Travelling solo as a woman opens the door to life-changing experiences, self-discovery, and cultural immersion. From bustling metropolises to serene landscapes, we’ve curated the best places for solo female travel to inspire your next adventure. Explore vibrant cultures, meet fellow travellers, and discover unique destinations across every continent.
Explore the Best Solo Female Travel Destinations by Continent
Europe
Iceland
Known for safety and stunning natural landscapes, Iceland is a solo traveller’s dream.
- Highlights: The Golden Circle, Northern Lights, and Blue Lagoon.
- Best Time to Go: Winter (September–March) for auroras; summer for midnight sun.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Loft HI Hostel (Reykjavik) – Central location, rooftop views, and eco-friendly vibes.
Portugal
Portugal’s friendly locals and stunning coastlines make it one of the best places for female solo travel, offering both safety and unforgettable experiences.
- Highlights: Lisbon’s Fado music, Porto’s wine tours, and Sintra’s palaces.
- Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn for mild weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
Georgia
A hidden gem offering safety, affordability, and rich culture.
- Highlights: Tbilisi’s old town, Kazbegi’s mountain hikes, and Kakheti’s vineyards.
- Best Time to Go: May to October for hiking.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Fabrika Hostel (Tbilisi) – Stylish, artsy space with communal vibes.
Slovenia
Slovenia may be compact, but it’s brimming with natural beauty, making it the perfect peaceful retreat and one of our best female solo travel destinations.
- Highlights: Lake Bled, Ljubljana’s riverside cafes, and Triglav National Park.
- Best Time to Go: Summer for hiking; December for Christmas markets.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Hostel 24 – A comfortable and welcoming hostel with both private and shared rooms, located within walking distance of the city’s main attractions..
Asia
Japan
Being of the best countries for solo female travel, Japan offers safety and a blend of ancient traditions with modern innovation.
- Highlights: Kyoto’s temples, Tokyo’s neon lights, and Osaka’s street food.
- Best Time to Go: Spring for cherry blossoms; autumn for colourful foliage.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- CITAN Hostel – A stylish, social hostel located in central Tokyo, perfect for meeting fellow travellers with a relaxed atmosphere and great amenities.
Vietnam
Affordable with diverse experiences from beaches to mountains.
- Highlights: Ha Giang Loop, Halong Bay, and Hoi An’s lantern festival.
- Best Time to Go: March to April for mild weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
Taiwan
Safe, with an excellent transport system and vibrant city life.
- Highlights: Taroko Gorge, Taipei’s night markets, and hot springs in Beitou.
- Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn for the most pleasant weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Meander Taipei – Great location, social atmosphere, and excellent staff.
Sri Lanka
Compact, safe, and packed with natural beauty and heritage.
- Highlights: Sigiriya Rock, tea plantations, and Arugam Bay.
- Best Time to Go: December to March for the south; May to September for the north.
- Hostel Recommendation:
Nepal
Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, Nepal is a great destination for trekking and spiritual experiences, making it one of the best places to travel solo as a female adventurer.
- Highlights: Everest Base Camp, Pokhara, Kathmandu Valley, and Lumbini.
- Best Time to Go: March to May and September to November for trekking conditions.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Alobar1000 (Pokhara) – A laid-back, adventure-friendly hostel with a great social atmosphere.
Africa
Morocco
Vibrant, colourful, and full of adventure.
- Highlights: Chefchaouen’s blue streets, Sahara camel treks, and Essaouira’s beaches.
- Best Time to Go: Spring or autumn for cooler temperatures.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Equity Point Marrakech – A vibrant, budget-friendly hostel offering an outdoor pool, terrace, and a fun atmosphere, perfect for solo travellers looking to meet others and explore the heart of Marrakech.
South Africa
One of the best places to travel solo as a female explorer! Known for its vibrant cities, safaris, and beautiful landscapes.
- Highlights: Cape Town’s beaches, Johannesburg’s culture, and Kruger National Park.
- Best Time to Go: November to March for safaris and beach weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- The BIG (Cape Town) –Newly renovated luxury backpacker with a guest house feel, offering a pool, free breakfast, and communal spaces for meeting travellers.
