Solo Female Travel in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

02/11/2024 by Guest Blogger 20 Comments

This is a guest post by Taylor K.

Europe is a great destination for solo female travelers! It’s pretty safe, small, and easy to travel around, and it’s full of gorgeous spots to see. What better way to spend a vacay than sipping espresso in Italy, eating fish and chips in England, diving into the gorgeous beaches of Portugal, and chasing the northern lights in Iceland?

That said, there are a few things to be aware of that will make your time there easier, such as what to bring, how to stay safe, how to keep your belongings from getting stolen, and which spots are the best even if, and especially if, you’re traveling alone:

Table of Contents

11 Best European Countries for Solo Female Travelers 

solo female travel europe Ireland

Ireland might just be one of the best places for solo female travel in Europe, especially if it’s your first time! The small “Emerald Isle” is incredibly beautiful with so much to do! And while the people might be a little on the sarcastic side, they are so friendly and welcoming! Better yet, the main language is English which makes getting around a whole lot easier.

Recommended destinations: Dublin, Cork, Dingle, Galway , and Aran Islands.

iceland northern lights

From the waterfalls on the Ring Road and Golden Circle to the Glaciers, black sand beaches , gorgeous hikes and even the possibility of the Northern lights , Iceland is other-worldly. Each season promises a unique adventure, and while it is not the cheapest destination in Europe, there are many ways to save on your trip .

Iceland is also one of the safest places for solo female travelers in Europe as it is the safest country in the world which means you’ll find a a lot of other travelers to hang out with!

Recommended destinations: Vik, Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon, Húsavík

solo female travel europe Germany

Ready for beer, pretzels, magical castles , and lederhosen? All the cities in Germany have such unique characteristics, from the hip city of Berlin to the boisterous, beer-drinking city of Munich to the fairy tale city of Baden-Wüttemberg , I loved being able to experience SO much in one country. You can even experience some of the best Christmas markets if you visit in December! 

solo female travel europe Christmas market

Germany has incredible transportation which makes getting around easy and English is widely spoken, or at least enough to get by! I felt safe in all the cities so, like all cities, as long as you use your street sense you’ll be perfectly safe!

Recommended destinations: Stuttgart , Berlin , Munich, Hamburg, Leipzig

France 

solo female travel europe Paris France

Ahh France – baguettes, cheese and croissants! Not only is the food amazing in France, but it’s also incredibly beautiful and safe for solo female travelers. Many first-time solo travelers choose France ( hello-Paris !) so you’ll also have lots of opportunities to meet others and most of the people in big cities speak English, even if they prefer not to! Make sure you venture out of Paris and visit the beautiful lavender fields of Provence or wineries in Bordeaux.

Recommended destinations: Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, Provence, Strasbourg

Finland 

akaslompolo finland

Known as the happiest country in the world , the friendly people make Finland a safe and amazing choice! If you love the outdoors, you’ll love hiking alone while feeling safe. If you visit in the winter you can cross some serious cool winter activities off your bucket list like watching the northern lights in an igloo hotel (one of the coolest things I’ve ever done!) or throwing boiling water in the air and watching it vaporize. Crazy right?

Recommended destinations: Lapland , Helsinki , Rovaniemi.

solo female travel europe England

England is small but so diverse so you can see a lot in one visit, while still being able to speak the language! You’ve got everything from the Medieval town of York to the storybook-cute Cotswolds to the bustling city of London and everything in between. It draws a lot of solo travelers so you should have no problem making friends to adventure around with!

Recommended destinations: London, Brighton, Manchester, York, The Lake District, The Cotswolds.

I dream of the crispy-sweet liege waffles from Belgium and you will too after leaving. Home to the best chocolate and so many languages and cultures, Belgium is a great place to experience a lot as a solo traveler. The capital, Brussels is a centrally-located major city and one of those European destinations that attracts a lot of solo travelers to enjoy the most amazing Belgium fries and beer!

Recommended destinations: Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp

Switzerland

solo female travel europe Switzerland

Switzerland is an amazing destination for solo female travelers who want to get outside in the summer or winter! In the summer you can go hike the Matterhorn, visit Oeschinen Lake or Lavertezzo , go paragliding or go mountain-climbing in Interlaken!

In winter, enjoy skiing in ski towns like Davos Klosters , Grindelwald, or Gstaad. It’s cheaper than skiing in the States and the Swiss Alps are GORGEOUS , especially with a glass of mulled wine or cheese fondue after a day on the slopes.

Recommended destinations: Gimmelwald, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Zermatt, DavoKlosters, Wengen

Spain 

solo female travel europe Spain

Spain has some of the friendliest people I’ve ever encountered, amazing transportation, beautiful weather, and most big cities speak enough English to get by comfortably. There are also so many awesome things to buy and bring back from Spain to remember your trip! You could spend days just exploring Madrid or Barcelona city center because it’s a country that feels like it never sleeps and the cities are always alive and buzzing!

Recommended destinations: Madrid, Barcelona, Mallorca, Seville, Ronda, Valencia, Granada.

If you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path, look no further than Estonia. This tiny Baltic country is not usually on the top of travelers list, but it should be. There is so much history in Estonia and walking around old town Tallinn feels like you’re in a medieval storybook – it’s one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. Because it’s less visited, Estonia is a nice break on your wallet .

Estonia is also a short ferry ride from Sweden or Finland, so it’s a great base to knock a few countries off your list at once.

Recommended destinations: Tallinn, Tartu

solo female travel europe Austria

The central European country of Austria is underrated when it comes to its neighbors of Switzerland and Italy, but it’s just as incredible! It’s one of the safest countries, the people are super friendly and English is widely spoken. Due to its central location, it also makes getting around the rest of Europe a breeze. I found it to be similar to a cheaper version of Switzerland which may be a great alternative based on your travel budget.

The Capital City, Vienna, is loaded with stunning architecture, art, and culture. On the flip side, the adorable town of Hallstatt feels like you’ve stepped into a postcard. 

Recommended destinations: Vienna, Hallstatt, Salzburg, Innsbruck

While this is not an exhaustive list, these are some of the best countries in Europe for solo female travel! However, there are t ons of places worth checking out all over Eastern and Western Europe which can be safe, fun, and great places to meet others.

How to Get Around Europe

solo female travel europe Germany Berlin

Budget Airlines

Flying within Europe can be a steal, especially if you’re flexible with your dates. Use comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights for the best deals. Ryanair, Easy Jet, Norwegian Airlines, and WOW are also budget-friendly options.

NOTE: Some of the budget airlines (I’m looking at you Ryanair) have odd rules for check-in or luggage so read EVERYTHING before booking!

Europe’s train system is vast, eco-friendly, and comfy. Look for passes online and plan your route. If you’re touring multiple countries, the Eurail pass can save you big bucks. Plus, trains often connect airports to city centers.

When you’re getting around the cities themselves, look for the metro. The public transit is affordable, saves you time from walking from place to place, and is dry on a rainy day.

Flixbus and Megabus offer reliable service at a low cost.

Taxis in Europe can be pricey. Use them only when you have lots of luggage or no other transport options. Uber is a bit cheaper, and BlaBlaCar offers car-sharing.

This is one of the best ways to get around European cities and discover cute neighborhoods or local eats! Expect cobblestones and bring sturdy walking shoes. 

How to Meet Other Solo Female Travelers in Europe

solo female travel europe hot air balloon ride Germany

Europe is easy to get around, small, and iconic for the art, food, architecture, and variety of cultures so you’ll meet a lot of other solo travelers – especially if you stay in hostels! Here are some tips for meeting others:

  • If locals see you traveling Europe alone they are more likely to invite you to events and show you around. It’s easier for them to accommodate one person than a group.
  • Opt for hostels or couch surfing to save money and meet people. Check sites like hostelworld.com for hostels with social spaces or events. For couch surfing, go for hosts with good reviews. Be aware, the hostel crowd is often younger and full of study abroad students.
  • Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram or travel forums can be great for connecting with other solo travelers to meet up with. 
  • Join Female Travel Groups on Facebook: Look for women-only Facebook travel groups like this one. 
  • Local Events: Attend local events or festivals where you’re likely to meet like-minded travelers.
  • Tinder: Some solo female travelers use it platonically to meet other travelers. Just be clear about your intentions.

What to pack 

lichtenstein castle

While you want to look cute, you don’t want to draw attention to the fact that you’re traveling alone in Europe. Think dressing down with neutral, muted colors and basic items that you can layer depending on the weather such as leggings, cardigans, basic jeans, and cute, longer dresses. I would recommend you avoid anything skin-tight and opt for looser-fitting and more flowy attire. Also, keep a thin sweater or scarf in your bag to throw on if you feel awkward or cold.

READ NEXT: The perfect Europe packing list for summer , fall , and winter

theft proof travel purse

You also want to ensure you are avoiding pickpockets . Bringing an RFID-blocking travel bag , such as a Pacsafe bag, or an RFID-blocking wallet is a great idea. Leave the expensive gadgets at home and don’t have any kind of expensive items, like jewelry, showing.

Make sure you have closed-toe comfortable shoes for all the cobblestone streets you will be walking on and leave the flip-flops at home unless you are going to the beach! Many larger hostels have coin laundry service, but even if they don’t, it’s easy to track one down in the city, so don’t worry too much about not packing enough clothes.

Where to Find the Best Food in Europe

azores travel tips

Europe is pretty much heaven for foodies! Here are some of my best tips for getting the best eats:

  • Skip restaurants with English menus or the ones in city centers that have big menus with photos posted outside. Don’t worry about not knowing the language; just check out what others are eating and point to what they are having! It’s always worked well for me!
  • Forget the diet. Savor pasta in Italy , feast in Greece, and enjoy Swiss chocolate. YOLO baby!
  • Ask your hostel or hotel about nearby food markets. Street food is often cheaper and just as tasty as restaurants. For example, Berlin has a vibrant street food scene.
  • If you have access to a kitchen, hit the local morning markets. It’s cheaper and you’ll get to experiment with fresh, local ingredients.
  • Make sure you know local dining times and operation hours. For example, Spaniards eat late dinners, and some Italian restaurants close in the afternoon.
  • Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. This site is a good resource for country-by-country information.
  • Join a local food tour to discover hidden gems. Try to do this the first day so that you get the local road recs from the guide right away! You’ll also usually meet some cool people on the tour!
  • Use social dining apps like EatWith to dine with locals with amazing experiences and food.
  • Check out local food blogs for recommendations.
  • Always Google search restaurants before eating. I always eat at those with 4.5+ stars and it’s never led me to a bad meal.

Is Europe safe for solo female travelers?

solo female travel europe paragliding

Yes, Europe is very safe for solo female travelers overall and can sometimes even be safer than large US cities as most countries have outlawed guns and have fewer assaults. Like in any other country, you should take some safety precautions such as not walking home alone at night, not drinking too much alcohol, using a theft-proof bag, and locking up your passport!

You can check out some safety stats here.

Long-term living and working abroad in Europe

solo female travel europe Berlin

Visa deets : Most travelers from countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia get a 90-day Schengen visa upon arrival. Some can also secure working holiday visas or longer-term visas, like the German freelancer visa.

Consider becoming an au pair: You’ll take care of a family’s kids in exchange for room and board. It’s a great way to see Europe, especially if the family covers your flight and expenses. 

Extra Tips for Solo Travelers

  • Language Skills: Knowing the local language can open doors to job opportunities.
  • Local Job Boards: Check local job boards and expat forums for job listings.
  • Co-working Spaces: These are great for networking and often have job boards.

solo female travel europe guide

Europe is a super welcoming place for women on solo adventures. The good news is, that you won’t feel alone if you stay open, friendly, and eager to explore. Follow our straightforward travel tips in this travel guide to stay safe and make amazing memories, just like you would at home.

About the author: Taylor is the creator of Culture Craving Couple , a travel blog focused on traveling in the USA and Europe. She and her husband’s goal is to help you explore the world while growing closer through off-the-beaten-path experiences and giving back.

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04/06/2017 at 2:16 am

Loved your tips, thanks for sharing! 🙂 I’ve been traveling alone a couple of times and it sure is true that you meet new people and opportunities to explore the country with them so much easier than when traveling in a couple or a group.

Jane Gibson says

08/11/2017 at 7:33 am

Thanks for sharing this! I’m planning my first solo trip for nect year and I constantly read and gather information. I like how you have all those tips for staying safe abroad. Most of the guides that I read say be positive and nothing bad will happen to you, but for me safety is the only thing that frightens me about travelling alone.

12/05/2018 at 3:35 pm

This is EXACTLY what I was looking for!! Thank YOU so much… so many of the travel tip sites are obviously sponsored “travel ads”.

Your article has given me the encouragement to realize at age 53 that I CAN do this!

Kristin says

12/06/2018 at 12:22 pm

YOU CAN DO THIS! I’m so glad you found what you were looking for here 🙂

Roxanne says

07/14/2019 at 11:20 pm

did you make your trip? 55 year old Canadian here doind some plannibg. How was it?

03/23/2019 at 11:25 am

I need help – im planning to go with my 6 yo daughter and 11 yo son to London- one of my concern is bathroom breaks- I’m scared to leave my son outside and take my daughter to the bathroom. It might seem weird but this is a legit question I have – how do other moms deal with this situation.

04/05/2019 at 3:32 am

Wow, awesome places to go to! I have only been to London, maybe I should try and book to the other places you have suggested 🙂

04/05/2019 at 8:34 am

Yes! So many beautiful cities, small towns, and natural areas.

Beatrice says

04/21/2019 at 1:09 pm

I am trying to plan a trip to London and Paris and I just don’t know where to start!!! I need to do it as economically and safely as possible. Any travel groups, agents or tours recommended?

04/21/2019 at 6:09 pm

You can fly into whichever is cheaper and take a bus or train to the other. It’s pretty simple to do on your own, don’t worry! If you have specific questions feel free to ask, alternatively the Facebook group is super helpful: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BMTMSoloFemaleTravelConnect/

Luthando Mhletywa says

06/11/2019 at 7:17 pm

Read the post and I absolutely love the countries on the post Germany,iceland,ireland,scotland ,England and many more.its the best way to travel solo the best way ever

Andiswa says

07/21/2019 at 6:45 am

Planning a European trip next from Cape Town . It will be my first solo travel… nervous and excited! Interested in Amsterdam or Spain and Morocco but need to do enough research about safety etc

07/23/2019 at 10:59 pm

would love to visit Paris next year June with friend, is it better to buy tickets now or later, which hotels are cheaper and saver to stay at

08/01/2019 at 2:53 am

I’m not super familiar with Paris but booking flights this early out is probably a bit soon. People say 2 months is ideal but for Europe in the summer earlier – like 3 months – can work out better.

Arsah Karowalia says

09/13/2019 at 11:25 am

This is awesome! Needed to read this because I’m going to London for an internship but want to travel around solo exploring places on weekends in the 2 months I have! Wondering if Greece is also ok to travel solo? Is it more of a “pair, couple or family” kind of place? are small Italian towns safe for solo traveling?

09/16/2019 at 1:37 am

I think yes to Greece and Italy!

Dominic Peake says

12/13/2019 at 2:57 am

The another thing that I would like mention of Europe that it is totally safe for women traveler. Even a single traveler can visit Europe without any risk. The people from other nations in Europe are friendly to outsiders.

12/13/2019 at 1:47 pm

That’s not true at all, especially for pickpockets. You can’t claim a whole continent is totally safe.

02/28/2021 at 7:47 am

Great tips! I would love to go to Provence in France. This picture in the lavender field is amazing ???? Europe is great to travel by train!

02/28/2021 at 6:56 pm

It’s so lovely!

World of Wanderlust

The 20 Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers

For the past seven years, I have been traveling the world solo , and my favorite continent to explore solo is by far Europe. There are many reasons I love traveling solo in Europe, namely, how much each country differs to the next, the incredible food, history, architecture, and how many other solo female travelers I meet also traveling across Europe. So here we are, my top picks for the safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers!

Post updated May 2022.

Safest cities for solo travel in Europe | WOW

The safest cities for female solo travelers

If you are new to solo travel and particularly as a female, it can be daunting knowing where to go first to ease into the experience and test the waters to make sure your first solo trip is a memorable one. These are the safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers and although there are many more to name, these are the cities I felt most safe in and would suggest to fellow solo female travelers who are trying to decide where to start the solo travel experience. Enjoy!

single female travel europe

Copenhagen, Denmark

It took me a few visits to Europe to visit Copenhagen as I had heard by all accounts that it was one of the most (if not the most) expensive cities in Europe. Indeed, my few days in the Danish capital were pricey to say the least, but it was one of my favourite European winter cities to explore and I had such a great time traveling solo in Copenhagen and made a lifelong friend here (Jasmina) who showed me around her city and welcomed me with open arms.

Guide to Ljubljana | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Ljubljana, Slovenia

I never expected to love Ljubljana as much as I did but once I was able to wrap my head around the pronunciation (Lah – yoob – li – ya – nah) I couldn’t stop singing its’ praise! The small and compact capital of Slovenia is one of the prettiest and indeed one of the most underrated cities in all of Europe. The small nature of the city makes it easy to get around and walking is your best option, with many great cafes and parks to enjoy in the summer time – great for solo travelers.

Lyon | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Lyon, France

I had visited France a handful of times before I ever made my way to Lyon , the gastronomic capital of France (which I incorrectly thought to be Paris for a good 25 years of my life). Lyon is a great city for solo female travelers because you can eat, drink, walk and bicycle your way around the city in a rotating motion so that you’re always enjoying the foodie scene but working off your calories and seeing the city at the same time. The city is huge but don’t let that overwhelm you – the best way to see it is over a few days and explore a neighbourhood at a time.

Solo Travel in Europe | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Sorrento, Italy

The Amalfi Coast has become one of Italy’s most popular holiday spots in recent years and is now one of Europe’s most sought after destinations. For solo travelers heading this way I would highly recommend basing yourself in Sorrento,  the perfect small city to explore the Amalfi Coast from that feels authentic and much safer than neighbouring Naples (which, as much as I loved my time there, is not the safest city for solo female travelers). Make sure you don’t miss Positano (pictured), arguably the most beautiful town on the Amalfi Coast and of course Ravello , the most underrated town in the Amalfi.

One Day in Bergen Norway | World of Wanderlust

Bergen, Norway

Quintessentially cute, Bergen is located on the southwestern coast of Norway and is commonly regarded as the most photogenic city in the entire country. Bergen is incredibly safe for solo travelers and indeed Norway as a whole is a great choice for solo adventures. With a reputation for being one of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, you may want to break up your time in the cities with some time outdoors hiking/camping or if you want to see the fjordlands at leisure, I can highly recommend boarding a cruise for a week to see the coastal towns and cities of Norways.

Christmas in Vienna Things to Do | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is by far one of my favourites cities in all of Europe and for sure one of the safest capital cities to explore on your own. Last year I spent my first Christmas in Vienna and had a marvellous time hopping from one Christmas market to the next. The coffee scene is a great way to pass the time alone and I’m sure if I had it my way, I’d spend weeks on end passing from one coffee shop to the next.

Helsinki Photo Diary | World of Wanderlust

Helsinki, Finland

Another great capital city to explore especially for their flight connections (Finnair seem to be one of the more affordable and well-connected airlines) is Helsinki , the capital of Finland. Helsinki is so safe that a local once described to me of their weekend, “nothing exciting happened, this is Helsinki after all”. The vibe of the city is a little underwhelming in the colder months but with a little bit of enthusiasm you can really enjoy walking around this city and if you’re in need of a little more excitement, take a day ferry to Tallinn in Estonia .

single female travel europe

Edinburgh, Scotland

If you’re a Harry Potter fan like me, there really is no reason not to love Edinburgh. The city where J.K. Rowling herself wrote some of the series, Edinburgh is a mecca for HP fans and even if you’re not a fan of the books and subsequent films, you can appreciate why the author got so much of her inspiration from this city. Edinburgh feels as old as time itself – there’s so much history and culture to explore here and the locals are all too happy to share it. Edinburgh is also home to one of Europe’s prettiest castles with an enviable location that oversees the entire city.

Oxford_University

Oxford, England

If you journey to London and are looking for more of a countryside escape or a day trip from London , Oxford is one of the most beautiful and safe cities to explore on your own. The city is brimming with students and student culture, making it a great choice if you are more of a social traveler looking to meet people. If you’re more of an introvert you can still visit the colleges of Oxford to really get a feel for the city and explore some of the college grounds.

Reykjavik | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Reykjavik, Iceland

The land of ice and fire is surprisingly not as scary as it sounds. In fact, Reykjavik is one of the most safe cities in Europe to visit and thanks to a rise in tourism, is a great place to meet fellow travellers and locals all at once. The cafe scene in Reykjavik is pretty poppin’, too, so be sure to make time to wander from one cafe to the next. One of the things that surprised me most about this city was how many options there were for vegan food – both at regular restaurants and niche-specific vegan restaurants that were entirely plant based. This is a great city to spend a few days in before you venture off in to the depths of the country by road.

Lisbon Portugal by WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has long been one of my favourite cities to travel to as a solo female traveler as I have always felt incredibly safe, welcomed by locals and it is hands down one of the prettiest cities to get lost in.

Zagreb Croatia | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Zagreb, Croatia

The capital of Croatia surprised me when I first visited, mostly because I hadn’t heard it was anything out of the ordinary and yet I loved my few days here, wandering around the streets and getting lost. Of course be sure not to miss (the more popular choice) Dubrovnik on the coast of Croatia, but don’t be too quick to pass up Zagreb as it is a great city to base yourself for a few days and feel like a local in no time.

single female travel europe

Zurich, Switzerland

Switzerland is full of pretty cities and towns but for me, there is no city quite as beautiful as Zurich . I love visiting Zurich in the wintery months on my way to the ski slopes and could easily spend a few days here, cuddled up underneath a blanket outside one of the coffee shops drinking a cup of hot cocoa.

London Bucket List | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

London, UK

Of all the times I have been to London I would say 90% of them have been solo and so, so incredibly enjoyable. With an abundance of free museums to visit and a great expat culture, there is always something to see or do in this city. London feels incredibly safe no matter the time of day, night, or season and with so many options for entertainment, is very easy to enjoy solo.

10 German Cities You Need to Visit, Berlin

Berlin, Germany

I lived alone in Berlin for a few months back in 2015 and still remember that time so fondly. This city is effortlessly cool but also offers a great range of affordable restaurants, yoga classes, ever-changing coffee scene and a dark history that you could spend weeks on end uncovering.

single female travel europe

Gent, Belgium

Belgium is not often the first choice for solo travelers but as one of the first destinations on my solo adventures many moons ago, I’ve got a soft spot for this country and in particular the city of Gent. Gent has a huge student population so it is easy to meet people and engage in the social scene or if you’re feeling like being on your own, this is a great city to get lost in without a map or any intentional destination.

single female travel europe

Stockholm, Sweden

The Swedish capital city of Stockholm is known for its’ street style and indeed, is one of the most fashionable cities to discover. This is a great city to explore in three days and is especially lively on the summer weekends.

Florence Italy | WOW

Florence, Italy

With so many great cities and towns to visit in Italy, it can be difficult to narrow it down to suggest only the best Italian cities for solo travelers but if it is safety you are after, Florence , the capital of Tuscany is one of the most beautiful cities to explore on foot and is for the most part very safe. There are also some great day trips outside of Florence to enjoy, especially if you rent a car and head out in to the Italian countryside.

Tallinn Photo Diary | World of Wanderlust

Tallinn, Estonia

The medieval city old town in Tallinn is perhaps the closest you will get to living in a real life fairytale. Wandering around this city could take you a day or it could take you a week, as the city is so beautiful you will often find yourself lost in the purity of it.

Bruges Belgium by WORLD OF WANDERLUST

Bruges, Belgium

The city of Bruges in Northern Flanders may just be my single most favourite city in all of Europe. This city is incredibly safe as a solo female traveler and is so picture perfect that you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped inside a postcard.

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Brooke Saward

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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guest

I love this list! If I were making a list, I’d also add Seville, Spain–I felt really safe there on my last visit, and the orange tree-lined streets are hard to beat.

ENIPE

Thank’s you so much, it helps me to travel

leane stewart

Wow thank you very much for your tips and help.

Nonanomad

Thank you so much for sharing this, I’m gonna plan for my next travel soon!

A few snapshots from Island life in Koh Samui 🥹🌴 just shared my blog posts from this trip in Thailand and now craving mango sticky rice pudding, the kindness and hospitality of Thai people and those buffet breakfast spreads (the kinda ones that keep you full til dinner). My stay at @fskohsamui was like something out of a story book. Especially that last photo - that night was one to remember 🫶🏼 #kohsamui #thailand #travel #travelblog #thailandtravel

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Peter Pan Traveler

Best European Cities For Solo Females

Are you planning a solo trip to Europe? Discover the perfect places for female travelers that offer beautiful scenery, interesting culture, and plenty of chances to make new friends.

From picturesque beaches in Croatia to Instagram-worthy cities in Italy, these 11 destinations are perfect for independent women travelers.

They are the best solo female travel destinations in Europe. Don’t wait around for your friends or your partner to take the trip of a lifetime. Make the jump and do it yourself.

Imagine you have been wanting to travel for ages; you have been waiting around for your friends or your boyfriend to finally commit to taking that European trip that you guys have always talked about.

But when it comes down to that final moment, right when you are about to book your plane tickets, they bail.

I know the first solo trip you take can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. If you visit one of these top European cities for solo female travelers, it will make the trip less scary and I can almost guarantee you will make some new friends along the way.

These are my favorite cities in Europe to travel to solo. I always have a great solo trip visiting these cities.

Even if you don’t speak any foreign languages, you will be just fine out on your own.

Over my many years of traveling, I have done it all. Traveled with friends, boyfriends, and parents. However, my favorite kind of travel is solo travel.

You meet so many more people because you are forced to.

The first time I took a solo trip I was 31, scared that I wouldn’t meet anyone, and not looking forward to staying in hostels.

But it was hands down the best trip of my life! Since then I have continued to travel solo as well as with friends.

Best Destinations For Solo Female Travelers In Europe

1. lagos, portugal.

Algarve Coast, Portugal. Best European Travel Destinations for Solo Women

Portugal is beautiful, cheap, and full of good-looking, dark men. What’s not to love!

Lagos is located in the south of the country and is surrounded by the Algarve coast.

For those that enjoy beautiful scenery and a smaller town feel, Lagos is perfect. It is a small tourist town so it makes it easier to meet fellow travelers.

Their small streets are full of live music day and night during the summer months.

Lagos has plenty of beautiful beache s to explore during the day and is also full of great cafes and restaurants.

It is the perfect place to meet people so you never feel alone while you travel.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Spain

Spain is known for its delicious tapas, sangria, siestas, and late-night meals. Who doesn’t want to plan a vacation around eating good food, drinking, lying on the beach, and then taking a nap?

It is one of the best European cities to travel solo.

Barcelona is cheap, its beaches are full of life, but it also has historical sites you can do when you are tired of drinking too much sangria.

Barcelona offers it all. You can see Barcelona in a day or stay there a month.

The longer you stay in Spain, the more you won’t want to leave.

Enjoy a bigger European city while also having a beach to escape to when you are ready to relax.

Fill up on tapas for next to nothing or party with the pumping nightlife, if that is what you are looking for.

Want to find out more about traveling to Spain? Want to find out how you can travel long term in Spain?

3. Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy

Some of us are not beach people and would rather spend our time walking around art museums, eating gelato and staring at Italian men.

Florence is a great vibing European city for solo female travelers. It offers great food, culture, and a good hipster feel nightlife.

It is located in Tuscany so there is plenty of good wine to drink as well. When you are tired of the city vibes, take a day trip to the wine country for some wine tasting or hit up the famous town of Pisa, to take a photo in front of the leaning tower.

Florence is great for anyone interested in art or wine, and Italy has some of the best food in Europe.

Enjoy pizza and pasta every day, and don’t forget about their gelato. If you are a true foodie, Italy is a must on your bucket list.

4. Dublin, Ireland

Irish Pub

One of the benefits of traveling to Ireland, is you don’t have to worry about the language barrier.

English is widely spoken all over Europe. It is easy to get around any county without speaking a second language.

But if the language barrier has been holding you back from visiting Europe, Ireland is the perfect spot for your first-time European solo travel destination.

Not only is English spoken, but there are plenty of things to do in Dublin .

As well the Irish are some of the friendliest people in Europe which makes traveling solo a breeze.

They are so happy when they find out you are a tourist and will gladly help you find your way if you are lost, or buy you a pint of Guinness and tell you an Irish folk tale.

