The Best Destinations for First Time Solo Female Travellers (2026)
Choosing where to go as a woman travelling alone can be overwhelming, as there are so many options and warnings. When I started taking short trips by myself, I once even consulted a tarot reader to help me decide where to go! Now, after travelling around the world alone and years of independent travel since, I’m sharing eight of the best travel destinations for solo female travellers that I personally visited. I share why I chose each one and my experiences there, so you can easily find a place that suits you.
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Quick overview to help you choose
The destinations I list here are places where I felt comfortable and safe exploring alone. Some have sociable hostels or cosy guesthouses that feel like home. Others have excellent public transport systems that make getting around simple. All of them made solo travel a joy rather than a hassle.
- Portugal is for you if you like relaxed cities and beaches
- Italy is for those who enjoy wandering historic cities and eating well
- Goa is for beaches, sunsets and a laid-back introduction to India
- Thailand is for you if you value a social solo travel scene, warm evenings and good food
- Malaysia is for people who want a balance between modern cities and accessible nature.
- Bali is for you if you’re drawn to wellness, community and slower days
- Chile is for those who enjoy street art, deserts and dramatic landscapes
- New Zealand is for you if you crave simplicity and natural beauty
The best solo female travel destinations in Europe
Being from the UK and now based in Belgium, I have travelled around Europe extensively. Of all the European countries I’ve spent time in, two stand out for being particularly solo travel friendly.
Portugal: For relaxed cities and beaches
Portugal consistently ranks as one of Europe’s safest countries. It’s also relatively affordable to visit, making it one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe. Solo female travel Portugal is straightforward and rewarding thanks to the country’s excellent infrastructure and warm hospitality.
My experience as a solo female traveller in Portugal
I spent two weeks travelling solo in Portugal, from Lisbon to the Algarve. Solo female travel in Lisbon is particularly easy, especially if you’re staying in accommodation where you can meet other people. From Lisbon you can take a day trip to see the fairytale palaces of Sintra, which I highly recommend. In the Algarve, I loved wandering along the winding cobblestone streets and relaxing on its pristine beaches. If you’re wondering what to pack, I wrote a post all about what to wear in Portugal in the summer.
Would you like to explore Portugal without hiring a car? Check out my 2 week itinerary here.
Where to stay in Lisbon as a solo traveller
I stayed in Bairro Alto, which is a sociable and central part of the city and I would stay there again. Wander along the cobbled streets of the bohemian neighbourhood and you’ll find street art, impressive viewpoints, quirky bars and traditional restaurants with live Fado music – I loved A Tasca do Chico.
Check the map below to find the latest deals on Lisbon accommodation for your dates:
Italy: For Renaissance beauty and La Dolce Vita
Italy is my absolute favourite European country to visit and I’ve been there many times. I especially love Florence, where solo female travel is a joy. This Renaissance city has renowned art galleries, iconic architecture, peaceful gardens and mesmerising monasteries. Here you can make a whole day out of sitting in a cafe, journalling and people-watching – I definitely have!
My experience as a solo female traveller in Italy
My first ever solo trip was to Rome. I extended a work trip and moved from my lonely hotel to a lively and fun hostel for the weekend. I stayed at YellowSquare Rome near Termini Station. There, I quickly made friends with other solo travellers and we had fun exploring the city together. Soon after, I did the same thing in Florence – I stayed at the Plus Florence hostel which has an amazing outdoor pool. We’d spend mornings wandering the Uffizi Gallery, afternoons eating gelato by the Arno River and evenings sharing bottles of Chianti over pizza. Even when my new friends moved on, I never felt lonely in Florence. The city is compact enough to navigate easily on foot, and there’s always something beautiful to discover around the next corner.
Do you like nightlife as well as history? Discover the Italian cities with the best parties here.
Where to stay in Florence as a solo traveller
Florence is a small city, which is easy to walk around, so you can’t go too far wrong. Find a hostel in the centre, like Plus Florence, or splash out on a palazzo near the Ponte Vecchio like the fabulous Numa Florence Palazzo San Niccolò – less good for meeting people but you’ll feel like a celebrity.
Explore the map below to find the latest deals on Florence accommodation for your dates:
Best solo female travel destinations in Asia
India and Southeast Asia have been solo travel favourites for decades, so they have well-established infrastructure and you will meet plenty of other people exploring alone. Prices are affordable too, so you will be tempted to stay for longer than planned! I spent several months travelling solo across Asia and these four destinations were all great to explore alone as a woman, for different reasons.
Goa, India: For beaches, yoga and backpacker culture
Goa holds a special place in my heart as the first stop on my solo round-the-world trip. This former Portuguese colony on India’s west coast has a laid-back vibe, so it’s a great place for first-timers in India, like I was. People are used to welcoming independent travellers here, transport is cheap and easy, and there’s a thriving yoga and wellness scene.
The beaches of North Goa attract backpackers from around the world, creating a social atmosphere where it’s easy to meet people. South Goa is quieter and more upmarket if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
Looking for a complete guide to solo travel in Goa? Read my dedicated article here.
