Travelling as a solo female can be tough. Solo travellers often encounter many issues while travelling, with the most common complaint surrounding the issue of safety.
So which destinations are good for solo female travellers? And what kinds of things should they be aware of when travelling?
Today I've invited some fellow bloggers to join me and share some of their favourite solo travel destinations. They've kindly provided all kinds of helpful advice including recommended places to stay, great solo activities and more! Hopefully this information will be helpful for anyone embarking on a solo trip!
Let's take a look at the best places for solo female travel, as recommended by female travellers from around the world!
Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark is one of the happiest (if not the happiest) countries in the world which makes its capital Copenhagen, a great location for solo female travellers. There are plenty of things to do, and the locals are friendly, welcoming and most people speak English if you're not familiar with Danish!
Nørrebro is one of the best areas to stay in Copenhagen when travelling solo. It's a lively neighbourhood with lots of cafes, bars and restaurants, and it's close to the city centre. There are many 3 star hotels in Copenhagen that make it a little more affordable when you're travelling on your own.
If you're looking for something active to do, why not check out some of Copenhagen's famous cycling routes? The city is incredibly bike-friendly, so you'll be able to explore without having to worry about traffic or finding parking.
There are also plenty of cultural attractions in Copenhagen that are perfect for solo travellers. The Royal Palace, Nyhavn Canal, The Little Mermaid and Tivoli Gardens are all must-sees, and they're all within walking distance of each other.
Another cool thing to do in Copenhagen is take a day trip to Malmo. Malmo is actually in Sweden so you can tick off another country during your visit to Copenhagen. Located 40 minutes by train from Copenhagen is the perfect place to explore just outside of the city.
Copenhagen is a safe city and there are not many things that you need to avoid. The metro is very clean and safe to use both day and night and is a great way to get around.
Christiana is a self-governing region in Copenhagen which has a tolerance for the sale and use of drugs and has its own "laws" separate from the rest of Copenhagen. While this is an interesting area to visit it is recommended that you do not visit at night time.
If you feel unsure or overwhelmed when you first arrive in Copenhagen, take a free walking tour to get the "lay of the land" and to ask your local guide for recommendations on what to see, eat and drink in the city. Contributed by Fiona from Travelling Thirties.
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London, England
London is the perfect destination for solo travel. It has historical monuments, museums and galleries, beautiful parks - enough to keep a traveller entertained for weeks. However, like many major cities, it is full of contrasts: vibrant and dull, rich and poor, safe and unsafe. They can all be found in London, often within the same stretch of road.
Solo female travellers can stay safe in London by following a few guidelines. Research the area before booking accommodation, for example check out google street view. See if the accommodation is accessible along the main road. Small hotels, seemingly near large transport hubs, can be located along small back streets. Solo female travellers should consider if they would feel comfortable walking the route in the dark. Valuables should be kept out of sight. This includes mobile phones, particularly when walking along the street.
Plan routes around the city in advance. Consider if it will be possible to return via public transport or will it be necessary to budget for a taxi. Google maps give accurate directions, but shouldn't be relied upon to get from A to B (see next point).
An app like Tube Map can be used to check for planned line closures or severe delays on the underground network. More tube-related tips can be found in Snap and Roam’s London Underground How to Guide.
For convenience, accommodation should be sought in the borough of Westminster, home to many of London's popular sights. The City of Westminster is home to several of London's major transport hubs with direct access to Gatwick and Heathrow airports.
Contributed by Liz from Snap and Roam.
Visiting London on a budget? Click to see our list for the best free views of London (no reservation needed!) |
South Island, New Zealand
The South Island of New Zealand is the perfect destination for female solo travellers! New Zealand is known as one of the safest countries for solo travellers as the locals are very friendly, the crime rate is extremely low, it is easy to get around, and it has long been a popular place for both male and female solo travellers to visit. Solo travel in New Zealand is surprisingly easy, which makes it a great destination - especially if you’re planning your first solo trip!
The best area for solo female travellers to stay is Queenstown - the Adventure Capital of New Zealand. In Queenstown you’ll find the majority of solo travellers and so many activities and day trips to do such as heading to Milford Sound, Glenorchy, Roy’s Peak or Arrowtown. There are plenty of safe and comfortable hostels in Queenstown - it’s always easy to make friends in them should you wish!
