It’s a huge metropolitan city with extremely safe and fast public transportation. There are many things to see, do, taste, and experience. There’s something for everyone, from the many temples to neighborhoods to explore. Visit the many art museums available, an imperial castle, the hundreds of eateries, walk in gigantic parks, take in the street views, etc. Every person I know who’s visited Japan always wants to go back. Tokyo is probably the most popular of the best places to travel solo female.

Japan is such an amazing place to visit as the lifestyle differs from any other country. Drink vending machines are virtually on every street, convenience stores are open 24/7 with everything you need, and you’ll probably get your belongings back if you lose them. In the larger cities, English is enough to get by, and many locals speak both Japanese and English.

Busan, Korea

Unbeatable scenery, fresh seafood, and beaches, what more could you want?

Busan is my favorite city to visit in South Korea. Nestled between mountains and the ocean, Busan has a plethora of attractions. It’s slower-paced than Seoul but still offers the same convenience and excitement. Visit the vibrant Gamcheon village, the iconic Gwangali Beach and Diamond Bridge, and the beautiful waterside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. The beaches have a great atmosphere, and it’s a blend of both local and tourist crowds.

Busan has great public transit—buses and subways—and connects the entire city. Taking the bus at night is safe and has great views of Busan when the city comes alive. It’s incredibly walkable as well.

Paris, France

Sip, sit, and savor—that’s the French way!

The capital of people-watching and cafe-sitting. Paris is rich in art, culture, history, and, most importantly, food. Stop by a classic Parisian cafe like Carette or hunt for a hole-in-the-wall restaurant in your neighborhood. There are also hundreds of places to see, like Montmartre, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, Saint Chapelle, etc., that are English-friendly. There’s so much to experience, especially if you explore the neighboring cities outside of the arrondissements.

Paris’s public transit is stellar, although train strikes happen often. You can get anywhere and everywhere with public transport, and taxis and Ubers are readily available. Many people in Paris speak English, and don’t let the stereotype that Parisians are mean scare you! No one will treat you poorly if you try to speak French, like saying hi in French. It’s a charming and romantic city full of life and culture and a great place to travel alone.

If you want to go here, read this: Best Way to Skip the Line at the Louvre

Geneva, Switzerland

See the most crystal clear water in the world and take in the charming scenery.

I wasn’t expecting Geneva to blow me away when I took a day trip from Paris to Geneva last December, but it did. While it is globally known as the center of diplomacy and finance, Geneva is incredibly charming and has stunning views of Lake Geneva. You can walk along the lake with views of Mont Blanc and the Jet D’eau. You can see many historical sites in Geneva Old Town without needing to step inside a museum! The city is brimming with historical walkways, buildings, and more. The best thing is, is that public transit in Geneva is free! Hop on and hop off with ease.

Aside from the culture, Geneva also has amazing restaurants, and no trip to Geneva is complete without trying Switzerland’s national dish: fondue. There are many cuisines to try and many coffee shops to sit and enjoy! It’s incredibly walkable and safe, so getting around is a breeze.

Madrid, Spain

Perhaps the best place to solo travel in Europe.

There’s a reason why tons of college students study abroad in Spain. It’s vibrant, fun, clean, safe, friendly, beautiful, and so on. Spanish people are warm and inviting, which shows in their communities—walking past a breakfast spot with many regulars chatting with the owner or people stopping to chat while walking their dogs. The city’s atmosphere is warm, making it so fun to explore.

Madrid is very well connected by public transit, with buses and subways constantly running and on time. The walkable streets are lined with boutiques, shops, cafes, restaurants, and markets. Not only is it nice to walk around, but there are so many attractions to see! The famous Retiro Park, Prado Street, lined with museums, the Palacio de Madrid, and Plaza Mayor are just some of the places you can visit in Madrid. This is one of my favorite places to travel solo in Europe and one of the best places to travel solo female.

Lisbon, Portugal

Walk up and down the cinematic hills of Lisbon with river views and colorful buildings.

The capital of Portugal is an attractive city with a bustling atmosphere, lively nightlife, and numerous attractions. It’s incredibly picturesque with its pastel-colored buildings, historical buildings, and Jacaranda-lined streets. Take a walk down the Tagus River, hike up for a scenic view, enjoy a Pasteis de Nata, and enjoy the vibrant ambiance. As mentioned earlier, the nightlife in Lisbon is full of life, with bars, music shows, theater performances, and more. There’s always an event happening year-round.

It’s a safe city for female travelers, and getting around is very easy with the tram and subway. It’s also easy to get around without knowing Portuguese and using English. Lisbon is a small and hilly city, so while it is walkable, be prepared to haul up and down the steep streets; however, that lends itself well to getting lost in the streets and discovering something new every time.

London, United Kingdom.

The New York of the United Kingdom—a bustling metropolis full of things to do, see, and eat.

A busy, international city that is exhilarating and charming. Like any big city, London has something for everyone. See Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, or the British Museum for your dose of history and culture. Then, stroll down Regent Street for shopping galore! Check out local coffee shops and different restaurants, or go for high tea. There’s so much to do and see in London, even if you live there you won’t be able to do everything.

The tube connects all of London, and you also have double-decker buses you can hop on and off. It’s safe for women, but be cautious at night, like in any other big city. London is also extremely walkable, so perhaps walk from neighborhood to neighborhood and soak it all in.

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Walking around makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled back to older times.

Luxembourg may be small, but it sure is beautiful. Luxembourg is a small country surrounded by Belgium, France, and Germany. It’s looked over often, but it has so much beauty and history! Luxembourg City is famous for its landscapes, where a fortified medieval old town sits on steep cliffs. Walking through the city, you’ll stop every other block to admire the scenery of old buildings nestled into the mountains. Multiple castles and stone bridges here look like they are out of a fairytale.

