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As a solo female traveller, the world is your oyster, but choosing the right destination can be both exciting and daunting. Safety, communication, and money issues are important, especially for female travellers however, don’t let that stop you from setting out on your own.
Here is a list of what I consider to be the top countries in Europe that cater to the adventurous spirit of women traveling alone. From the cobblestone streets of Rome, to the vibrant northern lights in Iceland, this is my list of the best countries I’ve found that offer great experiences for female travellers.
What makes these countries great for solo female travellers?
This guide will help you navigate the challenges and benefits of traveling as a woman on your own. The cities and countries on this list are well-known to have a safe environment for female travelers, but also offer unique experiences, some amazing sights, and great cultural diversity.
I’ve also considered good transport options as a must have along with a range of accommodation choices. I don’t often stay in luxury hotels, however I do like to be able to prepare food if I’m tired after a huge day trip so I’ve considered places where a small apartment might be affordable.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned solo adventurer, these destinations promise to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
1. Italy: The Land of Art, Architecture & Food
Italy is a popular destination for first-time international travellers. If you are living elsewhere in Europe you can get to Italy easily and affordably and you can see some of the world’s most famous landmarks.
Italy is also famous for its cuisine, fashion, and wine, making it a favourite destination for foodies and fashionistas.
Why Italy is great for solo female travellers
Italy can be a little expensive in the big cities and in the tourist areas, however if you walk a little further from the Colosseum for example, you will find more local cafes and restaurants which are more affordable.
It is easy to get around. Italy has a great train network for longer distances and buses, taxis and rideshares are affordable and everywhere in the cities.
The country is so diverse for such a small area. With cities that are thousands of years old, amazing beaches, stunning landscapes and great hiking, Italy has something for everyone.
And of course: THE FOOD! You can’t go wrong with the food in Italy, the pizza and pasta is to die for.
Well known places worth visiting in Italy
Rome is one of the world’s most visited tourist locations. Marvel at the ancient Colosseum, the iconic Trevi Fountain, and of course Vatican City. Around every corner there is something incredible to see.
Florence, known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a must-visit destination for art lovers and also boasts a range of beautiful churches and cathedrals, including the stunning Duomo.
Venice, with its beautiful canals and romantic gondola rides, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. Explore the city’s many historic landmarks, including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, or simply relax with a glass of local wine or an Aperol spritz at a waterfront café.
Cinque Terre, the picturesque fishing villages along the rugged Italian coastline, are a must-visit destination for active visitors. These charming towns offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and some of the best hiking trails in the country.
The Amalfi Coast is a fabulous destination for those seeking sun, sea, and sand. Don’t miss the charming town of Positano.
If you would rather a more chilled few days, relax on the beaches, or take a boat trip to the nearby island of Capri.
Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is a vibrant and stylish city with plenty to see and do. Visitors can explore the stunning Gothic cathedral, browse the shops on the famous Via Montenapoleone, or catch a show at the iconic La Scala opera house.
I would highly recommend at least a day trip to Lake Como or Lake Maggiore if you are in Milan.
Italy offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or simply soaking up the local culture. With so many incredible destinations to choose from, it’s no surprise that Italy remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Safety concerns and other considerations for Italy
- Driving in the more rural areas of Italy can be a little stressful. The roads can be very narrow and not in wonderful condition. The locals drive very fast and you’ll get a beep if you don’t keep up or you’re too hesitant at junctions.
- The sheer volume of tourists can be overwhelming in the main tourism locations. Try to visit outside of the main summer season. I visited Rome in January and Venice in March and these were perfect times to go.
2. Spain: history, food and one of the best walks in the world
Spain’s magic lies in its rich history, where ancient architecture and medieval stories come to life in every city and landscape in the country. But history shouldn’t be the only reason for your visit.
Spain is a food lover’s dream, has amazing weather for a beach break, and if you’re up for a life-changing adventure, the Camino de Santiago, known as the best walk on earth, is waiting for you.
Why Spain is great for solo female travellers
Spain is a fantastic choice for solo female travellers, especially for those traveling for the first time. The country has a reputation for being welcoming and safe, along with having an excellent tourism infrastructure.
Spain’s popularity as one of the most visited countries globally also proves its universal appeal. It’s easy to get around, there is so much to see and do, and the warm hospitality of its people make it an ideal destination for solo exploration.
What to see in Spain
Barcelona invites you to marvel at Gaudi’s masterpieces, the iconic Sagrada Familia, a masterpiece blending Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, along with Park Güell, where vibrant mosaics and innovative architecture create an impressive park in the middle of the city.
Along with Gaudi’s influence, Barcelona is a wonderful walking city, has great sporting events, good shopping and a wide variety of things to see. Head to the Camp Nou Stadium to watch a football match and don’t miss the fountain show at night.
Immerse yourself in the Moorish heritage of Granada at the Alhambra Palace, a stunning fortress and palace complex with amazing buildings and gardens.
