10 Best and Safest Countries for Solo Women Travelers

Solo woman traveler in Croatia.

The Top Travel Destinations for Women Traveling Alone

Traveling alone can be one of the most empowering experiences of your life, and for women, choosing the right destination makes all the difference.

Safety, friendliness and reliable surroundings can all play into how relaxed you’ll feel while exploring. We compiled the reviews of thousands of female travelers from across the web and added our own experiences to compile the following list of 10 travel destinations where solo women consistently report feeling safe, secure and inspired while traveling.

The Best Solo Travel Destinations for Women Who Love Adventure

The 10 saftest countries for women traveling alone, in no particular order.

1. Iceland

If you’re dreaming of waterfalls, black-sand beaches and the Northern Lights, Iceland is unbeatable. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent, locals are welcoming and Reykjavik is compact and easy to navigate. The only real “risk” here is unpredictable weather, but Iceland isn’t alone in that regard. So pick your time of year, pack layers and be prepared.

2. Japan

Japan’s mix of futuristic Tokyo’s urban setting and tranquil Kyoto’s temples offers something for every mood. It’s one of the safest countries in the world for solo women, with reliable public transport and a culture built on respect. Just be ready for crowds on trains and some language barriers in rural areas.

Scenic coast of New Zealand.

3. New Zealand

For adventure seekers, New Zealand is pure paradise. From the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to Fiordland National Park, hiking and nature are everywhere. Locals are known for their friendly nature and crime rates are low. Remote areas do require some preparation, however, so do your research before you jet away. As always, bring proper gear and let someone know your plans.

4. Finland

Helsinki is stylish, modern and safe, while Finland’s forests and lakes invite peaceful exploration for the outdoors adventurer. The culture values personal space and equality, which makes it particularly comfortable for solo travelers. Just be aware that winter visits mean long nights, which can affect how much you see and do during the daylight hours.

5. Portugal

Portugal offers a sweet spot between coastal relaxation and vibrant city life. Lisbon’s pastel streets and Porto’s riverfront are perfect for wandering, while the Algarve coast offers sun and sea. Pickpocketing can happen in busy areas (which is not overly unusual in many popular areas around the globe), but overall, Portugal is one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations.

6. Canada

Vast and varied, Canada is ideal for those who want both city sophistication and outdoor adventures. Toronto and Vancouver are multicultural and safe, while the Rockies offer world-class hiking. There are outdoor adventures in just about every province. Winters can be quite different, depending on where and when you visit. But with proper prep, Canada makes for a very rewarding solo destination adventure.

Scenic travel photo of Denmark.

7. Scandinavia (Denmark, Sweden, Norway)

This is a three-for-one deal. Scandinavian countries consistently rank among the safest in the world, with progressive social values and low crime rates. Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo are stylish, efficient and walkable. Natural beauty is everywhere, including the fjords and northern landscapes, which offer unforgettable natural beauty. The only drawback? It is not an inexpensive region to visit.

8. Singapore

If you love city spots, Singapore is a dream. Here you’ll find clean streets, reliable transportation and food that blends various cultures from across the greater region. Solo travelers rave about how safe it feels, even at night. The only considerations are high prices and some strict local laws, so read up before you go and be prepared for both.

9. Croatia

Croatia shines with medieval towns, Adriatic beaches and island-hopping adventures. Dubrovnik’s walled city and Split’s café culture make Croatia especially appealing for urban explorers, while national parks like Plitvice Lakes offer waterfalls and trails. Violent crime is rare; just be mindful of pickpockets who may be out in crowded tourist zones.

10. Ireland

With rolling green hills, historic castles and famously friendly locals, Ireland feels instantly welcoming. Dublin is lively and safe to explore on foot, while smaller towns and countryside trips offer a slower pace. The weather is unpredictable (even in summer), but the warmth of the people more than makes up for it. Plan your time of year carefully and you’re good to go.

Scenic Travel Photo of Ireland.

The Best Destinations for Solo Women by Travel Style

  • Beach Lovers: Croatia’s Adriatic coast, Portugal’s Algarve and New Zealand’s Bay of Islands all offer picture perfect stretches of sand. Iceland adds a dramatic twist with its black beaches.

  • Surfers: Portugal and New Zealand both have excellent waves and surf schools for all levels.

  • Hikers: New Zealand, Iceland, Finland and Canada are havens for hiking trails and wilderness adventures of all kinds.

  • City Lovers: Japan, Singapore, Portugal and Croatia combine walkable cities, vibrant culture and have good transportation options as well.

Solo Travel Safety Tips for Female Travelers

No matter where you travel, there are a few basic things to always keep in mind. They are worth repeating here.

Choose accommodations in well-reviewed, central neighborhoods. Read the reviews and be sure you feel comfortable with your decisions.

Use reputable transport options, from rideshares to public transit.

Keep your valuables close in crowded areas (or better still, leave them at home or in the hotel room, if that is safe). Always avoid wearing expensive items.

Stay connected with a roaming package, local SIM or portable Wi-Fi. Avoid being off the grid.

Most importantly: trust your instincts. That little voice inside you is always right. If something feels off, leave.

Why These Places Fit the 1923 Main Street Traveler

Each of these destinations is not only safe, but also iconic. They inspire the kinds of stories and designs we love at 1923 Main Street®: a hoodie that captures Iceland’s Northern Lights, a tee that’s right at home on Dubrovnik’s rooftops, or a sweatshirt that’s perfect for wandering Japan’s sakura blooms. Safe travels create memories, and memories become wearable art.

For more top 10 travel destinations see our posts on the 10 Best Places to Travel in 2026, the 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids and the 10 Best Places to Learn to Surf on Vacation.

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