21 Best Destinations For Solo Female Travel In Europe [Tips For Budget, Fun And Safety]
Hey, fellow adventurous soul!
Are you looking for the best destinations for solo female travel in Europe?
Europe … sounds dreamy… All that history and quirky, tasty food — it all seems so romantic.
But if you are like me, keen to explore the world and dont want to wait around for your mates or a significant other to keep you company … (because we could be waiting forever, amirite? -__-)
Anyway, I wrote this to help other solo female travelers who are looking for fun and safe locations to explore in Europe.
I’m going to focus on locations that are known for being safe and inviting because I know that safety is a major worry for many solo female travelers. (I was CONVINCED I’d be kidnapped on my first trip O_O)
As a fellow solo female traveler, I am aware of the difficulties we ladies encounter.
Here are a few things that come to mind when I think about traveling alone :
- Safety – Don’t get kidnapped, please! O_O
- Affordability – Don’t break the bank! 😁
- Variety of attractions – Something for everyone, even your weird mates! -__-
- Activities – Don’t be a couch potato; there are plenty here.
- Accomadations – Your home (with less cooking) O_O
- Meeting other travelers – Make new friends! 🙋
All of the 21 locations I am about to mention are renowned for being secure and friendly, and they provide a wide range of attractions and enjoyable things to do.
LIFE TIP- One of the best ways to travel solo as a female is to join fun, adventurous group tours!
I joined a cycling trip through Tuscany and a hiking trip in Bali using this amazing group and it changed my life, built my confidence and helped me make lifelong friends!
21 Best Destinations For Solo Female Travel In Europe
DISCLOSURE
Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
One of the best places in Europe for lone travelers is Copenhagen. Apart from the abundance of sights and activities, Copenhagen is a very safe city with a small, well-lit downtown.
Public transit in Copenhagen is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is punctual and clean.
With announcements and signs available in both Danish and English, the Copenhagen transportation system is simple to use. Danish citizens who speak English as a second language exceed 90%.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $250-$350 (about 5-7 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit Nyhavn
- Explore Tivoli Gardens with an unlimited 1 day ride
- Take the bicycle adventure
- Visit Rosenborg Castle
- Take a canal boat tour
2. Prague, Czech Republic
One of the world’s most visited cities is Prague.
Not only is it safe, but getting around the city is quite comfortable, and there are tons of sights and things to do in this city, making it one of the greatest destinations in Europe for solo travel.
If you visit this city, you should anticipate seeing a lot of other travelers. particularly at the well-known Charles Bridge, where it is difficult to locate a place to stop and take in the beauty of the community at any time of day!
The astronomical clock is a well-known landmark in the charming old town, which is among the oldest (about 600 years old) in all of Europe.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $150-$250 (about 2-4 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Take the Charles Bridge guided boat cruise
- Explore Prague Old Town on a historical tour
- See the Old Town Square
- Bohemian and Saxon National Park day trip
- Praque walking tour
3. Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is a string of five picturesque villages perched on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera.
The villages are Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare, and they are all connected by a network of hiking trails and train lines.
Cinque Terre is a popular tourist destination, but it’s still possible to find your own little slice of paradise here. Just wander off the beaten path and explore the narrow streets and alleyways of the villages.
You’ll find charming cafes, hidden trattorias, and stunning views around every corner.
- Safety Ranking: 7/10
- Estimated Cost: $100-$200 (about 3-5 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Hike the Cinque Terre Trail
- Take the e-bike adventure from Levanto
- Take a boat tour of Cinque Terre
- Try the La Spezia Cinque Terre Food Tour
- Try the Gnorchi & Pesto cooking class
4. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a city of contrasts.
It’s a city of old and new, of East and West, of culture and cuisine. And it’s a city that’s full of surprises.
My big sister used to live there, and I’ve visited at least 5 times!
One of the best things about Budapest is that it’s so affordable.
You can eat at Michelin-starred restaurants for a fraction of the price you would pay in other European cities.
And you can find everything from budget hostels to luxury hotels, so there’s something to suit every budget.
But the real reason to visit Budapest is for its unique atmosphere.
It’s a city that’s full of life and energy. The streets are always bustling with people, and there’s always something to see and do.