My experience as a solo female traveller in Goa
On my first few nights, I stayed in Ashvem at a beachside yoga resort that sadly isn’t there any more. The resort was lovely, as was the nearby French restaurant, but I found the area quite quiet. When I relocated to Arambol, I loved it – the music, the beach bars, the street market and the yoga workshops. Not to mention the sunset beach parties. You can read more about all the things to do in Arambol here. Overall, I spent a month in Goa and it helped me to slow down and reset.
Where to stay as a solo female traveller in Goa
Arambol was my favourite place to stay in Goa and you can find plenty of affordable guesthouses and hostels near the beach. I stayed at the basic but welcoming Piya Guest House which has a restaurant attached. If you prefer a hostel, the Happy Panda hostel in Arambol is a popular and highly-rated choice.
Check out the interactive map below to find places to stay in Arambol beach for your dates:
Thailand: Island paradise on a budget
Thailand is one of the most popular first-time Asian destinations for solo female travellers – it was mine too – and for good reason. It combines beautiful beaches, delicious food and great value for money. The infrastructure is excellent and there’s a well-established backpacker trail, meaning you’re never far from other solo travellers if you want company.
My experience as a solo female traveller in Thailand
On my first trip to Thailand I stayed with a friend in Bangkok, then went by myself to the island of Koh Chang. On my next trip, I visited Koh Phangan, which is famous for its Full Moon Party, though I spent almost all of my time at The Sanctuary yoga and wellness resort. I spent mornings practicing yoga, the day on the beach and nights dancing at an open-air club. The island has a strong community of digital nomads and long-term travellers, making it easy to connect with like-minded people.
Find the island in Thailand that will suit you best with this help of this guide.
Malaysia: For skyscrapers and jungle trekking
Malaysia is a more underrated destination in Southeast Asia, but its equally solo-friendly and affordable. This diverse country has modern multicultural cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. It islands include Tioman which has pristine beaches and the incredible scuba diving spots of the Perhentian islands. There’s also Malaysian Borneo with its ancient rainforests and orangutans. It also has a fantastic street food scene.
My experience as a solo female traveller in Malaysia
I spent three weeks exploring Malaysia by myself. From Kuala Lumpur I flew to Malaysian Borneo and spent a few days in the rainforest spotting orangutans and long-tailed macaques. I even went on a nighttime jungle hike to see all the nocturnal creatures. Afterwards, I learned to scuba dive in the Perhentian Islands which for me was a big achievement!
Do you want to spend three weeks in Malaysia? Discover my itinerary for solo travellers here.
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur as a solo traveller
I stayed in the Bukit Bintang area of Kuala Lumpur, which is walking distance from the Petronas Towers, Chinatown and Central Market. I met lots of other solo travellers there.
Try the Chinatown Hostel by Mingle, which has a rooftop jacuzzi, or The Kuala Lumpur Journal boutique hotel.
Browse the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Kuala Lumpur via the map below:
Bali: The solo female traveller’s paradise
Bali is well known for being a digital nomad hotspot. The surroundings are beautiful, the culture is rich and the pace of life is relaxed. There are plenty of places around the island to explore and you can take a fast boat to the neighbouring Gili Islands which are also popular with solo travellers.
My experience as a solo female traveller in Bali
I loved Bali so much that I stayed for two months, mostly in Ubud. I spent my days admiring the intricate temples and visiting the yoga centres, spas and cafes.
You can find my calm and intentional Bali one month itinerary here.
Where to stay in Ubud as a solo traveller
There are many beautiful places on the outskirts of Ubud, but unless you have a scooter, it’s best to stay in the centre as a solo traveller. This way, you’re within walking distance of all the amenities and you won’t spend a fortune on taxis. I stayed in a guesthouse that looked over rice paddies and was close to the excellent Yoga Barn.
Try Tude’s Family Homestay, which is set in peaceful tropical gardens, or the women-only Arya Wellness hostel.
Browse the map below to find the best deals on accommodation in Ubud for your dates:
Best solo female travel destinations in South America
South America can feel like a daunting continent to tackle alone, but it doesn’t have to be. Chile is where I’d point any solo female traveller starting out on the continent. If you want to explore Argentina or Brazil, read my Buenos Aires itinerary and Rio de Janeiro guide.
Chile: For deserts, mountains and stargazing
My solo female travel experience in South America started with Chile and it stands out as my favourite. This long, thin country stretching down South America’s western edge has one of the continent’s most varied landscapes.
My experience as a solo female traveller in Chile
I started in the capital Santiago and travelled north through the colourful port city of Valparaíso to the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. While the Chilean travellers I met in hostels spoke good English, many people serving in the shops did not, so it’s definitely worth knowing a little Spanish.
The Atacama Desert was a definitely of my two weeks in Chile. San Pedro de Atacama is a small town that serves as base for exploring the world’s driest desert. From here I went star-gazing under some of the clearest skies on Earth, sandboarded down massive dunes and watched sunset over the Valle de la Luna’s moon-like landscape.
