Traveling solo as a woman raises many important questions. People often wonder what the best destinations for solo female travelers are, which countries are the safest for women/ladies, and how to make the most of a solo adventure.
While traveling alone can be challenging, it offers many fulfilling experiences. If you're a female with wanderlust and want to act on it, or if you're just a frequent traveler who enjoys traveling, then this article is a must-read. We will recommend some best destinations for solo female travelers and some solo female travel tips.
Best Destinations for Solo Female Travelers
Many places are great for solo female travel. Let's explore the best locations in safe countries for solo female travelers.
1. Kyoto
Popularly known as the cultural capital of Japan and one of its finest cities, Kyoto offers many tourist attractions, local cuisine, and fun activities.
One of the key tourist attractions in Kyoto is the Samurai and Ninja Museum. It displays different Samurai weapons, Ninja outfits, and other artifacts. If you're worried about the language barrier, buying a ticket includes a free tour in English.
The Kyoto tea ceremony is another experience you should not miss if you visit Kyoto as a solo female traveler. They have many packages for the tea ceremony, such as the casual and kimono tea ceremonies. The good thing is you can rent a kimono to get the whole tea ceremony experience.
Of course, trying new food is something to look forward to when traveling. A food tour is a good option in Kyoto, as there are many places to try different Japanese food.
If you're big on collecting souvenirs from your favorite destinations or each place you visit, antique shopping is an activity you might want to participate in. Kyoto is one of the oldest cities in Japan, making it an ideal place to hunt for old artifacts.
In addition to these places, Kyoto has a wide range of temples you can visit, such as Saihoji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Kinkakuji Temple, the most famous temple in Japan.
2. Helsinki
If you enjoy exploring and touring, you might want to visit Helsinki in Finland, it’s one of the best destinations for solo female travelers.
There's a lot to see in Helsinki, talk of art museums, cruise ships, beautiful islands, and incredible architectural structures.
Touring island in Helsinki is a popular activity for tourists, and as a solo female traveler, exploring it won't be a bad idea. Helsinki has three beautiful islands: Vallisaari Island, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and Lonna Island.
Another thing to do when visiting Helsinki is to connect with its natural history. You can check out the National History Museum, Kumpula Botanical Gardens, and Kaisaniemi Botanical Gardens.
If Helsinki is your next travel destination as a solo female traveler, the Ateneum Art Museum is a must-see. Here, you can explore Finland's most extensive art collection and exhibition while having an interactive experience.
3. Istanbul
With its rich history and vibrant culture, Istanbul is easily one of Turkey's most visited cities and an excellent female travel destination. It offers many tourist attractions, such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and beautiful views of European and Asian coastlines.
You should take a tour of Istanbul to get the best of your travel experience. For private walking tours, you can get a tour guide. The good thing is, you can hire a private tour guide in different languages, such as English, German, French, Italian, etc.
Traveling between April and December is an excellent idea as there are various festivals, such as Istanbul's International Film Festival, Coffee Festival, Istanbul International Gastronomy Festival, Swim Race, and many more. Asking locals for activity recommendations is also an excellent option.
Aside from festivals, Istanbul is famous for its grand bazaar, with many streets filled with thousands of merchants selling their products, making shopping an excellent idea.
You can also visit other places like the Topkapi Palace Museum, Galata Tower, Sultanahmet Square, and the Basilica cistern.
4. Zanzibar
If you're all about a soft life, you might want to consider Zanzibar as it has different beaches where you can relax and enjoy yourself. Zanzibar is a destination in Tanzania. It is popular for its white beaches and blue sea.
If you want a serene environment to relax, enjoy delicious food, and get away from activities, visiting the Nungwi beach is a good idea. The Kendwa beach is another option, as you can watch beautiful sunsets and swim in the calm tides. If you want to explore the sea habitat, Mnemba Island is a must-visit, as it's a marine reserve ideal for diving and snorkeling.
If you're in for activities, you can explore Stone Town in Zanzibar to check out historical architecture, such as the Sultan's Palace Museum, the House of Wonders, and the Old Fort.
Other places to visit in Zanzibar include Paje Beach, Spice Farms, Changuu Island, Forodhani Gardens, and many more.
5. Casablanca
Popularly known as the “White City” of Morocco, Casablanca is one of the largest African cities and Morocco's economic hub. Also, It's a modern city that blends the traditional Moroccan culture into its modern vibes.
