51 Best Solo Female Travel Destinations For First Timers (2024)
Hey there, solo female traveler! Are you looking for the best solo female travel destinations for first timers?
I am sure you are looking for the ultimate adventure for a woman seeking a taste of independence, self-discovery, and a chance to prove to the WORLD.
I have always found the idea of a female traveling independently fascinating.
It’s like, “I can do this; I can conquer the world; I’m a fearless globetrotter, NOW …” O_O
But then …
I remember my fear of heights, my aversion to creepy crawlies, and my inability to read a map without getting lost. (I turn around in a circle and immediately lose my bearings O_O
I’m pretty sure that every woman who’s ever contemplated solo travel has had the same initial reaction, EXCITEMENT ….. 😑 followed by a healthy dose of fear.
It’s completely normal, and I’m here to tell you that you can overcome it.
I know this because I traveled solo across Asia for 8 months, and I frequently travel solo now! And I used to be TERRIFIED of traveling alone 🙁
I’m CONVINCED that there’s a solo travel adventure out there for every woman, no matter how timid or adventurous you may be. And I’m here to help you find it.
I’ve picked these countries because they are safer for females and I’ve travelled to them myself, as a first timer!
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.
51 Best Solo Female Travel Destinations For First Timers
1. Iceland
- A Nordic island country known for its stunning natural beauty, including volcanoes, glaciers, and hot springs.
- It is considered a relatively safe country with low crime rates and a friendly population.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the Icelandic highlands, exploring the Golden Circle, and visiting the Blue Lagoon.
Recommended Tour:
2. Costa Rica
- A Central American country known for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and rich biodiversity.
- Known for its peaceful and secure environment
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the cloud forests, zip-lining through the jungle, and surfing on the Pacific coast.
Recommended Tour:
3. Asheville
- A city in the Blue Ridge Mountains is known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.
- It is regarded as one of the safest cities in the world.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Biltmore Estate, hiking in the mountains, and enjoying live music.
Recommended Tour & Activity:
4. Croatia
- A Mediterranean country known for its stunning coastline, beautiful islands, and charming medieval towns.
- Characterized by a high level of public safety
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring Dubrovnik and Split, visiting the Plitvice Lakes National Park, and sailing around the Dalmatian Coast.
Recommended Tour:
5. Ireland
- I love Ireland; I live here now! Its rolling hills, friendly pubs, and traditional music make me feel right at home:)
- It is somewhat of a safe country with low crime rates and a friendly population.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the Wicklow Mountains, exploring the Ring of Kerry, and enjoying a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish pub.
Recommended Tour:
6. Amsterdam
- The capital of the Netherlands is known for its canals, museums, and liberal attitude.
- Known for its low levels of violence and crime.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Jordaan district, visiting the Anne Frank House, and taking a canal cruise.
Recommended Tour:
7. Thailand
- A Southeast Asian country known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture.
- A country where law and order are generally respected.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as relaxing on the beaches of Phuket or Krabi, exploring the ancient temples of Bangkok, and experiencing the hill tribes of Chiang Mai.
Recommended Tour:
8. Australia
- An island country in Oceania is known for its diverse landscapes, from beaches to deserts to rainforests.
- A place where people feel safe to walk the streets even at night.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in the Blue Mountains, and experiencing the Aboriginal culture of Uluru.
Recommended Tour:
9. Savannah
- A city in the southeastern United States known for its beautiful antebellum architecture, charming squares, and historic district.
- A nation with a strong and effective police force.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as taking a ghost tour, visiting the Savannah Historic District, and strolling through Forsyth Park.
Recommended Tour:
10. Scotland
- A country in Northern Europe known for its rugged landscapes, charming castles, and delicious whisky.
- A country with a stable and well-functioning government
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the Highlands, exploring Edinburgh and Glasgow, and visiting the Isle of Skye.
Recommended Tour:
11. Atlantic Canada
- The easternmost provinces of Canada are known for their stunning coastline, charming towns, and friendly locals.
- A country with a high standard of living, which can reduce crime rates.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as whale watching in Nova Scotia, exploring the Cabot Trail in Newfoundland, and visiting the Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place in Prince Edward Island.
Recommended Tour:
12. New York City
- The most populous city in the United States is known for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant arts scene.
- A country with a stable and well-functioning government.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Empire State Building, exploring Times Square, and seeing a Broadway show.
Recommended Tour:
13. Colorado
- A state with stunning natural beauty.