I’m not kidding, this happened to me and pretty much everyone I know that has visited Ireland.

They love their culture, but they love sharing it even more. Dublin is a fun city to explore and an easy place to meet locals and travelers.

On top of that, there are a ton of amazing restaurants in Dublin .

With so many reasons to visit Dublin, it’s hard to find a reason not to go.

5. Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany. Best European Travel Destination for Solo Women

This city is a hipster’s dream, full of great trending food and cafes. In the summer month’s their parks are full of man buns drinking craft beers.

And their nightclubs are so famous that they don’t get going until Sunday around midday.

The Berghain is reason enough to go to Berlin, if you can get in that is.  But besides their nightclubs, it also offers so much history to see as well.

Take a walking tour around the city and learn about the pivotal importance of its history.

Great for culture, food, and experiencing some of the most bizarre nightlife you will ever see.

It is one of Europe’s most multicultural cities, so you are likely to meet people from all around the world living there.

Berlin is great to spend a couple of days or even a week.

There is so much to see and do there. You can’t go wrong with this European city for solo female travel.

6. Nice, France

Nice, France

The Cote d’Azur has some of the prettiest coastlines I have seen in Europe. It’s full of beautiful cliff sides and crystal clear blue water.

There is a reason this area of France is so populated and is visited so frequently. Nice is no exception, it is a beautiful vibing beach city.

Filled with good cafes, art galleries, shopping and more.

Its narrow streets are perfect for wandering around and its cafes are perfect for enjoying little shots of espresso and people-watching.

Located on the beach, it is perfect for strolling the boardwalk or just laying around on the beach all day. Enjoy the warm calm water the Medderiteran has to offer.

Nice is home to some of the best beaches to visit in Europe  as well.

It is a great place for meeting fellow travelers and enjoying a more mellow bar scene.

There are also a ton of Amazing Villages in the South of France near Nice that is worth checking out.  Also, plenty of day trips from Nice that you can take while staying there

7. Budapest, Hungry

Budapest, Hungry. Best European Travel Destination for Solo Women

Eastern Europe is often overlooked when planning a trip across the pond, and I never understand why.

Eastern Europe is so beautiful and often much cheaper than Western Europe. Budapest is a great example of this.

It is a city full of culture, thermal baths, and great beer, all for a fraction of the price that you would see in other cities. Which is why it is one of the best European cities for solo female travelers.

Originally it was made up of three cities; Buda, Pest, and Óbuda, they were merged in 1873 to form the one city of Budapest.

It is a great city to explore churches, culture, and stroll along the Danube River. It is a friendly city and its outdoor appeal makes it easy to meet fellow travelers.

Be sure to do a pub crawl while you are here or explore the underground pubs on your own. There are plenty of Cheap Things To Do while in Budapest

This city won’t disappoint you.

8. Palma Macra, Spain

single female travel europe

Palma Mallorca is a great example of classic European city life mixed with Island vibe. Located next to the more popular island of Ibiza, Palma is nothing like the party island.

It has culture, great cafes filled with traditional Spanish tapas, and never-ending glasses of sangria.

Great for visiting if you want to experience the Spanish culture, but not looking for a big city vibe.

When you are tired of walking about the cobblestone streets of the city, take the wooden train or the Tren De Sóller to the more secluded beaches in Sóller.

The train takes about an hour and leads you through some spectacular scenery. It is definitely the highlight of the island.

There are also other beaches that are closer to the city, but the train is a must-do if you are coming to Palma.

9. Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos, Greece. Best European Travel Destination for Solo Women

Looking for a peaceful laid back vacation? Don’t care to visit museums, churches, castles or any other architecture that Europe has to offer?

The Greek islands can be a great escape. If you are a single woman traveling alone in Europe and want to escape city life, Mykonos is the perfect place to do so.

Enjoy the beautiful beaches during the day, and the pumping party scene at night.

Popular with the gays, it is easy to go out and enjoy the nightlife without having to worry about being hit on all night.

It’s massive dance clubs attract world-renowned DJs from all over the world in the summer months.

Be aware of when you plan on going because this island tends to shut down in the winter months.

It is a great spot to visit, but make sure you go in the summer months.

10. Amsterdam, Holland

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Amsterdam is a great European spot to visit for solo female travelers and has so much more to offer than just dirty smoke-filled cafes and the red light district.

It is full of great museums, art galleries, and has beautiful fresh flowers everywhere. Amsterdam is a gorgeous city with so much to do.

If sitting on a beach doesn’t sound like your thing and you would rather be out exploring a city all day, then Amsterdam will not disappoint you.

Full of fun activities and plenty to explore, you will not get bored with your time in Amsterdam.

Take a riverboat down the canal or enjoy a bike tour around the city. This lively city is great for anyone looking to stay active on their holiday.

Be careful not to walk in the bike path while you are here, as bikers will run you over

11. Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city, but it is by far the coolest. It is where you want to be as a solo female traveler.

It is a hipster city, full of vibrant cafes and craft breweries. It is full of the latest fashion trends, off-the-wall art, and startling architectural buildings.

Antwerp is an underrated and up-and-coming city. One that is off the radar, but full of great reasons for the solo female traveler to join.

It is full of museums and galleries to enjoy during the day, but the highlight of the city often happens when the sunsets and the night owls come out.

If you are into clubs or nightlife, Antwerp has you covered. It is also a very friendly city, which makes going out solo easy to do and easy to meet new friends.

Where To Stay When Traveling Alone

I hate saying this, but if you are traveling alone the best places to stay are hostels. Thankfully a lot has changed with hostels over the years.

You are now able to have your own private room and bathroom. It is like staying in a hotel, but you get the social benefits of staying in a hostel.

It is a great way to meet fellow travelers, make new friends, and share these amazing experiences you get while traveling.

You make new friends from all over the world.

Also, if you are on a budget, you can share a room and cut your costs. I highly suggest trying to find an all females dorm if you can. Usually, there is less snoring.

Now you know what kind of accommodation you should stay in, let’s talk about the cities you should visit.

These are some of the best cities in Europe for solo female travelers.

Conclusions

Are considering your first European solo trip? Europe is a great place to start when traveling solo for so many reasons.

There are so many places to see and so many things to do. Whether you want to sit on a beach all day, explore museums, or just enjoy good food and drinks.

Europe has it all. It is also a great place to meet fellow solo travelers. And each city is completely different.

When traveling solo you never really have to worry about doing things on your own, unless you want to. It is so easy to meet people and make new friends.

Take a leap of faith and book your first solo trip to one of these best European travel destinations for solo females.

You will be happy you did and I’m sure there will be many more to follow after your first one.

Related Content

  • Best Places to Travel in France Solo
  • Best European Cities for Nightlife
  • Underrated Cities in Europe

About The Author

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Megan Kulluk

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I agree that Europe is a great place to start as a solo traveler. There is so much to see and it’s easy to get around. I’ve always found that locals are happy to help with questions or suggestions too!

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Yes, I agree. Everyone usually speaks English and is always so happy to help you.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

13 Best Places in Europe to Travel Alone as a Woman | Self-Reflection, Solo Exploration, Independence and Fun!!!

single female travel europe

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  • Czechia (Czech Republic)
  • Destinations
  • Solo Travel
  • Switzerland
  • The Netherlands
  • Types of Travel
  • United Kingdom

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

Living abroad in Spain and Thailand for a total of four years provided me with ample opportunity for solo travel, something that, just a few short years prior, I never imagined I would do.

If you’re a woman and you’ve ever traveled alone, then you know how addicting it can be. It allows time for self-reflection and exploration and teaches us how to be truly independent. There are few things in life I have found more liberating than globetrotting solo.

If it’s your first time traveling alone, then Europe is a great starting point. Europe has so many great cities which are both of beautiful and safe. This makes cities in Europe ideal for the independent female traveler. Here are the 13 best European cities to visit solo:

Plaza de Espana in Seville, Spain.

leoks / Shutterstock

13 Best Places in Europe to Travel Alone as a Woman

1. seville, spain.

Seville is big enough to get lost in but small enough that you won’t actually feel lost. Situated in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, Seville has a lot going for it: brightly colored apartment buildings, cobblestone streets, friendly locals, and favorable weather.

Spaniards walk more than most people in the world, and their cities are designed for walking. In Seville, it’s easy to get around on foot, though there is a newer metro system in place as well as buses and taxis for all your transportation needs.

When visiting Seville, be sure to check out the Seville Cathedral, the Alcázar of Seville, the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, and the Torre del Oro .

There are a lot of hidden spots in Seville you should make sure to see.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

After visiting Seville, you can head over to Lisbon, another extraordinary European city for women traveling solo.

Lisbon is a beautiful port city situated in the western Iberian Peninsula on the Atlantic Ocean and the Tagus River. The city is known for its beautiful squares, quaint neighborhood streets ideal for wandering, and excellent cuisine, as well as for its helpful and friendly locals who are accustomed to foreign visitors.

Like Seville, Lisbon can be explored on foot, but solo female travelers should make sure to board a Remodelado tram at least once during their visit, a unique experience only to be found in this stunning capital city .

Downtown Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Noppasin Wongchum / Shutterstock

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Though Amsterdam is known as the Sin City of Europe, it is actually the safest city on the entire continent.

Amsterdam was named the safest city in the European Union and the sixth safest city in the world in the 2017 Safe Cities Index. It was also named the most digitally secure city.

Amsterdam’s vast public transportation system makes getting around easy. Though the city has many metro, tram, bus, and ferry routes, no trip to Amsterdam would be complete without a bike trip around the city, an ideal activity for the solo female traveler.

My advice: Amsterdam is one of those cities that should definitely go on your bucket list .

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

Scandinavian countries are generally very safe places to visit, and Denmark is no exception. Denmark’s capital city is home to some incredible cultural experiences, such as Freetown Christiania , the Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, and Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s 17th-century waterfront.

Copenhagen is also home to one of the most advanced transportation systems in Europe. The metro will take solo female travelers to almost all of the most iconic spots in the city, and it provides transportation to and from the airport.

Before traveling to this beautiful city, I advise you to read on the things you should know before going to Copenhagen .

Aerial view of Prague at night time.

NaughtyNut / Shutterstock

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Nicknamed “the City of a Hundred Spires” for its stunning Gothic architecture, Prague is an unparalleled city that draws visitors back time and time again.

The capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague is known for its hidden gems like the winding streets, famous squares in the city center, historic bridges, and fairy-tale castles.

Prague is one of the easiest cities to navigate in Europe, since its main tourist attractions are located within walking distance of one another. This makes Prague perfect for solo female travel. There are several hostels and hotels in the area that are great for solo travelers, and women traveling alone won’t struggle to find like-minded wanderers in the city.

6. Cinque Terre, Italy

Situated on the rugged Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most scenic destinations. The centuries-old seaside villages are located in five distinct towns: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Corniglia.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cinque Terre makes visiting easy with the Cinque Terre train. Trains run frequently year-round to the area’s five villages, and the stops between each town take five to 10 minutes. Travelers can purchase a Cinque Terre Card that includes both train and bus travel.

Women traveling solo will love the charm of Cinque Terre, a great place to feel comfortable on your own and relax, especially during the summer months when the beaches are open for swimming, sunbathing, and some serious rest and relaxation.

Aerial view of Budapest, Hungary.

Yasonya / Shutterstock

7. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a magical city filled with history, beautiful castles, unique bars, and more thermal and medicinal springs than there are in any other capital city in the world.

Budapest is a popular destination for solo travelers, so finding accommodations will be easy. The city also offers free three-hour-long walking tours , a great way for travelers to see all of the major attractions the city has to offer.

Spending a day at any of Budapest’s thermal baths is a great way for solo female travelers to sit back, relax, and unwind after hours of sightseeing. Szechenyi Baths are Budapest’s most popular thermal baths, and you can purchase tickets here.

8. Hamburg, Germany

Big cities with lots of hustle and bustle may not be the best choice for women traveling on their own. This doesn’t mean that big cities are unsafe, but it’s easier to get around by yourself and experience a destination to the fullest in a smaller city.

Hamburg is an old-town, picturesque, and leisurely alternative to the big city of Berlin. Hamburg can be easily explored on foot, but it is still big enough to get lost in and have plenty of nightlife, culture, food, architecture, and activities to enjoy.

View of the city of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Shaiith / Shutterstock

9. Edinburgh, Scotland

If you’re a woman traveling solo on New Year’s and looking for the best location to celebrate, head to Edinburgh .

Edinburgh has one of the biggest New Year’s celebration in all of Europe, and it’s a great place to spend time on the street with locals and people from around the world.

Edinburgh is also home to some amazing cultural attractions , including the iconic Edinburgh Castle (where an amazing New Year’s fireworks display occurs each year), Calton Hill, and the Royal Mile .

10. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich was named the 10th safest city in the world by the 2017 Safe Cities Index , making it a great destination for women traveling solo.

Zurich has over 50 museums and 100 art galleries, lots of places to shop, and jaw-dropping architecture. Though it should be noted that Zurich is an incredibly expensive city to visit, it will be worth every penny.

If you’re visiting Zurich in the summer, Lake Zurich is surrounded by cafés and restaurants and has several parks with shorelines perfect for soaking up the sun, swimming, or hiring a pedal boat.

Canals in Bruges, Belgium.

cge2010 / Shutterstock

11. Bruges, Belgium

Though Belgium has been the victim of a series of unfortunate and devastating acts of terrorism, the country still holds its head high and offers incredible experiences for travelers.

With its Bavarian buildings, quaint canals and castles , and vibrant flora, Bruges will make you feel like you’re in a storybook and make your solo female travel magic. This striking city will leave solo female travelers feeling replenished and full of wonder and curiosity.

Interested in learning more about solo travel? Check out all of our articles on the subject by clicking here !

12. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Currently ranked #90 best place for solo female travels, the Amalfi Coast is a captivating coastal area known for its extraordinary beauty and enchanting landscapes. The region is renowned for its citrus groves, terraced vineyards, vibrant culture, and stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites . 

Tourists can enjoy exploring historic sites, boating, hiking, divine Italian cuisine, and the famous limoncello liqueur. With scenic beauty that blends with its rich history, the Amalfi Coast is a traveler’s paradise.

13. Bled, Slovenia

The picturesque town of Bled in Slovenia is a little off-the-beaten-path gem that has the perfect amount of stunning alpine scenery and activities to explore for intrepid solo women travelers.  Known for its iconic Bled Castle , perched atop a cliff, it offers a fairy-tale setting. 

The town’s culinary scene is popular too, especially its traditional cream cakes known as “Kremsnitas.” Combining natural splendor with rich history and culture, Bled is truly a breathtaking destination suitable for those who crave an amazing European getaway.

Don’t miss out on Lake Bled – it’s amazing and much more affordable than its more famous European counterparts like Lake Geneva.

Pro Tip : When traveling solo, women should prioritize safety by researching destinations, sharing itineraries with trusted contacts, avoiding isolated areas at night, and opting for reputable accommodations. Carrying a fully charged phone, essential documents, and a self-defense tool (as long as it’s allowed legaly) can provide added security. Trusting instincts and being aware of surroundings are crucial for solo travel.

What Are the Safest Countries in Europe to Travel Alone as a Woman?

Most European destinations are considered relatively safe, but some of the favorite countries for female solo travelers include Iceland and Denmark in Southern Europe and Portugal. Europe is generally one of the best continents for a solo traveler. 

What Are the Best Major Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travel?

Some of the best European cities for solo female travel include London, Krakow, Lisbon, and Copenhagen, but there are so many other great cities perfect for solo female travel. Whether you want a cosmopolitan city or somewhere quieter, you’ll find it in Europe.

Is It a Good Idea For Women to Travel Solo in Europe?

Yes, most travelers will feel somewhat familiar with less of a culture shock than elsewhere in the world. Western Europe might not have as cheap prices as certain destinations in Asia or South America, but there are so many world-famous places to explore when visiting Europe.

Is Europe Good for the First Solo Trip as a Woman?

Destinations in Europe are easy for a first-time solo female traveler, as much of the continent has excellent infrastructure. Also, you won’t encounter language barriers on solo trips as most people speak English. If you travel to Europe solo, that’s something to keep in mind as you choose your European destination.

Are Solo Female Travels in Eastern Europe Safe?

Solo women can travel safely in most of Eastern European countries. However, in macho countries like Romania, Bulgaria, and Russia, a woman on a solo trip may get out of her comfort zone by encountering harassment or other problems.

Image of Alexandra Mahoney

Alexandra was first bitten by the travel bug when she studied abroad in Seville, Spain, in 2013. Since then, she graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor of arts in journalism and a double minor in Spanish and music. After graduation, she taught English abroad for four years in Spain and Thailand. Besides being a contributing writer for TravelAwaits, Alexandra has turned her passion for travel into a career as an expedition manager at National Geographic Expeditions, overseeing trips throughout Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa.

A Solo Woman Traveling

Inspiring Destinations For Solo Female Travel

A Solo Woman Traveling

Best European Cities For Solo Female Travel in 2024

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What do I know about solo female travel in Europe? Well, let me start with the fact that I have spent the last decade visiting as many of the best European cities as possible!

So, if you have come to find some truly idyllic and safe destination for women to travel alone, you’ve come to the right place! I am a massive advocate for solo traveling and have traveled alone to over 50 European Cities !

Each year I travel to more cities solo and come update this post to all the best places I explored on my own!

Whether you are interested in adventure travel or chill by the sandy beaches travel, some trips are better solo than others .

For this reason, I created this list of the top solo travel destinations for women .

A woman in a green dress stands by a traditional whitewashed stone wall with a blue door, embodying the serene charm of European travel.

A solo trip can be a unique experience that can help you heal, grow, and excel in your personal life.

The best places for solo travel in Europe for women are the safest ones . Every destination I include will have a little mention of the four pillars of my travel foundation.

Each of these listed cities in this post I visited solo within the last few years.

For those of you who haven’t read any of my solo travel inspiration stories, let me give you a little background on who I am.

I am a girl who always wanted to travel, but as I neared 30 , I knew I had to make a choice. Keep waiting for a travel partner, or take the plunge and travel solo!

Well, I am sure you have guessed it… I went traveling all by myself.

My life-changing experiences are what led me to write this blog. You can read this knowing that I have traveled to every location on this list.

And, I hope my solo travel tales encourage you to embrace this big beautiful world!

This post may have affiliate links. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy for more info.

Best European Cities For Solo Female Travel

Verona, italy.

A woman sitting on the ledge of a wall with the river and bridge of verona in the background

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 67.54)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 86.11 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 61.11 (high).

Why I Love Verona for Solo Travel

Verona, Italy? Is that really one of the best solo travel destinations for women?

I thought that visiting the birthplace of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet was going to be a love fest that would make me feel lonely.

Thankfully, I couldn’t have been more wrong! Yes, Italy is a romantic destination, but it’s a great place for solo trips . The Italians are chill, and Italy is a safe place for women.

Verona ticks all the essential criteria, establishing itself as a prime destination for solo female travelers.

This charming city combines safety, cultural richness, and traveler-friendly amenities, making it an ideal choice for solo explorations.

Verona is located in the northern part of Italy. It is smack in between Milan and Venice.

And of those two cities, Verona is still my favorite! Another nearby city is Bologna , and I can highly recommend all of them for day trips.

So what can you expect when visiting Verona ? Only some of the best food you will ever have in your life! I really love how different the cuisine is from Northern Italy to Southern Italy . Northern Italian food is all about risotto and cheese dips.

If you are looking to add Verona to your bucket list, then check out my exclusive guide to Verona. Here I will go into more detail about how to reach the city and the public transport you can expect.

Must Do’s in Verona for Solo Travelers

❤︎ The best way to visit this great European city is by booking a walking tour ! I loved my guide and everything they taught me about Verona.

See all the sites such as Juliet’s House , Verona Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, and Torre dei Lamberti!

❤︎ Wine taste your way through this incredible Italian city on a wine-tasting tour ! Learn all about wine making from these family-run wineries.

❤︎ One of the BEST things you can do in Verona is take a tour of Lake Garda ! This semi-private tour takes you to Sirmione for a half day!

I spent the time choosing only the finest restaurants and most beautiful hotels. You can forget about spending hours researching online when you use this guide and map of Verona!

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Verona

Solo Female Travel Safety Gear

Secondary Lock

Feel extra secure in your accommodations with this affordable secondary lock.

Portable Safe

Want to protect your valuables anywhere? This portable safe will do the trick!

Portable Wifi

Being connected makes me feel safe! Get a portable Wi-Fi device and have the internet everywhere!

Travel Insurance

I don’t care how safe the city is, things happen. I always get travel insurance anytime I travel!

Travel Apps for Women

Download 13 must-have travel apps for women

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Number in Europe : Dial 112 & Emergency Number in the United States: Dial 911

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

A Solo Woman Traveling in Majorca

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 64.69)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 82.00 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 60.25 (high).

Why I love Palma de Mallorca for Solo Travel

One of the most beautiful places to visit as a solo traveller is Palma de Mallorca! In the summer months, it is a very popular tourist destination. Palma de Mallorca is ideal for solo travel because of how many things there are to do to keep you busy.

Palma is also a safe destination for women. If you have never heard of Mallorca (Majorca), is a Spanish island located in southern Europe. It has some of the most beautiful beaches and lively city life.

I spent four nights in Majorca eating all the street food and checking out various art galleries.

As far as island travel goes, it is one of my favorites!

I loved visiting Palma, especially for the opportunity to spend time at the beach and marvel at the unique architecture. It was the perfect destination to explore leisurely and at my own pace.

Must Do’s in Palma de Mallorca for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Take a tour of Palma de Mallorca by electric scooter ! This tour is the best way to cover as much ground as possible through the Old Town of Palma.

❤︎ Book a boat tour from Cala Figuera to Calo del Moro and S’ Almonia . The perfect 1-hour boat tour through the coastal towns of the Southeastern coast. This tour is also a great way to meet new people.

❤︎ Ride a vintage train and go out on a boat ride through Mallorca’s west coast on a full-day tour! Visit the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountain range and take a boat to the coastal village of Port Soller.

❤︎ Go on a wine-tasting tour of Mallorca ! If you are a wine lover there is no better way to experience the city than on a wine tour!

A woman alone in the street with brick wall and round doorway in the background.

Which European City Should You Visit?

Take this 10-question quiz to find out which European city you might love the most based on your travel style!

Rhodes, Greece

A woman sitting on the rock with the ocean and historical castle walls in the background.

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 70.14)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 85.02 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 63.28 (high).

Why I Love Rhodes for Solo Travel

I love the Greek island of Rhodes for solo travel for so many reasons! For one, Rhodes is a place where you can visit the historical sites and the beach on the same day!

Rhodes is also a safe island to walk around alone at night, and the locals are very friendly. If you are interested in medieval architecture, the Old Fortified city has lots to offer.

It is one of the few Greek Islands you can visit in the winter months, however, don’t expect warm weather. From November to May the weather is cool and rainy like in most of Eastern Europe.

Must Do’s in Rhodes for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Join a Rhodes wine-tasting tour ! It is a great way to meet other solo travelers and see a bit of the island.

❤︎ Take the fast boat to Symi Island and go swimming at George’s Bay!

❤︎ Go on a day trip to Lindos ! This is a great tour for anyone traveling alone! See all the sites of Lindos on this group tour!

Pro Tip: Even though I found solo travel to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

A woman in Amsterdam at the top of a church with the city skyline below her.

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index: 71.82)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 82.22 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 66.22 (high).

Why I Love Amsterdam for Solo Travel

If this is your first solo trip, Amsterdam is a great choice for women looking to go to Europe alone. This beautiful city, located in The Netherlands checks all the travel must-haves I mentioned above.

It is an incredibly safe city, with friendly locals that speak English, so you don’t have to stress about a language barrier. Public transport is extremely reliable, and Amsterdam has a low crime rate.

The best reason why Amsterdam is such a great city to visit solo is for all its opportunities to meet people and keep busy. Traveling on your own could get lonely if you let it.

In a city like Amsterdam, this can easily be avoided with all the things to do. I recommend planning at minimum a 3 day itinerary in Amsterdam.

The Netherlands is voted one of the safest countries in the world; it’s no wonder it’s number 1 on my female solo traveler’s bucket list!

Enjoy the best solo travel destinations for women to Amsterdam with my exclusive guide. I created a detailed and to-the-point post on where to eat and the best boutique hotels.

You can skip all those hours of research on Trip Advisor. Simply have a look at the itinerary ideas I put together in the solo trip to Amsterdam guide !

✈️ Are Ready to Travel Alone?: Take The Solo Travel Readiness Quiz!

Must Do’s in Amsterdam for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Anne Frank’s House – Visiting Anne Frank’s House is an experience like no other. For those who don’t know, Anne Frank was a Jewish girl who wrote a diary while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Her story made her one of the most famous Jews of all time and today, her house in Amsterdam is a popular tourist attraction. Getting tickets in advance is a must!

❤︎ Amsterdam Canal Tour – This all-inclusive canal tour by Captin Jack won the travelers choice award in 2022! Likely to sell out, this 90-minute tour takes you all around the most popular spots in Amsterdam. It’s a perfect tour if you are looking to meet a friend or two!

❤︎ Shopping on the 9 streets – If you’re a traveler who delights in shopping and seeks excitement, exploring Amsterdam’s 9 Streets is an essential experience. Situated in the heart of the city, this district brims with lively boutique shops, charming cafés, and numerous spots to discover one-of-a-kind keepsakes.

❤︎ Inner City Bike Tour – When visiting Amsterdam for the first time the best way to see it all is by joining a bike tour! Your professional guide will take you to all the best destinations this city has to offer!

❤︎ Tour of the Red Light District – You can’t visit Amsterdam without checking out the Red Light District! This private tour of the Red Light District will shed light on all the laws and take you to the most infamous spots in Amsterdam.

When planning a trip to Amsterdam, I encourage you to book your activities in advance. Especially if you are only in Amsterdam for 24 hours , it is important to plan your itinerary.

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Amsterdam

Salzburg, Austria

Best Solo Travel Destinations for Women, a sweeping view of Salzburg, Austria, and the surrounding mountains.

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 79.24)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 88.21 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 70.95 (high).

Why I love Salzburg for Solo Travel

Salzburg is one of my favorite cities in Europe! It’s the fourth-largest Austrian city, with a population of approximately 157,000.

It’s also one of the safest cities and a female-friendly destination located about 73 miles / 117 Km from Munich, Germany.

If you like smaller towns Salzburg is a great spot to visit. It’s full of natural beauty and national parks. If adventure travel is your thing, then consider this European city as your top choice for solo female travel destinations.

Making a day trip to nearby Untersberg park is undoubtedly a lovely way to spend a few hours in Salzburg. Here you will find the most majestic views of the natural beauty of this Austrian city.

Enjoy a ride up to the top in a cable, possibly an opportunity to meet other like minded traveling ladies!

After just two days in Salzburg , you will agree that it is one of the best solo travel destinations for women! Austria is a beautiful country and in general, is possibly one of the safest countries in the world.

Must Do’s in Salzburg for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Do a 2.5-hour walking tour of Salzburg ! This walking tour will help you get acquainted with the area in the shortest amount of time!

❤︎ Eat your way through Salzburg on a food tour ! Salzburg has some great food! Trying new foods is always the best part of my trip.

❤︎ When I visited Salzburg I joined a bike tour and it was the best thing I could have done! It is a great activity to do if you are solo, I made so many friends!

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Salzburg

My Favorite Travel Planning Resources

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Copenhagen, Denmark

A woman standing alone in Copenhagen up against a fence.

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 73.89)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 84.37 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 68.09 (high).

Why I Love Copenhagen for Solo Travel

When I think of cities that have a low crime rate and friendly locals, Copenhagen comes first to mind.

Funnily enough, Copenhagen solo travel had never really been on my bucket list. I ended up visiting because I had found a cheap flight from the US and gave it a chance!

Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, is located in Northern Europe. It is close to Sweden and borders Northern Germany. The public transportation in Copenhagen is fantastic and should be utilized if possible.

If you fancy yourself as a solo female in search of the world’s best restaurants and fairytale-like architecture, Copenhagen is the place for you.

If you are visiting in the summer, there are also a few sand beaches not too far from the city center.

Must Do’s in Copenhagen for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Visit the amusement park that is said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney! I am talking about Tivoli Gardens! Skip the line with these tickets !

❤︎ Check out the trendy food scene in Copenhagen on this 4-hour culinary walking tour ! It’s the perfect thing to do when you are traveling solo!

❤︎ Experience Copenhagen by boat on this canal cruise ! Unless the weather is truly terrible you must join this tour!

❤︎ Climb the Round Tower! Located in the city center, this tower has a viewing platform perfect for visiting on a clear day!