- Safety Ranking: 6/10
- Estimated Cost: $75-$150 (about 3-5 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building
- Take a dip in the Szechenyi thermal baths
- Budapest evening sightseeing cruise
- Visit the Great Market Hall
- Wine tasting tour
5. Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg is a city that many tourists overlook, but it is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit. It is a city that has something for everyone, from history and culture to food and nightlife.
One of the best things about Hamburg is that it is a walkable city. You can easily get around on foot and see most of the major attractions.
And if you don’t feel like walking, there’s also an excellent public transportation system.
- Safety Ranking: 8/10
- Estimated Cost: $175-$275 (about 7-10 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Take the Hamburg Port lights tour
- Take a boat tour of the harbor
- Explore the Speicherstadt and Kontorhausviertel
- Hamburg on a half-day walking tour
- Hamburg at night Old Town and St. Pauli tour
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a city that’s full of life, character, and charm.
It’s a city where you can wander the canals for hours, visit world-class museums, and sample delicious Dutch cuisine
It’s a sure thing, no trip to Amsterdam would be complete without visiting a coffee shop.
One of the best things about Amsterdam is that it’s a very walkable city. Don’t feel like pounding the pavement? Take public transportation; it’s a lifesaver! O_O
And if you don’t feel like walking, there’s also an excellent public transportation system.
- Safety Ranking: 7/10
- Estimated Cost: $150-$250 (about 5 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit the Anne Frank House
- Amsterdam open boat canal cruise
- Visit the Van Gogh Museum
- Day trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken
- Amsterdam food and history half-day tour
7. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city that has it all: charm, culture, and cuisine.
It’s a city where you can wander the cobbled streets of the Alfama district, visit world-class museums, and sample delicious Portuguese food.
And of course, no trip to Lisbon would be complete without trying a custard tart from Pastéis de Belém, the world-famous bakery.
One of the best things about Lisbon is that it’s a quiet and affordable city.
You can eat at great restaurants for a fraction of the price you would pay in other European cities.
And there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as visiting the Jerónimos Monastery or taking a walk through the Parque Eduardo VII.
- Safety Ranking: 7/10
- Estimated Cost: $125-$225 (about 10 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- 3-hour sightseeing tour by Tuk Tuk
- Explore the Alfama district walking tour
- Lisbon Old Town Sitway tour
- Visit the Belém Tower
- Enjoy Pasteis de Nata Baking Class
8. Barcelona, Spain
One of the best destinations in Europe to travel alone is Barcelona, It is a popular trip to go to, and with good cause, too.
I lived in Barcelona for 2 years and loved it!
There are daily get-togethers and events happening all around the city where you may socialize, drink, and rejoice with residents as well as other travelers.
Don’t forget to visit the beach while in Barcelona, though. Once more, you have the option to spend time alone or with others.
All year long, anyone is welcome to play volleyball on Barcelona’s beach. such that meeting new people is easy and quick.
Just a reminder, please beware of pickpockets in Barcelona. The theft is a real problem there. Please stay vigilant and take care of your belongings and wallets.
- Safety Ranking: 5/10
- Estimated Cost: $100-$200 (about 5-7 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit the Sagrada Família
- Explore Park Güell
- Old Town & Gothic walking tour
- Guided Picasso Museum tour
- Enjoy a tapas dinner and walking tour
9. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a city that’s full of character, history, and culture. It’s a city where you can wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visit world-class museums, and sample delicious Scottish food.
It goes without saying that no trip to Edinburgh would be complete without trying haggis, the national dish of Scotland.
One of the best things about Edinburgh is that it’s a very walkable city.
You can easily get around on foot and see most of the major attractions. And if you don’t feel like walking, there’s also an excellent public transportation system.
Edinburgh is sometimes regarded as a dangerous city with a high crime rate. While local crime rates are greater than those found elsewhere in Scotland, they are also lower than those seen in London.
But certain locations, such as Calton Hill, Dalry Road, Cowgate, Easter Street, and Lothian Road, should be visited during the day rather than at night. If you happen to be strolling through these regions, you should be fine. Just keep an eye out for little thefts.
- Safety Ranking: 6/10
- Estimated Cost: $170-$250 (about 7 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit Edinburgh Castle
- Original Harry Porter Location Tours
- Try the underground walking tour
- National Museum of Scotland guided tour
- Enjoy the Edinburgh whisky tour
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10. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland, is among the greatest destinations in Europe for lone travelers. It’s a friendly city that’s also safe and simple to get around in. Dublin is a city full of activities, restaurants, and lodging options.