- Outdoor adventure paradise: Whether you’re hiking through alpine meadows, kayaking in crystal-clear lakes, or skiing down world-class slopes, Colorado offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Cultural diversity: Colorado’s rich history and diverse population have created a vibrant cultural tapestry, with influences from Native American, Hispanic, and European settlers.
Recommended Tour:
14. Taiwan
- An island country in East Asia known for its beautiful mountains, bustling cities, and delicious food.
- A sanctuary where you can truly relax and unwind.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in Taroko Gorge National Park, exploring Taipei 101, and visiting the National Palace Museum.
Recommended Tour:
15. Japan
- An island nation in East Asia known for its rich culture, ancient temples, and modern cities.
- A haven of peace and tranquility.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, exploring the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine in Kyoto, and experiencing a traditional tea ceremony.
Recommended Tour:
16. Singapore
- A city-state in Southeast Asia known for its clean streets, efficient public transportation, and multicultural society.
- It is considered a relatively safe country with low crime rates and a strict law enforcement system.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Gardens by the Bay, visiting the Singapore Zoo, and shopping in the Orchard Road district.
Recommended Tour:
17. South Korea
- A peninsula in East Asia known for its vibrant pop culture, ancient palaces, and stunning countryside.
- A place where you can feel completely at ease and unguarded.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, and hiking in Seoraksan National Park.
Recommended Tour:
18. Vietnam
- A Southeast Asian country known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich history.
- A haven of peace and tranquility.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the ancient city of Hoi An, cruising through Halong Bay, and hiking in Sapa.
Recommended Tour:
19. Nepal
- A country in South Asia known for its majestic mountains, including Mount Everest, and its rich cultural heritage.
- A sanctuary where you can truly relax and unwind.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as trekking in the Himalayas, exploring Kathmandu, and visiting Chitwan National Park.
Recommended Tour:
20. Best Solo Female Travel Destinations For First Timers – Sri Lanka
- An island country in the Indian Ocean is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lush tea plantations.
- A tranquil retreat where worries fade away.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, hiking in the hill country, and visiting Yala National Park.
Recommended Tour:
- Try the elephant safari tours (special offer not to be missed)
21. Morocco
- A North African country known for its vibrant cities, stunning deserts, and rich cultural heritage.
- An oasis of tranquility amidst a bustling world.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the medinas of Fez and Marrakech, hiking in the Atlas Mountains, and visiting the Sahara desert.
Recommended Tour:
22. Spain
- A country in southern Europe known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and world-renowned art and architecture.
- A realm where harmony and serenity reign supreme
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, strolling through the Alhambra palace in Granada, and relaxing on the beaches of the Costa Brava.
Recommended Tour:
23. Italy
- A country in southern Europe known for its rich history, beautiful art and architecture, and delicious food.
- A sanctuary where you can truly relax and unwind.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Colosseum in Rome, exploring the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and enjoying a traditional Italian meal in Florence.
Recommended Tour:
24. Greece
- A country in southern Europe known for its beautiful islands, ancient ruins, and stunning landscapes.
- A sanctuary where you can find solace and respite
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Acropolis in Athens, relaxing on the beaches of Santorini, and hiking in the mountains of Crete.
Recommended Tour:
25. Belgium
- A country in Western Europe known for its beautiful medieval cities, delicious chocolate, and friendly locals.
- A sanctuary where you can truly relax and unwind.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Grand Place in Brussels, visiting the Bruges
Recommended Tour:
26. Germany
- A country in Central Europe known for its beautiful castles, traditional Christmas markets, and Oktoberfest.
- A place where you can feel completely at ease and unguarded.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Neuschwanstein Castle, exploring the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, and attending Oktoberfest in Munich.
Recommended Tour:
27. France
- A country in Western Europe known for its romantic cities, delicious food, and world-renowned art and architecture.
- A country where law and order are generally respected.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris, exploring the Louvre Museum, and enjoying a traditional French meal in a cozy bistro.
Recommended Tour:
28. Switzerland
- A country in Central Europe known for its stunning mountains, beautiful lakes, and charming villages.
- A country with a well-educated population, which can also help to reduce crime rates.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the Swiss Alps, visiting the Jungfraujoch, and enjoying a traditional Swiss fondue.
Recommended Tour:
29. Portugal
- A country in the Iberian Peninsula known for its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious port wine.
- A country with a high standard of living, which can reduce crime rates.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the historic center of Lisbon, relaxing on the beaches of the Algarve, and visiting the Douro Valley.
Recommended Tour:
30. Best Solo Female Travel Destinations For First Timers – Czech Republic
- A country in Central Europe known for its beautiful castles, charming medieval towns, and delicious beer.