If you travel in search of good food as I do, then you are in luck in Copenhagen. This city has great food and is known to have the best restaurants.

I made a note of all my most treasured finds in my three-day Copenhagen itinerary . This guide will give you not only excellent restaurant recommendations but also the city’s most beautiful hotels, broken down by affordability.

All my links for tours and activities have been hand-selected for a solo woman traveling . And, as someone who has visited Copenhagen four times, I know what I am talking about!

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Copenhagen

Faro, Portugal

A woman sitting solo on the steps of a church in Faro, Portugal.

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 70.97)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 85.33 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 56.33 (moderate).

Why I Love Faro for Solo Travel

Portugal has so many amazing cities for solo travel, definitely one of the cheapest countries I have visited !

The only downside I see to traveling alone is that you don’t have the luxury of splitting the costs of things like hotel rooms and taxis.

Faro is so great for solo travel because it’s very affordable! If you book your accommodations well in advance, you can find some great deals!

There is also easy access to many day trips you can do from Faro making it one of my favorite solo travel destinations!

Portugal is also a safe country to travel alone on trains and buses. I felt very safe walking alone at night in this small town.

Must Do’s in Faro for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Go on a cruise to Ria Formosa Natural Park ! This little boat will take you and other travelers over to explore the park on Barreta Island!

❤︎ Explore Faro at night on this Segway tour ! Make a few new friends on your solo trip here on this tour of Faro.

❤︎ Try all the foods Faro is known for on this 3-hour classic food tour ! If you love trying new cuisine, this is a great tour to join!

❤︎ Spend a day exploring the Algarve region! When I visited Faro I wanted to visit all the beautiful beaches in Portugal. Visiting the Algarve is easy from Faro! You can take a day trip or go solo by public transportation.

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Faro

Bordeaux, France

A portrait of a solo female traveler with a scenic city skyline in the background during what appears to be the golden hour. She is wearing a black top and a light cardigan, with a subtle smile, and her hair is swept to one side.

Is Bordeaux Safe for Solo Travelers?

I was surprised to read that according to Numbeo Bordeaux has a lesser safety rating than many cities on this list. Personally, I have never had any issues with my safety or walking alone at night in Bordeaux.

For more detailed information, I would advise you to check out Numbeo.

Why I Love Bordeaux for Solo Travel

Bordeaux is one of my favorite European cities that I traveled to solo in France . It is becoming a popular place for solo female travel for its charm and safety.

A solo trip to Paris is lovely, but like any major city, it has its issues with crime and cleanliness.

Bordeaux has great cafes and great food which is typically the main reason I was interested in this popular destination.

There is so much to see and do in Bordeaux, and if you are a wine lover, so many day trips to wineries .

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Bordeaux

Must Do’s in Bordeaux for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Eat your way through Bordeaux on a group food tour ! Trust me, the food in France does not disappoint.

❤︎ See Bordeaux by bike on this 3-hour immersive tour experience! A great tour for anyone traveling alone to meet new people and see the sights!

❤︎ Crusie the Canelé of Garonne River in Bordeaux on this tour. Enjoy a glass of wine while seeing the site of Bordeaux by boat !

❤︎ Book an incredible day trip to the medieval village and winery town of St. Emilion! This was my favorite day of my trip to Bordeaux.

Read Next: Solo Trip To Paris

Dublin, Ireland

Women walking the streets of Dublin alone

Is Dublin Safe for Solo Travelers?

I have never had issues with my safety walking around Dublin alone, but you do need to be mindful. Much like most big cities, it has its areas you want to avoid.

I stand firm that Dublin is a great place in Europe for females traveling alone, but just be sure to be extra vigilant.

Why I Love Dublin for Solo Travel

Dublin is one of the best European cities to visit solo! The locals are very friendly, and I made friends everywhere I went! It’s the perfect city for a weekend in Ireland.

If you are a native English speaker, I always recommend newbie solo travelers visit other English-speaking European countries.

Dublin is so casual and laid back, it is a great choice for a first-time solo trip. I especially love how walkable Dublin is.

There are lots of free walking tours to join as well as easy day trips to make!

If you are a Game of Thrones fan, Ireland has lots of sites to visit !

Must Do’s in Dublin for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Get easy access to the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle with a tour. A great thing to do in Dublin when you are traveling by yourself. I met lovely people on my tour of Trinity College.

❤︎ Another great activity when you are traveling alone in Dublin is joining a food tour ! This walking tour of Dublin includes my favorite thing to do. EAT!

❤︎ I love taking day trips like this one to Kilkenny and Wicklow! It is a great way to meet other travelers.

❤︎ Visiting Northern Ireland is also a great way to spend a day when you are traveling alone in Ireland. You can rent a car or take the train!

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Dublin

Sifnos, Greece

A solo female traveler stands confidently on a rocky shore in Sifnos, Greece, wearing a black swimsuit with a flowing cover-up. She smiles as she poses against the stunning backdrop of the tranquil blue sea, a moored red and white boat, and the picturesque coastal village with white buildings and rolling hills under a clear azure sky. This image captures the serene beauty and inviting atmosphere of one of Europe's best destinations for solo travel.

Is Sifnos Safe for Solo Travelers?

Sifnos is absolutely safe for solo female travelers. There is no crime data to share from Numebo because there is no crime to report.

Why I Love Sifnos for Solo Travel

The Greek island of Sifnos is great for solo travel! I was lucky enough to travel to Sifnos on my own last September.

The island was very chill and relaxing, exactly what I was looking for. If your solo travel style is a little more social, it might not be the place for you. There are many other islands that have a happening nightlife. Sifnos was very quiet.

The best way to reach Sifnos from Athens is by ferry . There are many ferry routes to consider in the summer months, usually, you can get there in just 3 hours!

Must Do’s in Sifnos for Solo Travelers

❤︎ My favorite thing to do in Sifnos is trying new restaurants! My solo Sifnos guide has all the best restaurants.

❤︎ Walk around the town of Kastro and visit the Church of Seven Martyrs. I loved spending my day traveling all around the old capital city of Kastro!

❤︎ Go to the beautiful beach at Platis Gialos! I spent a whole day alone just hanging out by the Aegean sea!

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Sifnos

Corfu, Greece

Corfu for Solo Traveling Females

Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 80.31)

According to Numbeo , safety walking alone during daylight is 92.01 (very high), and safety walking alone during the night is 83.26 (very high).

Why I Love Corfu for Solo Travel

I will be honest with you, I have never met a Greek Island I didn’t like…so it was hard to make this decision. This Greek island is located away from some of the other most famous islands such as Mykonos and Santorini.

Corfu is one of the best European cities on the northern island of Greece, straight across from Albania.

Solo trips to Greece are the best for females traveling alone. Corfu snags the spot because it didn’t feel like party town or Honeymoon Central.

Although, if you are looking for a party or thinking of spending your honeymoon here, you won’t be disappointed. I felt it offered something extra special for women traveling alone .

When visiting Corfu, I enjoyed the sand beaches, friendly locals, and fantastic food on this small island.

The public transport is limited, but if you are staying in the old town and only for a couple of days you won’t need it.

When staying in Corfu for more than a few days, I recommend renting a car and driving around and visiting the more remote villages.

If you pack light, you can even walk to the city center from the airport! I would categorize Corfu as somewhere relaxing and chill.

There is a lot to do in Corfu for solo female travelers. Ladies who love the beach would agree that Corfu is one of the best solo travel destinations for women.

Now that I live in Athens , I often dream of returning to this incredibly safe island of white sand beaches and crystal blue waters.

Must Do’s in Corfu for Solo Travelers

❤︎ Visit all the top attractions in Corfu on this wonderful day tour ! Go with a professional tour guide to Paleokastritsa Beach, then have a glass of wine and a snack at Lakones. You will finish the day with a tour of the Corfu Old Town!

❤︎ If you are a foodie visiting Corfu you will love this small-group gastronomy tour ! Taste all the different dishes from around the island!

❤︎ Looking for a little more of an adventure travel activity, then I would suggest making a day trip to Albania .

❤︎ If you are planning a day of exploring on your own, check out The Old Venetian Fort and The New Fort!

📲 Download Free Google Map of the Best Locations in Corfu

Athens, Greece

A woman walking by herself in Athens Greece with the ancient monuments in the background.

Is Athens Safe For Solo Travelers?

Comparing the safety online to other cities on this list, Athens is falling short. However, I lived in Athens and visited for many years before that.

I never felt unsafe, but I also didn’t wander the streets late at night. So if you are planning to visit Athens, I would advise you just do extra research on where you are planning to stay.

For more information on the crime in Athens, check out Numebo .

Why I Love Athens for Solo Travel

Athens, Greece is one of the best big cities for solo travel in Europe, mainly because it’s so cheap! I have been to Athens several times alone .

It is the perfect place to visit if you are looking to explore ancient ruins and eat delicious food!

Don’t forget Athens is home to the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Greece is also the best option for ladies looking for beach vacations . I moved to Athens in 2023 so that I could be close to all those Greek Islands ; )

The locals are all so friendly and welcoming. The Greeks are my favorite people in the world.

If you are on a tight budget, Athens is a good choice . Food and accommodations in the off-season are very affordable. At a minimum, you should visit Athens for 2 days .

The best time to visit Athens is truly in November when the weather is cooler and the majority of the tourists are gone.

Must Do’s in Athens for Solo Travelers

❤︎ The Acropolis, obviously ; ) I recommend you take a tour as I did so that you can maximize your time and possibly make a friend.

❤︎ Walk around the Plaka area and check out all the shops! Plaka also has some authentic Greek restaurants and cafes to visit.

❤︎ Take a day trip from Athens city center to the Temple of Poseidon! If you are looking for something fun to do solo, check out this tour!

Solo Trips for Women

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Are you ready to travel but just not sure if you want to go completely alone? I get it! My first solo trip was a group trip! If you are interested in learning more and traveling with me, complete this survey below!

Final Thoughts on Best European Cities For Solo Female Travel

I hope you enjoyed all my suggestions for the best solo travel destinations for women! I stand behind every one of these destinations.

When creating a list of cities that I would encourage women to travel to, I kept in mind a few key factors:

  • Friendly locals
  • Incredibly safe cities
  • Lowest crime rate
  • Reliable public transit

Those four points are the pillars I used to build this incredible list. The reason I chose these cities over other cities to travel alone is due to the full range of activities.

There are a lot of cities that are worthy of being part of this list that I didn’t include. Not because those cities didn’t have friendly locals, low crime rates, excellent public transit, or weren’t incredibly safe. I left them off the list because they are cities more suitable to explore with a partner than solo.

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Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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I’ve been to Amsterdam and Corfu solo and agree with you! Super safe and fun destinations, Amsterdam is one of my favourite cities and I love dutch people!

I love your recommendations. I have been to all of those cities except Copenhagen, which coincidentally enough I was thinking of doing alone. I agree that good public transport, low crime rate and lots of things to do top the list for choosing such a city. Amsterdam and Salzburg are both so amenable to solo travel. Great list! Thanks for the tips!

I’ve not been to Corfu yet (dying to go!!). But I agree with the others! I miss traveling so much! Beautiful photos too! 🙂

I’ve been to all these places except Copenhagen but I’ve heard great things! Also happy to have an Austrian city featured here 🙂

I have solo travelled in Switzerland and the Balkan countries (Croatia, Bosnia & Herzgovina and Montenegro), and loved every bit of it. Felt extremely safe, had the best of my time hiking and soaking in the beaches. I would also add UK to the list, because of good public transportation and being safe, in general.

I’ve been to Amsterdam, Corfu and Copenhagen, but never on solo trips! I would definitely return to them on my own though, they are great (and safe!) destinations.

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solo female travel in europe

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25 tips for solo female travel in europe.

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Solo Female Travel in Europe.

Ready to go traveling alone in europe as a woman.

You’re in for a super treat. I’m so excited to write about solo female travel in Europe. You guys, you guys, traveling alone in Europe as a woman is unforgettable in more ways than one, and I am very excited to share all my tips with you guys!

Buuuuut, before I get into the wonders of travelling Europe alone as a female, it’s been awfully quiet around here, hasn’t it? Not my intention, sorry. And don’t worry, readers. I haven’t take another three month hiatus.   I wouldn’t torture you like that again.

So what happened to make me feel withdrawn? Nothing exciting.

Work happened. My life as a teacher is so damn unpredictable, especially in September, when summer vacation creeps to a sad, sad, sad end. Gone are the lazy beach days. Gone are late evenings binging foreign horror films on Netflix (don’t judge me). Gone are silent alarms.

Now waking up before sunrise kills my spirit. Driving at rush hour in New Jersey obliterates  my spirit. I love my students, though. So there’s that.

solo female travel in Europe

Anyway, after acclimating to my busy schedule, I’m back again to entertain everyone (are you not entertained?!) and fulfill their wanderlusty dreams.

To make my own return easier, I’m gonna talk about a subject that I think I’m an expert on, which is solo female travel in Europe.

If you’re about to embark on your first solo trip, the European continent is a great place to begin traveling. The possibilities are endless because Europe has so many magical destinations to choose from. These 25 tips will make your adventure in Europe even easier on your nerves. After all, you want to learn about history, try exquisite new foods, push yourself to sign up for adventure activities, and forge lifelong friendships rather than feel anxious about pickpockets and passports.

Happy reading! Backpacking alone as a woman is so exciting! You’ll love it!

solo female travel in europe | travelling europe alone female

1. Travel Alone in Europe & Research Accommodation.

One of the best things you can do as a solo female traveler in Europe is always research your accommodation in advance. Preferably, you want to read reviews to see if your hotel/hostel/apartment is located in (or at least close to) the city center. Time is precious. You don’t want to waste hours fighting rush hour traffic, for example. Furthermore, you also want to make sure the neighborhood is safe for a woman traveling alone. It sucks that we need to consider safety, but it’s the world we live in. Think about the neighborhood if you need to return at night. Some places might have great ratings, but the location could still leave something to be desired. Avoid anywhere you’d feel uncomfortable.

2. Need to Pack for a Trip? Bring Packing Cubes.

Ladies, use packing cubes to maximize your luggage space.

Packing cubes   are an absolute godsend if you want to save space in your luggage – which you do – especially if your journey requires more than one flight. Plus it keeps you organized during your European adventures. You’d be amazed at how much stuff you can lose in a single backpack. I’ve been there. Multiple times. When it comes to solo female travel in Europe, packing cubes are wonderful investments.

solo female travel in europe

3. Plan a Great Solo Europe Trip Itinerary.

One of your most crucial tasks is creating an amazing itinerary that focuses on a region of Europe.

It’s tempting to try and visit every country on your trip. However, you’ll just stare at train seats if you’re crossing borders four times a week. Select one area. You’ll have a deeper appreciation for the history, culture, and people if you take. your. freakin’. time. No rushing. This post can help you create the perfect European itinerary for your trip. You may also want to use a solid guidebook like Lonely Planet’s Europe on a Shoestring.

4. Big Cities & Small Towns for the Solo Europe Trip Itinerary.

Combine big cities and smaller towns for maximum appreciation. Only cities or only towns is a recipe for “yawnsville.”

Something super important to keep in mind is to visit small towns in conjunction with big cities. For example, we all want to see Prague. Prague is awesome. But don’t forget to venture to Cesky Krumlov or Karlovy Vary to see another side of the country. Europe has many cool small towns for solo travelers.  It’d be tragic to miss them. Plus you’ll experience some killer nature too if you venture outside the city limits.

solo female travel in europe

5. Don’t Let the Bank Block You.

One solo travel essential is for you to contact your bank and credit card company ahead of time.

Ughhh, don’t forget to let your bank know about your adventures. Fraud protection is wonderful, but also a bitch. Keep everyone in the loop so you don’t find your funds blocked overseas. Fighting with the ATM is not fun experience – especially if you’re jetlagged after an eight hour flight – so definitely call your bank prior to departure.

6. Create a Photocopy of your Passport.

You should always have your passport number written somewhere, but a photocopy of the main page will make things easier on you if you lose your passport. Hopefully you won’t. But… better safe than sorry? Bring the photocopy.

solo female travel in europe

7. Don’t Forget Solo Travel Tours.

Feeling a little on the lonely side today? Then book yourself on walking, food, and adventure tours.

Day tours will not only arm you with new information about a destination, but they’re great if your goal is to team up with other travelers. Europe, especially, is a haven for solo travelers, and odds are high that you’ll meet at least one other person on your tours. Remember guided tours are not the devil.  

8. Use Bumble BFF or Tinder to Make New Friends.

We all know about swipe apps and the joy (or horror) they can bring into your life. Install some apps for your solo trip. Bumble BFF is a swipe app that connects women with other women who are looking to make friends. It’s not a dating app, which is excellent. Plus Bumble BFF provides a safe way to find other female travelers or even locals. As for Tinder, well… make your platonic intentions clear at the beginning. Otherwise it could turn awkward real fast. We all know Tinder’s reputation.

solo female travel in europe

9. How to Get Around Europe

My best advice is to familiarize yourself with public transportation.

Honestly I wouldn’t want to rent a car in Europe unless absolutely necessary. I hate driving. Instead of fussing over cars, spend your time reading about trains, subways, and buses in your destination. Look at maps ahead of time so you don’t stumble around the platform trying to find your next train. Plus public transit is great for people watching! Think of the stories you can tell!

10. Learn the Local Language

Yup, you heard me! Use Duolingo to brush up on your foreign language skills.

I have some good news for solo female travelers going to Europe, which is that it’s super easy to find English speakers. Honestly, I’ve had no problems at all speaking only English. I’m not proud of it, but it’s the truth. Still, despite the many English speakers at your disposal, it’s polite to learn a couple words of the local language. Install Duolingo on your phone and practice!

solo female travel in europe

11. Going to Europe Alone? Don’t Count Calories.

Ugh, major pet peeve of mine. You’re traveling, not dieting. Save “health and fitness” for home. I mean, if you’re traveling for longer than a month, then sure, be somewhat conscientious, but a two week trip? Stuff your face. Who cares. Solo female travel in Europe means never having to apologize for that second gelato.

12. Love City Pass in Europe.

Buy a city pass to save money and time.

If you’re a big city, like Paris or London, compare the cost of a city pass to what the attractions would cost a la carte. You might be surprised at the savings and choose to invest in a pass. Most passes also allow you to “skip the line” at popular attractions – which could save you a lot of time.

solo female travel in Europe

13. Solo Travel Essentials: The Scarf

Bring scarves and shawls into churches and cathedrals.

I love solo female travel in Europe, because I feel free to dress however I please. There are limits, though. For example, some countries, such as Italy, require your shoulders to be covered for you to enter the (beautiful) churches. And you ought to visit them. Europe has some of the most famous churches in the world. Yes, women should able to wear whatever they want without judgement, but unfortunately now isn’t the time to discuss those issues. Cover up.

14. When To Go To Europe Alone?

Be aware of the difference between “high” and “low” season.

I’m sure you’ve already heard of high and low season. High season means higher prices, packed sites, great weather, and more chances to meet other travelers. Low season means saving your wallet, but shorter hours and fewer travelers are a reality. Decide which is more important to you before booking your vacation.

solo female travel in europe

15. How to Use Taxis to Get Around Europe.

Make sure the taxi driver uses the meter.

Sadly, some locations have more “honest” taxi drivers than others. I always insist on using the meter if I can’t reserve a cab ahead of time. You don’t want to get hopelessly ripped off for no reason. I got ripped off in Prague, and I’m still pressed about it. Learn from my mistakes.

16. Advice for Traveling Alone at Night.

Honestly my best advice is don’t be afraid to go out at night.

Solo female travelers are understandably concerned about safety. I get it. I always ask myself whether or not something is “safe.” At the same time, though, I honestly don’t think it’s helpful to tell solo female travelers to stay indoors after the sun sets. Boooooooring. Go out. Enjoy the stars. Enjoy the city lights. Simply stay aware and smart.

Read More: 21 Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time

solo female travel in Europe

17. Guidebooks for Solo Travel in Europe.

Without a doubt, you should bring a good guide book  on your solo trip to Europe.

The internet is wonderful for up to date research. I mean, travel blogs are awesome and give “real experiences” to loyal readers. Still, there’s nothing wrong with investing in a quality guidebook. I’m still a big fan of Lonely Planet. Make sure to buy the most recent edition of any given guidebook. A lot can change, even in two years, so spend a bit more cash if you have to.

18. Bring Your Student (or Teacher!) ID.

Major discounts ahead. Need I say more? You could easily save hundreds of dollars depending on how long you’re traveling for. Don’t forget your ID.

solo female travel in europe

19. Keep a Travel Journal.

I regret not journaling more on my solo trips! Even if you have the most incredible experiences, it’s only nature to forget SOME things. Try to jot down as much as you can every single day so you have clearer memories to reflect on. A soft-covered moleskin journal will work just fine! Here are some suggestions for writing a great travel journal.

20. Don’t Drink Too Much Alcohol.

Haha, sorry for sounding lame, but this is the truth. I think this tip speaks for itself. You don’t be want to be so hungover that you waste time lying in bed instead of exploring new places. Too much alcohol can ruin your trip. It’s also not smart from a safety and money perspective either.

solo female travel in Europe

21. Remember: You Won’t Only Pay in Euros.

The Euro exists in most countries, which does make managing your money a little easier, and the exchange rate for the Euro is rather straightforward too. But, alas, the Euro is not the only currency. Visiting the United Kingdom? Prepare to pay in pounds. Croatia? You’re paying in Kuna. Hungary? Forint. Familiarize yourself with the exchange rate near departure so you don’t smash your budget into a million pieces. In Iceland, I feigned ignorance the entire time and my bank account hated my guts for it.

22. Europe and Cheap Flights.

Take advantage of “cheap” flights.

Europe is great for affordable flights, especially if you book on Ryan Air, Norwegian, Easy Jet, or any of the other budget airlines. Many places are now easily at your fingertips. However, make sure you’re landing at an airport close to your destination, and watch those luggage weight requirements. Otherwise you could pay a pretty penny on top of your “cheap” flight.

23. Appreciate the “Old” and “New” Europe.

Despite what the Travel Channel has told you, Europe isn’t just a magical fairyland that’s filled to the brim with castles and cottages. I love the castles. I really, really, really do. At the same time, though, you need to make sure to check out the “newer” and “trendier” sides of Europe, too, especially in places like London and Berlin.

solo female travel in europe

24. Exercise Normal Safety Precautions.

Don’t lose your mind because you’re overseas. Sure, you’re “freer” when you’re traveling, but don’t make any dire mistakes in the name of freedom. Honestly, ladies, if you wouldn’t do something at home, don’t do it in Europe either. Don’t get so wasted that you can’t walk. Don’t explore sketchy areas in the middle of the night. Don’t accept rides from strangers. By exercising some common sense, your trip will be a much safer one.

25. But Don’t Allow Paranoia to Ruin Your Trip.

It’s normal to feel anxious on a solo trip.  But don’t act so paranoid that you never leave your accommodation. You’re spending a lot of money to be here. Enjoy it. Don’t be afraid to say “yes” to magical opportunities like paragliding in the Slovenian Alps. You never know when you’ll have another chance! Traveling alone in Europe as a woman is far more liberating than dangerous.

solo female travel europe

Is Solo Female Travel in Europe a Good Idea?

My experience traveling alone in Europe as a woman has been nothing short of incredible.

I’ve gone paragliding off mountains, kissed stones in castles, hiked green hills, explored dungeons, and so much more. I’ve made close friends all over the continent and distance hasn’t damped those relationships whatsoever.

But mostly importantly, my solo trips in Europe gave me a deeper sense of worth, as well as an improved self-esteem. I wouldn’t want back a single red penny that I spent on any of these adventures.

Solo female travel in Europe is awesome. I highly recommend you fling on your backpack and go now. Enjoy. You’ll end up addicted.

solo female travel europe will bring you to magical small spanish cities

Country Specific Resources for Solo Female Travel in Europe

I. copenhagen, denmark..

Go on a solo trip to Copenhagen and explore one of northern Europe’s safest and most vibrant capital cities. Don’t forget to see the Little Mermaid and perhaps write some of your own fairytale stories.

II. Your Solo Central Europe Travel Itinerary

Add these stunning Central Europe countries to your solo travels in Europe. You’ll fall in love with the natural wonders and gorgeous cities. And don’t forget the beer.

III. Travel the Baltics

Don’t skip over Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia   on your next solo trip in Europe. These three small countries will surprise you.

travel europe alone female: let your travels take you to sweden

IV. Iceland and Solo Travel

Iceland is one of the best destinations for new solo female travelers. It’s so safe that you could probably sleep in the middle of the street and not have anyone bother you. Not that I recommend that, of course!

V. Solo Travel in Madrid

My solo travel experience in Madrid was amazing. You ought to read it if you’re considering a solo trip to Spain in the near future.

VI. Budapest and Solo Travel

I think Budapest is one of the best cities for solo travelers , and is worth a visit. Read my comprehensive guide on this city for more information.

VII. Solo Travel to Portugal

I actually think that your first solo trip should be Portugal. I have nothing except great things to say about this small, often overlooked Western European country.

travel europe alone female: don't be afraid to go to spain

Miscellaneous Resources for Solo Female Travel in Europe

I. advice for staying in hostels.

Hostels are fine for introverts. Hostels are also very safe. Don’t ignore these cheap forms of accommodation when going to Europe. You’ll make a lot of new friends on your solo adventures.

II. Backpacking Routes in Europe

Solo female travel in Europe means creating your own backpacking routes. These are six short and easy backpacking routes in Europe that you might want to consider for your upcoming adventures. Furthermore, check out my ultimate guide to backpacking Eastern Europe if you want something a bit more edgy and cool.

III. Packing Guides for Solo Female Travel in Europe

Don’t forget that packing can make or break your trip! You want to look gorgeous and not burdened by extra beauty essentials so packing minimal travel makeup is a great place to start your checklist. Furthermore, make sure to read my backpacking Europe packing list so you don’t miss a single item.

solo female travel in Europe

What tips for solo female travel in Europe would you add to this post? For more information, check out my beginners guide to solo female travel. Thanks for staying patient!! Here’s hoping I survive another school year. 

Note: Some links are affiliate-based. If you make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

3 thoughts on “ 25 Tips for Solo Female Travel in Europe ”

Hi Rachel, I can imagine its hard to get back to work after 2 months off in the summer! When it gets hard just remember all the fun times you’ve had travelling in the past. You have an excellent job for time off and pairing with travel!

Number 4 is such a great tip that isn’t shared very often! If you want to understand the culture, it’s definitely a must. I want to spend more time in the areas outside of the major cities I visit often because I honestly feel like I know nothing except that one city.

Great tips for visiting Europe. A city pass definitely helps. I used one in Copenhagen and got to see so much as a result. I also love the cheap flights and buses that are around Europe. It makes travel so much more affordable.

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Women On The Road

Best Places In Europe To Travel Alone (For Women Travelers!)

Europe is home for me – I was born in France, raised in Spain and spent much of my adult life in Switzerland. Today, I live in Eastern France so Europe is my backyard and traveling solo in Europe is something I do all the time. BUT – you don’t have to live here to visit the continent on your own!

solo Europe - St Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, Rome, Italy

There’s so much to see, the continent is so diverse, that being picky is useful. Below I’ll run through some of the best places in Europe to travel alone, and why you should consider them.

Travel in Europe: a few things to know

Whatever you’re looking for – culture, history, music, fun, romance, food – a backpacking trip through Europe will provide it. Your problem will always be too much to see rather than the other way around.

What exactly is Europe, anyway?

The core of Europe is made up of the  28 countries of the European Union : Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the UK.

Switzerland, Norway and Iceland are the only countries in the region NOT members of the European Union – but that doesn’t mean they’re not great European destinations! And as I write this, the UK is working its way out of the EU, which will bring the number of member countries back down to 27.

While European countries are incredibly different from one another, certain things will still be familiar enough – whether it’s traffic lights, fast-food chains or consumer products. You’ll never be too far from something you know – if you need it!

Choose your accommodation wisely

You’ll find absolutely everything here, from the most basic campground and hostel to the most luxurious palaces. You’ll also find a huge diversity of prices and unexpected bargains when hotels find themselves with lower occupancy than planned. I always  check hotel prices for deals  or look at several dates and neighborhoods. I was just looking for hotels in Paris and while most in the center were out of my price range, those one metro stop away were perfectly reasonable.

europe solo in luxury - hotel de paris, monte carlo, at night

Look for free walking tours

I like this model – the tour is free but you tip the guide whatever you think s/he was worth at the end. When you look at prices of some commercial walking tours, you’ll get much more for less in those cities that have these tours. Just search “free walking tour in [city]”. I’ve found them in most cities across Europe.

