Here are the top 15 Amazing Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in 2023. Solo travel is a wonderful experience. You’ll meet amazing people, experience new things, and learn so much about yourself along the way.

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 solo 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.

As a Female traveler, finding a balance between off-beat adventures and places where women can travel safely is the perfect blend for memorable experiences. Together, we’re going to take a look at 15 of the best solo female travel destinations on the planet. From paradise islands to mouthwatering cuisine, we’ve got you covered.

Choosing the right destination is key, so we’ve rounded up some of the best destinations around the world for women to travel solo.

So, without any further ado, let’s start globetrotting!

1. Iceland

Between exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, chasing the northern lights, and driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can have a bucket list kind of trip in Iceland and feel safe doing so. In 2022, the country (once again) snagged the top spot 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. The most well-known touring roads, you’ll be glad to know, are paved and perfectly safe to drive as a tourist.

Imagine a geography textbook coming to life all around you, and you’ve pretty much imagined Iceland. From active volcanoes to towering glaciers, Iceland has it all on shown to admire and awe at.

Ranked #2 of the safest countries in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report’ by the World Economic Forum, this unique little country is blessed with natural beauty by the acre. Furthermore, the people of Iceland are some of the friendliest in the world.

You’ll want to base yourself out of Reykjavík, the country’s capital city. For your downtime, there are lots of museums and great street tours.

But Iceland’s real magic is in its rural landscape. There are so many tours and excursions to its geographical wonders. For women traveling alone, it’s perfect, as there are ample opportunities to see the beauty of the country with a guided tour or group.

Most of these tours are by bus or car. More often than not they’ll happily pick you up from your hotel, this is what solo female travel is all about. 

Top Iceland activities:

• The Northern Lights
• The Blue Lagoon
• Glacier Hike
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Skogafoss Waterfall
• Puffin Watching
• Lake Myvatn Geothermal Area
• Whale Watching

2. Bali, Indonesia

A very great place for a female solo traveler to start is none other than everyone’s favorite Indonesian paradise island. If you’ve done a little digging online, you’ve probably seen Bali pop up more than a few times.

With a thriving expat community, an economy built on tourism, and dainty compact towns, you’re never more than a few feet away from a friendly face.

The Balinese are also some of the most humble, friendliest, and respectful people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

There are plenty of places to visit in Bali, but the two most popular places to stay are Ubud, in the forest, and Canggu, at the south coast.

If you want tranquillity or are big into yoga, head to the heart of the forest. In Ubud, solo female travelers from all over the world come to meditate, practice yoga, and enjoy great food.

The zen of the forest, however, is not everyone’s vibe. If you’re a keen surfer or want a livelier area, head to Canggu.With bars, markets, and a vibrant nightlife, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to having a great time.

Top Bali activities:

• Sacred Monkey Forest
• Ubud Hot Springs
• Mt. Batur (Sunrise Hike)
• Nusa Penida Island Tour
• Lempuyang Temple (Gate to Heaven)

3. 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.

4. Japan

My next “Amazing Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in 2022” stop takes us north of Southeast Asia. Here, we’re heading to one of the world’s most vibrant, eccentric, and beloved islands: Japan.

Ranked #13 of the safest countries in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report’ by the World Economic Forum, Japan should be a must-see on any female solo traveler’s itinerary. If the language barrier concerns you, or the cuisine makes you wonder if you’ll be able to find food you like: fear not.

Due to the country being chosen as hosts for the 2021 Olympic Games, the major cities have undergone huge transformations.Japan has gone to great lengths to make the country far more accessible globally, with millions of people set to visit in the near future.

English signage has been added throughout major cities. Subway routes have also been simplified.Simply put, there has never been a safer, more accessible time to visit an already safe and developed country.

A host of Japanese cities all come with their charm and quirks and are all easily accessible via the high-speed bullet train. You can get a Japan Rail Pass and explore the entire country via the high-speed rail.