If you want to explore Chile, check out the full details of my 2 week itinerary here.
Where to stay in Santiago de Chile as a solo traveller
There’s plenty of affordable accommodation in Santiago. I stayed at the Guanako Hostel near the Bellavista district, which has a great roof terrace.
Check the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Santiago by exploring the map below:
Best solo female travel destinations in Oceania
While I enjoyed Australia, as a solo traveller my heart was really taken by New Zealand. It’s so calm, welcoming and naturally beautiful, I ended up staying for months.
New Zealand: Adventure and pristine nature
New Zealand is set up for independent travellers, with excellent hostels, hiking trails and adventure activities. It is one of the more expensive destinations on this list though. I particularly liked the Stray bus tours which are lots of fun and super popular with solo travellers in their 20s and 30s. They organise everything for you, so you can easily see the country’s stunning scenery and top attractions.
My experience as a solo female traveller in New Zealand
I spent several weeks exploring both the North Island and the South Island and did everything from exploring glowworm caves to hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. For the most part, my base was Auckland but I also enjoyed my stays in the capital city Wellington.
Where to stay in Auckland as a solo traveller
When I first arrived in Auckland, I booked a hostel in Mount Eden Village for just a few nights but ended up staying for months. I heard Ponsonby was also a nice area to stay.
The central business district (CBD) is most convenient for getting around. Here, you’ll find great hotels and hostels including the Lylo Auckland, a capsule-style hostel.
Explore the map below for the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Auckland:
Books about solo female travel for inspiration
Before and during my travels, I read several books about solo female travel that inspired and educated me. Here are a few that shaped my journey:
“Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert – Love it or hate it, this book inspired millions of women to travel solo for self-discovery.
“Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” by Cheryl Strayed – The classic tale of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail alone, dealing with grief and finding yourself in nature.
“What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding“ by Kristin Newman – A funny, honest memoir about a Hollywood TV writer who escapes her quarter-life crisis through solo travel and international flings.
“A Woman Alone: Travel Tales from Around the Globe“ edited by Faith Conlon, Ingrid Emerick & Christina Henry de Testas – An inspiring collection of essays from women who have travelled solo, sharing their experiences from around the world.
Reading these books reminded me that women have always travelled alone, often in far more challenging circumstances than I faced. If they could do it, so could I.
Practical tips for your first solo female adventure
Stay in hostels to meet people. Even if you prefer private rooms, staying in hostels means you’ll have company when you want it and privacy when you don’t. Many hostels organize group activities and dinners.
Trust your instincts if something feels wrong. Don’t worry about being rude – your safety matters more than politeness, so just leave the situation.
Finally, join group tours for certain activities. Solo doesn’t mean doing everything alone. I joined plenty of day trips, tours and activities which are great for meeting other travellers.
Frequently asked questions about solo female travel
Is it safe for a woman to travel alone?
Safety depends on where you go, how you prepare and your own awareness. The destinations I’ve shared here all have good safety records for solo female travellers. That said, you should always take sensible precautions: don’t flash valuables, avoid poorly lit areas at night, trust your instincts and stay aware of your surroundings. I travelled solo for a year and encountered far more kindness than danger.
How much does solo female travel cost?
Budget varies hugely by destination. Countries in Southeast Asia and parts of South America are very affordable. Central and Eastern Europe is cheaper than Northern and Western Europe. Places like Japan, Canada, the US, Australia and New Zealand are relatively expensive. Remember that travelling solo means you can’t split accommodation and private transportation costs, which is usually the biggest expense.
What should I pack for solo female travel?
Pack light – you’ll be carrying everything yourself. Essentials include quick-dry clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a daypack for daily excursions, travel insurance documents, photocopies of your passport, basic first aid supplies, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen and a portable charger. I travelled for a year with just a 40-litre backpack and never felt like I needed more.
How do I meet people when travelling solo?
Stay in hostels with common areas where travellers naturally congregate. Join group tours and activities. Use apps like Meetup or Couchsurfing to find local events. Take classes (yoga, cooking, language) where you’ll meet both locals and other travellers. Say yes to invitations even when you’re nervous. Most importantly, be open and friendly – other solo travellers are usually just as keen to make connections as you are.
Final thoughts on destinations for solo female travellers
Solo female travel changed my life in ways I never expected. It taught me that I’m capable of navigating foreign cities, dealing with unexpected challenges and making friends everywhere. It showed me the world is full of kind people willing to help, and that most of the fear we carry around solo travel comes from our imagination rather than reality.
The best places for solo female travel are those where you feel excited rather than anxious. That means the transportation works well and accommodation is comfortable, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
After more than 12 years of travel, I’ve learned that what matters is choosing somewhere that feels right for you. Start in more familiar places until you gain the confidence to go further afield.
Finally, you don’t need to be fearless to travel solo. You just need to choose your destination. When you’re travelling alone, you’ll find the world is friendlier than you think – and then it’s about trusting yourself to figure out the rest.