Discover the Balearic Islands, each with its own distinct personality. From the beaches of Mallorca to Ibiza’s bustling nightlife and Menorca’s calm landscapes, these islands offer a variety of experiences.
The Prado Museum in Madrid is home to an extensive collection of European masterpieces where you can dive into art and culture. Afterward, relax in Retiro Park, a green oasis in the heart of Madrid, perfect for strolling and people-watching.
Head out of Madrid for the day and visit Segovia to see the stunningly intact Roman Aqueduct. Or head to Avila to see some of the most impressive city walls that remain in Spain today.
Consider visiting the smaller beach side town of Altea a few hours south of Valencia or Peniscola a few hours north. Both are smaller cities but both have a great old town and thriving beach culture.
Walk a section of the Camino de Santiago, for a journey like no other. This transformative hike takes you through beautiful scenery and lovely communities and builds friendship among fellow walkers.
It is a spiritual and reflective journey, a one-of-a-kind and fulfilling experience for the body and soul.
Safety Concerns And Other Considerations for Spain
- I never felt unsafe at all in Spain. My only mention would be to be very aware of your belongings as you wander The Ramble in Barcelona. It’s pickpocket paradise so just be aware and you will be fine. Of course take all your usual safety precautions like you would at home.
3. United Kingdom – historically modern
The United Kingdom is an irresistible combination of rich history and modern appeal. The UK has an amazing ability to seamlessly blend the past and present, with iconic locations such as Bath, The Cotswolds, Brecon Beacons National Park, Loch Ness, and Durham.
I’m a huge advocate for travel within the UK, even though I live there and I have travelled solo all over the country.
Why the UK is great for solo female travellers
The United Kingdom has a remarkable combination of historical significance and modern vibrancy. Its cities and landscapes are living testaments to centuries of culture and progress.
The UK is small enough to travel easily but has a huge amount of places to see and things to do. It feels endless once you get there and you could easily spend months travelling around the UK.
What to see in the UK
Embark on a journey through time as you stand before the fascinating Stonehenge, an ancient monument that has captivated and mystified for centuries.
Immerse yourself in the royal beauty of Edinburgh, a city where medieval and Georgian structures blend harmoniously. Explore the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, wander down the Royal Mile, and take in the city’s rich cultural heritage that unfolds around every corner.
Visit The Isle of Skye, where windy landscapes paint stunning views of rugged peaks, crashing waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. Hike through the Quiraing and observe the famous Old Man of Storr as the Isle of Skye reveals itself as a natural masterpiece carved by the elements.
Experience the cosmopolitan energy when you visit London on your own. London invites you to a wide range of cultural experiences within its bustling cosmopolitan hub, from the medieval Tower of London and royal Buckingham Palace to the lively street art of Shoreditch.
Bath’s, known for its Roman Bath, breathtaking architecture, and Georgian beauty, will transport you back in time. Explore the well-known Royal Crescent, visit the Jane Austen Centre, and relax in the city’s famous thermal baths.
Discover the Cotswolds’ gorgeous countryside, where charming villages, thatched cottages, and rolling hills come together to create a quintessentially English scene. Take leisurely strolls through picture-perfect settings such as Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water, where time seems to stand still.
Explore Loch Ness’ magical waters, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Visit the historic Urquhart Castle, embark on a serene cruise across the loch, and keep an eye out for the elusive Loch Ness Monster in this land of ancient legends.
Admire Durham’s architectural beauty, which includes the magnificent Durham Cathedral and Castle, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Wander around Durham’s cobblestone streets, soaking in the timeless beauty created by its ancient architecture and cultural richness.
Safety concerns and other considerations for the UK
- While being known as one of the safest places to travel, the UK can have challenges like everywhere. Make sure you know where you are, and don’t enter areas that don’t feel safe. Be very careful driving on the small country roads as they are often hundreds of years old and lined with stone walls.
- One thing to remember while driving in the UK is that the fuel stations on the motorways are almost always WAY more expensive than those in town. They are often 25-40% more per litre than those in the city.
4. Iceland – Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland offers remarkable natural beauty with breath-taking landscapes, geothermal marvels, and the enchanting northern lights. Hiking, glacier exploration, and hot spring baths are just a few of the activities available in this country.
Iceland captivates with its unique and otherworldly beauty, making it a truly wonderful destination. Whether marvelling at geysers or relaxing in thermal baths you will find something that suits your own travel style in Iceland.
Why Iceland is great for solo female travellers
Iceland is an ideal destination for solo female travellers due to its safety and welcoming atmosphere. With low crime rates and a well established tourism system, it’s a place where you can explore solo with peace of mind.
Its accessibility and ease of travel also make it a convenient weekend getaway especially from other parts of Europe. And let’s not forget the chance to catch the mesmerising northern lights.
What to see in Iceland
Start your Icelandic adventure in Reykjavik. Explore the city’s lively art-adorned streets, experience the unique delights of the local food scene, and immerse yourself in the city’s creative atmosphere found within its museums and galleries.