For my picks, let’s focus on the awe-inducing capital of Tokyo, the gorgeously back-dropped Kyoto, and, if you fancy a taste of rural Japan, the jaw-dropping Mt. Fuji.

Tokyo

From the world’s tallest tower to the dashing, neon lights of the bustling streets, there truly is something for everyone in one of the world’s most talked about and beloved capital cities.

Top Tokyo activities:

• Tokyo Skytree: world’s tallest tower at 634 meters and second tallest structure.
• Meiji Jingu Shrine
• Sensō-ji Temple
• Tsukiji Fish Market: the world’s biggest fish market and home to the most delectable tuna on Earth
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
• Imperial Palace and Gardens
• Shibuya Crossing

Kyoto

Considered to be the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to numerous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, palaces, and gardens.

Kyoto is a delightful blend of architecture, greenery, and mountainous backdrops. Plus, catching the cherry blossoms in bloom during March and April, truly is a sight to behold.

Top Kyoto activities:

• Kinkakuji Temple
• Kifune Shrine
• Fushimi Inari Shrine
• Kiyomizudera Temple
• Yasaka Pagoda
• Bamboo Grove

Mt. Fuji

Finally, no visit to Japan can be fully complete without experiencing, first-hand, the awe and beauty of Mt. Fuji.

Japan’s highest volcano, and the 7th highest peak in the world, is a place that has inspired artists and pilgrims for centuries.

Don’t worry if you’re not much of a hiker: there are plenty of tours and activities in the area that don’t involve hiking.

5. 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.

6. Singapore

A great place for solo female travelers in 2022. Only two hundred years ago this metropolis of finance, innovation, and technology, was a humble trading post of the British East India Company.

Situated at the very southern tip of Malaysia, arriving in Singapore’s airport makes you feel as though you’ve time-warped fifty years into the future!

Ranked #6 of the safest countries in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report by the World Economic Forum, this highly developed country prides itself on its multiracialism.

The city of Singapore itself boasts luxuries unparalleled by most large cities. It has a sparkling skyline you could daze at forever.

It’s safe for solo females to walk around Singapore. There are plenty of grand buildings and luxury shopping to enjoy when you want to take a break.

Top Singapore activities:

• Watch the gorgeous light show at Gardens by the Bay
• Ride the Singapore Flyer
• Enjoy the incredible view from Marina Bay Sands Pool or Observation Deck
• Shop until you drop on Orchard Road
• Enjoy delicious food at Makansutra Gluttons Bay
• Marvel at the orchids in the Singapore Botanic Gardens

7. 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 Biergarten. 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 ambiance 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.

8. Taiwan

From Singapore, a short flight across the South China Sea will take you to Taiwan. This is a wonderful destination for solo female travelers.

An island surrounded by turquoise waters and charcoal coastline, Taiwan is one of Asia’s hidden gems when it comes to beach destinations.

In Taipei, you have a capital city that fuses an eclectic mix of Chinese, Japanese, and American culture.

It’s also a prosperous hub of finance, technology, and innovation. If you love your hi-tech gadgets, there’s so much to see.

Taiwan is ranked #26 of the safest countries in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report’ by the World Economic Forum.

You can see two sides of this magical place. There’s the energy and awe of Taipei and the majestic landscape that spreads to the edges of the island.

For Taiwan, I recommend you first spend some time in Taipei. Then, using the country’s rail or bus system, go off and explore some of the beauty and culture the island has to offer.

Taipei

In a similar vein to Singapore, Taipei has prospered immensely from its investment in technology.

But beyond the glistening lights and the impressive engineering, simmers an alluring blend of Taiwanese architecture and mouth-watering street food not only in the city center but throughout the city.

The night markets are not to be missed. If you’re a big foodie, you’ll instantly fall in love with Taipei.