Luxembourg has several high-quality museums and is one of the world’s most historical cities! Its cultural richness is supported by the fact that it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To get to and from landmarks is easy with public transport and also very walkable. Fun fact: Luxembourg is also one of the safest cities in the world!

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

So much charm in this small city where bikes are the main mode of transport.

Wow, Amsterdam stole my heart back in March, and I want to go back! It’s so easy to imagine you’re a local just by walking along the canals or riding a bike. People are always everywhere, out and about or going to and from places. Cafes and restaurants spill out onto the sidewalk with people, and you never feel alone in this compact city. Aside from the beautiful canals and picturesque buildings, museums and historic buildings are available. There’s the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Oude Kerk church, and more.

Public transit is easily navigable, clean, and reliable. The city is walkable, and you can easily walk the entire city in a couple of hours. English is spoken readily everywhere, so you’ll have no problem interacting with people. My favorite part of visiting Amsterdam is walking along the canals in residential neighborhoods and daydreaming about what it would be like to live there. This is easily one of the best places to travel solo female.

If you want to go here, read these:

The Best 18 Things to Do in Amsterdam For Your First Time

Best Amsterdam Food: What to Eat in Amsterdam and Where

Guadalajara, Mexico

The heartbeat of Mexico is overflowing with culture, food, and heritage.

This is the cultural center of Mexico, where you’ll find abundant religious sites, museums, and local markets. Many colonial plazas and historic landmarks are hubs of economic and social activity. Stop by the Guadalajara Cathedral and shop around the Mercado San Juan, where locals eat and shop. Eat at local taquerias, stop for a cafe de olla, and visit different neighborhoods.

Guadalajara is a very walkable city as the city center is compact and easy to navigate on foot with pedestrian-friendly streets. Public transportation is well-developed, including buses, metro, and light rail, and Ubers are also readily available. It’s relatively safe, with 2.2 million tourists visiting annually. However, walking alone at night is not recommended, and all exploring should be done during the day.

Rome, Italy

Where you can see all the history you learned in textbooks in real life.

The surreal feeling you get when you see famous landmarks you’ve learned about all your life is unmatched. The Colosseum, the leaning tower of Pisa, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, and the Sistine Chapel are awe-inspiring. Luckily, Rome is also a great place to travel solo! It’s safe, although you must be wary of pickpockets, and it is easy to get around by foot or public transport. The food is delightful (if you find the right places), and there’s gelato on almost every corner.

Rome is an extremely popular travel destination with solo and non-solo travelers. But that makes getting around without knowing Italian easier. People roam the streets almost constantly, so walking around is quite safe. However, as in any large and busy city, take precautions during the evening.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Where all the cool girls go, think, “Pinterest Fashion Inspiration!”

Danish fashion is incredibly popular, and no other city is as well-dressed as Copenhagen. But aside from fashion, Copenhagen is known for its Danish food, historical landmarks, and picturesque buildings. One of Copenhagen’s most popular iconic spots is Nyhavn, a waterfront with colorful houses and many bars. It’s the perfect place to sit and have a drink and people-watch!

There are many places to visit, from the Rundetaarn (Round Tower), the Tivoli Gardens, and the Rosenborg Castle. Copenhagen is rich with historical landmarks and museums—you can spend hours just walking around, taking it all in. It’s extremely safe for women, it’s clean, and it’s well-connected by public transit.

Toronto, Canada

A melting pot of people, a hub of culture, and so many things to do.

Canada’s largest city has everything you could want to see, eat, experience, and more. Peruse the Art Gallery of Ontario, visit the CN Tower, check out Ripley’s Aquarium, or dine solo! Toronto has so many neighborhoods to explore, each with a different atmosphere. You can try many different cuisines, from Ethiopian, Vietnamese, Colombian, Peruvian, Tibetan, and so on. Like many other big cities, Toronto has something for everyone.

But like big cities, while it is safe for females, take caution when you go somewhere alone at night and practice safety skills! This city is well connected by public transport with reliable subways and buses. It’s easy to hop on and off to visit different districts. Toronto is a great place to explore; every neighborhood offers something cool! It’s easy to discover new places, making it fun to go solo.

Notable Mention

San Francisco, CA

The crown jewel of the Bay Area, with a vibrant culture and amazing scenery.

I wanted to mention San Francisco, which has a special place in my heart. I grew up in a suburb just an hour from San Francisco, so it was the biggest city nearby. San Francisco has so many things to do, from Golden Gate Park, Land’s End, the Ferry Building, Alcatraz, etc. It’s one of the best places in the United States to travel solo, especially with how well-connected the city is with public transport. You can easily get from one part of the city to another without trouble.

There are so many neighborhoods to explore in San Francisco as well. You can spend days just walking around, taking it all in. There is also so much delicious food and coffee to try, the popular brunch spots will always have a wait. My favorite thing to do in San Francisco is go cafe hopping, checking out all the residential neighborhoods, and admiring the architecture. The city is quite safe, especially in the more residential and green areas, but downtown can be less safe, especially at night. Do your research beforehand!

Life’s Short, Go Solo!

After writing about how amazing these cities are, it’s clearer to me that all of the best places to travel solo female are walkable, have great public transport, and have a friendly culture. You can’t go wrong visiting any of these places, but it’s about what you want to experience. Additionally, some destinations require more money than others, so plan accordingly. Hopefully, this inspires you to dive deeper into the destination you’re interested in. Traveling solo is an amazing experience, but if you need a push, here’s why you should travel solo. Happy travels!

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How to Make Friends While Traveling Solo