Take advantage of lunch

Eating out all the time can be expensive in many European countries, but a trip to Europe does require some serious food sampling. If you’re on a budget, consider going out for lunches. Many cities have lunch specials so you can seek those out – even top-rated restaurants may have them so if you want to eat great food at great prices, perhaps save some of your picnics for the evening.

Speaking of restaurants, beware of multilingual menus. There are plenty of good restaurants that translate their menus, but usually, when you see a huge menu with everything but the kitchen sink in six languages, you can be pretty sure it will be mediocre. The owners don’t expect you to return – you’re only a tourist, after all. Food and service reflect that.

Consider avoiding summer

Apart from Scandinavia, the UK and the northernmost parts of Europe, summer is my least favorite season. There are crowds, prices are sky-high, hotels and restaurants are full, the weather is hot, and… this is the worst for me, but cities empty out of local people. A big part of travel is to interact with local people – so you don’t want to visit when they’re all left town.

solo europe in winter - Eiffel Tower, Paris in the snow

Planning a solo trip to Europe

Before you get on that plane you’ll have done a lot of planning, I’ll bet. If not, here are some suggestions that might help.

What to pack for Europe

Frankly, you wouldn’t pack any differently for Europe than you would for a trip inside your own country. If you’re headed to cities, pack normal city clothes. If you’re going hiking or biking or into the countryside, pack sportier clothes.

One must-take, in my personal opinion, are  good walking shoes , because let’s face it, Europe isn’t really where you’ll go to laze on the beach all day (you’ll find more and better beaches on other continents!)

Another essential item is an  anti-theft purse  of some kind. Cities, like cities anywhere, have pickpockets where tourists congregate, so better safe than sorry. I’ve seen and been the victim of too many European sleights-of-hand to trust my valuables to a tote or a stylish (easy to open) purse.

This  European packing list  for urban areas should help in all seasons outside deep winter.

How to get around Europe

I’m assuming you’ve managed to find a flight so let’s start with how to get around the continent.

There are  many ways to travel around Europe , but I’ll keep it short and name the top four:

  • You can fly . That may sound counterintuitive but in Europe, flying is often one of the cheapest ways of getting from A to B. The discount airlines on the continent – EasyJet and Ryanair and many other smaller ones – can hop you around easily and cheaply.
  • You can take the train . This is my favorite mode of transport in Europe and you can keep prices down by buying a train pass if you’re going long distances (here’s a rundown on the  best train passes ) or if you’re taking high-speed trains across countries. Local trains, on the other hand, can be incredibly cheap, but frequency will depend on the country. (Use  Trainline  if you want discounts for booking your train tickets ahead of time.)
  • You can take the bus . Europe has several major bus companies like Flixbus or Eurolines can take you clear across the continent for a few dollars and pretty good comfort (check out the  Omio reservation platform  for schedules and prices).
  • You can rent a car . Depending where you are, this might be a good solution. In some countries, like Switzerland, you can get anywhere by public transport. Yet in France next door, getting out into the gorgeous countryside may well require a car. It’s not too expensive to rent a car, and you can  compare prices here .

Best places in Europe to travel alone

Solo travel: france.

I was born in Paris, but live in the foothills of the Jura Mountains and can see the Alps from my home (well, if I lean off the edge of my garden on a clear day I can see the right edge of the Mt Blanc…)

Thinking of France often means thinking of French food, not just the cuisine and the taste, but something called the “terroir”, the place of origin, the fact that certain foods (and wines) can only come from certain places. French food isn’t for everyone. Some things may seem quite exotic, but France’s food also means incredibly fresh dairy, flaky pastries or mellow sauces.  Being a foodie is one of the joys (and sometimes challenges) of living in France, but it’s a challenge I’m prepared to meet.

Solo travel in France is quite easy. It’s safe, public transport is fair to adequate in rural areas, and good to excellent in urban areas, and no one will skip a beat if you walk into a restaurant by yourself. If you’re just starting your solo travels, this is one of the best places to do it.

Here are some pointers to get you started in case you don’t know exactly where to go yet:

  • Cheap Paris travel: 21 free things to do in Paris
  • Visit these 24 captivating southern France cities
  • 8 cities of northern France you shouldn’t miss
  • My 10 best castles of the Loire Valley
  • The Basque country of southwest France
  • France’s gastronomic capital and its foodie palace: Les Halles in Lyon
  • and, what may be France’s prettiest city…

Solo Travel to Ireland and the UK

If you’re coming from an anglophone culture, the US, parts of Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and a few others, coming to Europe for the first time will definitely be a discovery but by starting with the UK or Ireland, you at least won’t have a language issue. Also, there are many settlers from the UK and Ireland in what were once British colonies so the culture will to a certain extent be familiar, even if the accents aren’t.

When you travel Europe solo, the level of familiarity of these countries will increase your comfort and safety level. There is an excellent network of public transport throughout, including low-cost flights (often cheaper than the train) that can fly you from city to city.

Some large and attractive cities will keep you busy with great food, superb history, interesting bookshops and culture… I don’t know the region half as well as I should and while I have visited London, I have yet to write about this incredible city.

Outside England, here are two particularly noteworthy cities, ideal for the female solo traveler:

  • An admiring look at Dublin
  • The perfect one-day Edinburgh literary itinerary

Visiting Italy solo

I’ve been to Italy more times than I can count, and I even lived in Turin for a year as a teenager. Most of my trips are short, since I’m not far from the Franco-Italian border and going to Italy for a day is perfectly feasible.

Like many solo travelers I can easily hop a bus or a train. The airline network isn’t quite as good as in some of its neighboring countries but that is made up by the excellent ground transportation network ( check train and bus schedules here ).

You’ll be perfectly fine traveling solo in Italy, although it’s worth noting that English is not commonly spoken (outside the most touristed areas) and people are warm and effusive, which is lovely but can be surprising if you come from more reserved places.

Italy is, of course, a country for foodies but it’s also a destination for women who love fashion and style, centuries of history, literature and culture, and music, especially classical and opera. I may have visited often, but I still have so much more to see! Here’s something to get you started with your solo travel Europe ideas.

  • What every woman should know about travel to Italy
  • The independent woman’s guide to Florence
  • A perfect weekend in Milan
  • 3 brilliant day trips from Rome
  • The most beautiful places in Sardinia

Solo Travel to Portugal

Portugal, right on the edge of Europe, is a country I’ve only started to know in the last decade or so. Growing up in Spain, Portugal – despite being just next door – was a sort of blank space on the map to the left of Spain. No one I knew had ever been there, and at the time it was a poor country few people ever visited (at least from Spain).

How things have changed! 

Portugal is the darling of solo travel to Europe, and it’s an ideal destination for women in Europe alone.

The food is fresh and innovative, the scenery ranges from lush forests to stunning beaches, the architecture is unique and colorful, and people are welcoming, although slightly less effusive than their Mediterranean counterparts. We sometimes forget that although it is in southern Europe, Portugal faces the Atlantic.

Portuguese character is different from Spanish, more serious and achievement-oriented. I was struck by the graciousness of the Portuguese and their pride in their country, and I’d like to return again and again.

  • An overview of Portugal travel for solo women
  • Solo Travel: Lisbon Travel Guide For The Independent Woman

Solo Travel to Spain

If there’s a country I can call home in Europe, this would be it. Although I was born in France, I didn’t return until adulthood but I was brought up in Spain, spending most of my childhood and teenage years there long ago under the Franco regime. 

I was mostly familiar with Madrid and the central part of Castilla, or Castile. Recently I’ve returned several times traveling alone and have started to discover the Basque country and Catalunya – and I’ve been hooked. For a relatively small country (it’s about the size of France, not small but to put things into perspective, the US is 19 times larger) it is incredibly varied, so much so you’d think you were in a different country each time you cross a regional border. But then, the various independence movements in Spain do show that many people feel they  are  in different countries.

Spain is a wonderful country for solo travel: I’ve been doing it for decades and Spaniards are friendly and helpful even to those who don’t speak the language. As is the case in many southern European countries, there is plenty of pickpocketing during tourist season so please, hang on to your belongings, especially in Barcelona but in cities generally.

Here are some highlights:

  • One day in Madrid
  • Blown away by Bilbao
  • 29 underrated Spanish cities
  • The best Spanish tapas you’ll eat

Solo Travel to Central and Northern Europe

Northern and Central Europe must certainly be among the safest regions for women traveling solo in Europe. Not only are they quite safe to visit, but they usually have excellent internal public transportation networks.

These countries are filled with history and medieval architecture, perfect for women who love culture. The food is spectacular, some of the world’s greatest classical music comes from here, and if you’re an art lover you’ll be in heaven.

Both Northern and Central Europe are also easy to reach, whether via low-cost airlines (there are plenty) or by train (check here for  Eurail passes ).

For an overview of these extraordinary regions, here’s where to start:

  • The best of Switzerland for solo women
  • Offbeat Austria without the crowds
  • A quick overview of Budapest
  • 3 Days in Prague for first-timers
  • Solo Travel to Amsterdam for Independent Women

Solo Travel to Turkey

Turkey isn’t technically part of Europe, at least the largest part of it is not. But it holds a special place in my heart.

My father was Turkish, and although I don’t know any of my Turkish relatives, I feel a kinship with the country, one that keeps me returning whenever I can. I have a Turkish name, which always stumps the airport authorities when they try to speak to me in a language I haven’t spoken since the age of three and have therefore forgotten.

Each time I go, I feel a certain familiarity. Maybe it’s the cadence of the language, which tugs at certain ancient strings, or the cooking, which I remember from childhood. Although I can’t condone the direction the country is now taking, I still feel drawn to it.

  • Here are 7 cities for the first-time traveler to Turkey

Solo Travel to Eastern Europe

I first visited Eastern Europe when it was part of the Soviet Bloc, when food was rationed and colors ranged from light grey to dark grey. Oh my, how things have changed!

When I first visited Prague in the early 1980s, the food was so bad I suggested friends bring along tins of tuna when they visited. Along the coast of former Yugoslavia, people looked so glum that one day I packed up and returned to Italy early.

Most countries of Eastern Europe are vibrant, exciting and filled with energy, and I can’t get enough of them. Steeped in the strict history of the Iron Curtain, it’s almost impossible to gauge the change that has taken place in just a few short decades.

  • A solo travel guide to Serbia
  • A brief and whimsical guide to Kotor, Montenegro
  • A woman’s solo guide to Bulgaria
  • Don’t miss these sights in Krakow, Poland
  • Moldova: Why you should see the world’s least-visited country
  • An Albania Travel Guide for the Culturally Curious
  • Copenhagen Tips for Women Traveling Alone

Tips for your solo trip to Europe

Whether you’re backpacking in Europe or glamping in luxury, here are a few things to help you hit the ground running:

  • Reserve your first night.  It can be a bit daunting to alight in a new place for the first time, but nothing is worse than landing at night, tired, disorganized… save yourself some aggro and book a hotel. You don’t have to stay there forever – just get your feet on the ground, have a nice hot shower and good breakfast, and get your bearings.
  • Use the tourist office . If you don’t have a room and need some help, go see them. They’re unfortunately only open during working hours but they can often help you book a room, or give you a few things you’ll need, like a city map, a public transportation map, and information on special deals or passes for visitors.
  • Deal with navigation . If you’re a user of Google Maps, at least download the maps you’ll need before you arrive. My preferred option is Maps.me, because all their maps are available for instant download. Either way, you’ll be able to navigate without excess roaming charges.
  • Get a SIM card . If you want to stay in touch with home or get online quickly, you can usually get a SIM card (if you have an unlocked phone) at the airport when you land. If you don’t, you can always carry around a portable wifi ( here’s the one I have , which I love, but there are plenty of others on the market). With one of these, called a ‘mifi’ for mobile wifi, you buy a SIM card but put it into the mifi rather than into your phone. You won’t be able to phone anywhere but you can use your Skype connection and access the internet.
  • Beware of your security . There are two things I never neglect when I travel. The first is my online security. I don’t want my identity stolen or my bank balance decimated while I’m off having a good time, so I make sure I protect myself with a  virtual private network  for pennies a day. The other thing I want to do is protect my health and belongings, so I never leave without travel insurance (so far, it’s saved me $25,000 on my travels). Until recently I used  World Nomads  but they don’t sell to you if you’re over 66 (over 70 in some countries) so I’ve been exploring  these other options .
  • If you’re not European, please make sure you’ve dealt with any  potential visa issues . Here’s some  information on the Schengen visa  to get you started.
  • Like to read books about a destination before you go? Check out my  book review section on Europe .

This is the briefest of overviews about organizing your solo trip to Europe but I hope I’ve at least made you curious, or maybe even inspired you to come to my continent! I haven’t seen it all, but I’m trying and I’ll keep coming back to post to this page whenever I have a new European story for you.

— Originally published on 18 February 2017

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13 Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe

Are you looking for the best Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe? Are you tired of finding a partner to complete your Euro trip? Maybe you like being in control of where to travel and what to do during your trip so you want to travel alone.

Solo travel is up on craze these days and more importantly because of pandemic, you are not sure who is going to join you during your trip.

So even though you haven’t travelled alone for starters, this is the time when you can start your solo female travel trip. You already have upcoming time off from work so don’t waste your holidays What better way to spend the holiday then chasing the beaches in Portugal, Drinking the Viennese Coffee in Vienna , Partying in Budapest , spending quality time in Italy .

  • Where to Stay in your Solo Female Travel ?
  • How to stay safe while doing Solo trip?
  • Where should I travel for Solo Female Trip in Europe?
  • Best places in Europe to travel alone as a woman

Where to Stay in your Solo Female Travel?

The best thing to do during your Solo trip in Europe is book a hostel instead of booking a Hotel . The reason for saying this is that you will find some awesome friends around there who have similar interest like you and you will end up enjoying your solo trip in an even better way. Unless you just want to explore the city in absolute privacy.

When I say Hostel? There could be several questions around that, How can you say it is safe?, Do you really recommend staying in the Hostel. Well long story short, Hostels are the most widely used way of accommodation when you are on your budget trip in Europe .

Don’t believe me, Google it out.

Hostels aren’t that terrible, and you can always live in them without losing your privacy, or snoring all night with noisy drunk men. I love solo travel hostels because you can meet so many new people. They organize all kinds of events, such as trips, pub crawls, dinners by night, and game nights just to name a few.

If the bar scene is not for you? No need to worry, you can always find a buddy to hit the museums if you are staying in a hostel. It is the perfect place to meet strangers if you’re flying alone.

You will meet people from all over the world , and make friends. These are perfect for socializing, and if you don’t want to share the room. All the hostels offers private rooms and private bathrooms which are comparatively of lower cost as compared to hotels.

This way, without compromising your privacy, you can get the social element of hostel life.

Currently, I just book private room hostels or can find pod hostels. I’m a light sleeper and have fun with my privacy. This way, booking them allows me to meet people, and have a social aspect. Yet I’m still loving my downtime.

I highly recommend staying in a hostel if you’re a first-time solo female traveller . It will allow you to meet people and do fun things without having to do them alone.

If you are still unsure about the Hostel then you can book and apartment for 2 people and don’t tell the owner that you are on a solo trip. That would be another safe way to travel solo.

Now let us find out the best travel destination for Solo female Travel in Europe.

How to Stay Safe While doing Solo female Travel in Europe

Overall, Europe is very safe but it’s important to take some safety precautions. In general, places in Europe can even be safer than big cities in the US since most countries have outlawed guns and generally, assaults are few and far between, especially as they pertain to tourists (you can find stats by country  here ).

While traveling alone in Europe, take the same safety precautions you would anywhere else:

  • Don’t walk alone at night, using earphones.
  • Don’t drink too much alcohol, when you are alone.
  • Carry Photocopies of your Passport and your emergency contact number in your wallet.
  • Carry photocopies of your credit cards (or have a digital copy).
  • Make sure you are carrying two credit cards or debit cards, and also keep an emergency stash of money in your backpack (no more than $100-200).
  • Leave your passport at the front desk of the hostel or lock it up in their security deposit boxes.
  • Don’t be too trusting of fellow travellers at a hostel. If there is a locker available, pay to lock your valuables.
  • Make sure the taxi driver has the meter on and is a legal, marked taxi. He or she can not charge you legally if the meter has not been turned on, but it is better to ask for it upfront than to risk a confrontation.
  • Use theft-proof bags to carry your essentials.
  • Don’t give to beggars even though it’s tempting. In doing so you reveal the location of your wallet, which can lead to trouble.
  • Make sure you have got yourself covered with Insurance , Here is a post about the Importance of travel insurance & travel insurance for Europe .

Best Travel Destination for Solo Female Travel in Europe

Budapest, hungary.

Solo Female Travel Budapest

When planning a voyage around the sea, Eastern Europe is always ignored, and I never understood why. Eastern Europe is as breath-taking as Western Europe, and also much cheaper. One great example of this is Budapest . It’s a city full of music, thermal baths and great beer, all for a fraction of the quality you ‘d find in other cities across Europe.

One thing that makes Budapest so dynamic is its mix of Western and Eastern Europe. The city is still transitioning, so more and more young Hungarians are breathing new and youthful life into this great city. It’s still a little rough around the edges but that just adds to its charm.

There is an interesting story behind how Budapest was named as Budapest, In case you are fascinated to learn more about the history around the name you can read about it here  History of Budapest Name

We have covered a complete set of Itinerary for Budapest which you can take a look below

Bruges and Brussels, Belgium

Solo Female Travel in Europe

Enjoy the beauty of the cute medieval town Bruges during your Solo Female Travel around Europe. This town has welcomed over more than 2 million people every year in the northwest of Belgium . This city has everything, stunning architecture, old buildings canals and narrow lovely cobbled streets. You can even take the boat tours if you want.

Fun Fact about this city is that sometimes it is also called  Venice  of the north  because it has so many canals. Bruges has the title of UNESCO world heritage city. It has an international port called Bruges-Zeebrugge with many hotels, resort and a beautiful beach as well.

Belgium is a country full of languages , cultures and, obviously, delicious chocolate. Brussels, in particular, is great for solo travel because it is centrally located, and has a lot to do. And like most major European cities, there are lots of youth hostels in Brussels which make it easy to meet people.

Don’t miss out on the food when you’re in Brussels – make sure to taste the Belgian fries, waffles, mussels and world-famous beer. Check out the striking Grand-Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which once was the Flemish guild meeting place.

Brussels also features impressive street art, with gigantic and vibrant street art murals every corner.

We have covered a complete set of Itinerary for Belgium which you can take a look below

Florence, Italy

Solo Female Travel in Europe, Florence

If you don’t love beaches and you just want to spend some time in Gazing architecture, walking around and exploring museums and arts, eating gelato and staring at Italian men.

Florence is a fantastic lively town for female solo travellers. It offers great food, music, and nightlife with a strong hipster feel. It is located in Tuscany so you can also drink plenty of good wine. Take a day trip to the wine country for some wine tasting or visit the iconic town of Pisa, to take a picture in front of the leaning tower, when you’re sick of the city vibes.

Florence is great for anyone interested in art and wine and Italy has some of Europe’s best food. Eat pizza and pasta regular, and don’t miss their gelato. Italy is a must on your bucket list if you’re a true foodie.

Dublin, Ireland

Solo Female Travel in Europe, Ireland

English is spoken widely in Europe. Any county is quick to get around without speaking a second language. Yet if you’ve been holding off by the language barrier from exploring Europe, Ireland is the ideal place for your first solo travel destination.

The Irish are some of Europe’s friendliest people, which makes it a breeze to fly alone. They ‘re so delighted to find out that you’re a tourist and will happily help you find your way if you’re lost, or buy a Guinness pint and tell you an Irish folk tale. They love their culture but are far more fond of sharing it. Dublin is a friendly, explorable area, and a simple place to meet locals and travellers.

So there is no reason to not include Ireland in our list of Solo Female Travel in Europe.

Amsterdam, Holland

Solo-Female-Travel-in-Europe-Amsterdam-Chasing-Whereabouts

Amsterdam is a perfect location for solo visits and has so much more to do than all filthy smoke-filled cafes and the red light district. It’s full of wonderful museums, art galleries and everyone has beautiful new flowers. Amsterdam is a beautiful city, with so much to do.

If sitting on a beach doesn’t sound like your thing, and you’d rather explore a city the whole day, then Amsterdam won’t deceive you. You won’t get bored with your time at Amsterdam, full of fun activities and plenty to explore. Take a riverboat down the canal or enjoy a cycling tour of the area. This lively town is perfect for those looking to remain busy on their holiday. Be careful not to walk in the bike path when you’re here because bikers are going to drive over you.

We have covered a complete set of Itinerary for Amsterdam which you can take a look below

Mykonos, Greece

Solo Female Travel in Europe - Greece - Chasing Whereabouts

Looking for a relaxing, laid back holiday? Do you not mind visiting museums, churches, castles or any other architecture Europe has to offer? The Greek islands may be a major escape. If you’re a single woman traveling alone and trying to escape life in the city, Mykonos is the perfect place to do so.

During the day enjoy the beautiful beaches and the nighttime pumping party scene. Common with gays, going out and enjoying the nightlife is easy, without having to worry about being hit all night. During the summer months, it’s huge dance clubs draw world-renowned DJs from around the world. Be aware of when you plan to go because, in the winter months, this island tends to shut down.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

Solo Female Travel in Europe - Spain - Chasing Whereabouts

Palma Mallorca is an outstanding example of modern European city life combined with the atmosphere of Island. Located next to Ibiza’s most famous resort, Palma is nothing like the Resort of the Group. It has food, fantastic cafes packed with traditional Spanish tapas, and interminable sangria bottles. Great for visiting if you want to experience the Spanish culture but don’t look for a big city atmosphere.

If you’re sick of walking through the town’s cobblestone streets, ride the wooden train or the Tren De Sóller to Sóller’s more secluded beaches. The train takes an hour to complete and takes you through some spectacular scenery. It is certainly the Island’s highlight. There are other beaches too that is closer to the city, but the train is a must-do if you are coming to Palma.

Nice and Provence, France

Solo Female Travel in Europe - France - Chasing Whereabouts

The Cote d’Azur has some of Europe’s prettiest coastlines I’ve seen. It is made of stunning lateral cliffs and crystal-clear blue water. There’s a reason this area of France is so populated and so frequently visited. Nice is no exception, it is a pretty vibrant beach town. Full of great cafes, art galleries, shopping and more.

Its small streets are great for walking around and its cafés are great for drinking espresso shots and watching people. Located on the beach, it’s the ideal place to stroll along the boardwalk or just stay all day on the sand. Discover the warm-cool water that the Medderiteran has to bring.

Perfect for disappearing if you want no one to notice you but also great for meeting fellow travellers and enjoying a more mellow bar scene.

Provence is one of those places in your mind which live up to the images. It’s whimsical, sweet, cute, dry, sunny and delicious! It’s best explored through a road trip, so if you think about renting a car and just driving, Provence could just be the perfect destination for you. If you’re as keen on beautiful lavender fields as I am, of course, go in the season.

Lagos, Portugal

Solo Female Travel in Europe - Portugal - Chasing Whereabouts

Portugal is stunning, inexpensive, and dark men full of good looks. What not to love! Lagos is situated in the country’s south and is surrounded by the coastal Algarve. Lagos is ideal for those who appreciate beautiful scenery and a feel of a smaller town. It is a small tourist town so it makes it easier to meet fellow tourists, and during the summer months, their small streets are full of live music day and night.

During the day, Lagos has plenty of beautiful beaches to explore and is also full of great cafés and restaurants. It’s the best place to meet people and you’ll never feel alone when you’re travelling.

Check this out for the  best beaches in the Algarve

Barcelona, Spain

Solo Female Travel in Europe - Barcelona Spain - Chasing Whereabouts

Spain has a reputation for tasty tapas, sangria, siestas and late-night meals. Who doesn’t want to schedule a holiday around eating healthy food, smoking, lying on the beach and taking a nap afterwards? Barcelona is cheap, its beaches are full of life, but there are also historical sites to visit when you’re sick of drinking too much sangria.

Barcelona has all that to come. Experience a bigger European city while having a beach where you can also escape when you are able to relax. Complete the pumping nightlife on tapas for next to nothing or party, if that is what you are looking for.

Berlin, Germany

Solo Female Travel in Europe - Berlin - Chasing Whereabouts

This town is a paradise for hipsters, full of great trendy food and cafés. Its parks are full of man buns drinking craft beers in the summer months. And their nightclubs are so popular they don’t get to midday until Sunday. If you can get into that is, the Berghain is justification enough to go to Berlin. But besides their nightclubs it also provides so much history to see as well.

Take a walking tour around the city and learn about its pivotal history. Good for music, food and some of the weirdest nightlife you’ll ever see. It is one of the most multi-cultural cities in Europe and you are likely to meet people living there from all over the world.

Lapland, Finland

Solo Female Travel in Europe - Finland - Chasing Whereabouts

During the winter, Finland is so beautiful, and the Finns are a nice bunch with a killer sense of style and exceptionally strong English skills. Finland is one of the world’s healthiest countries. In Lapland you can go for a walk or hike alone at night without thinking about your health – I have done that a few times myself. I loved skiing in Finnish Lapland, particularly other great winter activities, including throwing boiling water into the air and watching it transform into vapor (it’s totally a thing).

Lucerne & Zurich, Switzerland

Solo Female Travel In Europe - Switzerland - Chasing Whereabouts

Switzerland is a perfect summer or winter destination for solo female travellers. In summer, go hiking, paragliding, or mountaineering in an adrenaline-obsessed Interlaken, or hike around the Zermatt Matterhorn.

Enjoy winter sport in Grindelwald. Lift tickets are cheap compared to North American prices, and the Alpine ambiance is lovely. (Fondue, anyone?)

You may wonder why Lucerne, well what else do you need, the beautiful city is situated right next to Lake Lucerne, It is just a perfect experience to stroll on the sides of the Lake and see the breath-taking views of the mountain and the Lake. You may choose what to do, maybe spend your time enjoying the paddle cruise in the lake or hike on the top of the mountain Mt. Pilatus.

Switzerland is love among travel enthusiast and this beautiful city Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland. If you feel like exploring the world of art and want to go on a shopping tour in Switzerland then Zurich is your go-to destinations. All hands down!.

Zurich is one of the wealthiest cities in Europe, with one of the highest quality of living standards in the world it is also among the world’s largest financial centres.

We have covered a complete set of Itinerary for Switzerland which you can take a look below

Conclusion – Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe

If you are considering your first solo trip, then Europe is a great starting point. There’s so many places to see, and so much to do. Whether you want to sit all day on a beach, exploring museums or enjoying good food and drinks.

Europe has plenty of that. It’s also a perfect place to meet fellow solo travellers, so unless you want to, you never have to think about doing anything on your own. Take a leap of faith and book your first solo ride, you ‘re going to be glad to have done it and I’m sure there’s going to be a lot more to come after your first.

What to Pack for your trip?

In general, as long as you understand the time of year, what you wear and enjoy at home will also work for you in Europe. Even, in general, flip-flops are not a good option on those cobblestone streets unless you’re at a beach. Comfortable, closed-toed shoes are your friend in Europe ! Many larger hostels have coin laundry service, but it’s easy to track one down in the city even if they don’t, so I wouldn’t worry about not packing enough clothes.

Here are a couple of my packing lists to help you plan for certain weather styles you might encounter:

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Welcome to Chasing Whereabouts, I'm Ertiqua, an Indian Travel blogger and content creator. I love travelling and I have a knack to try different cuisines from the place where I visit. I have visited around 15+ Countries in total and I plan on visiting the complete world. *wink* *wink*

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Travelling Europe Alone: a guide for all independent ladies

Travelling solo in europe: top tips for women (and men).

The next instalment in our Travelling As… series is one for the gals. We know people can get freaked out about the idea of travelling alone, particularly when you’re a woman, so read on to find out why travelling Europe alone is totally not scary, and actually 100% great.

Don’t Let People Put You Off:

One of our most commonly asked questions is: “is it safe for a woman to travel alone?” Our Answer? With common sense, street smarts and a wealth of information available – it’s a resounding yes. This guide mostly talks about Europe, but the advice can be applied to anywhere.

People love to scare other people off doing things. Especially when they wish they’d done them themselves. We don’t live in the middle ages any more, and there is absolutely no reason why anyone should persuade female adventurers out of taking that solo trip. Even though this is the case almost anywhere in the world, it’s particularly true for Europe.

single female travel europe

Be Reassured:

We’re lucky to live in a generally very accepting and safe continent. Whether you’re in  Eastern or Western Europe  – people in touristy areas are accustomed to female travellers. Even if you do come across some slightly uncomfortable situations, you’ll come back stronger than ever – and with a tale to tell.

