Hey ladies! Solo traveler here, and I know getting out there alone can be scary! Tons of things to think about, right? Where to go? What to expect? Well, I’ve done the research for you! Keeping in mind safety, friendly locals, fun things to do, and hassle-free travel, I’ve picked 5 awesome destinations perfect for solo women to start (or keep going!) their adventures!
Here are my top 5 picks:
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen might seem a bit unconventional as a travel destination, but it’s absolutely worth a visit! The people are friendly, love indulging in a big, delicious breakfast (uncommon in European countries), and the city’s main mode of transportation is bicycles, a budget-friendly and enjoyable way to explore. Copenhagen is clean, safe, and easy to navigate, making it an ideal destination for solo female travelers. Must-visit places include Nyhavn, a vibrant waterfront and entertainment district, exploring cute Scandinavian cafes, and checking out Freetown Christiania, a unique hippie commune within the city.
2. Bali, Indonesia
Another fantastic destination for solo female travelers is the island of Bali, Indonesia. Despite being part of Indonesia, Bali has a unique culture that differs in terms of religion and spirituality, providing a more relaxed and spiritual atmosphere. A hotspot for surfers and yogis, Bali is an ideal place for travelers to relax with like-minded individuals, connect with nature and oneself, and enjoy the beautiful beaches, people, and culture. The best ways to explore the island are by motorbike or tuk-tuk, and I recommend trying Jamu Juice, an ancient Balinese remedy made with Turmeric.
There are several must-visit places in Bali. In Seminyak, you can enjoy fantastic beaches, boutique shopping, restaurants, and the popular La Favela nightclub, which is loved by both tourists and locals. Ubud offers a more cultural experience, with numerous yoga spots and a focus on natural and healthy foods. Here, you’ll find Hindu temples, the famous Monkey Forest, and the stunning rice terraces for which Bali is renowned. Canggu, another cool town near Ubud, is known for excellent surfing beaches and a laid-back vibe. If you have the time, Gili Trawangen island is just a ferry ride away and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches globally.
3. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok has something for everyone and is particularly well-suited for solo female travelers who might not stay solo for long! Thailand, in general, has become a popular destination for adventurous backpackers, and it’s easy to meet people when traveling alone, especially in Bangkok. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, friendly locals, rich culture, and delicious food. Bangkok features magnificent temples, cultural sites, and lively day and night markets, offering an exciting cultural experience you won’t want to miss.
The best ways to get around are on foot, by bus, or using tuk-tuks, which are usually very affordable and convenient. I recommend staying at Mad Monkey Hostel; it has a great atmosphere for meeting people, fantastic food, a lively bar, and a swimming pool, essential in Bangkok’s heat! Must-do activities in Bangkok include getting a Thai massage (a unique experience that feels amazing and is very affordable), exploring Khao San Road (perfect for nightlife, street food, and getting the overall vibe of Bangkok), and visiting both the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, a massive temple complex with the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand.
4. Miami, USA
Miami is a fantastic place for solo female travelers, but it can be a bit more expensive than some other destinations on this list, so plan accordingly. Miami is a very diverse city, and you’ll likely hear a mix of languages, including English, Spanish, French, and more. The overall culture here is flashy; people are beautiful, and they enjoy showcasing their wealth with fast cars and luxurious yachts. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, incredible Cuban food, and stunning beaches.
For solo female travelers, South Beach has centrally located hostels that offer free airport transfers, meals, and club crawls to some of Miami’s famous clubs. This is a great way to meet fellow travelers and experience Miami’s lively nightlife when traveling alone.
Going out alone, especially in a foreign place with alcohol involved, can be a bit challenging. Joining an organized pub crawl like this can be a fun and safe way to have friendly faces looking out for you, as everyone is staying at the same hostel, providing peace of mind during after-dark activities. Must-visit places in Miami include South Beach (explore Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue, classic Miami streets), Wynwood Walls (a neighborhood with ever-changing street murals by artists worldwide), and Little Havana (a hub for Cuban culture in Miami). To get around Miami Beach, use their free trolley system that loops around the main sites, and for other areas, consider taking Ubers or taxis.
5. Rome, Italy
Rome is a fantastic place to visit as a solo female traveler. This city is famous for its history, food, culture, and romantic atmosphere, offering endless activities. The best ways to get around are on foot, by metro, or bus. Rome is home to iconic attractions like the Vatican, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, beautiful parks, museums, and much more.
Don’t miss out on the delicious pizza, pasta, gelato, and wine that Rome has to offer. Give Limoncello, a traditional Italian lemon liqueur, a try as well! The locals are warm and friendly, but as a woman, you might experience catcalling, which is a part of Italian culture. While it can be annoying, it’s generally not threatening, and you learn to ignore it over time. If you’re worried about traveling alone in this city, rest assured that it’s often easier to meet people when traveling solo, especially in a romantic city like Rome.
While the idea of solo female travel may seem daunting, it becomes an incredibly empowering experience once you take the plunge. Exploring the world on your terms is liberating, and you’ll discover there are no limits to what you can achieve. To get started, having some excellent destinations in mind is helpful, and I hope this list inspires you to embark on your next solo adventure!