Tanzania & Zanzibar
Tanzania offers a mix of safari adventures and tropical islands, while Zanzibar is famous for its idyllic beaches and historical spice trade.
- Highlights: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town, and pristine beaches of Zanzibar.
- Best Time to Go: June to October for safaris; December to March for Zanzibar.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Your Zanzibar Place – Relax by the beach at this peaceful hostel near Paje, with high ratings and great amenities.
North America
Mexico
Rich in culture, history, and beachy escapes.
- Highlights: Chichen Itza, Tulum cenotes, and Oaxaca cuisine.
- Best Time to Go: November to April for dry weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Mayan Monkey Cancun – Stylish, social hostel located in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, perfect for meeting fellow travellers and enjoying vibrant nightlife
Guatemala
Affordable with stunning natural and cultural landmarks.
- Highlights: Tikal ruins, Lake Atitlán, and Antigua’s colonial charm.
- Best Time to Go: November to April for sunny days.
- Hostel Recommendation:
South America
Colombia
Affordable, vibrant, and diverse.
- Highlights: Cartagena’s old town, Medellin’s innovation, and Cocora Valley.
- Best Time to Go: December to March for dry weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
Uruguay
A laid-back, safe destination with stunning beaches.
- Highlights: Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento, and Montevideo’s markets.
- Best Time to Go: December to February for beach weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
Peru
A blend of history, culture, and nature with a wide range of outdoor adventures.
- Highlights: Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Cusco, and the Amazon Rainforest.
- Best Time to Go: April to October for trekking and dry weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
Oceania
New Zealand
Outdoor adventures in one of the safest countries.
- Highlights: Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Rotorua’s geysers, and Queenstown’s thrills.
- Best Time to Go: Summer (December–February).
- Hostel Recommendation:
- Nomads Queenstown – A lively, social hostel perfect for meeting fellow travellers. Haka House Queenstown Lakefront – Relaxing lakefront views and comfortable rooms
Fiji
Affordable tropical paradise with friendly locals.
- Highlights: Yasawa Islands, coral reefs, and cultural dances.
- Best Time to Go: April to October for dry weather.
- Hostel Recommendation:
Top 10 Budget Destinations for Women Solo Travel
- Bulgaria
Affordable accommodation, food, and transport make Bulgaria an excellent budget option. Explore Sofia, the Rila Monastery, and the Black Sea coast without breaking the bank. - Albania
A hidden gem for solo travellers, Albania offers stunning beaches and historical sites at a fraction of the price of its neighbouring countries. Don’t miss the beaches of Ksamil and the UNESCO town of Gjirokastër. - Indonesia (Java and Lombok)
Known for budget-friendly travel experiences, Indonesia offers cheap food, affordable transportation, and beautiful beaches. Java’s temples and Lombok’s serene beaches are great for solo travellers. - Cambodia
Cambodia is one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia, with inexpensive hostels, food, and local transport. Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh’s history, and Siem Reap’s vibrant markets await. - Romania
A budget-friendly country in Europe, Romania has picturesque landscapes, castles, and charming towns. Visit Bucharest, Bran Castle, and Transylvania without stretching your budget. - Nicaragua
Nicaragua is known for low-cost travel options, from hostels to public transport. Visit Granada’s colonial streets, explore volcanoes, or relax by the beaches of San Juan del Sur. - Mexico (Oaxaca)
Oaxaca is a charming, affordable destination with rich culture and delicious food. Visit the stunning Monte Albán ruins and enjoy vibrant markets without spending much. - Philippines
With hundreds of islands, the Philippines is an affordable tropical destination. Explore Palawan, Cebu, and Siargao’s pristine beaches, while living on a budget. - Tunisia
Tunisia offers rich history, beautiful Mediterranean beaches, and archaeological sites at low prices. Explore ancient ruins, relax in Sidi Bou Said, and visit the Sahara Desert without spending much. - Moldova
Moldova is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe, offering picturesque landscapes, wine tours, and charming villages. Visit the Orheiul Vechi cave monastery and enjoy local wines for a fraction of the cost.
Packing Essentials for Solo Female Travel
- Lightweight travel wardrobe.