I currently live in ireland ! 🙂
Using public transportation to go from the airport to the city center is simple because you may take the Dublin Bus or an airport hopper bus.
The majority of the city center is walkable, and the two main shopping streets are both spacious and pedestrian-only.
It should be very simple to find your way around, especially if you take one of the city’s sightseeing buses.
Dublin is a relatively safe city, but there are some areas where caution is advised, such as
- Petty theft and pickpocketing
- Alcohol-related crime
- Other crimes like burglaries, robberies and assaults
Here are 11 areas to avoid in Dublin which are more dangerous than others
Here are some additional tips for staying safe in Dublin:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Keep your valuables in a secure pocket or bag.
- Don’t flash expensive belongings.
- Avoid walking alone in dark or deserted areas at night.
- Use licensed taxis or public transport.
- Report any crime to the Gardaí (Irish police).
By following these tips, you can greatly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime in Dublin.
- Safety Ranking: 6/10
- Estimated Cost: $150-$250 (about 3-5 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit the Guinness Storehouse
- Explore Trinity College
- Take the Howth Coastal hiking tour
- World War II Private Guided Walking Tour of Dublin
- Take the Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour
11. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is a city that’s full of charm, delicious food, and plenty to see and do. It’s a city where you can wander the cobbled streets of the Grand Place, visit world-class museums, and sample delicious Belgian cuisine.
Without question, no trip to Brussels would be complete without trying chocolate, waffles, and beer!
One of the best things about Brussels is that it’s a very walkable city.
You can easily get around on foot and see most of the major attractions. And if you don’t feel like walking, there’s also an excellent public transportation system.
- Safety Ranking: 7/10
- Estimated Cost: $200-$300 (about 4-5 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Take the chocolate walking tour and workshops
- Brussels historical walking tour
- Best of Brussels half-day walking tour
- Visit the Magritte Museum
- Enjoy a waffle with chocolate and strawberries
12. Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is a city that has it all: charm, culture, and fika (coffee and cake breaks).
It’s a city where you can wander the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town), visit world-class museums, and sample delicious Swedish cuisine.
And of course, no trip to Stockholm would be complete without trying a kanelbulle (cinnamon bun)!
It is also home to ABBA, the iconic music band. They also have a museum called, ABBA: The Museum.
One of the best things about Stockholm is that it’s a very walkable city.
You can easily get around on foot and see most of the major attractions. And if you don’t feel like walking, there’s also an excellent public transportation system.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $250-$350 (about 7 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit the Vasa Museum
- Explore Gamla Stan (Old Town)
- Take a walk through Djurgarden
- Visit the Skansen open-air museum
- Enjoy a fika (coffee and cake break) at one of the many cafes
13. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, dubbed the “capital of music,” is one of the greatest destinations in Europe for lone travelers. It is situated at the center of the continent.
One of the most fascinating and culturally varied cities to visit is this one. And among the safest, too. One of the top five safest nations in Europe is Austria.
Vienna provides PLENTY of options for networking with people from around the globe, including social gatherings, wild evenings out, and more.
The city is teeming with non-Austrians, including thousands of travelers, exchange students, and expats.
Because of its extreme cultural diversity, you can frequently hear languages other than German, such as Italian, English, Turkish and Polish.
Among the most well-known attractions are the old city center, the Schönbrunn and Belvedere palaces, and the Prater, sometimes known as the local “Disneyland.”
I suggest Travel Shack if you’d like to go out for a drink.
It’s a place where people accept English as the “official” language, so you’ll definitely meet folks there to chat with and share some absurd travel experiences over a few beers.
- Safety Ranking: 8/10
- Estimated Cost: $150-$250 (about 6-7 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Schonbrunn Palace guided tour
- Ghosts and Legends guided nighttime walking tour
- Take a walk through the Naschmarkt tour
- Vienna Christmas Tree historial tour
- Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Concert (Check for availability)
14. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is a city that has it all: chocolate, cheese, stunning views, and a vibrant culture.
It’s a city where you can wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visit world-class museums, and sample delicious Swiss cuisine.
Certainly, no trip to Zurich would be complete without trying some of the world-famous Swiss chocolate and cheese!