Top Taipei activities:

• Din Tai Fun Dumpling Shop
• Elephant Mountain & Xiangshan Trail
• Taipei 101
• Shilin Night Market

Taiwan Island Tour

If nature is more your jam, then Taiwan has it by the bucket load. Naturally, there are plenty of tours that operate around the island, giving you the opportunity to experience some utterly breathtaking landscapes.

But if you want to be on your own schedule, you can use the trains, buses, or even rent a car to explore.

I’d highly recommend making it out to some of the beautiful beaches, but just be mindful of the language barrier.

The more rural you go; the less likely English will be spoken. Be sure to have a few phrases in your back pocket handy, just in case.

Top Taiwan activities:

• Rainbow Village
• Dragon and Tiger Pagodas
• Sun Moon Lake
• Yushan National Park
• Alishan Scenic Mountain Area
• Taroko Gorge

9. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country’s low crime rate heightens the appeal. One look at the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik, preserved by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, makes the solo trip worth it. The cobblestone streets guide visitors along artisanal shops and local eateries, while a walk along the wall itself offers spectacular bird’s-eye views of the Adriatic coastline. Other great solo activities include visiting the beach just a few minutes away from Old Town. There are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling via tours and rentals offered right on the beach.

10. Finland

Next up, on “15 Amazing Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in 2022” we’re going to sail back across the Norwegian Sea, and to Scandinavia. With its remarkable aurora displays, beautiful forests, and cozy cities, Finland is a place that will never fail to take your breath away.

Finland is ranked the safest country in the world in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report’ by the World Economic Forum.

It is a developed, democratic country that combines natural beauty with post-modernist architecture. It fuses delicious cuisine with fun and friendly nightlife.

Home to a handful of cities, Helsinki, the capital, is a great place to visit in the summer if traveling solo.

If you visit in the winter, you’ll have a lot more fun if you head north, and experience the country the way Mother Nature intended you to.

Top Finland activities:

• Santa Claus Village in Lapland
• See the Northern Lights from Lapland
• Salla Reindeer Park
• Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
• Lumilinna Snow Castle
• Helsinki Zoo
• Olavinlinna Castle
• Levi Ski Resort
• Archipelago National Park
• Lake Saimaa

11. 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 see the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.

In terms of safety, Austin is one of the 10 safest metropolitan cities in the U.S., according to a list MoneyGeek compiled using FBI data from 2019. 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.

12. Switzerland

Switzerland is a wonderful place for solo female travelers. It’s contemporary cities and dashing landscape will have you falling in love from the moment you arrive.

It’s ranked #4 of the safest countries in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report’ by the World Economic Forum.

If you’re a lover of nature, history, and chocolate (guilty!), you’ll find plenty in Switzerland to keep you entertained.

If you love to ski, the resorts that boast a breath-taking Alpine backdrop are some of the best in the world. However, if you’re looking for adventure a little closer to the ground, Switzerland’s landscape, dotted with lakes, villages, and peaks, is a must to explore during the warmer, summer months.

Bern, the capital city, is rich with medieval architecture, and quirks at every corner. Lucerne is also a great city to visit if you have the time.

Top Switzerland activities:

• The Golden Pass Line
• Swiss National Park
• CERN Large Hadron Collider
• Hike in the Alps
• Cheese-making in Gruyères

13. Austria

Our Central European voyage continues to a country that has counted Mozart, Strauss, and Freud among its citizens.

Vibrant green mountains and breathless Alpine terrain are the hallmarks of its geography. Its charming towns and cities are awash with baroque architecture and hearty, stomach-soothing cuisine.

Ranked #14 of the safest countries in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report’ by the World Economic Forum, Austria is a place for all the senses.

It is a great destination to get off the beaten path and experience some natural beauty or visit plenty of small towns, villages, and cities for great music, food, and activities.

Vienna

Vienna, Austria’s capital city, is a place rich with arts, music and culture. From its grand concert halls to food markets, there’s so much to get excited about.

Top Vienna activities:

• Schönbrunn Palace
• Belvedere Palace
• The Hofburg
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Vienna State Opera
• Prater
• Naschmarkt

Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Hallstatt are all charming little towns and cities in their own right.