- Quality daypack.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Portable phone charger.
- Compact first-aid kit.
- Travel insurance documents.
- Noise-cancelling headphones.
- Weather-appropriate footwear.
- Quick-dry towel.
- Multi-use scarf or shawl.
Empower Your Next Adventure
Travelling solo as a woman offers endless opportunities for self-discovery and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo or hiking the serene landscapes of Iceland, the world is full of incredible destinations for you to explore. With the right planning, confidence, and safety tips, you can make your journey unforgettable. Consider the best places to solo travel as a woman—where you’ll find welcoming locals, stunning landscapes, and the freedom to create your own adventure. Now is the perfect time to take that empowering step and make your dream journey a reality.
FAQs for Solo Female Travel
What are the best first-time solo female travel destinations?
First-timers often prefer destinations known for safety and ease of travel, such as Iceland, Japan, Portugal, and New Zealand. These locations have excellent infrastructure, welcoming locals, and plenty of solo-friendly activities.
How do I stay safe while travelling solo?
Research your destination, stay aware of your surroundings, and keep a copy of important documents. Avoid sharing your itinerary with strangers and stay in well-reviewed hostels with good security.
How can I meet people while travelling solo?
Stay in social hostels, join group tours, attend local events, or take part in shared activities like cooking classes or hiking trips. Many hostels host communal dinners or social events to help travellers connect.
Is solo travel expensive?
It depends on your destination and travel style. Budget-friendly locations like Southeast Asia, Central America, and Eastern Europe are great for solo travellers. Staying in hostels and using public transport also keeps costs down.
What should I do if I feel lonely while travelling alone?
Engage in activities like group tours or meetups, chat with fellow travellers in hostels, or connect with locals through language exchange platforms. Sometimes, taking time to reflect on your journey can also be fulfilling.
How do I manage cultural differences as a solo female traveller?
Research local customs and traditions beforehand. Dress appropriately, especially in conservative cultures, and be respectful of local norms. A little effort to understand the culture goes a long way.
How do I plan a solo travel itinerary?
Start with research on safe and solo-friendly destinations. Plan for highlights but leave room for spontaneity. Apps like Hostelworld and Google Maps can help with accommodation and route planning.
What are the best resources for solo female travellers?
Hostelworld for accommodation, Rome2Rio for transport planning, and Lonely Planet or blogs for destination tips. Many solo female travel forums and social media groups also offer advice.
What’s the safest way to carry money while travelling alone?
Split your money between a main wallet, a backup wallet, and hidden stash options like money belts. Use a combination of cash and cards, and avoid flashing large sums in public.
Can I travel solo as a female in conservative countries?
Yes, but extra preparation is key. Research cultural norms, dress conservatively, and stay in female-only hostels or homestays. Morocco, Jordan, and parts of Southeast Asia are popular options.
How do I choose the right hostel for solo female travel?
Look for hostels with high safety ratings, female-only dorms, and a social vibe. Reading Hostelworld reviews is essential to understanding the atmosphere and amenities.
What’s the best way to navigate a new city alone?
Walking tours, public transport, or ride-sharing apps are great for solo travellers. Download offline maps and ask your hostel staff for advice on safe routes.
How can I document my solo travel journey?
Keep a travel journal, take photos, or create a blog. Sharing experiences on social media can also help you connect with fellow travellers and inspire others.
What if I get sick while travelling alone?
Always carry a basic first-aid kit and travel insurance. Know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic and keep emergency contact information handy.
Is it safe to go out at night alone?
It depends on the destination. In many places, it’s best to stick to well-lit, busy areas or join group events. Let someone know where you are going and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Where can I meet people while travelling solo as a woman?
Meeting people during your solo travels can be one of the most rewarding aspects of the journey. There are plenty of ways to connect with fellow travellers and locals, whether it’s by staying in social hostels, joining group tours, or attending local events. If you’re looking for a supportive community, joining a solo female travel network can also be a great way to meet like-minded women who share similar travel goals. Additionally, using the Hostelworld app can help you find hostels that are known for their social atmosphere and are staying in your destination, making it easier to meet fellow travellers and enjoy a sense of community during your trip.