Of course, we can’t lie and say that bad things never happen. But, they are rare, and there are simple precautions that any sensible traveller can take to minimise the risk. These include making sure your valuables are out of sight, avoiding walking home alone at night and making sure someone knows roughly where you are each day. We think this applies just as much to boys as to girls!

In need of extra reassurance?  When you travel with us you get access to a 24 hr helpline. Travel independently – but safe in the knowledge that someone is always on the end of the phone if you have any problems. Check out  popular trips and tours , or  build your own custom route .

single female travel europe

Do talk to strangers:

When you’re travelling solo, everyone is a stranger, and 99% of them are helpful and pleasant. Of course, we’re not saying you should chat to any old person you meet on the way. But meeting other travellers and forming a group is a great way to stay safe – and meet new mates.

One great way to  find like-minded groups to hang out with  is to stay in hostels. Most likely there will be at least a few other solo travelers who’d also be grateful for a buddy for the walk home. Going out in a group gives you the opportunity to share sightseeing, get to know people from all over the world and find others who might be heading towards the same destinations as you. Alternatively, why not join a free walking tour – these are a great way to meet other travellers and are found throughout all major European cities.

Want to travel solo but worried about starting out alone? A  group tour  could be a great option to get you started.

People love to spread  horror stories about hostels  and their guests, but 99% of the time everyone will be in the exact same position as you – alone in a foreign country and keen to meet other travellers. Hostels are liberal, happy and tolerant places which do not look kindly on disrespectful or inappropriate behaviour. If you feel uncomfortable, let a member of staff know immediately – any  good hostel  should be able to offer a solution.

Do your research on each destination:

Unfortunately, as is the case everywhere in the world, scams do exist in Europe. While most scams aren’t a threat to your safety (those responsible are far more focussed on earning their pocket money!), it’s best to do your research on the common ones in each area to avoid being caught out! There’s nothing like being conned out of your money to put a downer on your holiday, so don’t allow yourself to fall into the traps! You can read more about Europe’s common tourist scams  here .

Make sure you learn about your destinations before you go. If there are parts of a city that you’re advised not to go to, make it your business to know where they are. Hostels and local travel agents will be able to give you this information, so make the most of their knowledge.

single female travel europe

Learn to like your own company:

The more you  travel Europe  solo, the more you’ll realise that there’s nothing to be afraid of. Just as you wouldn’t think twice about walking around your hometown alone, you’ll soon find yourself exploring new cities independently. The great thing about venturing out on your own is that you’re totally in control – anything that you want to see, you can explore on your own terms. When you  book with us , you’ll receive a detailed itinerary containing food guides, top sights, public transport information and a phrasebook – so you can do exactly what you like on your own terms – without even having to research it!

Equally, like in your hometown, be sensible about your exploring. If you’re uncomfortable in any situation, remember: it’s always within your control to remove yourself from it. Whether the risk is real or imagined, trust your gut instinct.

Avoid isolated areas or those which feel hostile, and if you start to feel threatened don’t feel bad about turning back. While you might feel vulnerable as a single female traveller, our advice is the same regardless of your gender: stick to public areas with easy transport links and plenty of people about and you’ll rarely come across any trouble.

Don’t be scared – be prepared:

We don’t believe in scaring people; it’s extremely unlikely that anything untoward will happen while you’re travelling. Having said that, there’s no harm in being cautious. Here are a few things you can do to give you and your loved ones peace of mind.

Easy safety tips for travelling alone:

  • Give a copy of your itinerary to friends and family, so that they know where you’re travelling and when.
  • Keep a portable charger with you and charged at all times – the last thing you need is your phone dying when you most need it.
  • Leave emergency contact details as well as your own with your accommodation provider, travel agent or tour operator. This way, if you fail to check out or to show up for a pre-booked activity, someone will know straight away. They can then check in to make sure you’re ok and contact your family if they are concerned. All  good tour operators  should do this anyway.
  • If your family get worried easily, consider taking a small GPS tracker with you in your bag or coat pocket. That way they can keep tabs on your location even if you have no phone signal or your battery dies.

single female travel europe

Euroventure can help!

If you still feel concerned about travelling Europe solo, why not consider travelling the Euroventure way? We help you can experience all the independence of travelling by yourself, safe in the knowledge that we’re just a phone call away if you get into any difficulty. We’ve helped loads of people take their first steps into the world of solo travelling. We know the  best ways to travel Europe , the  ins and outs of public transport  and the  best routes for different travellers . Plus, with our specially  selected partner hostels  you’re bound to run into other Euroventure travelers to share your experience with. You can even travel with a bunch of like-minded backpackers on one of our  group tours  if you prefer!ublic areas with easy transport links and plenty of people about and you’ll rarely come across any trouble.

Travelling alone is a liberating, fascinating, thrilling and sometimes scary experience, whatever your gender. We’re all about sharing this with everyone, so if you’re thinking about inter-railing, why not  get in touch  today – no question is too small or too big! Take a look at our  trips  for inspiration,  join a group tour , or head to our  Europe Trip planner  to create your own route!

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Hamburg

These are officially the best European destinations for solo women travellers

You might want to start looking for tickets to Germany

Beril Naz Hassan

Nothing quite beats the pleasure of solo holidays. You get some sweet, sweet me time, where the only schedule you have to follow is your own. 

And it seems like it’s women who appreciate going it alone the most. A recent Booking.com survey found that 84 percent of the world’s lone travellers are women, with 55 percent of all Google searches for ‘solo travel’ being made by mostly millennial women. 

Based on that, accessories company  Kipling  has created a travel index for women who want to go on a solo European break. The ranking is based on destinations’ safety data, attractions, activity offerings, and more. 

It revealed Germany’s second-largest city, Hamburg , to be the best European destination for female adventurers. Packed with history and culture, the port city is known for its picturesque canals, mouthwatering seafood, and beautiful architecture. Plus, it’s home to the world’s largest warehouse district Speicherstadt, which is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The runner-up was yet another German haven, Munich . The Bavarian capital is home to centuries-old buildings, the world-famous Oktoberfest, and a hub of German delicacies and beers. Ranked as the eighth safest city in the world , Munich promises solo women travellers green spaces, city charm, and a memorable culinary journey. 

The third best city in Europe for female travellers was found to be Scotland’s charming Edinburgh . Last year, we crowned the welcoming storybook city as the best city in the world to visit , so we're not surprised about this one. Known for its rich cultural heritage, gothic buildings, dreamy cobbled streets, and historic attractions, Edinburgh is sure to give you both the serenity and the excitement you seek. 

Here are the top 20 European cities for solo female travellers: 

Did you read about the European city that has the world’s best public transport ?

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  • Beril Naz Hassan Writer, Time Out Travel

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

single female travel europe

Solo Travel in Europe

Solo Travel in Croatia

Solo Female Friendly Star Rating – 4 out of 5  

Budget – $35 to $100 a day  

Cheapest – Baltic countries  

Most Expensive – Liechtenstein  

Languages Spoken French, Spanish, German, Serbian, Croatian, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian and more.

Did You Know? If you are travelling during the European summer months, accommodation can get booked up, so I recommend pre-booking before you go.  

solo travel in Europe

Andorra is a great place for active solos

Why Solo Travel Europe?

Whether you’re looking for mountains, ancient civilisations, icy climates, chic cities or islands to sail around, Europe has a country for you. With nearly 50 countries to visit, there is a diversity of languages, cultures and destinations to suit everyone’s budget.

Lose yourself in the romance of the Mediterranean, the solitude of the Alps, the stunning coastline of the Rivieras and the icy glaciers of the Nordics. Solo travel in Europe couldn’t be easier, with many open borders to travel through.  

Europe is one of the safest continents for solo females to travel to. Although each country has a different culture, the majority have a liberal attitude towards women, especially in Western Europe.  

Europe has many different regions: Western Europe, the Balkans, Eastern Europe, Nordic countries and the Baltics. Choose Western Europe for company of others and East Europe if you are on a budget. (Read: Tips for Traveling Europe Solo ).

If you're planning on travelling to Europe alone, below is a summary of each region to help you choose the right destination for you. Click on the images at the end for the solo destination guides. Fo r the best places to solo travel in Europe, this guide covers the best cities in Europe for solos

Solo Travel in Europe

Copenhagen in Denmark

How To Travel Europe Solo

Traveling Europe solo can be very easy as getting around Europe is not difficult with many open border crossings. Transport in Western and Northern Europe is extremely punctual, and the most popular method of transport is by rail. Buying a Euro-Rail pass before you arrive on the continent allows you to travel through several countries. If you don’t need all 33, you can just buy a pass for four or more countries.

Although most of the countries are in Western and Northern Europe, you can just buy a pass for the Balkans. Travelling through Macedonia, Bulgaria and Greece is easier by bus, as the train system isn’t as efficient as those in Spain and France. It is wise to pre-book each sector if you are travelling Europe alone in the summer season.  

Switzerland has panoramic train journeys, including one to Europe’s highest mountain station at Jungfraujoch. Buying a Swiss Pass will save you money on multiple trips. The Eurostar operates from England across the Channel Tunnel to mainland Europe and vice versa, or you can choose from one of the main bus lines.

EuroLines are comfortable buses within Europe and offer a pass for 15 days to range of destinations or you can buy a 30 day pass for unlimited access to as many destinations as you like!

Flying around the continent is cheap and easy, with many low-cost airlines to choose from; although you can be in a neighbouring country in less than a couple of hours on a flight, going overland is definitely more sustainable. If you choose to hire a car , you could find yourself paying toll fees in countries such as France or Spain. 

Car sharing not only is a way of sharing a journey, but it’s a chance to meet others too. Car-sharing sites such as BlaBlaCar approve drivers beforehand, so you can travel across 45 countries in the UK and Europe with peace of mind.  

Slovenia, Liechtenstein, Monaco and Macedonia have good bus systems, and tunnels connect the Faroe Islands, allowing for a good road network for buses and cars. You could always consider cycling too, especially around the smaller countries or through somewhere picturesque, like Tuscany.  

Sailing around the Greek, Turkish or Croatian islands is the perfect way to island hop. Unless you pay a single supplement, you may find yourself sharing a cabin on a sailing holiday. For those who want to be more independent, there are ferries to get you between the islands.

Ferries operate between Albania and Italy and also Corfu in Greece. You can practically get anywhere from Istanbul if you’re prepared to spend hours on a bus. Internally, they have a great bus system with safe overnight buses.  

If you are unsure how to travel Europe solo and prefer to travel in a group, choose a hop on/hop off bus service as an alternative to local transport. These are great for solos, as you can meet other travellers on the buses and travel with them, at least to your next destination, anyway.  

To help you decide where to go and plan your Europe trip, below is a summary of each region in Europe, including how to get around.  

Solo Travel in Europe

Mont Saint-Michel Abbey in France

Western Europe

Western Europe is made up of: Belgium, France, Germany, Gibraltar , Ireland and Northern Ireland , Italy , Netherlands, Portugal (and   Madeira ) , Spain , Switzerland , Austria , England , Scotland , Monaco, Vatican City, Malta, San Marino , Luxembourg , Vatican City, Andorra  and Liechtenstein .  

If you love cities, Western Europe has some of the best cities to travel solo in Europe. There are plenty to choose from, each with its own unique style. Take your pick from Paris, Amsterdam, London, Barcelona, Budapest and Copenhagen to as far as Istanbul, the gateway to Asia. From the modern to the more historical, visit Greece or Rome for ancient civilisations, Germany for its political past and England for its timeless monarchy.  

Relax on the French or Italian rivieras, hike in Malta, sip port in Portugal, take part in a Spanish festival or try the chocolate delicacies of Belgium. Ski in the Alps, sing on Austrian hills and explore the highest point of Europe in Switzerland. Whether you enjoy history, culture or art, Western Europe has a country for all types of solos.  

Be prepared for some flirting and flattering attention along the Mediterranean. You’ll not be short of company in the south of Spain, where the area attracts both families and a party crowd. When in France or Monaco, you’ll find that the locals are much more accommodating if you can speak a bit of French.

There is a dress code in Monaco, so don’t walk around barefoot or in swimwear if you’re not at the beach. As in any city, be careful of pickpockets here, especially in Barcelona and Paris.  

Travelling solo in Liechtenstein isn’t one of the best places for solo travel Europe only because it is difficult to meet other solos here as the country attracts more families than solo travellers. Switzerland has kind locals and you’ll find friendly Scots, especially on the west coast of Scotland.  

Solo Travel in Europe

Hungary in Budapest

Travelling Around Western Europe

Mainland Europe has some of the best places to travel solo in Europe. The continent is easy to travel around due to good infrastructure. There are connecting train and bus networks such as EuroLines coaches and Flixbus, making each country accessible. You can also buy an Interrail pass , which is a train pass for various countries. If you prefer to navigate this region at your own pace, then consider hiring a car.  

In England, there are regional buses (National Express) and trains, as well as an excellent transport system in London. Use your bank card to get around London by Tube, bus and overland train by swiping before and after each journey.

Public transport is also good in Scotland, but you may want to consider hiring a car to reach the more remote areas. You could also join a fun-loving Scottish tour, such as MacBackpackers to take you around the country. A ferry will take you to the Isle of Arran and the company Megabus also operate to Edinburgh.  

Solo Travel in Europe

The stunning architecture in Moldova

Eastern Europe  

From West to East. Eastern Europe includes: Belarus,  Czech Republic, Georgia Greece , Hungary, Moldova , Poland, Russia , Ukraine, Cyprus and Turkey .  

Eastern Europe is synonymous with World War II and may not be your usual holiday hotspot, but the countries of Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic have untouched mountains, rivers and lakes, and are much cheaper to visit than Western Europe (although slightly more challenging with the language). Cyprus is a good destination for a beach holiday, although the island does have ruins and interesting sites to visit.  

Slovenia is incredibly safe with a low crime rate, small cities and women with the same opportunities as men. Slovenia attracts the more adventurous traveller and those who love the outdoors.  

Russia is a beautiful country with stunning palaces and the Kremlin, but it isn’t really known as a solo destination, so you may find yourself feeling isolated here, especially if you don’t know any Russian.

Turkey is a different story and being such a male-dominated society, you will encounter leering men who make their advances pretty clear. Although parts of Istanbul are liberal, you will still see women wearing headscarves. Cover up if you’re not within one of the beach resorts and especially in rural towns.

Avoid eye contact to not give men the wrong idea and be wary of any tour guide who wants to give you a private tour and take you to watch the sunset with just them for company. Expect attention in Cyprus from men of all ages, who will openly stare at you.  

Solo Travel in Europe

Malbork Castle in Poland

Eastern Europe Travel

Turkey has a really good transport system. Night buses are safe and they allocate you a seat number to ensure that you are sitting with another woman. A snack and a drink are included, and they do have a toilet on board, but they also make frequent stops along the way so you can pick up Turkish gifts or food.  

Russia is so vast that travelling around is best done by train, especially on one of the iconic ones, such as the Trans-Siberian or Trans-Mongolian. Passengers do smoke in third class and it can get cramped, so pay the extra for first class if you can.  

In Moldova it is easier to hire a car or take a tour if you want to see the country within a certain timeframe. Ukraine has old Soviet trains, and it’s easy to travel to and from Moldova with their train system. They also have sleeper carriages for overnight journeys.  

Georgia has a good bus network, making it easy to travel to Kutaisi or Batumi from Tbilisi, the capital. Greece has a reliable bus system called KTEL, which is comfortable and safe, and goes almost everywhere in Greece.

There are also international buses that take you across the border to neighbouring countries. If you want to island hop, ferries operate between the islands. Hire a car if you are heading to Cyprus, which is quicker than taking the island’s buses.  

Solo Travel in Europe

The Faroe Islands

The Nordic Countries  

The Nordics are made up of: Denmark. Finland, Iceland , Norway, Sweden, Greenland and the Faroe Islands .  

These countries are known for being pricey, but Scandinavia and the Nordics are great countries to visit for winter activities. Take a cruise around the Norwegian fjords, go snowmobiling or dog sledging in Finland or visit Santa Claus in Lapland.

Iceland is in a league of its own, with geothermal activity and a funky capital, or choose Greenland for its remoteness.

Iceland is more touristy, so expect crowds if you visit here. Visit in the winter for the Northern Lights or the summer for the midnight sun.  

You need to be comfortable with your own company in countries such as Greenland and the Faroe Islands, where you won’t see many other travellers, let alone solo women. Not only do they have a very low crime rate, but these countries are known for their relaxed attitude, warmth and hospitality.  

Solo Travel in Europe

Travelling Around The Nordics  

Ferries operate between islands, and you can hop from Estonia to Sweden and other destinations in the Nordics or from Denmark to the Faroe Islands and Iceland. The best way to get around the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Iceland is by hiring a car, otherwise, you may need to take a tour to see the islands.

There is a good train network in Norway and also sleeper trains, which cover long distances. Both Denmark and Sweden have a good train system, which takes you to all corners of the countries. Finland also has trains, buses and even steamships. Scandinavian Airlines operates between the Scandinavian countries, which is ideal if you don’t have much time.  

Solo Travel in Europe

Trakai Castle in Lithuania

The Baltic Countries

The Baltic countries are: Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Just north lies the Baltic Sea and although tucked away in the northern corner of Europe, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia in the Baltics have a lot on offer, with glacier lakes, Slavic and Scandinavian influences and over 1,500 islands to explore.

Visit the romantic city of Tallinn, the Baltic Coast in Latvia for seaside towns and Vilnius for its UNESCO World Heritage. This region is very cheap and also safe for solos. The hostels here are sociable, and they have cobbled old streets and free walking tours.

Travelling The Baltics

These small countries are easily connected by bus. The buses are modern and comfortable, and to travel from capital to capital takes less than five hours. * Read: Travelling The Baltics

Solo Travel in Europe

Dubrovnik in Croatia

The Balkans  

The Balkan countries are: Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Macedonia , Bulgaria , Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro , Croatia , Albania, Romania and Slovenia.

The Balkans are some of the most interesting countries in Europe. Made up of some of the former states of Yugoslavia, they all have an interesting and moving past. Visit Mostar for its Old Bridge, Slovenia for Lake Bled, Montenegro for its coastline, Macedonia for its Turkish bazaar and artist’s capital or just sail around the Croatian islands.

The Black Sea is known for its touristy towns but Bulgaria, Romania, Albania and Ukraine have so much more to offer and you'll find old towns and mountain regions within these surprising countries.

The Balkans are more suited to the intrepid traveller. You may find yourself in the minority in the Balkan states, where there aren’t many solo females, but there are plenty of solo males to meet and travel with. You do need to take extra care in Bulgaria, as there is petty crime along the Black Sea coast and it’s a good idea to avoid the bus station area in the capital at night.

Albanians are very friendly and are proud that you’ve chosen their country to visit. Islam is the main religion, so it’s wise to cover up in the main cities, such as Shkodra, where you may encounter a few looks, but anything goes along the Albanian coastline. The same applies to Bosnia.  

Although it is a country that is sometimes overlooked, Macedonia is really safe for females. Most street signs are in the Cyrillic script, so finding your way around can be challenging, but the people here will make you feel welcome and go out of their way to help you even if they can’t speak your language. If you venture away from Skopje and Ohrid, you’ll be guaranteed to meet more locals than tourists.  

Solo Travel in Europe

Peles Palace in Romania

Travelling The Balkans

Hitchhiking may not seem like the best idea for a solo female but it is common in Albania if you have to wait hours for the next bus. Trust your instinct if you do decide to hitch alone and be careful which country you choose to do it in (avoid Bosnia, for example). Otherwise, buses are the way to get around Albania.  

Buses in the Balkans can be an adventure, but they are a good alternative to the trains, which tend to be slower. Taking a train ride in an old-fashioned train carriage in Bosnia is a nostalgic journey. Navigating your way around the Balkans by car can be tricky, as signs are in the Cyrillic script, so you may need to ask locals for help.

Bulgaria is a country where you have to figure things out for yourself, but if you like rustic travelling and the odd challenge, it’s the country for you. Kosovo has plenty of buses from the capital to Prizren and Peja, and travelling here is easy and welcoming.  

Slovenia has a good bus system and nowhere is too far here. Croatia has a good bus network and also ferries to take you to some of the islands if you want to island hop. A sailing trip is the best way to see the islands if you only have a week.  

Europe is definitely an intriguing and interesting continent to travel to alone. If I've inspired you to take a solo trip to Europe, click on the photos below for the solo destination guide to help you plan a trip to that country.  

  • Related Post: Best European Cities For Solo Travel
  • Related Post: Best Places For European Winter Sun
  • Related Post: Best Way To Travel Around Europe

Solo Travel in Europe

Take a gondola ride in Venice

Best Things To Do in Europe

  • Taking a gondola ride in Venice
  • Seeing the Colosseum in Rome
  • Skiing in the Alps
  • Visit Edinburgh Castle in Scotland
  • Hiking in Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland
  • Visa the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
  • Marvel at the Milan Cathedral in Italy
  • Explore Montmartre Cathedral in Paris
  • View London from the top of the Shard
  • See windmills and tulip fields in Amsterdam
  • Go clubbing in Berlin
  • Visit a chocolatier in Bruges, Belgium
  • Meander the back streets of Salzburg in Austria
  • Walk along the coastal villages at Cinque Terre in Italy
  • Dance the flamenco in Spain
  • Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour in Paris
  • Walk along Charles Bridge in Prague
  • Relax in a spa in Budapest in Hungary
  • Enjoy a cream tea in the Cotswolds in England
  • Take a Turkish hammam in Turkey
  •  See Pigeon Valley in Cappadocia in Turkey from an air balloon ride.  
  • Go island-hopping in Greece
  • Drive the Golden Circle in Iceland
  • Go surfing in Portugal
  • See the Northern Lights in Lapland

Solo Travel in Europe

The Colosseum in Rome

Seven Wonders of the World  

  • Aurora Borealis – Norway/Iceland/Sweden
  • Statue of Zeus at Olympia – Greece
  • Temple of Artemis in Ephesus – Turkey
  • Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in Bodrum – Turkey  
  • Colossus of Rhodes – Greece
  • Colosseum – Rome

Solo Travel in Europe

Stonehenge in England

Europe Itineraries  

One week europe itinerary  .

  • If you only have a long weekend or a week to travel, a city break is perfectly doable from three to seven days.
  • England – London, Oxford, Bath, Stonehenge
  • Switzerland – Zurich, Lucern, Interlaken
  • The Baltics – Lithuania, Latvia
  • Denmark/Sweden – Copenhagen, Helsingor, Helsingborg
  • Sailing around the Greek, Turkish, or Croatian islands
  • Spain – Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Cordoba, Malaga

Solo Travel in Europe

Florence skyline at sunset, Italy. Campanile di San Marco

2 Week Europe Itinerary  

  • France to Italy – Paris, Lyon, Nice, Monaco, Milan in Italy.  
  • London to Amsterdam – London, Paris, Rome, Florence, Venice, Munich, Heidelberg, Rhine Valley, Amsterdam.  
  • Dubrovnik to Athens – Dubrovnik, Bay of Kotor, Tirana, Saranda, Corfu, Athens.  
  • Rome to Venice – Rome, Florence, Venice.  
  • Madrid to Nice – Madrid, Lisbon, Algarve, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona, Nice, Monaco.  
  • Oslo to Kiruna – Oslo, Trondheim, Lofoten Islands, Tromso, Kiruna.  
  • London to Scandinavia – England, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, St Petersburg, Tallinn, Gothenburg, London.  

Solo Travel in Europe

Nice in France

3 Week Europe Itinerary  

  • Rome to Budapest – Rome, Siena, Florence, Lucca, Cinque Terre, Lake Como, Venice, Lake Bled, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest.  
  • Berlin to Budapest – Berlin, Warsaw, Krakow, Prague, Cesky Krumlov, Vienna, Budapest.  
  • Estonia to London – Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Berlin, Netherlands, Belgium, London.  
  • United Kingdom – London, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Edinburgh, Dublin, Cork.  
  • The Baltics – Lithuania, Latvia. Estonia, Finland.  

Travelling To Paris Alone

Le Louvre in Paris

A Month in Europe  

  • Croatia to Istanbul – Croatia, Mostar, Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Istanbul.  
  • Paris to Spain – Paris, Versailles, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Salzburg, Fussen, Venice, Florence, Rome, Vatican City, Monte Carlo, Barcelona.  

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Solo Female Travelers

25 hand-picked women-only tours in 2023

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We’re all for women-only travel groups and tours, especially those who support women. This is why we are the leading travel company for women travel.

As a for profit company with a social impact mission to empower women through travel , our trips are not just for women, they are also led and focused on women at the destinations we visit. We want to have a positive impact in the travel industry by amplifying the efforts of amazing women.

We employ women, support women-owned businesses and are all for bringing women from all backgrounds together. Magic always happens.

Our guests often come from our Solo Female Travelers community on Facebook which counts more than 272,000 members. Sometimes they like to travel solo independently and other times they prefer to come on a women only tour to meet others or access harder to reach or more expensive destinations.

We’re convinced traveling solo in a group has many benefits and you should try it at least once in your life. This is where solo female travel packages come in. You leave the planning to the pros in women group travel and enjoy the trip!

In this article, you will find an extensive list of women travel groups and companies offering women only tours or specific departures for women traveling together. This list is always changing and updating so come back again before you book your next trip.

  • 1 Solo Female Travelers Tours (Our tours!)
  • 2 Surf Getaways
  • 3 El Camino
  • 4 Woander Tours
  • 5 Purposeful Nomad
  • 6 WanderTours
  • 7 Adventures in Good Company
  • 8 The Girls’ Guide to Paris
  • 10 WHOA – Women High on Adventure
  • 11 Wild Women Expeditions
  • 12 The Women’s Travel Group
  • 13 AdventureWomen
  • 14 Explorer Chick
  • 15 Sights and Soul Travel
  • 16 Femscape Sojourns
  • 17 Fit & Fly
  • 18 SmarTours
  • 19 Road scholar women
  • 20 Other women travel groups to look out for
  • 21 Why you should join a women travel group

Solo Female Travelers Tours (Our tours!)

Bucket list experiences and unusual places for life changing connections with local women and fellow travelers, great food & wine, fabulous company, culture, nature, wildlife and so much more! Our trips are designed by women, for women and are led by women.

We offer a range of luxury, personally curated experiences that have all the ingredients of a well-deserved vacation and adventure expeditions to unheard of places.

What makes us unique:

  • We support local female owned businesses that make a difference and we amplify their efforts at equality. We believe in the power of putting our money where our mouths are and we aim for 100% female powered tours. Other women-only tour companies hire male guides or support businesses fully staffed by men.
  • All our tours are female led , without a local female guide, there is no tour. We are not in it for the money, we want to shape the travel industry and provide more employment opportunities to women. We don’t fly in guides from overseas, we 100% trust our local guides.
  • Many of our female travel tours are accompanied by a professional photographer to capture unforgettable moments and candid instants that will stay with you. We want you to be in the moment and not experience a trip through your camera.
  • No single supplements: Come solo and we’ll pair you with another traveler.

Our destinations

single female travel europe

+Hand picked curated experiences where every moment is special and unique. No buses and ticking off boxes, only meaningful connections and moments that will stay with you. Destinations nobody else goes to. Designed by women, for women and led by women. Photographer onboard several trips. Support women at the destinations.

-Limited available as we do not aim to become a massive tour company and keep our groups to a maximum of 10-14 guests only.

Have a look at the highlight videos of some of our trips:

Surf Getaways

As the name of this women travel company indicates, Surf Getaways is an Australian-based company offering surf holidays in various locations around the world.

Founded by a surf instructor with years of experience teaching at a fixed surf school and a surf lover, the company now offers getaways where both newbies and experienced surfers can enjoy a sports-holiday with lots of vitamin C.

Tours are for all levels and some of them allow non-surfing companions to join too.

+Small group, premium and unique experiences all about surfing with very experienced teachers.

-Trip geared towards surfing and less appealing for non-surfers. Destinations are still very Asia-Pacific focused.

Well-established Condé Nast is the publisher of several popular magazines among which Vogue, GQ and Condé Nast Traveler. They also launched a high-end line of women-only tours called Women Who Travel for women traveling together to appreciate the finer things in life.

These tours have a food and cultural focus and are organized by El Camino , curated by the Condé Nast Editors who also run a podcast on female travel and a large Facebook group.

Almost all tours include lots of evening music and dancing, cooking classes and real exposure to the local culture. There is also a trip photographer to take all those candid shots.