- A haven of peace and serenity.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting Prague Castle, exploring the historic center of Brno, and enjoying a traditional Czech meal in a cozy pub.
Recommended Tour:
31. Hungary
- Thermal Baths and Wellness: Hungary is renowned for its abundance of thermal baths and spas, offering a unique blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and cultural immersion.
- Rich History and Architectural Gems: From Budapest’s Buda Castle and Parliament Building to the historic towns of Sopron and Pécs, Hungary is brimming with architectural marvels that reflect its diverse history.
- Culinary Delights and Culinary Traditions: Hungarian cuisine is a symphony of flavors, from hearty goulashes and paprikash dishes to delicate pastries and renowned wines.
Recommended Tour:
32. Austria
- A country in Central Europe known for its beautiful mountains, charming villages, and rich musical heritage.
- A country where crime is a fairytale and safety is the happily ever after.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the Alps, visiting the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, and attending a classical music concert.
Recommended Tour:
33. Denmark
- A country in Northern Europe known for its beautiful Viking heritage, charming cities, and delicious pastries.
- A nation where the only thing that’s contagious is laughter.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Viking Museum in Roskilde, exploring the Nyhavn Canal in Copenhagen, and enjoying a traditional Danish pastry in a cozy cafe.
Recommended Tour:
34. Finland
- A country in Northern Europe known for its stunning natural beauty, including forests, lakes, and the Northern Lights.
- A nation where the only thing that’s contagious is laughter.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as exploring the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, visiting the Helsinki Cathedral, and experiencing the Northern Lights in Lapland.
Recommended Tours:
35. Sweden
- Land of a Thousand Lakes: Sweden is home to over 250,000 lakes, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
- Archipelago adventure: Explore the Stockholm Archipelago, a vast collection of islands offering a mix of picturesque coastal towns, serene natural beauty, and historical landmarks.
- Cultural hub: Sweden boasts a rich cultural heritage, evident in its world-class museums, vibrant arts scene, and traditional festivals.
Recommended Tours:
- Take the Stockholm Archipelago Cruise (likely to sell out)
36. New Zealand
- An island country in Oceania is known for its stunning natural beauty, including mountains, glaciers, and fiords.
- A land where the air is filled with the sweet scent of security and the melody of harmony.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the Milford Sound, exploring the Franz Josef Glacier, and bungee jumping in Queenstown.
Recommended Tours:
37. Maui
- An island in the Hawaiian archipelago known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes.
- A sanctuary where you can truly relax and unwind.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as relaxing on the beaches of Ka’anapali or Wailea, hiking in Haleakala National Park, and driving the scenic Road to Hana.
Recommended Tours:
38. Ubud
- A town on the island of Bali known for its traditional culture, rice paddies, and artistic atmosphere.
- It is considered a relatively safe town with low crime rates and a friendly population.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Monkey Forest, exploring the Ubud Royal Palace, and attending a traditional Balinese dance performance.
Recommended Tours:
39. Queenstown
- A town on the South Island of New Zealand known for its adventure activities, including bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and skydiving.
- A tranquil retreat where worries fade away.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge, white-water rafting on the Shotover River, and skydiving over Lake Wakatipu.
Recommended Tours:
40. Best Solo Female Travel Destinations For First Timers – Galápagos Islands
- An archipelago of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean is known for its unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.
- A realm where tranquility and peacefulness abound.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking on Santa Cruz Island, snorkeling with sea lions on Española Island, and observing giant tortoises on San Cristóbal Island.
Recommended Tours:
41. Luberon
- A region in southeastern France known for its beautiful lavender fields, charming villages, and stunning landscapes.
- A haven of peace and serenity.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the Sénanque Abbey, exploring the village of Gordes, and driving the scenic Route des Lavandes.
Recommended Tours:
42. Interlaken
- A town in the Swiss Alps is known for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor activities, and traditional Swiss charm.
- A nation with a strong culture of respect for law and order.
- Offers a variety of activities, such as hiking in the Jungfrau region, skiing in the winter, and taking a boat ride on Lake Thun.
Recommended Tours:
43. Utrecht
- A Historic Gem: Utrecht, the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands, boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, evident in its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming canals.
- A Cultural Hub: Utrecht is a vibrant center for arts and culture, home to renowned museums, theaters, and a thriving music scene.
- A Cycling Paradise: Utrecht is renowned for its cycling infrastructure, making it an ideal city to explore by bike and experience its unique neighborhoods and attractions.
