Amazing + Safe Places for Women to Travel Alone
Published 2025Solo adventure? Here are some of the safest and most amazing places across the world for women to travel alone.
So, what makes a fantastic spot for a solo trip? When pulling together my list, I considered a bunch of key things.
First and foremost, safety. I obviously eliminated places where I didn’t feel really safe when traveling alone, no matter how interesting. Then, there’s the social scene. Meeting other travelers with similar interests and swapping stories is a must.
Weather matters too. A place with decent weather means you won’t be cooped up indoors. Let’s be real, no one wants to spend their vacation stuck inside binge-watching Netflix.
You’ll also want a place with lots of things to do and see. Whether it’s museums, beaches, hiking trails, or local markets, having a variety of options helps keep things exciting. Getting around is crucial, too. It’s important to be able to get around easily and safely.
So, with all that in mind, here are my top destinations for women traveling solo across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas.
I’ve included an interactive map at the end of the article, so check that out. I hope these destinations inspire your solo getaway!
Important note: When traveling alone, regardless of where you are, it’s important to listen to your intuition and protect yourself at all times. Here are some safety travel tips that I’ve learned from decades traveling the globe. I hope you find them useful.
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My top places for solo female travel in Asia.
Asia's a dream for solo travel. Seriously. I've spent a few decades traveling throughout this region and never felt unsafe as a female solo traveler. And it's super easy to connect with other travelers from all over the world.
Let's start with Thailand.
Chiang Mai is peaceful, with tons of temples and awesome street food. Bangkok is busy and exciting, with shopping, culture, and nightlife. The islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Samui are where you go for perfect beach days and to meet loads of travelers.
Koh Phangan is where you can embrace a tropical bohemian vibe. Head to the northern hills of Pai for a charming small-town feel and scenic landscapes.
Thailand is super safe for women and is very LGBTQ-friendly. Also, loads of people in the popular tourist areas speak English, so it's pretty easy to get around (just don't expect fluent conversations with all locals). You might need to pull out your translator app if you get off the beaten track, otherwise, you'll be fine.
Malaysia is another fantastic choice.
Malaysia is so underrated. My top picks? Kuala Lumpur (pictured above) has this cool mix of modern and traditional vibes. The city is buzzing with markets, skyscrapers, and street food. And it's the perfect gateway to the rest of Asia.
And then there’s Penang, a gem with its incredible street art and food scene. Georgetown in Penang is especially great for meeting fellow travelers in hostels or cafes.
If you're into beaches, the Perhentian Islands are paradise with their crystal-clear waters and chill vibe. I absolutely love these islands and have spent many dreamy and chill vacays there.
Kuching and Kota Kinabalu are also worth a visit, especially if you want to hike the KK mountain. But, I really loved Kuching. It's super easy to get around, and you'll find plenty of friendly faces along the way. And the local kids are the sweetist.
English is widely spoken in major cities. As a general rule, the west coast of Malaysia is more conservative with strict alcohol consumption rules and more conservative dress standards.
Now, let's talk about Vietnam.
Hanoi is vibrant with a great mix of history and modernity. There are awesome markets, street vendors selling pho, and cool cafes.
Ho Chi Minh City is another exciting spot with its fast-paced lifestyle and amazing street food.
Don't miss out on the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the peaceful vibe in Hoi An, which is perfect for exploring by bike.
Da Nang is also a fabulous and very affordable spot for a beach escape.
Indonesia is epic, too, especially Bali.
Ubud in Bali is all about lush greenery, rice terraces, and yoga retreats. It's a great place to just relax and meet other travelers.
Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu have great beaches, epic nightlife, and plenty of hostels where you can make new friends. Amed is a great spot for snorkeling and diving—you can literally walk off the beach into some crazy cool reefs abundant with sea life.
And let's not forget the Gili Islands and Lombok (pictured above), which are some of my favorite places in Indonesia to explore and chill. Komodo Island is also worth checking out a little bit further afield.
Next, over to Japan.
Tokyo is a must-see. The city is electric with endless things to do, from visiting temples and museums to shopping in Harajuku. If you haven’t been before, it’ll blow your mind.
Kyoto offers a more traditional vibe with beautiful temples, gardens, and tea houses. Japan is super safe, and the people are incredibly polite and helpful. I’ve never heard anyone say they hated their trip to Japan.
In my experience, English won’t get you very far, so learn a few essential phrases and pull out your translation app.