It is easy to walk here, and if your feet are tired, just take the bus or train. They’re crazy good! O_O
Bonus tip: If you’re visiting Zurich in the summer, be sure to check out the Street Parade, which is one of the largest techno festivals in the world. The parade takes place in August and attracts over a million people.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $300-$400 (about 5-7 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Rhine Falls and Best of Zurich City tour full day
- Take a walk through the Old Town
- Einsiedeln Abbey & Mountain Cheese with tour guides
- Try the cable car and ferry ride
- Zurich food tour
15. Lucerne, Switzerland
Lucerne is one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland and a great destination for a solo traveler who loves the outdoors.
This little Swiss city is situated where the River Reuss emerges from Lake Lucerne, near the lake’s northernmost point.
This charming town is open to visitors year-round.
Yet April is the ideal month to visit Lucerne if you want to witness the breathtaking Swiss Alps in their brilliant weather, pure lakes, vibrant flowers, and historic old town.
One of the safest cities in Europe, Lucerne is very well-liked by solitary travelers. The city of Lucerne is walkable.
Yet, the Tell Pass, which allows you to ride on any public transportation, is the best method to move around Lucerne.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $250-$350 (about 3-4 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Chapel Bridge tour
- Take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne
- Explore the Instaway spots with local guide
- Lucerne City tour with lake cruise
- Hiking Swiss Alps full day tour with pick-up
16. Cannes, France
Cannes is a city that has it all: glamour, beaches, and film festivals. It’s a city where you can walk the red carpet at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, relax on the sandy beaches of La Croisette, and sample delicious French cuisine.
Without a doubt, no trip to Cannes would be complete without spotting a celebrity or two!
One of the best things about Cannes is that you can walk everywhere easily on foot and see most of the major attractions.
Leave the walking to us, our public transportation is first-class!
Bonus tip: If you’re visiting Cannes during the film festival, be sure to book your accommodation and flights well in advance. The city gets very crowded during this time of year.
- Safety Ranking: 7/10
- Estimated Cost: $300-$400 (about 2-3 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès
- Cannes walking tour
- Discover Îles de Lérins
- Cannes e-bike guided tour
- Cannes shore excursion
17. Nice, France
Nice is a city that has it all: sunshine, beaches, and the iconic Promenade des Anglais.
It’s a city where you can relax on the sandy beaches, explore the charming Old Town, and sample delicious French cuisine.
But no trip to Nice would be complete without taking a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, one of the most famous boulevards in the world.
Walking is relatively easy here. If you prefer not to walk, you can always ride on the public transport available, which is super awesome.
Bonus tip: If you’re visiting Nice in the summer, be sure to check out the Nice Jazz Festival, which is one of the biggest jazz festivals in the world. The festival takes place in July and attracts over 500,000 people.
- Safety Ranking: 7/10
- Estimated Cost: $250-$350 (about 4-6 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Explore the Old Town
- Take the panoramic French Riviera e-bike tour
- Explore the countryside on a tour
- Flavors of Nice food tour
18. Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux, France, is a city that has it all: history, culture, wine, and food. It’s a city where you can wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit world-class museums, and sample delicious French cuisine.
Obviously, no trip to Bordeaux would be complete without trying some of the world-famous Bordeaux wine!
The best thing about Bordeaux is that you can easily walk around on foot and see most of the major attractions. Too tired to walk? No worries, our public transportation is a breeze! O_O
- Safety Ranking: 8/10
- Estimated Cost: $200-$300 (about 6 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Visit the Cité du Vin (wine museum)
- Explore Bordeaux center tour
- Take a boat cruise on the Garonne River
- Liege City Exploration Game and Tour
- Bordeaux ultimate food tour
19. Colmar, France
Bonjour, Colmar!
Welcome to this charming town in the Alsace region of France, known for its half-timbered houses, canals, and delicious wine.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a picturesque place to relax and unwind, Colmar has something to offer everyone.
Start your exploration in the Old Town, where you’ll find narrow streets lined with colorful houses and shops
Be sure to visit the Collégiale Saint-Martin, a Gothic church with stunning stained-glass windows.
And don’t forget to take a boat trip down the Lauch River, which winds its way through the heart of the town.
Of course, no visit to Colmar would be complete without sampling the local cuisine.