Transport across the South Island is easy and accessible, with good roads, plenty of rental vehicles and many hop on hop off tours around the island. It is not uncommon for solo travellers to hitchhike if they get stuck but like anywhere always trust your gut. Although if you prefer the ultimate way to see the South Island of New Zealand as a solo traveller then you should definitely book a campervan! This actually often lowers your costs as it covers both your transport and your accommodation! New Zealand caters for campervan travel extremely well and there are many campsites - some of them free for campervans!
If you’re a female solo traveller who loves nature, beautiful landscapes and the outdoors then you should definitely put New Zealand South Island at the top of your list!
Contributed by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland is an amazing place to visit as a solo female traveler. From exploring the vibrant city to seeing stunning waterfalls to relaxing at a lagoon, Iceland makes for the perfect trip.
A top priority for solo female travelers is safety, and Reykjavik ranks as one of the safest cities in the world. The people of Reykjavik are also incredibly friendly, and English is commonly spoken here.
Reykjavik is small in size and population, which makes it easy to navigate. Staying in the city center will make it easy to visit Reykavik’s restaurants and top sights, such as the Hallgrímskirkja. There is plenty to do within the city, such as visiting one of the cafes, joining a walking tour, or relaxing at Sky Lagoon. Visitors can also use the hop on and hop off bus to see the sights.
One of the best things about Iceland is its natural beauty. Renting a car and taking day trips outside the city allows you to really experience nature and visit places like Blue Lagoon, and the Golden Circle, or go hiking.
To see some of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, black sand beaches, and hiking trails, you’ll want to drive to south Iceland. The drive from Reykjavik to south Iceland is around two-and-a-half hours. Spending a night or two in Vik, Iceland allows you plenty of time to explore south Iceland.
If you prefer not to drive or are visiting in the winter, it may be better to take a guided tour from Reykjavik. There are several different options for tours to the Golden Circle, South Iceland, and other sites.
Reykjavik makes an amazing solo trip because it is safe, easy to navigate, and Icelanders are incredibly friendly. While there are many things to see in Reykjavik, there is also an incredible amount of nature to explore nearby.
Contributed by Amber from Get Lost in Wanderlust.
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Dubai, UAE
Dubai is one of the safest cities solo female travellers can visit. It has one of the lowest crime rates, constant video surveillance (even on streets), and VERY strict punishments for the lawbreakers.
The best and safest neighborhood to book accommodation is Dubai Downtown. It is close to the main tourist attractions, like Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa (click to buy tickets), and full of other tourists. The second safest would be Dubai Marina which is popular among expats.
Dubai is a very multicultural city, where Islam is the predominant religion. And just like in the rest of the Muslim countries dressing modestly, and not over-revealing, is a good idea. Travellers should cover their knees and shoulders, especially when visiting a mosque or going to more traditional neighborhoods, like Deira.
Photo provided by Anja from Anja on Adventure
Traveling around Dubai should not be a problem or cause any fear of being a solo female traveler. Rental cars (click here to check availability) are an option, but the Dubai Metro is likely to be the cheapest and most convenient option. For extra safety precautions, they Metro has a female-only carriage. The same goes for taxis. They have pink woman-only taxis with female drivers. Travellers who wish to be extra cautious should always sit in the back seat.
When booking a tour to the desert, there will be other tourists so no fear of being alone. The same goes when visiting popular attractions. Even at night, Dubai is safe and there is nothing to be afraid of when attending ‘ladies night’. Follow the usual safety tips you would everywhere in the world.
Dubai is definitely one of the best, safest and easiest to get around travel destinations for solo female travellers.
Contributed by Anja from Anja on Adventure.
Cork, Ireland
Solo female travelers will find plenty of things to do in Cork, the food capital of Ireland. This small Irish city is considered very safe, with a low crime rate and plenty of friendly locals. There is public transit within the city, but most of the central attractions are walkable.
Choose a hotel or rental in the city center or Victorian Quarter. Both locations are walkable from the English Market and Oliver Plunkett Street, central landmarks in Cork City. If you rent a car, be sure to confirm that the hotel will have parking available for you.
Because Cork is a foodie destination, travelers will want to be sure to visit some of the city’s wonderful restaurants. Start the day with a delicious and fresh breakfast from the Good Day Deli, a restaurant with a small menu that sources mostly local produce. Be sure to also try a classic Neapolitan style pizza from Pompeii, a pizzeria located inside the Franciscan Well brewery.
Take a bus or a short drive to Blarney Castle, the home of the legendary Blarney Stone. As the story goes, those who kiss the Blarney Stone will be blessed with the “gift of the gab" - helpful for solo travelers looking to make friends! The castle’s grounds are expansive, including the intriguing Poison Garden filled with poisonous plants.