El Camino tours are quite different from the majority of other tour companies. They are bold and immersive in the real sense of the word. They feature artists in all areas, from food to crafts to music, and none of the usual touring. No checklist, no museums, no monuments.

+Small group, premium and unique experiences that are just not easy to find on your own. Installment plan. Lots of food and drinks, music and art. In-house photographer taking shots for you.

-Prices are on the high-end of the scale, in fact these are the most expensive of the trips on this list averaging about $300-$600 per day.

Woander Tours

single female travel europe

Woander Tours is a great option for when you want to explore on a guided tour, on your own. They offer self-guided audio tours in cities like Edinburgh and Dublin, and give you the tools you need to explore your destination by yourself, but never alone.

In taking one of these tours, you will connect with your destination through the stories you’ll hear, the places you will see, and the people you will meet along the way.

These tours are carefully created to give you a local, unique and authentic experience; they work with local historians, small business owners, guides and travel bloggers to create the best possible itineraries.

The best part? You are in control of your own experience. They simply guide you to their favourite spots, landmarks and hidden gems at your destination. Each tour comes with a printable PDF-guide with directions as well as the audio.

+Connect with local people and experiences, and support local economies. No need to travel with a group or guide if you want to explore on your own time.

-There are limited destinations right now, so we look forward to more guides being released soon. Make sure you remain conscious of your surroundings with headphones in.

Purposeful Nomad

Purposeful Nomad focuses on what the name indicates, making sure that their trips have a positive impact, as they say “responsible, rewarding, safe, sustainable and ethical travel for women, by women”.

Their focus is on women-only, intimate and small group trips that go deeper and do not focus on the main tourist sites but on responsible tourism. Instead, you will learn something new like how to shear an alpaca or cook using traditional methods.

Days are spent at farms, beaches or at local foundations and charities fighting for women’s rights; there are yoga sessions and slow days by the sea. The emphasis of Purposeful Nomad is on slow travel.

+Get exposed to (mostly) women-owned charities and organisations from around the world and relax with lots of free time to simply take it all in. The purpose is to return recharged.

-Experiences tend to shy away from major tourist sites (not bad per se) and may not cover the key tourist attractions. Prices are on the high side.

WanderTours

Started, and almost always led, by Beth in 2008 as a means for her to take other women on some of the places she loves, WanderTours offers a small list of tours for women only (with some exceptions) that feel more like a group of friends getting together than a group tour company.

Beth encourages future guests to friend her on Facebook and get to know her better to decide if they would enjoy going on a trip.

She also hosts the She’s Bold Podcast , in which she shares stories of extraordinary women who inspire in many areas like travel, music, fitness, and more.

+The only women’s adventure travel company that organizes trips to Papua New Guinea giving you a unique opportunity (if pricey). Cozy and friendly, as if you were traveling with a friend.

-On the pricey side but this also includes a portion of the cost devoted to a local charity that usually works with women or children. Group tours are a bit larger than others (up to 16 guests).

Adventures in Good Company

Founded in 1999 by Marian Marbury, Adventures in Good Company focuses on adventure travel for women with emphasis on women of all ages.

Their trips have an outdoor focus and involve various level of activity depending on your choice. There is hiking across Greenland or the villages of Cinque Terre, kayaking in the sea, exploration in the Amazon or multi-sport trips with a bit of everything. Birders can marvel at Guyana and seafarers can sail in Turkey.

Because of the focus on nature, Adventures in Good Company has a strong responsible tourism charter and follows the leave no trace principles. Traveling slowly and being a fully remote team also helps contribute to sustainable travel.

In 2020 Kelly Kimple assumed ownership of the company, bringing fresh energy and a commitment to the vision and philosophy of guiding on which Adventures in Good Company was founded.

+A true outdoor tour company giving you the unique chance to explore the world on foot. Long years of experience. Wide portfolio of trips in the US. Clear audience of older women.

-The website feels a bit 2000s and is clunky and time consuming to navigate and filter due to the amount of trips (calendar view works best). Very US-focused in audience.

The Girls’ Guide to Paris

Founded by Doni, an American living in France, primarily with a focus on the country, The Girls’ Guide to Paris now offers 50+ different trips to destinations around the world with a touch of luxury, a welcome glass of champagne and a default no sharing policy.

You will find holidays ideal for mature women like wine trips, writing retreats, artist-themed itineraries and a wide range of destinations and curated trips to satisfy any craving. All solo travel female packages are mid to high end and prices are offered per room, but you can get a discount if you book with a friend.

Special SFT perk: Mention you heard about them from us and you will receive $100 OFF from any booking.

+Very strong culture, food & wine focus with a long tradition and track record delivering fabulous experiences for mature women.

-Trips are on the expensive side since the positioning is high end. No option for pairing guests to save on accommodation.

Damesly goes beyond typical group tours and focuses on travel, writing and photography workshops and trips of self-discovery where there are elements of coaching, mentorship and business brought together to help you find clarity or direction.

The company is the travel arm of Go Girl Guides and Women’s Travel Fest and has a strong bond in the creative community appealing to women who may work in the field, although open to everyone.

Trips are mid to high end and have a focus on culture and beautiful sites. Destinations are photogenic and perfect for those who love to photograph.

+Like-minded creative community of women with similar passion means you will be among your own. Workshop trips have a skill-building element. Reasonably priced for the mid-high end range of accommodations.

-Prices are on the high side. Guides are most likely foreign and not local. While guests are female, the businesses supported are often not.

WHOA – Women High on Adventure

WHOA is a boutique adventure-focused women travel company founded by Allison and Danielle in 2013 to offer active holidays such as hiking to Everest Base Camp or Kilimanjaro with a sustainable and responsible twist.

Their trips put travelers in touch with local women to facilitate cultural interaction and they are all about empowerment. The company works with small local female-owned businesses instead of bigger ones.

WHOA is all about inclusion and has even launched trips for plus sized women. As they put it “WHOA women find comfort in the uncomfortable. We bask in the sun and dirt. Never afraid to break a nail, a sweat or a stereotype. Adventure is an outlook and it’s how we choose to live.”

There are two types of trips on offer, adventures and expeditions and WHOA can also organise your own private group trip. The majority of the trips have a maximum of 12 to 18 participants.

+Fun and unapologetic with a strong responsible and sustainable tourism focus and women empowerment.

– Small tour company so limited list of tours and all very hardcore active (except for the Oktoberfest which may be tougher on the liver than the legs!). Some trips can be quite large (18 pax for Kilimanjaro). Although guests are female, guides aren’t always female or local.

Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions has been around for over 30 years and focuses on adventure and active trips for women of all ages.

They have wide portfolio of trips to many countries in the world all under the same active common denominator. They also have yoga retreats and safari expeditions.

As they put it “We encourage you to let go and get wild! We value freedom of expression and want to give you the space to maybe see yourself in a new light, outside of your regular responsibilities and everyday roles.”

Wild Women Expeditions also organises private trips for groups and has a couple of trips for teenage girls.

The company focuses on being in the moment so all trips start with a discussion on photography and videography and recommends guests to be in the moment and void constant social media updates. Likewise, they encourage participants not to bring drones.

+Experienced women’s tour company. Wide portfolio with several departures for some of the trips means it is easier to find the right one for you. 7-day risk free cancellation policy and the ability to pay in instalments.

-Slow and clunky website that makes it hard and time-consuming to search and compare. If you are someone who likes to document everything or take lots of photography and videography you may find the trip philosophy to be against it.

The Women’s Travel Group

The Women’s Travel Group was established in 1992 and has a portfolio of women trips that usually include more than one country and cater to an older demographic interested in having a more in-depth conversation about the culture, the politics and the history of a place. As its President, Phyllis Stoller, put it to us, “Our guides are for smart women who bring complicated questions.”

You will find some of the popular destinations as well as more unusual ones like Albania, Georgia or Madagascar.

Accommodation tends to be on the higher end and meals better than average. Emphasis is on culture and food and the itinerary is closed. No shopping stops and no free time. Prices are mostly all inclusive and there are no surprises or hidden costs.

Phyllis continues, “We often have a speaker who talks about the dark side of a country. For example, a human rights worker in Chile under Pinochet; an economic development expert in Albania; a Fistula Doctor in Ethiopia. We like controversy to get the group to talk.”

+More in-depth conversation to truly get under the skin of a place, unique to The Women’s Travel Group. No extras that aren’t included. Packed itinerary gets a lot in.

-Closed itinerary means you need to love the whole (or you can skip some parts). The website is a bit clunky; Information is hard to locate and compare so it might be best to reach out to them directly for the trips you are interested in.

AdventureWomen

Founded in 1982, AdventureWomen runs one of the oldest female travel group trips with a focus on adventure travel for women over the age of 35 who want to step outside of their comfort zone and challenge themselves.

The company was purchased by the current owner Judi Wineland and her two daughters in 2016, and today runs trips to 65 countries. As the company says, they are not a travel company but a relationship one.

In an interview Wineland says, “We’re kind of a tribe of sorts, seeking other like-minded spirits to share our adventures with. So, if you want to make travel experiences really transformational  for  women, it’s probably best if women are driving the ship.”

AdventureWomen has one of the widest portfolios of destinations and a strong and well-established track-record with a guide-ambassador combo per trip, surveys and research into female travel and lots more.

Like most other women travel groups in this list the company is female-owned and works with female-owned businesses. AdventureWomen also organizes private trips for your female group.

+Company with long experience in the industry. Huge array of destinations and a focus on community and relationship.

-Prices are very high for some of the trips considering they are for shared accommodations. Age restriction is both a plus and a minus and you should expect a higher age representation.

Explorer Chick

Explorer Chick is another a female adventure travel company for women traveling together to conquer new heights, and we mean that literally as well as figuratively.

They shy away from luxury and premium tours and instead focus on getting you back in nature and staying in the purest accommodations; tents, yurts and huts.

As they say “We promise hysterical laughing, unladylike behavior, strings of cuss words, and happy exhaustive fatigue on all of our adventures”. Or, as the founder puts it, “we would do cool shit in cool places with cool chicks!”

I think you get the gist of the company’s philosohy!

Besides organizing women only adventure tours, Explorer Chick also offer day trips and long weekend getaways within the US which consist of adventures and hiking trips across the country. They can also organize private departures for any of their advertised tours where men are welcome to join.

+Strong focus on having fun and little tolerance for moaners and complainers who will be removed from the trips.

-Shorter trips are on the expensive side. Dietary needs may not be catered for (in which case you may have to bring your own food). No instalment plans.

Sights and Soul Travel

Sights and Soul Travel is a women travel package company that specializes in high-end women travel tours which include premium experiences and activities, wine and food and upscale hotels and hit the traditional tourist sites.

Expect wine tasting, spas, wellness elements and fine dining built into a more traditional and cultural trip.

Tours have a lot of activities and a packed itinerary so you will get to cover a lot. Because of the type of trip, they are appealing to mother-daughter getaways and the company states that their average guest is above the age of 55.

+Huge array of destinations with a more traditional travel style: buses, cities and main sites. Most of the trips are almost all inclusive.

-The itineraries are packed which can be a Pro and a Con. Prices are on the high-end for a shared accommodation. Groups can be a bit larger than other companies (up to 16 guests)

Femscape Sojourns

Femscape Sojourns was founded in 2018 and is a boutique mother-daughter small group travel company that organizes trips based on the traveler’s age. There are trips for women in their 20s and 30s and for women over 40. The company also has specific mother-daughter trips.

Founded by Tami and Latifah, Femscape Sojourns wants to empower women in the places they visit so they work and support local women-owned businesses. The idea is that travelers preferences change with age and that is why trips are tailored to various age groups.

In keeping with that, the mother-daughter duo escort the group in their age range.

+Small groups of 6-12 women. Unique mother-daughter trips for bonding. Cozy and personalised, hosted by the owners. Some trips have a free day you can customise.

-As the company is relatively new, the range of trips is very limited to Barcelona and Morocco.

Fit & Fly

Fit & Fly takes the idea of a fitness and wellness retreat to the next level with premium & luxury accommodation, local exploration and world class instructors.

Guests start the day with a fitness class and some evenings end with yoga, but the rest of the day is spent exploring the destination. Fitness is at the core of the trips.

+Premium accommodations and renowned fitness instructors flown in for the occasion.

-Very high price, especially for the single rooms. Limited options for solo travelers to share with other as many rooms are for single use or friends booking together.

SmarTours is a US company that specializes in creating exciting international tours at accessible prices. The company focuses and responsible and sustainable travel with groups an average of 23 guests.

SmarTours has an exclusive section of women-only tours, aimed at mature women who want to have a once in a lifetime experience. They inspire and empower women to travel and offer many immersive female-focused experiences in their trips.

Some of their top women-only tour destinations are Jordan, Egypt and Turkey. A few of their amazing female-focused experiences are: a modern Egyptian women lecture and connecting with Jordanian local women.

They also have a FB group where women can find a roommate or connect with fellow female guests before their trip.

+Immersing international trips at very affordable prices. Some trips have no single supplements at all. Exotic and fascinating destinations with mature women-focused experiences.

-Limited destinations for their women-only tours. Limited single room options. There is a single supplement in the majority of the tours. Large groups of up to 23 guests to keep costs down.

Road scholar women

Road scholar is known for its educational trips that are intensely focused on culture, learning and getting deep into the history of a place through lectures and sessions on various topics.

Besides their general trips that are open to anyone, the Road Scholar Women trips are exclusively for women. Some of their itineraries are exclusively women-only and designed with women in mind, whereas others are just women-only departures with the same general program.

+In-depth cultural and historical understanding with lectures led by specialists and experts on various cultural aspects of the country.

-Limited destinations for their women-only tours. Very large groups of 13 to 24 guests means the experience is different than that of a smaller group tour company.

Other women travel groups to look out for

Besides the above women’s tours there are a few other tours for women worth mentioning, as follows:

  • Dare to detour offers retreats in the US that are more about self-discovery and taking a break from your daily life to pause, re-frame, rethink, and perhaps find yourself and your path again.
  • Women traveling together offer solo traveler tours for women in the US. Trips are usually 6-7 days long and mostly culturally-focused.
  • Living Big Travel is not an exclusive women travel group company but rather a custom-tour company that organizes trips for solo travelers so you can reach out to them if you wish to go on an adventure on your own.
  • She Hit Refresh is a community which also organizes retreats in Spain and Morocco for women over the age of 30 who want to make a big change and pursue a life of travel. As the founder puts it “[the retreats are] a magical week of exploration, introspection, and inspiration!”
  • Adventurous Women is an Australian company who offer tours, day trips, retreats and many memorable experiences throughout Australia. Most of the women who join them come solo and there’s a wide age range. Depending on the kind of adventure you’re into, you can find everything from hiking to water-based trips.
  • Diva Destinations is a UK company that specializes in bringing together lesbian & queer women on group holidays. They have group tours in the UK, US, Norway and Portugal.

Why you should join a women travel group

Women want to travel and sometimes, they don’t have the right friend or travel companion to do so. While many choose to travel on their own ( watch our mini-documentary to find out more), many prefer to join a group. Both choices are amazing and rewarding, if you’re still thinking about it, get some inspiration from our solo travel quotes .

Although it sounds like an oxymoron, solo travel tours are a great alternative for inexperienced travelers who prefer the comfort of an organized tour where they can make new friends and gather the courage to go it alone in the future.

Several companies have sprung in recent years to facilitate women traveling together via group trips, hangouts or meet-up groups. Besides our own women only group trips, we also created a sub-group for solo female travelers wanting to swap homes, hangout or host other members of the community in a safe environment.

1 thought on “25 hand-picked women-only tours in 2023”

Hi Abby, thanks for reaching out, we still have available places left on our Sudan tour in January. I have sent you an email from [email protected] with more information about both Sudan and Morocco, and look forward to continue chatting with you 🙂 (If the email doesn’t reach your inbox please check your ‘other’ folders too).

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Guide to solo travel for women in europe.

Advice for women wanting to travel solo in Europe. Tips on safety and how to have an amazing solo journey through Europe.

Helpful Travel Tips & Articles

single female travel europe

My very first backpacking trip abroad was a three-month solo journey across Europe — although I didn’t plan it to be that way. I was actually supposed to go with a friend, but about two months before our departure she had to cancel.

At first, I wanted to scrap the whole trip, but I’d been planning this big trip for months (and dreaming about it for years). Plus I’d already bought the non-refundable plane ticket, so I started researching solo travel.

The idea of traveling alone, especially as a woman, never even crossed my mind until that point, but the more I researched it, the more I came to realize that solo travel was something that sounded amazing. I decided to throw caution to the wind and just do it.

Okay, I was a little nervous before heading off. I remember having a mini-freakout when I was on the plane, but I was able to pull myself together pretty quickly. As soon as I landed in London I successfully made it to my hotel using the Tube. Success!

After all was said and done, I discovered how much I loved solo travel. Sure, there were some not-so-great times and I made a few mistakes, but I would do it all over again if I had the chance. One of the biggest surprises was that I met a large number of other solo female travelers in Europe — there were probably one or two at every hostel I stayed at!

I’ve gathered some of my best tips and advice for solo women travelers in Europe. These are the things I wish I would have known before I traveled to Europe alone. I urge you all to learn from my mistakes!

Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

The first week of traveling solo was the toughest for me. I was still a little timid, and I tended to keep to myself. I would spend all day walking around and then come back to the hostel and not have anyone to talk to.

Then one night I decided to cook a meal for myself at the hostel. I went down to the kitchen and there was another solo female traveler trying to organize a group meal. She asked me if I wanted to chip in a little money, and she would make a big meal for whoever was interested.

There ended up being around 15 people who gathered for the meal. It was a ton of fun and everyone had a great time. I finally met a lot of people, and I spent the next two days hanging out with the girl who organized the meal. And that is when I realized that solo travelers have to put a bit of effort into meeting people. From that point on, I had very little trouble meeting people.

And you shouldn’t worry too much about being “alone”. There will always be people to hang out with if you seek them out. I’ve had to eat by myself a few times — which I admit isn’t the most fun thing in the world — but it really isn’t that bad. I think we tend to fear eating alone because we think other people are judging us. But honestly, other people don’t really care that you’re eating alone — plus, you’ll never see these people again, so who cares?

Why Solo Travel is Great

I don’t know why more people don’t embrace traveling solo – especially in Europe. Below are some of the top reasons why I loved traveling solo, but you can read a lot more general advice about traveling solo here .

Freedom to Travel

Any solo traveler will tell you how amazing it is to be able to do whatever you want. Want to spend all day in a museum? No problem. Want to sit in a park for 3 hours? Go for it. Want to eat at McDonald’s? Supersize it, sister.

Do whatever you want because you don’t have to ask what your travel partners want to do.

Financial Freedom

Money is another tricky subject when it comes to travel. Often groups of people don’t want to spend money on the same things. For example, your friend might want to eat bread and cheese every day, but you want to have one or two nice meals. These differences often lead to one party not being happy.

Meet More People

When I travel with my significant other, I end up meeting fewer people because we often go off to do our own thing. Traveling solo forces you to put yourself out there to meet new people. Plus, solo travel is becoming more popular, and you’re bound to run into a lot of travelers who are happy to hang out with other solo people.

I also found that a lot of groups openly invited me to hang out with them, which I found was great. In fact, I probably got invited to 4 times as much than when I traveled with friends.

Self Discovery

Traveling alone makes you become more confident and self-reliant. Plus, I feel like it makes you a better person.

Easier to Couchsurf

Couchsurfing is an amazing way to meet locals and save a bit of cash. Most Couchsurfing hosts don’t have a lot of room, so solo travelers have an easier time securing a spot. Some people recommend finding a female host for safety reasons. I’ve stayed with hosts that were a family (husband, wife, and kids), and that has worked out fine. Just be sure to read the reviews to hear what former guests have said. You can read more about Couchsurfing here .

Practical Tips for Successful Solo Travel in Europe

Here are some random tips and advice that will help make solo travel go much more smoothly.

Meeting People

There are plenty of ways to meet other people while you’re traveling. The easiest is at your hostel. There will nearly always be someone looking to meet up. This is also a great opportunity to meet up with other solo travelers.

Most major cities have free walking tours which attract a lot of younger travelers. Additionally, large cities usually have a weekly Couchsurfing meetup group where people from around the world meet up to just hang out — normally at a bar or café. These are open to all people — not just Couchsurfers. You can also check out meetup.com

Start in a Country Where You Know the Language

Traveling is confusing. Traveling in a country where you don’t know the language is even more confusing. That is why I’d recommend starting out in the UK or Ireland because you can always ask someone if you have a question. If nothing else, it lets you ease into international travel a bit easier, and it will help build your travel skills.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Confusion

I always recommend having your accommodation arranged before you arrive in each city. This way you’ll know exactly where to go the second you step off the train or plane. I also recommend spending a little time studying how to get to your hostel before you arrive. If you’re familiar with how the public transportation works or what route to walk, you’ll remove much of the stress of traveling. Additionally, planning ahead keeps you from wandering around aimlessly — which thieves pick up on very quickly.

I also try to find out where the more dangerous parts of town are so I can be sure to avoid them.

Take it Easy on Yourself and Relax

Traveling is stressful. You’ll make mistakes. Things will go wrong. You’ll feel defeated at some point. It is natural, and all travelers go through it. I hit a wall after about 3-4 weeks of traveling, but I powered through it and I felt better after having a few bad days.

I recommend doing something nice for yourself or doing something “normal.” Go see a movie. Have a bit of retail therapy. Sign up for a cooking class or a wine tasting. It will help rejuvenate you.

Do an Open Top Bus Tour

I know it sounds corny, but I like to use one one of those hop-on/hop-off bus tours the first day I arrive in a major city because it allows me to get a better idea of how the city is laid out. Then when I’m exploring the city by foot, I have a little better idea of where I am in relation to other sights.

Ask People to Take Your Picture

ASK PEOPLE TO TAKE YOUR PHOTO! I have a thousand photos of Europe, but I’m only in about a dozen of them. I didn’t even realize it until I got back home and started looking through my pictures — I still regret not having more. People are more than willing to take your photo, but you just have to ask.

The more stuff you drag along with you, the more difficult traveling becomes — especially when you’re traveling alone. Check out this  traveling Europe packing list for women  for tips on what to pack.

Safety Advice for Solo Women Travelers

The main reason females don’t travel alone usually boils down to safety concerns, and it is smart to be vigilant when you’re traveling alone. European cities are much safer than most US cities. I know I felt safer walking the streets in Europe than I do in the US. The advice in this section is all pretty common sense, but it is a good idea to read through these things so they’re fresh in your mind.

The best safety advice I could give a solo traveler, or any traveler for that matter, is to simply be aware of your surroundings. That doesn’t mean you have to be paranoid about everything, but it is important to have an idea of what is going around you.

Protect Your Bag or Purse

Probably the biggest threat to traveling women is getting your purse or bag snatched. I suggest keeping your bag in your lap. If you have a larger bag that is uncomfortable to keep in your lap, make sure you loop the shoulder strap around the leg of your chair so someone can’t run by and snatch it away.

Find a Buddy (or a Group) When Going Out at Night

It might not be fair, but women need to be more vigilant when they’re out at night. That is why I always went out with other people — usually from my hostel. Remember… safety in numbers.

Act Like You’re Supposed to be There

It seems that timid travelers are the ones who usually get taken advantage of. Their fear and timidness show through, and predators can pick up on this. That is why you need to always act like you belong. Act like you know exactly where you are going. Exude confidence! Walk with purpose — even if you are lost. As a female traveling alone, this is an important thing to remember.

Listen to Your Gut

When you’re traveling alone, it’s important to listen to your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Personally, I had the most difficult time listening to my instincts when I was with a group of people. I felt a little uneasy about speaking up to a bunch of people I’d just met a few hours before in the hostel. But that is something I just had to get over.

Avoid Dangerous Situations with Alcohol

We’ve all done some dumb things while drinking, but we’re usually around friends. I don’t have to tell you that getting really drunk in an unfamiliar city with a bunch of people you don’t know very well isn’t the best idea.

Don’t Flash Money/Valuables

It is always smart to be careful about not flashing money and valuables around for people to see. Leave fancy jewelry at home, try to not use your phone alone on the street (especially at night or on public transportation), and if something feels wrong, try to hop into a store or get close to a group of people. The main thing is to not make yourself a target.

Pickpocket Proof Bags

I’ve never used them, but a lot of travelers like these pickpocket proof bags from Pacsafe . They have features like puncture proof and lockable zippers, steel mesh is sewn into the bag’s fabric the bag can’t be cut open, and a few other anti-theft features. For more information about pickpockets, read our guide to pickpockets in Europe .

Be Careful When Using the ATM

As a solo traveler, one of your most vulnerable moments will be when you’re withdrawing money from an ATM because you don’t have anyone to watch your back.

For example, when I was in Paris, I was approached by a group of 3 gypsy kids while I was using the machine. They started tugging at my shirt and putting a paper in front of the screen to block my view. Just then, I saw one of them press the button to withdraw 300€. Luckily, I knew what was going on and was able to grab all the cash from the machine before they had a chance to get it.

I knew about this scam as I had read about it when I was researching my trip, but it still took me off guard — especially since this happened in the middle of the day on a street with a lot of foot traffic. (Tip: Try to use an ATM that’s inside a bank.)

Pay Attention in Confusing Situations

Thieves rely on creating confusion to get you to let your guard down. They’ll do things like putting a newspaper in front of your face while someone else takes things from your bag, or a group of people will all push onto a Metro car at the last minute while they try to pickpocket you, or a cashier will purposely give you the incorrect change back. There are all kinds of things thieves will do. Your best defense is keeping calm and making sure you know what is going on.

Write Down the Address of Your Accommodation

It is a good idea to write down the name and address or take a business card from the hostel, hotel, or apartment where you’re staying. This is important because it is pretty easy to get lost in many European cities — their streets don’t use the grid system, so finding your way home isn’t always easy. Plus, good luck trying to tell your taxi driver to take you to 27 Scheepstimmermanstraat (yes, this is a real street name).

Arrive in New Locations During the Day

Whether it’s at a train station or an airport, one of the most confusing and frustrating moments of traveling is when you first arrive in a new city. But things get much more difficult when you arrive at night. Help desks are often closed, most other travelers are gone, and people seem a little more sketchy. That is why I try my best to arrive during the day.

I made this mistake once when I visited Bruges for the first time. I arrived around 11 pm (mainly because I missed a train connection earlier in the day). I knew the address of my hostel but didn’t have a map of the city, so I didn’t know where to go. I decided to just start walking until I found the city center… well, I went the wrong way. So I came back, finally found a map posted outside the train station and headed into town. I think I wandered for about an hour (which is terrible when you have a heavy backpack on), but I finally found the hostel. And it was locked for the night and there was no one at the front desk.

So I was stuck. I walked down the street a bit and found a hotel but they wanted€150 for the night. It was already almost 1 am, so I thought I would rather sleep in the train station than pay €150 for a hotel that I had to be out of by 10 am. And that night I found out how much sleeping on a bench in a train station sucks.

If I had arrived during the day, I would have found the hostel in about 15 minutes and could have spent the night enjoying a great Belgian beer.

Make (Digital) Copies of Passports, Credit Cards, and Other Important Documents

You’ve probably already read about the importance of keeping a few photocopies of your passport. Additionally, I like to email myself a scan or save a copy to my Google Docs. That way you have a copy of it easily available if you somehow lose the physical copies. This also works great with any other important documents or credit cards.

Choose Accommodation in a Popular Area

As a solo female traveler, I always feel safer when my hostel is located in a fairly popular part of town. I’d much rather be walking around in a busy neighborhood than totally alone. This is something to watch out for when booking accommodation because some of the cheaper options are in less desirable locations.

Know Your Neighborhood

Before you head out for the day, take a look at a map to get familiar with your route, the areas you’re visiting, and the neighborhood you’re staying in.

Female-Only Dorms (Optional)

Most hostel rooms are mixed gender, but many offer a few female-only rooms. Personally, I always felt completely safe in hostel dorms because there was always a pretty equal mix of both sexes. But if you feel safer in a female-only dorm, you should choose that option.

Getting Hit On by Men in Public 

As a solo woman traveler, you will get hit on by men — more so in some countries than others. It is inevitable. It is usually pretty harmless (some might even find it flattering), but some men can take it too far. If you don’t want to deal with it, there are a few precautions you can take to ward off those unwanted advances.

Put a Ring on It

The most common piece of advice is to wear a fake wedding band as this will deter most would-be Rico Suaves.