For something a bit off the beaten path, check out Taiwan.
Taipei is a cool city with night markets, temples, and great food. The people are friendly, and the public transport makes it easy to get around. Taroko Gorge is a must for nature lovers with its stunning hiking trails.
Taiwan is also a food mecca, so be prepared for some epic eats. Getting around in English? Not really. Another destination for your trusty translations app.
South Korea is awesome as well.
Seoul is packed with activities, from museums and food markets to nightclubs and temples. And the party scene is amazing. The city's metro system is super easy to navigate, making it simple to explore. Busan is another cool city with beaches, seafood, and a laid-back vibe.
You might find some locals speaking English in the main tourist areas of South Korea, like Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Hongdae, but it’s not widely spoken.
That's a quick look at some of the best spots in Asia for solo female travel. Read on for the best places in Oceania.
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Best places for women to travel alone in Oceania.
Oceania has some fantastic spots that are perfect for solo female travelers. Being Australian, this is my stomping ground, and I've lived and traveled extensively across this region.
Let's start with Australia.
One of the most popular ways to explore Australia is to start in Melbourne and work your way around the East Coast all the way to Cairns. You won’t see everything (because the country is huge), but you’ll see a lot. Australia is a very safe country overall, and, of course, everyone speaks English, so that’s sorted!
Melbourne is the place to be if you're into history, cool city vibes, and culture (and the best coffee you've ever had). It's known for its vibrant arts scene, museums, and bustling laneways filled with coffee shops and street art. It's easy to explore different neighborhoods and discover hidden gems. Melbourne is my favorite city in the world (so far)— and that’s saying a lot!
Consider taking a detour to Tasmania, an island with stunning natural beauty and a laid-back vibe. Hobart, the capital, offers a mix of historic charm and contemporary culture, with the famous Salamanca Market and MONA museum being must-visit spots. Exploring the island's hiking trails in places like Cradle Mountain is a perfect way to enjoy some solitude and connect with nature.
Sydney is a must-see with its iconic Opera House and Bondi Beach (and loads of other nice beaches). The city is safe if you take normal precautions as a female solo traveler and easy to navigate with public transport. Plus, there are tons of hostels where you can meet other travelers.
Heading up the east coast, Byron Bay is a chilled-out beach town known for its surf spots, yoga retreats, and artsy vibe. It's the kind of place where you can relax and meet like-minded people.
Further up, you'll hit Brisbane, a city with a great lifestyle, warm and sunny climate, and friendly locals. You can enjoy the city's music scene or take a river cruise to see the skyline from a different perspective. For a touch of nature, the nearby Gold Coast (south) and Sunshine Coast (north) offer beautiful beaches and rainforests to explore.
Towards the top of Australia, Airlie Beach and Cairns are other hotspots, especially if you're into diving or snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef. Loads of local tours and opportunities for hardcore (yet chill) partying make it easy to connect with others.
Next, hop over to New Zealand.
Auckland is a great starting point with its beautiful harbors and vibrant city life. The public transport is decent, making it easy to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Queenstown is an adventure paradise. Whether you're into bungee jumping, skydiving, or hiking, you'll find something thrilling to do. The backpacker scene is lively, so making friends is a breeze.
Wellington, the capital, is also worth a visit. It's got a cool arts scene, and the waterfront is perfect for a stroll. The vibe is laid-back, and it's super easy to get around on foot or by bus.
Abel Tasman National Park is a gem for those who love hiking and nature. The trails are stunning, and the coastal views are breathtaking. You can easily join a guided tour or meet fellow hikers along the way.
Then, we’re off to the Cook Islands!
I love the Cook Islands. It’s like going back in time to a more wholesome, slower-paced life. The islands offer a laid-back atmosphere with friendly locals and stunning beaches. There is no party scene per se, it’s more of a swing in a hammock with your cocktail in hand type place.
Rarotonga, the main island, has a vibrant local culture and beautiful lagoons perfect for snorkeling, and a great big mountain in the middle, which is perfect for hiking. You can cycle around the island in only 4-5 hours, or take the ‘circle bus’ which literally circles the island. Locals will wave to you as you pass by.
For a more secluded experience, head to Aitutaki, where the clear waters and peaceful vibe provide a perfect escape. If you’re visiting both islands, allow at least one week.
Over in Fiji, the islands are pure paradise.
Fiji? Think crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and friendly locals.