After travelers have spent a day or two exploring Cork, they can explore the surrounding coastal areas. During warmer months, travelers might enjoy visiting the seaside town of Tramore, where there is a popular swimming beach. To the west is Inch Beach in County Kerry, a beautiful long strand with gentle waves for surfing and compact sand for walking or jogging along the water.
To warm up after a chilly swim, book time in one of the many independently owned, mobile saunas that are located along the coast. A Google Maps search for “mobile saunas” should yield several options for most of the coastline. Solo travelers should practice caution when entering the ocean alone and only enter the ocean in areas with an active, on-duty lifeguard.
Contributed by Amber from Amber Everywhere.
Check out these awesome tours and daytrips in Ireland!
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Boston, Massachusetts, is a city known for its historical importance, baseball games, and craft beer, but did you know that Beantown is an excellent destination for solo travelers too?
Getting around Boston is easily done by foot, by hopping aboard the reliable transport system called the 'T', or by car share rides like Uber. Getting to the city from Logan International Airport can be done cheaply using public transport, which saves the cents for beer money! You can also use the city as a base to travel to Cambridge, Salem, and Rhode Island.
While safety is never guaranteed in any city, travelers should feel comfortable walking around the main attractions and using the T during the day. As with every city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowds and avoid walking alone in dark areas at night.
First-time visitors tend to stay in Downtown or Back Bay, but accommodation is a little pricy in these neighborhoods. Chinatown, where you'll find the HI Hostel and Moxy, is a slightly cheaper and a great base for walking to the Theater District, Downtown, Boston Common, Beacon Hill, and Back Bay.
Things to do for solo travelers include walking the self-guided Freedom Trail, which features 16 attractions associated with the American Revolution, eating cannelloni in North End, and strolling around the affluent Beacon Hill while browsing the stores.
If planning a visit during summer, pick up a slice at Upper Crust and chill out at The Common, or head to South Boston (Southie) to catch rays at one of the beaches.
If visiting Boston in winter, check out the stalls at Snowport (Boston Seaport), go ice skating on the Frog Pond at The Common, and catch Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity, a gospel telling of the Christmas story.
Contributed by Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA.
Malaga, Spain
Malaga is a great city if you are a woman and are travelling on your own. The city has a very young and vibrant atmosphere, with very long nights in summer. In fact, you may say that Malaga doesn’t really sleep.
Malaga is a very safe city, probably one of the safest in Europe. Whilst there is petty crime around the main attractions and you should be vigilant when it comes to your belongings, other type of crimes are very rare in the city.
As the city is quite small, you can see the main sights in Malaga in one day. The most important sites in the city as also walking distance to each other and include the Alcazaba, the Roman amphitheater, the Picasso Museum (pre-book your tickets here) and the Cathedral. If you want to spend more time in the city, you can also enjoy the two wonderful urban sandy beaches in Malaga, as well as take day trips to the resorts along Costa del Sol and Costa Tropical.
Malaga is a very social city, so don’t be surprised if people will start conversations with you, when you are travelling on your own. The Spanish are very friendly in general.
The best area to stay in Malaga is around the city centre. Most of the historical centre is a pedestrian area only, which makes walking through the pretty streets much easier. The rest of Malaga is mostly residential.
If you want to take a day trip from Malaga, you can take the C1 train if you plan on seeing Costa del Sol, or the Alsa bus if you plan on going somewhere else. Both are very comfortable, affordable, and safe.
Contributed by Joanna from Andalucia in my Pocket.
Check out these fabulous tours currently on offer in and around Malaga.
Buy your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these great experiences.
Baja Calfornia, Mexico
Baja California Peninsula in Mexico is one of the best destinations for solo female travelers thanks to a combination of outdoor opportunities, spectacular scenery and relative safety.
The most popular city in the region, Cabo San Lucas is a perfect starting point for your adventures. Cabo San Lucas has flights from many destinations in Mexico, United States and Canada, it also has a good variety of hotels and restaurants. Here you can also rent a car to explore other places in the region and continue your Baja California road trip.
While Cabo is known for its resorts and a big party scene, make sure to stay safe by always being aware who’s around you and keeping an eye on your belongings. If you are going out, never leave your food and drinks unattended and keep your family and friends posted about your plans. In addition, not all Cabo San Lucas beaches are safe for swimming due to dangerous currents. Always make sure to check local conditions before going for a swim.
Some of the best activities in Cabo San Lucas for solo female travelers are beach hopping, scuba diving and whale watching.