Wear Sunglasses

One thing that took me a while to realize is that looking a stranger in the eye is often a sign that you’re interested or flirting with them. Even an accidental glance gives many guys the impression that you want to chat. The easiest way to avoid these situations is by wearing sunglasses… but you’re on your own when you’re inside or at night.

Cut the Chit-Chat

If some guy starts talking to you (and you’re not interested in talking to him), then you should simply ignore him. When I first arrived in Paris, guys would nonchalantly talk to me on the Metro and I would respond mainly out of courtesy. The fact that I responded was their “foot in the door” and they would continue trying to chat me up. If you’re not interested, I suggest just completely ignoring them — most will get the hint. A lot of women I’ve talked to suggested wearing a pair of earbuds (without music actually playing) while on public transportation as this is a clear sign that you don’t want to chat.

Final Thoughts About Women Traveling Solo in Europe

If you can find friends to travel with , that’s great, but don’t let the lack of a travel buddy deter you from taking the trip you’ve always wanted to take. You just have to take a few precautions and you’ll be safe. If you’re still uneasy about traveling Europe alone and don’t have a travel partner, you can use a tour company like Contiki Tours , Busabout, and a few others that cater directly to younger travelers.

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Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

single female travel europe

Solo Travel Europe: 32+ Tips You Need To Know

Janice Waugh

February 4, 2019 by Janice Waugh

solo travel venice grand canal

Europe is a fabulous solo travel destination.

Paris, Rome, Vienna, Barcelona–there are so many wonderful cities in Europe to explore.

Porto, Gerona, Arles, Assisi–there are many smaller cities and towns worth exploring solo too.

And while the European Union, with its common currency and no borders, makes travel easier than it was in the past, it's still a challenge in terms of language, cost, accommodation, and getting around.

Here, you will find my top tips for traveling solo in Europe as well as tips (in italics) from members of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook . The result is another in our 32 Tips Series that you can find peppered around the site. Here are the ones on European Destinations.

  • Affordable London: 32+ Free and Low-Cost Tips
  • Affordable Paris: 32+ Free and Low-Cost Tips
  • Solo Travel to Bologna and Emilia Romagna – 32 Tips
  • Affordable Dublin: 32 Free and Low-Cost Tips

You'll also want to check out  Driving Tips for Europe: Written and Unwritten Rules of the Road.

Now, on to the general tips for solo travel in Europe.

solo travel europe, greeter program

Table of Contents

Europe Fast or Slow?

If it's your first time to Europe you may be inclined to cover as much ground as possible. The continent is diverse and everything seems so close – at least to those of us who live in North America or Australia. But in fact, Europe is a big place. Whether your plan is to go fast or slow, it's good to focus on a few destinations.

Taking it Fast? Here Are Some Tips:

  • How far, how fast?  Consider how much time you have. If you plan to travel in the day you will need at least three nights per destination. This will give you about 2 1/2 days in each city before moving on, assuming that your travel time takes at least half a day. Another option is to plan just one day in some places and longer in others. It will work out to about the same pace which, I have found, is about perfect. If you plan to use night trains you can expect to cover more territory in the same amount of time. So, for a 14-day trip, with a travel day on both ends, you could make four stops.
  • Getting around efficiently . Trains are an ideal way to get around in Europe as they are frequent, fast, go to just about any destination and land you in the city center. Consider a Eurail Pass  and using the night trains so that you spend most of your travel time sleeping and saving money. When traveling solo and sleeping on a train it is important to keep your valuables close at hand. Use a money belt  or bra stash . I like the latter two. I stash large items either behind my head stuffed into a makeshift pillow or snuggled under my arm. Read  Train Travel: Best Way to Book Tickets – Europe
  • Take time to breathe in the city . Even though you want to cover a lot of ground, take a couple of hours to visit a market and chat with vendors or enjoy a park and watch how locals experience it. These are the perfect occasions for you, as a solo traveler, to connect with locals. Travel is not all about major attractions like the Eiffel Tower.

single female travel europe

Reader Tips

Julie – Consider Eastern Europe (Serbia, Romania, Montenegro, Bosnia). Don't listen to North American news views. They are safe and beautiful.

Ilona – Never leave out the smaller, hidden treasures. I realize when people come to Germany, they focus on the big, famous cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, and Munich, but the smaller and middle-sized ones are the real “typical” German towns: Bamberg, Nürnberg, Heidelberg, Speyer, Trier etc. T hey are full of history and local and traditional food and beverages. Don't only focus on the stuff you have heard about before. Try to dig deeper.

Taking it Slow? Here Are Some Tips:

  • Carve out a smaller territory to cover . Rather than trying to cover too much of Europe, go to Italy or France or Germany: just choose one. You can also choose to stay for a time in a particular area of one of those countries. To travel slow, keep the scope of your travels under control.
  • Stay in one of the smaller cities.  It is easier to experience the local culture in smaller cities and towns where it isn't drowned out by a tourist culture. It is also less expensive. Consider hub and spoke travel, where you stay in one place but visit others. For example, from Bologna I visited a number of small towns in the region as well as Florence and Venice.
  • Travel between small cities . Rather than booking a Eurail Pass, buy tickets and travel on the less expensive regional trains. There's no need to book these in advance but if you plan to use the faster, intercity trains, booking in advance makes good sense.

Shelly – I slow travel and rent a flat for two weeks as a home base. I have used Homeaway, WaytoStay and am using AirBnB this fall. I have a complete apartment to myself and can economize by eating breakfast and some dinners at home. I research using TripAdvisor and other travel sites to find out about great inexpensive places to dine and grocery shop. I also take trains and buses to nearby locations as day trips. Being in one place for two weeks guarantees you will see the same local merchants day after day and get to know them. (Wine drinker tip: see if there is a wine barrel store in the area and fill up your water/soda bottles with some of the local wines. Delicious and inexpensive.)

The gorgeous São Bento Railway Station in Porto.

Getting Around Europe Solo

As usual, to get around Europe you have the choice of trains, planes, buses, or automobiles.

  • Get the RailPlanner App. This train travel app for Europe is easy to use and has the train schedules for all of Europe. It also features a trip planner and discounts for restaurants and tourist services by country that are available thanks to your Eurail Pass .
  • Flitting around Europe by air? Travel light. This is when the choice to travel light is really important. Yes, you can save yourself hours at check-in and in carousel lines by traveling with only carry-on luggage, but if you are using a discount airline you will also need to be very careful about the weight of your carry-on. You'll be charged extra if it weighs too much. You can always wear heavy items or put them in your purse.
  • Auto Europe’s rates include all fees so the price you see is the price you get. That’s not always the case with every company and can result in surprises.
  • Online you pay in advance and can cancel up to 48 hours in advance of pick-up. If you cancel less than 48 hours before pick-up there is a $75 cancellation fee. If you book over the phone, you can cancel right up to the day you are scheduled to pick up the car.
  • In some cases it can be less expensive to pay for 14 days than 13 days. There is no charge for returning the car early, but also no refund for doing so.
  • There are a number of countries outside of Western Europe that are not covered by rental car companies. Call to get these details before booking. On a recent trip, I found that Budget Rent-a-Car did not allow any Eastern European destinations yet Avis did. If your trip will include Eastern Europe, check the fine print of the car rental carefully.

single female travel europe

Jenell –  MegaBus. I took it to travel from Paris to Brussels and Amsterdam. They also go to London. Price is about €10 if you get it early.

Toby – I just spent 3 months traveling alone through Europe. If you don't buy a Eurail pass , book your train tickets in advance if possible as they get significantly more expensive as the departure date approaches. 

Lauren – My favorite tool for getting around in Europe (well, anywhere, really) is Rome2Rio.com. There's nothing like it.

Steve – I think as a solo traveler, just go and get lost and find your way. Pick a handful of places and wander. I have had no issues ever finding a place to stay solo. Trains, boats, and long walks. That is the part of the adventure I enjoy most. You have the advantage of walking into any restaurant or hotel and being able to see if it feels right for you. If not, keep moving.

Alejandro – My advice is to just go because Europe is quite easy (and more fun) to explore without planning too much ahead. In fact, a good way to meet locals will be by asking them what to do in their city.

solo travel europe, where to stay

Where to Stay in Europe

Accommodation can be a big-ticket item in travel. And while it may not be an issue for those who can share the cost, it is for solo travelers – we carry the entire cost of accommodation ourselves. B&Bs and hostels are my go-to forms of accommodation. They tend to be affordable and friendly. However, you'll see in the reader tips below that many solo travelers love renting apartments when they travel. I've done this as well and found that I'm most successful with VRBO.com . Check out:

  • Best Places to Stay in London: Accommodation for Solo Travelers
  • The Best Accommodation for Solo Travelers

Reader tips…

Lauren – The most economical way to live (and meet locals) is to rent a room though AirBnB where you'll have access to a shared kitchen. I can eat for a week on the same amount I'd spend on a single restaurant meal in Europe if I cook, and renting a room in someone's home is a great way to make friends and is usually much cheaper than a hotel or even a hostel. I've been living in mostly AirBnB lodging for over a year now. I average about $750/month, and mostly live in full apartments. In Europe, though, I wind up renting just one bedroom usually, as prices are high here.

Toby – I used couchsurfing once and it was great. No matter your age, hostels are fine, just get ear plugs and an eye mask.

Lunch in Paris.

Europe, Food and Fun

Is it fair to say that Europeans love their food?

I'd say yes. In my experience, they love quality food. Simple food using local ingredients. They often use recipes that have been in the family for generations. Europe is a place that can be explored through its food.

But they also love their history, art, architecture, hiking trails and city walks. Many people start with food as their focal point. I start with history. What's your interest? Find it and center your explorations around it.

  • Rick Steves' Europe Through the Back Door . It's a fabulous resource. You can also get his books for specific countries and for some cities.
  • I love the Wallpaper Guides . They really reveal the unique culture of a city. I tested it for Toronto and they were spot on.
  • Google the local culture magazine that reviews restaurants and promotes upcoming events. Check  Time Out  which has sites for many cities.
  • Go to the local library. Even if the books are not in your language the librarians may speak English and are usually a good resource of local information.
  • Consider your passions and read  Travel Passions: 40 Destinations for Food, Health, Adventure & Creativity
  • Best Solo Travel Destinations: All Solo Traveler Tested
  • Solo Travel Destination: Lofoten Islands, Norway
  • La Fete de la Musique: A Summer Solstice Festival in France
  • Solo Travel Destination: Zermatt, Switzerland
  • Solo Travel Destination: Granada, Spain
  • Solo Travel Destination: Italy
  • How and Where to Travel to Avoid the Crowds
  • Mmmmm, Rome. A Fabulous Trastevere Food Tour
  • History and Kitsch: Visiting Luther’s Germany
  • Solo Travel Destination: Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
  • Solo in London: Shopping

Toby – Eat outside of tourist areas for the best prices or make your own food. Eat the local food. Ask other travelers what they recommend. On my trips, some of the best things I've seen and tasted I learned about from fellow travelers – things that   books, websites, and information desks may be unaware of.

solo travel Europe, budget travel

Solo Travel Europe on a Budget

Europe can be expensive, but with a bit of research and planning you'll find many ways to cut costs and enjoy.

  • Go to Greeters International  and arrange for a free greeter to introduce you to their city.
  • Going to a museum? Check their websites for the days that they may be free or reduced rates after a certain hour.
  • Depending on the focus of your travels, it may be worthwhile to pick up a city pass that gives you discounts on tours, museums, and more. Here are a few for the more popular cities in Europe: London , Paris , Berlin , Dublin , Rome and Barcelona .
  • Don't change money at airport or train exchange kiosks. They tend to have the worst rates. ATMs at banks are your better option.
  • Libraries often have computers you can use for free.
  • Get free WiFi with your coffee and go online to do research or connect with family and friends at home.
  • Walk or take local transit.
  • Read Save Money on Travel: 32+ Tips .

single female travel europe

Jasmine – Subscribe to a cheap coupon site like Groupon for the cities you're visiting. You can get cheap tickets to sights, experiences and restaurants that you might not normally be able to afford.

Cristina – Most big cities have a free walking tour. SANDEMANs Europe tours are the best I’ve experienced. They are free but donations are appreciated. Free tours help you save and learn about the city at the same time.

Daavid –   I travel for a minimum of 90 days at a time in Germany and sublet a room in a private apartment. I never spend more than 250 Euros for each month which leaves me plenty of money to do everything that I want to do. Get to know people of little means and learn from them how to get by wherever you are. They have no choice but to know how to get by on a small budget and you will learn a lot from them.  

Lauren –  I use workaway.info to find volunteer opportunities. Mostly I end up using my marketing background to help small tourism businesses with their websites and marketing, in exchange for free room and board, but there are all kinds of opportunities, from organic farming to helping in the kitchen or front desk of a hostel. Helpx.com is supposed to be a good one, too, but I haven't used it yet.

Karo –  Use inexpensive cities as bases, then use the train to visit the expensive cities.

Toby – Get a SIM card in each country for your phone – fantastic!

A Last Piece of Advice on Traveling Solo to Europe

Charles –  Spend wisely. Travel lightly. Communicate effectively. Keep cash on you at all times, but don't be flashy with it. Have a backup plan for emergency funds, but do NOT use it unless it's an emergency. People are friendly, don't be afraid to socialize. Take part in the culture, don't be a normal tourist, snapping photos every second.  Immerse yourself in the experience, you’ll forever hold the memories in your head. Far better than a photo. Pre-plan and stay organized.

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single female travel europe

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More From Forbes

Vacationing solo travelers voted these 4 european cities most welcoming.

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To avoid the common pitfalls of feeling lonely or intimidated when traveling by yourself, try adding ... [+] some of Europe's most welcoming cities to your itinerary.

Solo travel is becoming ever more popular in 2024 and the right destination can make a vacation alone become the experience of a lifetime. Europe is the ideal place to try out a journey on your own thanks to safe and reliable rail networks, walkable town centers and plenty of group accommodation where you can make friends.

To avoid the common pitfalls of feeling lonely or intimidated when traveling by yourself, try adding some of Europe's most welcoming cities to your itinerary. Every year, accommodation booking platform Booking.com uses millions of verified customer reviews to establish a ranking of the friendliest places in the world. Here are the four European cities that made the top ten for 2024 and why you should visit this year.

Greece’s Ermoupoli Is Europe’s Most Welcoming City

Despite the crowds of tourists that visit Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini, you can feel quite lonely as a solo traveler because everyone seems to be in big, raucous groups. Consider staying on the lesser-trod island of Syros instead, whose capital Ermoupoli is Europe’s most welcoming city according to Booking.com and the second in the world.

Ermoupoli is Europe’s most welcoming city according to Booking.com and the second in the world.

Ermoupoli is visually refreshing if you’ve been island hopping around the Cyclades. Instead of the conventional palette of white and blue, you’ll find a Venetian-influenced old town of elegant neoclassical palaces painted in pretty pastel hues. At the heart of the city is the marble-clad Miaouli Square with Ermoupoli’s grand town hall replete with a 15-meter staircase. From morning to night, the plaza is the core of the community with buzzy cafes and bars in the shade of palm trees where you’re sure to make a friend or two. According to the Greek City Times, the city has a “friendly disposition deeply ingrained in its population” and is “recognized for its consistently excellent service and hospitality.”

Solo travelers can feel safe renting a car to explore other pocket-sized villages on the island or idyllic beaches. From Ermoupoli, visitors can hop ferries to Piraeus and Rafina in eastern Attica, other Cycladic islands like Naxos, Mykonos, Tinos and Folegandros and North Aegean islands such as Chios.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, join viana do castelo’s surf community in northern portugal.

The city of Viana do Castelo in northern Portugal came in third place on Booking.com’s ranking. It’s a surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing hotspot thanks to its location on the Atlantic Ocean so if you’re a solo traveler into watersports, you’ll find a friendly and international community to welcome you here. You can also join the crowds taking a leisurely cycle along the waterfront or down the River Lima.

The city of Viana do Castelo in northern Portugal came in third place on Booking.com’s ranking.

Away from the shore, the city known as the Princess of Lima blends architectural grandeur, noteworthy religious sites, and vibrant culture into one destination. The historic center is a fusion of Renaissance, Baroque and Art Deco palaces and churches. The winding streets always seem to lead you back to the Praça da República. In this square you can admire the rustic 16th-century Misericórdia building and fountain, as well as the Gothic Paços do Concelho (Town Hall). Take a funicular up to the majestic Santa Luzia Sanctuary—an iconic structure whose neo-Gothic splendor dominates the city skyline. The city also has a notable maritime history which can be explored through attractions such as the Shipyard Museum and the Gil Eannes, a former hospital ship turned museum.

Hang Out With Hikers In Switzerland’s Mountain Village Of Grindelwald

Grindelwald lies in the heart of the Swiss Alps at over 3,300 feet above sea level. Watched over by iconic peaks like the Eiger and Jungfrau, the mountain retreat welcomes solo travelers with a benevolent crowd of outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The village is a year-round haven. During the winter, Grindelwald transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding adventures. The cogwheel train journey to Jungfraujoch, known as the ‘Top of Europe’, is a must for anyone seeking breathtaking views of glaciers and towering peaks. In the warmer months, visitors have endless hiking trails to choose from through the area’s bucolic alpine landscapes.

Grindelwald lies in the heart of the Swiss Alps at over 3,300 feet above sea level.

In the village proper, travelers find a warm and welcoming cluster of chalet-style architecture and cozy cafes. If you spend a few days there, you’ll soon find yourself recognizing faces and greeting bar and shop owners. Grindelwald is a very safe destination. According to the website Travel Ladies, “Grindelwald is a remarkably safe destination for solo female travelers. The crime rate is very low, and the locals are known for their politeness and helpfulness.” The site also says that public transportation, including trains and buses, is secure and reliable while trails and ski slopes are well-maintained and monitored.

Get Chatting At The Market In The French Village Of Uzès

Uzès is a dreamy town of honey-hued stone houses with pale blue shutters and leafy squares with fountains in France’s southern Provence region. The pedestrianised old town streets are lined with the 16th-century residences of merchants who made their wealth with textiles. The town’s iconic attractions include the idiosyncratic cylindrical Romanesque ‘Window Tower’ and the storybook-like Duchy Palace.

Uzès is a dreamy town of honey-hued stone houses with pale blue shutters and leafy squares with ... [+] fountains in France’s southern Provence region.

Solo travelers should make sure they visit on a Saturday when the famed food market has the city center buzzing with activity. Stallholders sell enticingly fresh local produce including truffles, herbs, olive oil and handmade preserves—and are very happy to chat about their wares. The area is also renowned for its long-established production of liquorice. The German company Haribo has a factory and museum in Uzès, which traces its roots back to the liquorice factory opened by Henri Lefont in 1862. His company later merged with Ricqlès and was then taken over by Haribo.

Rebecca Ann Hughes

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11 Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers

We decided to ask different travel bloggers about their safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers.

Maybe this is the year you finally decide to get into the solo female travel wave. Are you looking for tips on how to become a solo female traveler? Do you want to know where to start? What could be the best destination to hit as a solo female traveler? Where in Europe is safe for solo female travelers? Maybe you are looking for the best 30th birthday destinations in Europe and still you haven’t figured it out.

This blog post might include affiliate links that allows Traveleira to keep on operating without any additional cost for the readers. For each purchase done through these links, Traveleira receives a small commision. For any doubt, consult our Privacy Policy .

Previously, we have spoken about European cities that I have visited as a solo female traveler, specially the safest cities in Italy for solo female travelers . There are plenty of things to do in Tirana as a solo female traveler, and if you ask yourself if is Belgrade worth visiting for solo female travelers, the answer is YES!

We decided to ask different travel bloggers about their safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers. These are some of their answers and why these cities are the ones you should consider to start solo travel in Europe.

Solo Female Travel in Zagreb, Croatia

by PlacesofJuma

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb in Croatia is one of the best European cities for solo travel. This amazing Balkan city is multicultural, and cosmopolitan and welcomes guests from all over the world with a huge portion of hospitality.

Here you will feel safe immediately because the people of Zagreb are very warm, hospitable, and always ready to help, come what may. Especially if you are traveling as a solo female traveler, they are always very concerned about your well-being.

Besides, in this cool city, there is no boredom guaranteed and so it is worth staying a few days. The restaurants are amazing and also the nightlife is vibrant. Among the most beautiful attractions are the imposing Zagreb Cathedral, the romantic Old Town, St. Mark’s Church, and the world’s shortest funicular railroad, which is only 66 meters long.

Another highlight is the Museum of Broken Relationships, which has become a real celebrity in the Croatian capital. To relax, it is best to go to Maksimir Park, which is the oldest, and with an area of 316 hectares also the largest park in southern Europe!

In my opinion, Zagreb is an almost perfect destination for women traveling alone. The people here are wonderful, the city is unique and crime is hardly noticeable. You feel safe and it’s easy to connect with new people!

Here you can find some options if you are looking where to stay in Zagreb for accommodation .

Solo Female Travel in Valletta, Malta

by ManyOtherRoads

Valletta is an excellent choice as one of the safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers. Although it is small, Valletta packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do.

This beautiful city is located on the tiny island of Malta and is brimming with Solo-friendly activities. For starters, Valletta is home to numerous museums and art galleries. The most recommended one is Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Filled with cocktail bars and clubs across the city there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city’s thriving nightlife scene. If you are looking for one of the best bars in Valletta, Alchemy is a fantastic option!

There are plenty of day trips to take from Valletta. Explore the other islands in the archipelago, visit nearby towns and villages, or take a hike in one of Malta’s many Nature Parks.

If you want to get a true taste of Malta when you are visiting Valletta, make sure you jump on a ferry and visit the Islands of Gozo and Comino. Here you will find amazing things to see and do like the blue lagoon.

No matter if you stick to Valletta or want to explore more of the Island, it is the perfect destination for female travelers. The locals are friendly and it feels safe even if you are alone.

And because Malta is such a small country, it’s easy to meet other Solo travelers and make exploring Valletta easy!

Cities in Europe for solo travel: Chester, Wales

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Chester, Wales

by UK Every Day

One of the most beautiful  cities in England, but much more compact than Manchester or London is a smaller cathedral city – Chester. A short drive from Liverpool makes it accessible and easy to explore and one of the best cities for solo travel.

Chester is very walkable and has many unique places to visit so you will never run out of ideas on what to do. Moreover, the city walls are one of the  best  preserved in the UK. So, if you are a fan of medieval architecture, visit the impressive Chester Cathedral or wander around the narrow streets of the city in the search of some of the  best -hidden gems in the country.

You will find plenty of amazing restaurants such as Shrub with Hungarian cuisine or inspired by the Mediterranean – Artezzan Restaurant & Bar. After a delicious meal, explore Chester Roman Gardens, visit Amphitheatre and spoil yourself in Grosvenor Shopping Centre.

Chester offers also amazing day trips due to its close location to Wales. It is only a short drive from some of the  best  waterfalls in Wales  and incredible castles. So, book your stay at one of the hotels in the city such as The Hotel Chester, and enjoy the urban vibe while at any time you will be able to escape to nature that will be literally at your fingertips.

Solo Female Travel in Cork, Ireland

by MakeTheTripMatter

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Cork, Ireland

Cork is a beautiful city in southern Ireland that is full of Irish history and culture that should definitely be on your Irish Bucket List . Cork is probably most famous for the Blarney Castle, where visitors can not only explore the ancient castle grounds but can also kiss the Blarney Stone to receive the “gift of eloquence and persuasiveness.”

The English Market is another popular tourist destination, where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and other tasty treats. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of Cork, consider taking a tour of University College Cork (UCC). UCC is one of the oldest universities in Ireland and has a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Pubs, of course, is always fun to explore in any big Irish city. There are many across Cork where live Irish music is played, such as Sin é or Rearden’s. Finally, be sure to view Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, which is an iconic Cork landmark.

Cork has plenty of safe hostels and hotels to stay in. I stayed at the Bru Bar & Hostel as a solo  female  traveler and felt plenty safe both in the hostel and exploring around it, including at night.  Getting around Cork is easy, safe, and quick on foot. Or, public transportation is also safe and reliable both around the city and connecting between other major  cities  across Ireland.

Solo female travel Europe: Lucerne, Switzerland

by The Invisible Tourist

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Lucerne, Switzerland

As well as being very safe to visit, Switzerland is full of breathtaking natural scenery, medieval  cities,  and fascinating history for curious solo  female travelers.

Featuring narrow cobbled streets lined with decorated buildings and even legends of mountain dragons, the city of Lucerne is perfect in all seasons — even if you don’t ski. This gorgeous location is a must when planning any  itinerary for Switzerland .

With the River Reuss running through the center of the Old Town, Lucerne is as pretty as a postcard and is easily explored on foot. Visit the Lion Monument, the wounded beast meticulously carved into a stone wall to memorialize the fallen Swiss Guard.

Dating back to the 14th century, be amazed at the oldest covered wooden footbridge in Switzerland, Chapel Bridge, featuring paintings that depict events in the city’s history. The museums and art galleries are their least crowded during the winter months when most visitors are away in the ski fields.

Overlooking the town below, Mt Pilatus is the city’s gem, and no visit would be complete without taking a trip by cable car to the summit. The journey is a fun experience, and the highlight is the mountaintops as far as the eye can see.

While at the summit, enjoy a meal with a view at Panorama Grill or Bellevue restaurants, or a simple bite to eat at the Ibex Bar with beautiful vistas.

Cities for Solo Female Travelers: Madeira, Portugal

by Alyssa – An Apple a Plane

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Madeira, Portugal

Madeira is one of Portugal’s stunning islands to the west of mainland Portugal. Visitors looking for relaxation enjoy its calm ambiance, beautiful views, colorful hillside homes, and relaxing beach vacation.  Adrenaline seekers love hiking to new heights, Levada walks, and towering waterfalls. It’s a perfect balance!

Most flights arrive in Madeira’s capital city of Funchal. Visitors enjoy spending a day or two here visiting the Botanical Garden, taking a free city walking tour, and exploring the city from above on a cable car.

The west and east ends of the island are incredibly scenic. Consider hopping on a “ Best of the West” or “ Best of the East” tour, or renting a car and exploring at your own pace.

Most west tours bring you to Porto Moniz, home of Madeira’s natural volcanic pools where turquoise waters of the Atlantic flow through hardened volcanic lava. Visitors at Porto Moniz also enjoy Miradouro de Santa Viewpoint, seaside restaurants, playgrounds, walking along the coast, and the Church of Santa Maria Madalena.

Some of the best things to do on Madeira’s east include visiting Pico de Aveiro, Madeira’s third highest peak, and enjoying panoramic views from Ponta de Sao Lourenco.

Solo Female Travel in Kotor, Montenegro

by The Carry-On Chronicles

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro is one of the  best  European  cities  for solo  female  travelers. In addition to being a notably safe city, it’s also very well connected to other towns along the Bay of Kotor. Buses run frequently from Kotor and are an affordable way to travel to the neighboring town of Perast as well as other coastal towns like stimulating Budva.

Alternatively, if you are looking to spend the full trip in Kotor itself, the old town is extremely easy to navigate on foot, making it ideal for solo travel. Walking is the main mode of transportation, as cars are not permitted within the fortified old town walls.

To uncover the most spectacular panoramic view over Boka Bay, hike up to  Kotor Fortress . There are two different paths to choose from – the Walls of Kotor (which feature stairs to the top) and the Ladder of Cattero, involving switchbacks up the mountain.

The hike takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour each way, and the views at the top are simply breathtaking! This hike is ideal for solo  female  travelers, as you’re bound to link up with other hiking enthusiasts along the way.

Beyond hiking, Kotor offers an incredibly fascinating old town that dates back over 2,000 years. Here, you can wander the streets to uncover hidden gems or join an organized walking tour to converse with other solo travelers and learn about Kotor’s amazing history.

Safest Cities in Europe to travel: Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

by Uprooted Traveler

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Prague, Czechia

Prague in the Czech Republic is the perfect mix of fairytale architecture, natural beauty, and buzzing nightlife. Plus the city is perfect for solo female travelers- it’s one of the safest cities in Europe , it’s a breeze to navigate and it’s incredibly affordable!

Any visit to Prague needs to include a stop at its Old Town, which is stuffed with Gothic churches, pastel-colored baroque houses, and an astronomical clock, complete with dancing animatronic figures on the hour. Nearby, you can find the stunning Charles Bridge, which was commissioned in 1357 and is now lined by 75 larger-than-life baroque statues of saints. If you continue over the Vltava River, you can also tour the halls of Prague Castle, the largest castle complex on the planet!