I wouldn’t spend much time in the main city Suva (it can be a bit ghetto). Instead, travel around the main island or just head straight to the islands for an epic beach fix.
The Yasawa Islands are a top pick, with budget-friendly resorts and loads of activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. It's super easy to meet other travelers since most people are there to enjoy the same beachy vibes.
Okay, that’s it for Oceania. There are many more wonderful destinations for solo travelers—but this list will give you a very good start!
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Europe's got awesome spots for solo female travelers.
Traveling solo through Europe as a woman is so great. Every destination feels like its own vibe—there’s always something cool to see, eat, or experience. It was very hard to shortlist great places to travel solo across Europe, but I’ve managed! Here are six countries where I’ve had a great experience.
Let's start with Portugal.
Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve are just fantastic (but a little touristy during July and August).
Lisbon's got this cool city vibe, with trams, colorful streets, and great nightlife. You can speak English almost everywhere in Lisbon. Porto is more laid-back with its riverside charm, and the Algarve is basically a beach haven (but the water never really gets warm—just a warning!).
Consider visiting Sintra for its stunning palaces and enchanting landscapes, either as a short stay or a day trip from Lisbon. Portugal is quite safe for travelers, and people are really friendly, so you'll feel comfy quickly.
Next up, you've got to check out Ireland.
Ireland is a fairly small island that’s easy to navigate. Plus, the locals speak English, of course, so that’s nice and easy. I once drove across Ireland in only four hours….just to show you how manageable it is.
Dublin is super lively, with loads of pubs and live music. If you've never been before, Temple Bar is a must-visit, even if it's touristy. Like most international cities, Dublin can be a bit pricey.
Galway is another gem, especially if you're into a mix of city and nature. It's got this cozy vibe, and the locals are so welcoming. Hostels in both cities are great for meeting other travelers.
If you enjoy the outdoors, consider exploring the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views or taking a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The Ring of Kerry (with a few days' stopover in Dingle) is an epic road trip that I'd love to go back and do again! If you want to see something other than fog, visit between May and October.
Travel tip: If you’re hiring a car, remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road! There are also a lot of windy roads and sometimes visability is low.
Croatia is another of my top picks.
If you're into history, beaches, and island hopping, this place is for you.
Split and Dubrovnik are fantastic, though they can get a bit pricey. Zagreb is a cool city that can be a little more budget-friendly with tons to offer. Hostels and group tours make it easy to meet people.
Brac is one of those islands you shouldn't miss (pronounced something like “brash”). I really love Brac. It's less crowded than some of the more famous spots, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. You can enjoy its stunning beaches and explore quaint villages.
Hvar Island is also worth a visit, with Hvar city boasting a decent island party vibe. Outside the city, you can find loads of charming spots for chilling out.
Slovenia might not be on everyone's radar, but it should be.
Its stunning landscapes offer a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. You can hike through Triglav National Park or explore the underground wonders of Postojna Cave. There are also loads of other cool caves where you can go spelunking (that aren’t as touristy).
Ljubljana, the capital, has a laid-back atmosphere with a vibrant arts scene and plenty of cozy cafes to relax in—it’s a totally underrated destination. Lake Bled is picture-perfect, with its iconic island church and castle overlooking crystal-clear waters.
Whether you're into hiking, history, or just soaking up the local vibe, Slovenia offers something for every solo traveler. It's quite easy to get around, and there's a decent backpacker scene, especially in the main tourist spots.
I found it quite easy to get around speaking English, which is great because there is no way I can possibly wrangle the language! Talk about difficult pronunciation!?!?!
Norway is a must-visit for female solo travelers.
Norway is an incredible destination for solo female travelers who love nature and stunning landscapes. With its epic fjords, towering mountains, and breathtaking northern lights, it's a dream if you love pristine nature. I’ve lived in Norway and love to go back every chance I can.
Oslo, the capital, is an uber-cool mix of modern architecture, fascinating museums, and a vibrant cultural scene. The public transport is good, making it easy to explore both the city and the countryside.
It's easy to jump on the train to Bergen on the west coast (or Stockholm and Gothenburg in Sweden). Tromso is worth a visit, with its epic scenery, and is a gateway to great tours.
Plus, Norway is known for being safe and welcoming, with English widely spoken, so you'll feel comfortable traveling around. Whether you're hiking in the scenic Lofoten Islands (a must!) or exploring the charming streets of Trondheim, Norway offers a unique experience you’re not going to want to miss.