From December through early April, you can spot gray whales, humpbacks, blue whales, and whale sharks, all around the peninsula. You will need to depart from different destinations depending on what kind of species you want to see.
The price of a whale watching tour depends on the type of a boat, size of the group and location. Expect to pay more for a private boat and considerably less for a group tour. The price could range anywhere from $80 to a few hundred dollars.
Contributed by Daria from The Discovery Nut.
El Nido, Philippines
As one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines, El Nido on the island of Palawan should be at the top of every traveller’s bucket list when visiting Southeast Asia!
The small coastal town is home to white sand beaches covered in coconut palm trees, secluded islands with incredible limestone formations, and adventurous jungle hikes – El Nido really has it all!
The highlight in the area are the famous island-hopping tours, which take visitors to the surrounding islands, lagoons, and outstanding snorkeling spots.
In the evening, most people head to El Nido’s main beach or the nearby Vanilla Beach for sundowners. Both places offer great views of the sunset and are home to numerous beach bars which typically have happy hour around this time.
Furthermore, El Nido is a safe and easy place for solo female travellers to visit. There are several hostels in town providing a social atmosphere, making it easy to meet fellow travelers. Another bonus when travelling to El Nido as a woman is that it’s not needed to dress conservatively – even local women stick to swimwear and short clothes on the island!
It’s also really easy to travel around the island and visit other towns like the small hippie village of Port Barton or the island’s capital Puerto Princesa. To get around, travellers can either rent a scooter (click to pre-book) or use public transport such as buses, tricycles (local motorbike taxis), and minivans.
Overall, El Nido is a great place for solo female travellers to visit – it’s safe, it’s easy to meet people and the area is just absolutely stunning.
It really is one of the best places in the world for a tropical island vacation!
Contributed by Lena from Not Another Backpacker.
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Bali, Indonesia
Bali, also called the island of the gods in Indonesia is one of the best places for every solo female traveller since it is a safe destination where you can easily find like minded people.
The local people are very welcoming and it’s easy to feel at home on this beautiful island. There is a large community of expats here, since Bali is a big hub for digital nomads and it’s easy to meet new people here, to share some of your favourite travel stories.
In and around Bali there is plenty to do and see, which means staying for at least a few weeks or maybe even a month is highly recommended. The surrounding islands Nusa Penida (which is fantastic for scuba diving) and Nusa Lembongan are only a short ferry ride away and are a popular destination to spend a few days.
Bali's beaches are well known for their good surf breaks, suitable not only for advanced surfers. A 2-hour surf lesson costs only around 20 USD, which is always worth a try.
The most popular areas are probably Canggu for a good mix of western restaurants and nightlife, Ubud with a more laid back atmosphere or Uluwatu for surfer enthusiasts. It is always recommended to try different areas and spend a few days in each place to get to know all of Bali. A great way to travel is by bike or scooter (click here to check bike availability).
It is possible to live on around 800 USD a month in Bali while eating in local restaurants, called warungs, and living in a guesthouse with a shared kitchen and pool. The crime rate in Bali is very low, however, pickpocketing sometimes does occur. Travellers can avoid becoming victims of pickpocketing by using some common sense.
Contributed by Victoria from Guide Your Travel.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Planning a trip to Ljubljana? An excellent choice - the Slovenian capital is one of the safest places for solo female travellers. The country ranks as one of the lowest when it comes to crime rates, so taking the usual precautions like keeping your valuables close to you in a zipped bag will be more than enough to keep you safe during your trip.
Ljubljana's streets are usually rather quiet, though that’s not to say that they feel dangerous - not at all. Walking alone in the evening as a solo female traveller is easy in the city centre near the Old Town, though the walk to the main train station can be a little bit spooky when it gets darker.
Photos provided by Lauren from Destination Travel
The area surrounding Preseren Square is the main gathering place in the evening, so it’s always filled with people, and there’s usually an event of some sort on. From pop-up stalls selling drinks to extravagant Christmas markets throughout the festive season, there’s no need to feel anxious about wandering around here as a solo female traveller. Within Slovenia, English is well-spoken, and nowhere is this more true than in Ljubljana. The local people are extremely friendly and, should you feel unsafe at any point, they would be more than happy to help you out. Wondering where to stay in Ljubljana? For those travelling solo, the best areas to stay are around the Old Town and Trnovo - a neighbourhood filled with cool bars and restaurants that are always packed with locals and tourists.
Contributed by Lauren from Destination Travel.