I’d also highly recommend venturing into rural Austria. Spend some time at the Bohemian Forest and Traunsee Lake in the north. The beauty is mind-blowing.

Salzburg

With the Hohensalzburg Fortress overlooking it and the Salzach River running through town, the storybook allure of Mozart’s hometown lures a bounty of tranquility-seeking solo travelers. After reliving scenes from “The Sound of Music” at Mirabell Gardens and Nonnberg Abbey, relaxing 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, seems essential. 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 means you can pack way more into a day and get around more efficiently (and economically) as a solo traveler.

14. 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, winding through the four-a-half acres of Harrods department store, snacking in the 1,000-year-old Borough Market, and admiring the eclectic houseboats. After dark, grab a seat alongside locals at a pub or catch a show on the West End, then enjoy a late-night bite in nearby Chinatown. The endless sights and entertainment are easily connected via the 250 miles of the London Underground.

9. Portugal

Still, on Solo Female Travelers in 2022, Our leg of destinations takes us to Europe, and the sun-kissed shores and cobblestone streets of Portugal.

Portugal is ranked #14 of the safest countries in the ‘Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report’ by the World Economic Forum.

It’s a great place to experience cities with rich history, and lazy afternoons on the golden sands of the Portuguese coast. Wine lovers can also rejoice, as you can experience true wine country if you head into the likes of the Duoro Valley in the north.

While the likes of the Algarve and Albufeira are great if you’re looking for sun, sand, and package holidays, I’ve decided to focus on the country’s two largest cities: Lisbon, the capital, in the south, and Porto, in the north.

Lisbon

If you’re keen for a thriving nomad scene, artsy, hipster vibes, and the energy and bustle of the likes of Barcelona and Amsterdam, Lisbon should be on your radar.

It’s a marvelous city with lots of innovation and plenty of great food. The digital nomad scene is more prolific in Lisbon than Porto.

There are plenty of meetups and tech events to attend, if you’re looking to meet other solo female travelers and find communities.

Top Lisbon activities:

• Oceanario de Lisboa
• Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
• Torre de Belem
• Pastéis de Belém
• LX Factory
• Bairro Alto
• Alfama District
• Tram 28
• Trip to Sintra
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Porto

If you prefer your cities a little calmer and compact, rich in historic architecture, you’ll instantly fall in love with Porto.

There’s plenty of delicious food and grand architecture throughout the city. It’s cobbled streets and green parks have plenty of charm.

While not as grand as Porto, it’s beauty and quirky vibes make it a fun and friendly place to spend time as a female solo traveler.

Top Porto activities:

• Livraria Lello
• Sao Bento Train Station
• Dom Luís I Bridge
• Bolsa Palace
• Porto Cathedral
• Duoro Valley Tour
• Matosinhos beach

16 – Romania (‘Bonus’ on 15 Amazing Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in 2022)

Just when you thought we were done and dusted; I’ve got one bonus recommendation that I’d love to share with you!

Blessed with rolling mountains, sweeping valleys, and picturesque cities, Romania over the last decade has emerged as one of the top places to visit in the solo female travel community.

If you can see some of rural Romania, I’d highly recommend it. But the Romanian cities, particularly Bucharest, and Brasov in the mountains, are packed with more than enough to keep your eyes wide and ears in tune at all times.

Bucharest

• Old Town (Centru Vechi)
• Palace of the Parliament
• Arch of Triumph
• Unirii Square Fountain Show

Brasov

• Bran Castle
• Poiana Brasov
• Black Church
• Strada Sforii (or String Street)
• Eat at Kurtos Kalacs.

Lastly, on Solo Female Travelers in 2022. if you have time, ride along the Transfăgărășan. This is a road that runs through the Carpathian mountains with dramatically beautiful scenery.

So what are you waiting for? no more procrastination, start your trip now. Pick from the 15 Amazing Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in 2023.