Prague has any flavor of nightlife you desire, from nightclubs throbbing with music to pub crawls organized by boisterous hostels and upscale cocktail lounges. If you’d like to mix a bit of sightseeing with the unofficial drink of the Czech Republic (beer!), take a sunset cruise on the Vltava River, where you’ll be able to appreciate the jaw-dropping architecture of the city from the water, a pilsner in hand.

Or for a bit more of an unusual activity, consider heading to a Prague beer spa , where you’ll bathe in a mixture of hops, barley, and yeast (all with purported health benefits), while you have your very own unlimited taps of Czech beer within reach! It’s only fitting- Czechs drink more beer per capita than any other population on the planet!

Solo Female Travel in Split, Croatia

by Disha Discovers

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Split, Croatia

Europe is full of amazing cities , but Split, Croatia, tops the list as one of the safest cities in Europe to travel alone.

One of the most essential things for any solo traveler is feeling safe in their destination, and Split delivers when it comes to safety. Also, the locals are always happy to help with directions or recommendations; they’ll do their best to ensure you feel welcome. You can rest assured that you’re in good hands.

Even though Split is small, it packs a big punch regarding things to do. You won’t be disappointed if you’re spending two days or two weeks in Split. One of the most popular things in Split is visiting Diocletian’s Palace.

The Roman Emperor Diocletian built it in the 4th century AD. The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most well-preserved Roman ruins. As you explore this incredible palace, you’ll feel like you’ve returned in time.

If you’re looking for some beach time, head to Kasjuni Beach. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the Croatian sun. The water is crystal clear, and the beach is surrounded by cliffs, adding to its unique paradise-like feel.

In the evening, head to Split’s promenade for a sundowner drink. Along the water, this strip of bars and restaurants, known as the Riva, is the perfect place to watch the sunset and people-watch. Last but not least, another great activity for solo travelers is a day trip to one of Split’s many nearby islands. Hvar and Brac are two of the most popular options, but there are plenty of others to choose from. Each island has its unique vibe, so you’ll find one that suits your taste.

Solo female travel Europe: Cordoba, Spain

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Cordoba, Spain

by Sam – My Flying Leap

Nestled between the famous cities of Madrid and Seville is a city of historical significance you may have never heard of—Córdoba. Founded by the Roman Empire, Córdoba was once the largest city in Western Europe. 

It was a place where Muslims, Christians, and Jews lived peacefully together for hundreds of years. Córdoba was known, and still is, for its skilled artisans, gorgeous universities, mosques, and other buildings that blended the area’s unique heritage.

There are a lot of things to do in Córdoba . Visit the stunning Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba with its blend of Muslim and Christian influences. Don’t miss the Alcázar of Córdoba and the stunning palace gardens, and climb the wall for incredible city views.

Then, explore the vibrant Jewish Quarter, one of the largest in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll enjoy the narrow winding streets overflowing with history and the beautiful flowers along the walls. There’s an old synagogue you can also tour to learn about this area’s history.

If you have time, don’t miss the Roman Bridge and cross to see Calahorra Tower. The old Roman ruins are another special treat to see as well. Córdoba is a city with an incredible past just begging to be explored. Spend a few days learning all about it and expect to be wowed!

Solo Female Travel in Bologna, Italy

by Martha – MayCauseWanderlust.com

Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers - Bologna, Italy

In Northern Italy, Bologna is a safe city for solo female travelers. It would be a great place for first-time solo travelers. It is a relatively small and safe city, not as intimidating as some of the bustling metropolises in Europe – so it’s a good place to ease yourself into solo traveling if you have not done it before.

Even though it’s small, there are plenty of things to do in Bologna , known as the Red City, due to its prevalence of old red brick and warm shades of plaster on the buildings.

Bologna is famous for its porticoes, and it has the world’s longest portico, the San Luca Portico, which was originally used as a pilgrimage and is now an attraction and a must-do activity for visitors to the city. However, 40km of porticos are also around the city center, making the streets extra grand and handsome.

You can also explore its historic landmarks, including the oldest university in continuous operation, the huge unfinished church, Basilica di San Petronio, and The Two Towers, leaning brick towers dating from the Middle Ages.

Finally, Bologna is a great destination for foodies. It is slap-bang in the middle of Emilia-Romagna, where we get Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiana Reggiano, and Aceto Balsamico de Modern. This makes Bologna a great place to taste the region has best, including the local specialty, tortellini in broth.

FAQ on Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers

Where in europe is safe for solo female travellers.

Europe offers many safe destinations for solo female travelers. Some recommended cities include Zagreb in Croatia, Valletta in Malta, Chester in Wales, Cork in Ireland, Lucerne in Switzerland, Madeira in Portugal, Kotor in Montenegro, Prague in the Czech Republic, Split in Croatia, Córdoba in Spain, and Bologna in Italy.

What is the safest city for solo female Travellers?

The concept of safety can vary depending on personal preferences and experiences. However, some cities frequently mentioned as safe for solo female travelers include Zagreb in Croatia, Valletta in Malta, Chester in Wales, Lucerne in Switzerland, and Prague in the Czech Republic.

Where should a single woman travel?

A single woman may consider traveling to cities known for their safety, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions. Some recommended destinations include Zagreb, Valletta, Lucerne, Prague, and Split, among others mentioned in the article. These cities offer a mix of historical landmarks, scenic beauty, and welcoming environments for solo travelers.

Where should I solo for the first time in Europe?

For a first-time solo traveler in Europe, choosing a city that is safe, easily navigable, and offers a range of activities is advisable. Cities like Prague, Split, Chester, or Bologna could be excellent choices due to their manageable size, safety reputation, and diverse attractions catering to different interests.

Conclusion on the Safest European Cities for Solo Female Travelers

In conclusion, Europe offers many safe and friendly destinations for solo female travelers. From Zagreb’s lively streets to Valletta’s historic charm, each city mentioned in this article provides a unique and rewarding experience for those exploring alone. Whether you’re looking for culture, nature, or delicious food, Europe’s cities have something for everyone. With welcoming locals, rich histories, and a focus on safety, these destinations invite solo female travelers to embark on unforgettable adventures. So, whether it’s your first solo trip or you’re an experienced traveler, consider visiting these European cities for your next getaway and enjoy the freedom and excitement of traveling alone.

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15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Here are the top travel destinations around the world for solo women.

single female travel europe

Solo travel can be intimidating. Whether you're heading to a city in your own country or across the globe, traveling alone can bring up a wealth of concerns — from the awkwardness of dining on your own to more serious issues of safety, especially for women. But despite any nervousness or uncertainty, traveling solo can be one of the most freeing and rewarding experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the community and stumble upon those moments of cross-cultural connection organically.

Choosing the right destination is key, so we've rounded up some of the best destinations around the world for women to travel solo.

Between exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, chasing the northern lights , and driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can have an unforgettable trip in Iceland and feel safe doing so. The country has consistently ranked first on both the Institute for Economics and Peace's Global Peace Index and the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report, so visitors can rest assured that safety and gender equality are prized in this naturally stunning destination. Solo tourists can head out into the wilderness via well-traveled (often busy, even) hiking trails and make friends with locals and fellow foreigners alike.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an extremely walkable city, and you're unlikely to get lost as long as you have a map of some kind. You can window shop along Las Ramblas, stroll down the beach boardwalk, and wander through the Gaudi-designed Park Güell while taking in the gardens and claiming panoramic views of the city for yourself.

The dining options are conducive to solo travel, too. Instead of sitting by your lonesome in a dining room, you can take your paella al fresco at one of the many waterfront restaurants (people-watching is built-in entertainment) or opt for a counter seat at a tapas bar.

3. Seattle, Washington, United States

Thanks to the omnipresence of Seattle's coffee culture , a solo diner (or drinker) is not an uncommon sight. Plus, the city's proliferation of cafes means there's a rest stop around every corner to break up visits to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or the campy Museum of Pop Culture , aka "MoPOP." The compact downtown area makes it easy for visitors to zip between attractions, restaurants, and shops on foot — and anything that is slightly farther is accessible by the easy-to-use Link light rail.

4. Munich, Germany

The jolly German mentality shines through in this Bavarian city, where tourists and locals bond over brötchen in mom-and-pop bakeries and pints in the biergartens. Although Oktoberfest happens only in the fall (and does not lend itself to a solo experience, per se), the beer halls in Munich maintain that same kind of festive ambience throughout the year. Hofbräuhaus is, hands down, the most famous and guaranteed to contain an abundance of other tourists. Fellow travelers can also be found climbing the Olympiapark tower ( Olympiaturm ), the top of which provides views extending as far as the Alps.

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country's low crime rate heightens the appeal. Protected by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik gives you history, culture, and beautiful beaches all in one destination. Its cobblestone streets guide visitors to artisanal shops and local eateries, while a walk along the walls offers spectacular bird's-eye views of the Adriatic coastline. Just a few minutes from Old Town, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling via tours and rentals offered right on the beach.

6. Austin, Texas, United States

Austin's festival culture makes it easy to get pulled in multiple directions, but it's also a great way to meet new people. There's plenty to see and do, whether you're checking out live music or eating your way through Tex-Mex and BBQ restaurants and food trucks. When you need a little quiet time, head downtown for a walking tour, or find a spot to watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.

Austin is often ranked as one of the safest big cities in the U.S. Note, though, that the ubiquity of booze here can be a blessing or a curse. While it keeps the streets populated (and therefore generally safe) at night, alcohol can lead to crime even within tourist circles, so exercise caution while participating in Austin's lively bar scene.

7. Salzburg, Austria

Overlooked by the Hohensalzburg Fortress and bisected by the Salzach River, Mozart's hometown has storybook allure. After reliving scenes from "The Sound of Music" at Mirabell Gardens and Nonnberg Abbey, relax with a coffee on the terrace of Cafe Tomaselli or a pint in the 1,400-seat outdoor area of Austria's biggest biergarten, Augustiner Bräu . Cyclists should take note: While the entire city is walkable, Salzburg is also one of the country's most bike-friendly cities. More than 100 miles of cycle paths mean you can pack way more into a day and get around more efficiently (and economically) as a solo traveler.

8. Taipei, Taiwan

xPACIFICA/Getty Images

The capital of Taiwan offers an ideal mix of history and modernity. You'll find temples and skyscrapers, contemporary malls and traditional night markets — perfect for making a meal out of snacks while shopping for accessories and souvenirs. Taipei has the bustle of a major Asian metropolis but with important urban comforts as well. Street signage and public transportation all have names in English — and even though crime is overall low in the country, the metro system has " Safe Waiting Zones " marked on the platforms, which are monitored closely by video feed to protect passengers at night.

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

In the quirky Danish capital, you'll find plenty of centrally located hotels offering single rooms, each providing the perfect jumping-off point for Copenhagen adventures. Must-visit spots include Nyhavn, the iconic canal lined with multicolored houses (opt for a tour for a closer look at the city's waterways), and Tivoli Gardens, a historic amusement park. Stop for a quick solo bite at the TorvehallerneKBH food hall. With Danish culture valuing the importance of community dining, solo travelers should never feel alone.

10. Melbourne, Australia

This Australian metropolis is one of the most livable cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit. Throw in a free tourist tram that reaches the major sights — including the Queen Victoria Market, Carlton Gardens, and Federation Square — and Melbourne's got simplicity and safety all rolled up in one. Because Australia offers a Working Holiday visa allowing visitors between 18 and 35 to work in the country for a year, the city is especially popular with young expats.

11. Stockholm, Sweden

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home to coffee shops, restaurants, stores, and even a castle, prompting hours of exploring on foot. The modern areas surrounding it are also easy to navigate through a string of metro stations, which double as art exhibits with their over-the-top murals, mosaics, and sculptures.

12. Okinawa, Japan

For a taste of Japan without the overwhelming hustle, head to Naha, the capital of the Okinawa islands. The monorail is super accessible, linking the airport to the city center as well as the popular Shuri Castle. And within walking distance of the city center are the Naminoue city beach, Tsuboya pottery district, and Makishi Public Market, where the pull-up-a-chair stands are primed for solo dining.

13. Norway’s Fjords

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

There's no better environment for self reflection than the soothing blue-and-green canvas of the Norwegian fjords. In Bergen, you can ride up the Fløibanen funicular or embark on a daylong journey on the Bergen Railway. Head to Gudvangen and take a cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Equally impressive as the waterfalls-at-every-glance boat ride is the Flåm Railway trip, with views outside the window changing from seascapes to snow-capped mountains. This trip is for the solo traveler seeking peace in nature rather than busy biergartens and the like.

14. Washington, D.C., United States

The manageable size and easy layout of the U.S. capital make it an ideal stomping ground for solo travelers. In addition to exploring the memorials along the National Mall, you can take in the exhibits at the many Smithsonian museums (plus the zoo), all walkable and offering free admission. If you want to explore further, it's easy to get on two wheels at one of the hundreds of Capital Bikeshare stations, which extend to Arlington, Alexandria, and Montgomery County. Alternatively, take advantage of the efficient D.C. Metro for day trips to nearby areas.

15. London, England

For European charm without the culture shock or language barrier, there's London. Visitors could spend days just roaming along the River Thames, snacking in Borough Market, and admiring the eclectic houseboats, or strolling through the Royal Parks and eyeing luxury items at Harrods. After dark, grab a seat alongside locals at a pub or catch a show in the West End, then enjoy a late-night bite in nearby Chinatown. The endless sights and entertainment are easily connected via the London Underground, better known as the Tube.

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Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

Iceland landscape photo of brave girl who proudly standing with his arms raised in front of water wall of mighty waterfall.

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

single female travel europe

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

African elephant (Loxodonta africana) Calves playing. Okovango Delta, Botswana

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

single female travel europe

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

single female travel europe

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

single female travel europe

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

single female travel europe

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

People hiking in a row on the ice of Perito Moreno glacier, Los Glaciares national park, Santa Cruz province, Patagonia Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Old City of Dubrovnik situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO. Clinging to a rock, encased by a girdle of ramparts and lapped by a turquoise sea, Croatia’s famous town is fully worthy of its title “Pearl of the Adriatic”.

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus) sniffs air while walking on rocky shore of Malmgren Island on foggy evening. | Location: Malmgren Island, Svalbard, Norway.

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Ireland, County Clare, Lahinch: tourist gazing at the majestic Cliffs of Moher at sunset in late spring.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Thai traditional wooden longtail boat and beautiful sand Railay Beach in Krabi province. Ao Nang, Thailand.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Amsterdam buildings at sunrise

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

single female travel europe

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

single female travel europe

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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

View of the Galata Tower and The Suleymaniye Mosque at dusk in Istanbul, Turkey

Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

single female travel europe

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Young woman tourist in sun hat and white dress standing in front of Eiffel Tower in Paris at sunset. Travel in France, tourism concept. High quality photo

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

single female travel europe

It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Oct 2004

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Part of The Iguazu Falls seen from the Argentinian National Park

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World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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Deals of the Week   Women’s Day   Up to 50% OFF

Europe Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ europe tours for singles / solo travelers with 42,124 reviews.

European Delight Tour

  • Coach / Bus
  • Christmas & New Year

European Delight

The trip was well organised with very minimal itches

Best of Ireland and Scotland (15 Days) Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Active Adventure

Best of Ireland and Scotland (15 Days)

Everything went smoothly.
  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days) Tour

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

The experience was excellent, would definitely recommend to my friends and family visiting. The tour director and the driver were so thoughtful and kind throughout the tour.

Rome to London Quest (Summer, 10 Days) Tour

Rome to London Quest (Summer, 10 Days)

Enjoyed the tour, however, there is not much down time if you do all the add-ons. For example, you may depart the hostel first thing, spend all day away, back to hostel at 445 and then dinner at 530, then another event and return to hostel at 930pm

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days Tour

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

we had a great trip so many places we saw in only 14 days even with the covid 19

Dubrovnik to Vienna; Gems of the Balkans & Central Europe Tour

Dubrovnik to Vienna; Gems of the Balkans & Central Europe

This was a great tour, we were able to see a lot of places in the 7 days. Sokol the Tour guide was fantastic, he made the tour great. The meals and hotels included were all excellent. It was great value for money. We had a very good experience and loved it.

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days) Tour

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

Amazing!!! No complaints, loved it!! Tour guide was extremely competent and the driver was very very good. So many memories made, highly recommended!

The Great Adventure Tour

The Great Adventure

I had a great time with this tour

Balkan Kaleidoscope Tour

Balkan Kaleidoscope

our tour guide dimitar and local tour guide were excellent, our driver bobby knew the road very well. schedule was well planned. amazing scenery, i have learned amazing culture and history of balkans. I loved the itinerary, it was fast paced, can improve: need to upgrade the bus with a usb charger or at least wifi. hotels were cozy and excellent except the one in skopje, it was far from city center. overall i love this trip very much. Definitely recommend!

Essential Britain & Ireland Tour

Essential Britain & Ireland

Covered alot of ground and very busy of course with never enough time, but that was expected. Great driver, found tour director somewhat unenthusiastic - would have liked more concise info on how each day was going to progress and a little more interaction with the group. Hotel Metropole was so hot and too noisy to have window open - most of the hotel rooms were so hot all night. Holiday Inn York room was rather well tread and dirty. Other than that a great trip with excellent meals except the dinner at Holiday Inn York.

Genuine Europe Tour

Genuine Europe

It was okay except for a guide from Spain, I don’t recall his name , I’m sure Europamundo knows who he is. He was very rude with my wife and I didn’t like his attitude.

The Best of Eastern Europe Tour

The Best of Eastern Europe

Very good tour , something’s we didn’t find out right until the moment. But, overall good tour.

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Classic, 14 Days) Tour

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Classic, 14 Days)

I went on this tour with my moms as a delayed graduation trip to me. This tour was so much fun! The daily journeys and adventures were always so interesting and beautiful and made each day more exciting then the last! The highlight of the tour was our tour guide and driver, Greg and Gerry! Gerry, our driver, was so careful and smooth driver that I honestly fell asleep a few times with how smooth the drive was. We were able to also do a few extra fun little stops due to his driving expertise. Greg, our tour guide, was so much fun! He always had a smile and great suggestions for local pubs we would like. He also got to meet each of us and would tell us about the places we would like based on little things we would say and he just remembered. One example is someone on our tour sad they had not seen any hairy coos so Greg found a place nearby and we made a side trip to go see some! 10/10 music taste as well. This trip was one of the best due to the places and adventures and every day was amazing, but Greg and Gerry really made it the best with their kindness and amazing expertise!

Joyful Treasures Tour

Joyful Treasures

The trip was good enough as we expected. Hotels were good.here are the bad and good things I noticed abt this trip:- There was no wifi in the bus. In Paris and Rome we were dropped in the middle of the town and was told to return on our own which was not expected and a little bit inconvenient. I was told by customer service that I could buy Louver museum ticket from the guide after reaching Paris but it was not available. Guide Linus was with us for 5 days and he was very good, kind and helping all. Morcotte was too hot so it was better not to make a stay there even though it was for 40-60 minutes. In Italy we had different guides each day but they too managed the trip very well and nicely. Overall it was a good experience

Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe Tour

Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe

Such a good way to see so many places!! Get a good range of tours, helpful hints and free time in each country
  • €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Reviews of Europe Solo Tours

So honestly when we were assigned to this company through Tour Radar and looked at the reviews we were a little worried. I tried to hope for the best and assume that people who DO NOT have great experiences write more reviews. I was absolutely correct. We had AMAZING tour guides. Knowledgeable, kind, helpful. I think this company does an amazing job of moving people from one destination to another especially when it seems that itineraries overlap offering everyone the trip they desire. The hotels far outweighed our expectations. Of course there were small hiccups with time losses and changes in plans for the day but for the price and to get a brief view of Europe I would call it an outstanding tour.
Our guide Michelle was excellent. The city sightseeing tours on the bus were a waste of time. Our local tour guide in Edinburgh was awful. Why the laughing through most of her talking? Very irritating. The Fish & Chips dinner in the local dumpy restaurant was the worst meal of the trip. Otherwise just what we expected.
I really enjoyed the trip

More Tours in Europe for Singles and Solo Travellers

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  • Best 3 Weeks Europe Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
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International Versions

  • Deutsch: Rundreisen für Alleinreisende & Singlereisen in Europa
  • Français: Circuits Europe pour les voyageurs solo
  • Español: Europa circuitos para viajeros solos
  • Nederlands: Single reizen in Europa

IMAGES

  1. Solo Female Travel in Europe: Complete Travel and Safety Guide

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  3. The Best Travel Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

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  4. The 20 Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers

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  5. 10 European Destinations for Female Travelers • The Blonde Abroad

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  6. Budapest: An Ideal City for Solo Female Travelers • Blond Wayfarer

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VIDEO

  1. Europe Travel Tips #europe #summertravel #traveltips

  2. Female Solo Travel Around Europe #solotravel

  3. Best countries to TRAVEL 🌎 #travelinspiration #travelshorts #travelgirl

  4. rainy days living in the Costa Rican jungle with a toddler

COMMENTS

  1. Solo Female Travel in Europe: Best Destinations + Tips

    11 Best European Countries for Solo Female Travelers Ireland. Ireland might just be one of the best places for solo female travel in Europe, especially if it's your first time! The small "Emerald Isle" is incredibly beautiful with so much to do! And while the people might be a little on the sarcastic side, they are so friendly and welcoming!

  2. The 20 Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers

    Reykjavik, Iceland. The land of ice and fire is surprisingly not as scary as it sounds. In fact, Reykjavik is one of the most safe cities in Europe to visit and thanks to a rise in tourism, is a great place to meet fellow travellers and locals all at once. The cafe scene in Reykjavik is pretty poppin', too, so be sure to make time to wander ...

  3. 10 Safest Cities In Europe For Solo Female Travelers (2024)

    Dublin, Ireland. The Irish capital is one of the best European cities for solo female travelers as well as an incredibly fun place to visit — thanks to the Irish's famous hospitality and amicable nature! The men (and women) have a contagious zest for life and you can easily get swept along and enjoy yourself in the company of friendly locals.

  4. Extra Tips for Solo Women Travelers in Europe

    Thanks to my female staffers and their friends for assembling their top tips for women traveling on their own. — Rick Steves. For the most part, the upsides of solo travel (independence, self-discovery) and the downsides (loneliness, extra costs) are the same for women and men (see my general tips for solo travelers).But two major concerns tend to affect solo women in Europe more than men ...

  5. Solo Female Travel in Europe: Complete Travel and Safety Guide

    Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women. There are two main risks that women traveling solo to Europe need to be aware of: petty theft and intoxication. You need to be ready to keep your belongings close while out and about, and you should drink much less than you do at home. Read on for more tips on both of those.

  6. Best European Cities For Solo Females for 2024

    3. Florence, Italy. Florence, Italy. Some of us are not beach people and would rather spend our time walking around art museums, eating gelato and staring at Italian men. Florence is a great vibing European city for solo female travelers. It offers great food, culture, and a good hipster feel nightlife.

  7. 13 Best Places in Europe to Travel Alone as a Woman

    10. Zurich, Switzerland. Zurich was named the 10th safest city in the world by the 2017 Safe Cities Index, making it a great destination for women traveling solo. Zurich has over 50 museums and 100 art galleries, lots of places to shop, and jaw-dropping architecture.

  8. Complete Travel Guide to Europe for Solo Female Travelers

    Southern Europe is celebrated for its rich history, a treasure trove of historical sites and architectural wonders. The region is also famous for its beautiful coastlines, warm climate, and a relaxed lifestyle that prioritizes leisure and family. Countries in Southern Europe: Albania. Andorra.

  9. Best European Cities For Solo Female Travel in 2024

    Table of Contents. Best European Cities For Solo Female Travel. Verona, Italy. Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 67.54) Why I Love Verona for Solo Travel. Must Do's in Verona for Solo Travelers. Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Safety Rating in 2024 (Safety Index 64.69) Why I love Palma de Mallorca for Solo Travel.

  10. 25 Tips for Solo Female Travel in Europe

    Ireland is another perfect destination for solo female travel in Europe. 5. Don't Let the Bank Block You. One solo travel essential is for you to contact your bank and credit card company ahead of time. Ughhh, don't forget to let your bank know about your adventures. Fraud protection is wonderful, but also a bitch.

  11. Best Places in Europe to Travel Alone (for women travelers)

    Portugal is the darling of solo travel to Europe, and it's an ideal destination for women in Europe alone. The food is fresh and innovative, the scenery ranges from lush forests to stunning beaches, the architecture is unique and colorful, and people are welcoming, although slightly less effusive than their Mediterranean counterparts.

  12. 13 Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe

    Lucerne & Zurich, Switzerland. Solo Female Travel In Europe - Switzerland - Chasing Whereabouts. Switzerland is a perfect summer or winter destination for solo female travellers. In summer, go hiking, paragliding, or mountaineering in an adrenaline-obsessed Interlaken, or hike around the Zermatt Matterhorn. Enjoy winter sport in Grindelwald.

  13. Travelling Europe Alone: a guide for all independent ladies

    When you're travelling solo, everyone is a stranger, and 99% of them are helpful and pleasant. Of course, we're not saying you should chat to any old person you meet on the way. But meeting other travellers and forming a group is a great way to stay safe - and meet new mates. One great way to find like-minded groups to hang out with is to ...

  14. Revealed: the best European destinations for solo women travellers

    A recent Booking.com survey found that 84 percent of the world's lone travellers are women, with 55 percent of all Google searches for 'solo travel' being made by mostly millennial women.

  15. Solo Travel in Europe

    Solo Travel in Europe. Solo Female Friendly Star Rating - 4 out of 5. Budget - $35 to $100 a day. Cheapest - Baltic countries. Most Expensive - Liechtenstein. Languages Spoken French, Spanish, German, Serbian, Croatian, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian and more.

  16. 25 hand-picked women-only tours in 2023

    Price range: Starting at $2,500 for the Baja trip up to $7,250 for Papua New Guinea. Single supplement: WanderTours tries to pair travelers if possible else there is a pricey supplement. +The only women's adventure travel company that organizes trips to Papua New Guinea giving you a unique opportunity (if pricey).

  17. Guide to Solo Travel for Women in Europe

    Advice for women wanting to travel solo in Europe. Tips on safety and how to have an amazing solo journey through Europe. Helpful Travel Tips & Articles. August 3, 2016 Share Post My very first backpacking trip abroad was a three-month solo journey across Europe — although I didn't plan it to be that way. I was actually supposed to go with ...

  18. 14 Best Cities in Europe for Solo Travelers

    Stockholm. Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure. The Swedish capital truly has it all: a cobblestoned old town with pedestrian-only roads, 57 bridges that stretch over its 14 islands, an amusement park ...

  19. Solo Travel Europe: 32+ Tips You Need To Know

    The Grand Canal of Venice. Europe is a fabulous solo travel destination. Paris, Rome, Vienna, Barcelona-there are so many wonderful cities in Europe to explore. Porto, Gerona, Arles, Assisi-there are many smaller cities and towns worth exploring solo too. And while the European Union, with its common currency and no borders, makes travel ...

  20. Vacationing Solo? These 4 European Cities Are The Most Welcoming

    Greece's Ermoupoli Is Europe's Most Welcoming City. Despite the crowds of tourists that visit Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini, you can feel quite lonely as a solo traveler because ...

  21. 11 Safest Cities in Europe for Solo Female Travelers

    Solo Female Travel in Valletta, Malta. by ManyOtherRoads. Valletta is an excellent choice as one of the safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers. Although it is small, Valletta packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do. This beautiful city is located on the tiny island of Malta and is brimming with Solo-friendly activities.

  22. 15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Travel for Women

    11. Stockholm, Sweden. Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure. Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home ...

  23. Solo Travel for Women: The 18 Best Destinations (Plus Tips)

    Paris. Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage, considers the "City of Love" a superb option ...

  24. 10 Best Europe Tours for Singles / Solo Travelers

    See the best tours for singles in Europe. Meet other travelers while exploring places like Rome and Athens. All major brands. Biggest Selection. Best Prices. Deals of the Week Women's Day Up to 50% OFF. Deals end: 2d 11h 36m 2s. 0. ... A variety of travel modes . Felt safe well cared for and accommodated Our tour group were all friendly and ...

  25. This single mum created a dating app that goes beyond match-ups by

    Why Vilnius and Riga should feature on your eastern Europe travel plans ... budget airline misconceptions and more Travel In pictures: Sentosa Sensoryscape opens on Mar 14, a new walkway with gardens, a 'water symphony' and more Travel ... Women This single mum created a dating app that goes beyond match-ups by learning coding from scratch

  26. Sustainable safaris and off-grid coastal cafes: Meet the women

    The theme for this year's International Women's Day (IWD) is 'Inspire Inclusion'. Every year, IWD gives focus to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence against ...