Recommended Tours:
44. Quebec City
- A Fortified City: Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its impressive fortified walls, historic architecture, and a blend of French and North American influences.
- A Cultural Mosaic: Quebec City’s cultural heritage is a rich tapestry of French, Indigenous, and British influences, evident in its language, cuisine, and traditions.
- A Winter Wonderland: During the winter months, Quebec City transforms into a magical wonderland, with festive decorations, ice skating rinks, and the enchanting Carnaval de Québec.
Recommended Tours:
45. San Juan
- A Tropical Paradise: San Juan is a vibrant city on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, offering a blend of historic charm, tropical allure, and a lively Caribbean atmosphere.
- A Cultural Blend: San Juan’s culture is a rich fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, evident in its music, dance, and traditions.
- A Beach Lover’s Dream: San Juan is home to stunning beaches, such as Condado Beach and Ocean Park Beach, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Recommended Tours:
46. Vancouver
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park & Cliffwalk
- FlyOver Canada experience.
- Granville Island tour
Recommended Tours:
47. Edinburgh
- Royal Mile Walking Tour
- Edinburgh Castle Tour
- The Harry Porter Tour
Recommended Tours:
48. Dublin
- A Musical Oasis music tour
- A Pub Culture Haven
- A Gateway to Ireland’s Treasures
Recommended Tours:
49. Copenhagen
- City of Design and Innovation
- Sustainable City Pioneer
- Culinary Paradise
Recommended Tour:
50. Stockholm
- City of Beauty and Elegance tour
- Museum Island tour
- Royal City tour
Recommended Tours:
51. Cinque Terre
- A coastal paradise tour
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site tour
- A hiking haven tour
Recommended Tours:
Solo Female Travel Checklist For First Timers:
- Plan your itinerary: This will help you make the most of your time and avoid feeling overwhelmed. It is generally recommended to book your flights and accommodations at least 3-6 months in advance. Especially during the peak seasons.
- Pack light: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you don’t want to be weighed down by too much luggage. Avoid bulky baggage by packing light (10-15kg). I recommend the Osprey Farpoint 40L Men’s Travel Backpack and the Osprey Renn 50L Women’s Backpacking Backpack.
- Be mindful of your safety: Take precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping your valuables out of sight. Ensure that you have travel insurance. I recommend Safety Wing Insurance.
- Things to do: Balance your itinerary with a mix of adventurous activities and moments of relaxation. Whether it’s hiking a scenic trail or unwinding at a serene spa, finding this equilibrium ensures a fulfilling and rejuvenating travel experience.
FAQS on Best Solo Female Travel Destinations For First Timers
Is It Safe For A Girl To Travel Alone?
Yes, solo female travel can be safe and fun. There are risks and dangers everywhere, even in your hometown (I am a living example of that). However, like with anything in life, the best course of action is to exercise caution before entering any potentially dangerous situations.Listen to your gut!
Where Is The Safest Place For Singles To Travel?
Switzerland tops the list due to its low crime rate, high levels of safety (only 2% of women have reported witnessing abuse from men), and breathtaking natural beauty, particularly with its alpine peaks and mountain vistas.
What To Do During First Trip?
Though you should not worry too much about potential problems when traveling, prioritize your health & safety. Also, being aware of your surroundings and taking safety precautions will help you enjoy your newfound journey.
Can An Introvert Travel Alone?
If done right, solo travel can be the perfect thing for introverts. The desire to often mingle helps you break out of your comfort zone of being reserved and also provides you an opportunity to make new acquaintances. The solitude ensures you avoid social fatigue and you may recharge in your own company.
What Countries Are Safe To Walk Alone At Night?
Croatia, Slovenia, Iceland, Georgia, and Switzerland are the top five countries where a solo female traveler is safe to walk alone at night.
O_O. So many places to explore, right?!
I bet you’re already feeling the wanderlust kicking in for the best solo female travel destinations for first timers, amirite?
Seriously, go for it! You can do it , you are brave, you are strong and you are capable, I am cheering you on!
From the breathtaking temples of Southeast Asia to the historic cities of Europe, there’s a whole world out there waiting to be discovered.
And the best part? You don’t need to wait for a partner or a group to go on an adventure.
Solo female travel is empowering, liberating, and an incredible way to discover your own independence and strength.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s start planning our next solo female travel adventure!
And hey, if you have any questions along the way, feel free to ask! I’m here to help you make the most of your solo travel experience. You can find me on Instagram (@aishapreece) and DM your stories. I’m most active here! 😁
Happy adventuring, my fellow females …! ✨
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