Set off on a journey in search of the magnificent aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. Beyond the city lights, the Arctic sky is alive with vibrant colours, creating a captivating display that dances and swirls above.
This is an absolute must-do when you’re in Iceland. Boat and bus tours are available almost year round and this is one of the best experiences to have in Iceland in the winter.
Dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra Fissure for an aquatic adventure. This one-of-a-kind geological feature represents the meeting of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, offering exceptional underwater visibility.
Obviously it is a very different experience than snorkelling the great barrier reef for example, but it is worth doing if you are confident in the water.
Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the tectonic plates meet, offers historical and geological treasures. Visit the Althing, one of the world’s oldest parliaments, and immerse yourself in an environment formed by both nature and history.
Indulge in the rejuvenating embrace of the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa located within a lava field. Refresh yourself in the milky-blue waters, which are rich in minerals with therapeutic properties.
Kerid crater, a volcanic crater lake adorned with red and green colours, is an additional stop to the famous Golden Circle route. Stroll along the crater’s rim, taking in the panoramic views, before going to the peaceful lake below.
Feel the thundering power of Gullfoss waterfall, a spectacular waterfall that falls into a rugged canyon. Stand on the viewing platforms and witness the raw force of nature as the waters carve through the Icelandic landscape.
Safety concerns and other considerations for Iceland
- Iceland is NOT cheap. While it is possible to travel solo it’s almost impossible to do a budget trip to Iceland. Once you are aware and make the appropriate adjustments it’s an amazing country but it will blow your budget for sure.
- Of course due to the climate extremes, seeing all of Iceland is only possible during the summer months. Access to the north east of the country is not often possible during the winter. You can still visit the south west of Iceland during the winter as Reykjavik has many day tours that still operate over the snowy months.
5. Malta: a myriad of influences
Malta, a gem in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers a fantastic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that beckons travellers from around the globe. This small but mighty country stands as a crossroads of civilisations, where the influences of Phoenicians, Romans, Knights of St. John, and the British Empire merge into a rich tapestry of heritage.
Malta’s allure extends far beyond its history. It is a place where the past and present merge offering visitors a safe destination with something for everyone.
Food enthusiasts will revel in Malta’s culinary scene. Whether it’s savouring a traditional pastizzi in a village café or dining al fresco by the seafront, the tastes of Malta will leave you longing for more.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or simply in search of a new adventure, Malta promises an unforgettable journey. It’s a place where history is not just studied but lived, where beauty not only surrounds but invades the senses, and where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
Why Malta is great for solo female travellers
From the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to the breath-taking natural landscapes, Malta has everything from walking tours to ATV Adventures. English is also the second official language of Malta so if you are an English speaker it’s very easy to get around.
Perhaps the most compelling reason to visit Malta is its people. Warm, welcoming, and immensely proud of their island nation, the Maltese offer hospitality that makes every visitor feel like part of the family. You can easily spend two weeks in Malta and you will be surprised at how much this amazing country has to offer.
Well known places worth visiting in Malta
Explore the capital city of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its historic buildings, fortifications, and vibrant streets. I think Valletta is really underrated and would make a great destination for a weekend city break.
Delve into the maritime history of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua known collectively as The Three Cities. These fortified cities are a quick boat ride across the Grand Harbour from Valletta.
Head over to Mdina and walk through the “Silent City,” Malta’s old capital, with its narrow lanes, ancient palaces, and wonderful views. It is so beautiful and offers cafes and restaurants where you can sit and enjoy the experience.
Take a boat tour to witness the mesmerising blue waters and the stunning natural arches at the Blue Grotto.
Explore the megalithic temple complexes of Mnajdra, and Ħaġar Qim that are among the oldest free-standing structures in the world. Also visit Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground prehistoric burial site, that is a remarkable testament to Malta’s ancient history.
Stroll through the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colourful boats and Sunday fish market. Stop at one of the many restaurants that line the foreshore for some amazing locally prepared seafood.
Have fun at Popeye Village, a colourful theme park, originally built as the film set for the 1980 Popeye movie. The views down onto the village from the cliffs above are very cool and it’s a good place to spend a morning.
Indulge in local delicacies such as pastizzi, rabbit stew, and ħobż biż-żejt at a traditional Maltese restaurant or village festa. Pastizzi can be found almost everywhere but are much better if you get them from a local bakery instead of a cafe.
Fresh is always best and this is particularly true for Pastizzi.
Discover Malta’s sister island of Gozo, a haven of rural tranquility, beautiful beaches, and the famous Ġgantija Temples. Visit Comino and the Blue Lagoon to swim in the crystal-clear waters, a paradise for snorkelers and divers.
Safety Concerns and other Considerations for Malta:
- Malta has very little violent crime so you can be pretty confident wherever you go. The very busy areas can be home to the usual levels of pickpockets so just keep your valuables close to hand.
- A great way to get around the main island in Malta is to purchase a ticket for the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus and just get off and on as you please. Uber and Bolt are also used in Malta and you can get one from almost anywhere on the island.