The region is known for its hearty Alsatian dishes, such as choucroute (cured pork and sauerkraut) and tarte flambée (flatbread with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon). Naturally, no meal is complete without a glass of Alsatian wine.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $150-$250 (about 3-5 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Village, wine tasting and castle visits on the Alsace tour (with a special offer)
- Visit Little Venice
- Visit the Colmar Unterlinden Museum (art museum)
- Colmar’s first discovery and reading walking tour
- Chocolate creation workshop
20. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, Switzerland, is a world-famous mountain resort town located at the foot of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world.
Zermatt is a car-free village, accessible only by train, which helps to preserve its clean air and picturesque beauty.
Zermatt is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders in the winter, with over 360 kilometers of pistes to explore.
The town is also an excellent base for hiking and mountaineering in the summer, with trails for all levels of experience.
Zermatt is one of the best destinations for solo female travel in Europe. Although, it IS quite pricey ! O_O
It also has things to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a relaxing vacation in a beautiful setting, Zermatt is the perfect place for you.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $400-$500 (about 3-4 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Take a ride on the Gornergrat cog railway
- Take the Matterhorn paragliding flight
- Explore Zermatt village tour
- Zematt walking tour with Swiss charm
- Zermatt food tours
21. Interlaken, Switzerland
A great place to go if you’re traveling alone in Europe is the charming town of Interlaken in Switzerland.
Whatever your interests, Interlaken has enough to offer, being tucked away at the base of the Bernese Alps and sandwiched between two stunning lakes.
The majority of tourists come to Interlaken to take an excursion to the Jungfraujoch, one of the most famous mountains in the nation, but there are a lot of other amazing natural sites in the region that are also well worth seeing.
What makes the region surrounding Interlaken so breathtaking are the mountains—many, many mountains—gorges, rivers, lakes, alpine gardens, and glaciers.
It is a haven for adrenaline junkies! O_O
Immersion in the breathtaking environment is possible via hiking trails, trains, cruise boats, and cable cars.
- Safety Ranking: 9/10
- Estimated Cost: $350-$400 (about 10 days)
Recommended Things To Do:
- Take a ride on the Harder Kulm funicular
- Visit the St. Beatus Caves
- Explore the Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe O_O)
- Go for a swim in Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
- Enjoy the Swiss cheese and chocolate tour
FAQs
What Is The Safest European Country For Solo Black Female Travelers?
I think Portugal, which has friendly locals, low crime rates, a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning beaches, is a must-visit destination for any solo traveler, regardless of background and race, looking to explore Europe.
Is Solo Travelling In Europe Fun?
A big yes from me! ! Solo travel in Europe is a fulfilling way to see the continent’s most beautiful destinations that allows you to plan your perfect trip without having to answer to anyone else.
How Safe Is Germany For Solo Female Travellers?
Especially for women, Germany is generally safe for solo female travelers. It has a low crime rate and friendly people. Take the same precautions as in any country, avoiding dark alleys and being aware of your surroundings.
Can I Walk Alone At Night In Barcelona?
Barcelona has a vibrant nightlife and friendly locals. The streets are generally safe to walk around during the day and night. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions as theft and pickpocketing is quite rampant in this city.
Is London Safe At Night For A Girl?
Generally, London is safe at all times including night time like all big cities. Solo female travelers should stick to well-lit, touristy areas at night, and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
Is 40 Too Late To Travel?
You are NEVER too old to travel. There are many more factors as well. So don’t fear and book your airline tickets.
So, there you have all the best destinations for solo female travel in Europe.
These destinations are all known for being safe and welcoming, and they offer a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy.
Now that you have some potential destinations in mind, it’s time to begin making travel arrangements!
Here are some pointers:
- Before you travel, do your research on travel guides, online resources, reviews, and travel agencies to better understand what to expect.
- If you’re traveling to these destinations, the most popular time of the year would be during the summer months (June-August), shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) or winter months (December-February).
- It is generally recommended to book your flights and accommodations in Europe at least 3-6 months in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season (June-August). This will give you the best chance of getting the best prices and availability.
- Avoid bulky baggage by packing light (10-15kg). Choose versatile clothes, roll your clothes, and use packing cubes. I recommend the Osprey Farpoint 40L Men’s Travel Backpack and the Osprey Renn 50L Women’s Backpacking Backpack
- Ensure that you have travel insurance. I recommend Safety Wing Insurance.
- Make friends with other females at your accommodation. Safety in numbers!
Now that you have some ideas for destinations, it’s time to start planning your trip!
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