Casablanca offers a variety of beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and cultural diversity. Casablanca provides a unique perspective on Morocco's evolving identity, from its iconic mosque to stylish boulevards to the charming medinas.
Top tourist Attractions in Casablanca include Hassan II Mosque, a symbol of the city's religious heritage.
The old Medina, fondly called the Medina of Casablanca, is a great place to explore local life, shop for souvenirs, and experience delicious Moroccan food. Quartier Habous, the new Medina, is an excellent place to shop for quality Moroccan leather, ceramics, and spices.
6. Buenos Aires
The beautiful city of Buenos Aires is located on the western shore of the RÃo De la Plata estuary in Argentina.
There's just so much to do in Buenos Aires, from watching the sunset on a cruise boat to attending tango shows and participating in a bike tour of the city.
To tour the city, you can visit museums and historical landmarks, such as the Plaza De Mago, Obelisco, Palacio Barolo, and Museo Nacional De Bellas Artes, an art museum. You can also visit the botanical gardens, parks, and popular opera houses.
A food tour is an activity you should not miss out on in Buenos Aires; you should try their local cuisines.
7. Vancouver
Vancouver is a vibrant city on Canada's west coast known for its stunning beauty, diverse culture, and numerous outdoor activities.
Surrounded by mountains and water bodies, Vancouver offers a unique blend of urban vibes and easy access to nature.
Vancouver is mainly known for its beautiful landscapes and multicultural atmosphere. There's something for everyone, from hiking and skiing to dining and exploring different neighborhoods.
Top tourist attractions in Vancouver include Stanley Park, a massive urban park with famous sea walls, beaches, aquariums, and other beautiful landmarks. It's perfect for biking, walking, picnics, and sightseeing.
You might want to visit Grouse Mountain in Vancouver if you love physical activities. It offers hiking, skiing, Ziplining, sky rides, and more.
The Vancouver Art Gallery is a must-see for art lovers. It features works by different artists and provides insight into artistic heritage.
If you're a fan of science, you should visit Science World in Vancouver. It offers a hands-on learning experience and entertainment.
8. Sentosa
Sentosa is a resort island located in the southern region of Singapore. This island is a must-visit if you're a beach lover and fun-seeking. It's a resort island with a luxury resort, Aquarium, and water park which offer a wide range of attractions and fun activities.
It's famous for efficient public transport, safety, and good food, an excellent option, and one of the best destinations for a solo female traveler.
If Sentosa is on your travel bucket list, then get ready to get your mind blown. There are lots of fun activities, such as riding the cable car while you view beautiful landscapes.
If you want some adrenaline pump, then the “ifly Singapore” is something you should experience.
Other attractions you can check out in Sentosa includes; sensoryscape, sky park, scentopia, mega adventure park, birdwatching and lots more.
9. Reykjavik
The capital of Iceland, Reykjavik, is a charming city known for its unique natural beauty and rich history. It has stunning landscapes, from waterfalls and glaciers to hot springs and volcanoes. If you love nature, this could be your favorite destination.
If you're visiting this beautiful place, visit places like the Sun Voyager, which resembles a Viking ship and is located at Reykjavik's waterfront promenade.
The National Museum of Iceland is also a must. It exhibits Iceland's history from the Viking era to modern Iceland. It also exhibit medieval manuscripts, and interactive plays.
You should visit places like Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, the settlement exhibition, and the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik. Food tours are also something you should try, and for more fun activities, you can speak to locals for activity recommendations.
10. Siargao
Located in the northeastern Philippines, Siargao is famous for its stunning beauty, calming atmosphere, and surfing network. This is an excellent female travel destination for both frequent travelers and first-time solo female travelers.
The city of Siargao is one of the best destinations for solo female travelers and is known as the Philippines' surfing capital. It houses the largest port in Southern Asia, making it one of the busiest areas in that region.
The top tourist attraction in Siargao is Cloud 9, one of the most famous surf spots in the world which has powerful waves and a fantastic surfing network. It offers a variety of surfing packages, and with a few safety tips on surfing, you can enjoy surfing in Siargao. Also, if you get lucky, you can watch international surfing competitions.