Pro travel tip! Eating and drinking out in Norway is uber expensive. If you’re staying for more than a few days, you might want to book accommodation with a kitchen so you can make your own food at least some of the time.
Of course, I can't skip Iceland!
Iceland is a crazy-cool destination for solo female travelers looking for adventure and natural beauty. The country has stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, glaciers, and geysers. For sunshine, visit between May and October; otherwise, it’s pretty dark.
Reykjavik, the capital, is a vibrant city with a lively arts scene and unique architecture. It’s a safe destination, and the locals are nice and helpful. Soak in the Blue Lagoon, explore the Golden Circle, and stroll its many epic beaches. Whatever you decide to do, you won’t forget Iceland in a hurry — that I can promise you.
That's a quick run-through of some of my favorite places in Europe for solo female travel. Read on for a few of my favorite places across the Americas.
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Fab places for women traveling alone across the Americas.
Let’s be real. There are so many places awesome places across the Americas for women to travel solo. I can’t cover them all…but here are a few of my favorites. I hope they inspire you.
Buenos Aires, Argentina, is pretty epic.
Buenos Aires feels like Europe with a twist. You can easily walk around the city, and there's always something happening.
Palermo is where you'll find cool cafes and shops, while San Telmo offers that classic tango vibe. The parks are perfect for taking a break and just chilling out.
Tourist areas are pretty safe, and locals are usually up for a chat, so it's easy to feel comfortable. There's no shortage of stuff to do, from food tours to art galleries. Stick to the main areas and stay aware, but overall, it’s a comfortable spot for solo travel.
Taking a small-group local tour is also a great idea if you want to explore with others (and it helps out local businesses and families, which is always good).
Next up, Cusco, Peru for charm and adventure.
Cusco is a must-see if Machu Picchu’s on your list. The city’s bursting with culture and history, and there are plenty of English speakers around to help you out. Plaza de Armas is the heart of the city, with cute cafes and cool markets nearby.
It’s pretty safe and there are loads of solo female travelers, so you won't feel out of place. The vibe is super chill, and it’s easy to make friends in hostels or on tours. Take it easy at first because of the altitude, but once you're settled, you’ll love wandering the cobblestone streets and finding hidden gems.
Maui, Hawai, is an awesome spot for solo adventurers.
The people are super friendly and laid-back in Maui, so you'll feel at home right away. There’s a little something for everyone.
If you're into surfing, a surf school can get you riding the waves in no time. If snorkeling is more your thing, the underwater views are amazing. Haleakalā National Park is perfect for hiking and catching fabulous sunrises. Plus, the island is small enough to make getting around a breeze.
The beaches are perfect for kicking back and relaxing, with plenty of gorgeous spots to chill out. Wandering through towns like Lahaina and Paia, you’ll find charming shops and tasty places to eat. The Road to Hana is a must-see with its waterfalls and stunning views.
Whether you’re zip-lining through the forests or just lounging on the beach with a good book, you’ll find your groove here. All in all, Maui is a fantastic choice for solo female travelers looking for a lot of fun with a dash of relaxation.
Mendocino, California, has a chill vibe with great hiking.
Travel Bliss is all about sharing travel ideas that’ll boost your health and your mood. And Mendocino fits the bill perfectly. Mendocino’s coastal views are amazing, and it’s a peaceful escape, great for solo trips.
Nature’s the big thing here. Hike the coastal trails for epic ocean views or hit up the redwood parks. The town’s got cute shops and art galleries too. If you’re into wildlife, seals are all over the shore.
Mendocino’s pretty safe and the locals are friendly. The small community makes it easy to feel at home. Getting around’s quite easy, whether walking or driving. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the local seafood and cozy cafés. And don’t skip the local wine!
Santa Fe is like the upscale, artsy heart of New Mexico—and it’s fab!
While other parts of the state have their own charm, Santa Fe embodies that classic Southwestern vibe.
It’s where you'll find premium restaurants, the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA), the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the galleries of Canyon Road. The Meow Wolf Museum is great if you’re after a bit of a mind-bending experience.
Whether you're jumping into the art scene or over-indulging in the local cuisine, Santa Fe is a really fun trip for solo women.
That’s a wrap!
Whether you’re an experienced solo traveler or have just started your travel journey, I hope my top destinations inspire you to start planning your next trip! Happy travels.
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