Other places to visit in Siargao include Siquijor Island, Daku Island, Nacpan Beach, Taktak Falls, and Sugba Lagoon. Asking locals for activity recommendations will help you choose a suitable place to explore.
11. Seoul
Seoul, South Korea's capital, is one of the underrated destinations for female solo travel. It's a beautiful city with so many tourist attractions.
If you want to visit Seoul and don't know where to start exploring, start with a food tour. Explore the city's street foods and local cuisines, such as fried dumplings, chicken skewers, sushi, kimchi, Korean BBQ, and the all-time famous Korean noodles.
Exploring Korean culture is an excellent way to have fun and learn about a new culture. You can stay in a hanbok (a traditional Korean house) to experience traditional Korean life. You can also try on a hanbok dress (traditional Korean attire) to see what it looks like on you.
Regarding art, the city of Seoul has a lot to offer. It houses the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Arts, and the Buk Seoul Museum and more.
To make your Seoul travel experience more fun, visit the N Seoul Tower, Lotte World, Everland Theme Park, the Seoul City Observatory, and the infamous Han River.
12. Male
Male is the capital of Maldives and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Luxurious overwater bungalows in the Male are perfect for relaxation, adventure, and unique underwater experiences. If you're a frequent or first-time solo female traveler who loves the beach and enjoys diving, you should not miss out on this location. It’s one of the best destinations for solo female travelers.
For outdoor activities, there are lots of places to explore such as the republic square, artificial beach, Sultan park, and Lonuziyaaraiy Park.
If art and cultural heritage is your thing, there are places that cater for that in Male. Examples of this places include; the national museum, art gallery, National Library of Maldives and so on.
Travel Tips for Solo Female Travelers
Taking a trip as a solo female traveler is a rewarding experience, offering the freedom to explore new places on your terms. However, it's essential to choose an ideal destination, stay safe and get prepared.
Here are some essential travel tips for solo female travelers:
1. Research Your Destination
Before traveling, research the cultural norms, safety concerns, local laws, and common scams in your destination, especially if it's popular. Understand which areas are safe and which should be avoided. Being informed helps you navigate new environments with confidence and avoid potential risks.
2. Stay Connected
While you will be away from family and friends, it is essential to keep them updated on your journey. Please share your location using apps like Google Maps or Find My Friends. Likewise, to stay connected, have a local SIM card or an international phone plan.
3. Choose Accommodations Wisely
Your safety is essential, so you must book hostels or accommodations with good reviews, particularly from other solo female travelers. Consider staying in well-known hostels, reputable hotels, or female-only dormitories.
4. Blend In with the Locals
Dress modestly and follow local customs to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to communicate more effectively. Blending in reduces the risk of being targeted as a tourist.
5. Stay Alert and Trust Your Instincts
Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut if something feels off. Avoid isolated areas and places that may cause safety concerns. Stay in well-lit and populated places.
6. Keep Your Valuables Safe
You should take essentials such as your passports, physical cash, and valuables for your female travel, but you need to be cautious about what you travel with.
Use a money belt, anti-theft bag, or hidden pockets to secure your valuables, such as your passport, money, and credit cards. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or gadgets to minimize the risk of theft or pickpocketing.
7. Know Your Transportation Options
Even if you are a frequent traveler, you must research local safety concerns to ensure a secure trip when traveling to a new destination.
Use reliable transportation options such as registered taxis, ride-sharing apps, or official public transportation. Avoid accepting rides from strangers. Knowing your options helps you navigate safely and avoid unregulated or potentially unsafe services.
8. Be Cautious When Meeting New People
While meeting new people is great, be cautious when sharing personal information. Meet new friends in public places and avoid going anywhere alone with someone you don't know well.
9. Take Care of Your Health
Stay hydrated, eat well, and carry a basic first-aid kit and necessary medications. Be cautious about food and drink safety to avoid getting sick. Staying healthy ensures you can fully enjoy your travels without interruptions.
10. Learn Basic Self-Defense
Consider taking a self-defense class as a solo female traveler before your trip to learn basic protection techniques if needed. Some self-defense skills can boost your confidence and ensure your personal safety.
Wrap Up!
Traveling solo as a female can be empowering and fulfilling. Whether you're a solo traveler or not, everyone deserves an enjoyable trip. Proper planning and accurate information allow you to enjoy your journey while staying safe and making unforgettable memories.
Have a fun-filled trip.