Buy your train and coach tickets in advance to ensure you get away on time. Click to search for tickets using Trainline - Europe's number one train and coach app. Book early for discounts of up to 50%! |
Cusco, Peru
Cusco Peru is one of the best destinations for solo female travelers. Not only is it the gateway to one of the New Modern Day Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu, but the city was once the bustling capital of the entire Inca Empire. Today, Cusco and the surrounding areas are built for tourism, and provides a plethora of guided tours, hikes, and countless day trip possibilities.
There are tons of awesome things to do in Cusco. Tourists love wandering through the Plaza de Armas, visiting traditional markets, and exploring the impressive Inca ruins right within the city limits. Cusco boasts interesting museums, delicious restaurants, street art, stunning viewpoints, rooftop bars, a planetarium, and an enticing culinary scene.
Cusco is extremely walkable, and some of the best areas to explore by foot are the Historic Center and the hip San Blas neighborhood. In these popular tourist destinations, travellers can find plenty of hostels, locally run guesthouses, and high-end hotels to chose from. While the city is safe, it's best to not walk alone at night and utilize taxis, which are fairly priced.
Solo female travelers can join plenty of organized hiking tours, from the famous Inca Trail to standing on the shores of the turquoise lake of Laguna Humantay. Of course, the most popular thing to see from Cusco is the Lost City of Machu Picchu. However, don't miss a chance to spend some extended time in the incredible Sacred Valley with sprawling Inca ruins, charming villages, artisan markets, salt mines, and so much more.
Cusco offers so many tours, excursions, adventures, and opportunities to travel independently, making it the perfect destination for solo female travelers.
Contributed by Megan from Packing up the Pieces.
Kohsiung, Taiwan
Being the third largest city in Taiwan, Kohsiung is definitely one of the best places for solo
female travelers to explore. From its convenient transportation systems, mouth-watering
delicacies, and endless beautiful sights, you are guaranteed to fall in love with Kaohsiung.
As a first time solo female traveler, the crowds in Taipei can get quite intimidating and
overwhelming. There are just as many activities to do in Kaohsiung, but at a much slower
pace!
Kaohsiung has an elaborate MRT system, making it one of the most convenient cities to
travel in Taiwan. Having the freedom to easily get to anywhere you want at any time of the
day makes it extra safe for female travelers. The Formosa Boulevard Station is one of the
beautiful MRT stations that you must stop by when in Kaohsiung.
Asides from the accessible MRT, biking is also a very common way for locals to get around, and convenient Ubikes are available for rent all over Taiwan.
Biking around the Lotus Lake in Zuoying District is a fantastic solo activity. On the way, stop by the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. Don't forget to go inside and admire the numerous traditional Taiwanese paintings on the wall! Visitors can spend a lot of time taking many Instagram worthy pictures here.
Also located in Zuoying District is the Ruifeng night market, which is one of the largest and most popular night markets in Kaohsiung. It is a must-visit for travelers all over Taiwan when visiting Kaohsiung.
Night markets in Taiwan are an excellent place to try some authentic Taiwanese food!
Contributed by Emily from Emixglobe.
Planning on visiting Taipei? Check out our guide for what to see and do in Taipei and the surrounding area. |
Stockholm, Sweden
For any solo female travelers looking to head to Northern Europe, consider exploring Stockholm, Sweden, even if only for a short trip! The Swedish capital not only has a comparatively low-crime rate but also has a couple of features that make it attractive for any solo female travelers looking to travel safely and save money.
For example, Stockholm has an incredibly efficient public transportation network. This makes getting around the city easy, quick, and safe. Whether female solo travelers are coming from the airport or simply transiting around the city, they can rest easy knowing Stockholm has an extremely reliable and safe public transportation network. No need to worry about taking an Uber or hailing a cab with strangers when you can simply take the metro.
Photos provided by Kristin from Global Travel Escapades
Along with being relatively safe, Stockholm also has lots of places to visit and explore – many of which are cost-friendly for those traveling alone! For instance, one place that every visitor should make an effort to visit is Gamla Stan, the city's beloved Old Town. The area is home to an abundance of colorful old buildings and is always bustling with activities during the day. Thus, any female solo travelers looking to save some money can easily spend their time exploring the old streets, admiring the old architecture, and taking in the local culture.
All in all, any female solo traveler looking for a safe city with an efficient transportation system and plenty of budget-friendly attractions to explore should consider visiting Stockholm, Sweden!
Contributed by Kristin Lee of Global Travel Escapades.
Check out some great ways to see Stockholm below!
Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
Santa Fe is one of the best places for female solo travellers to visit in the US. The historic downtown feels safe like a small neighborhood, rather than the capital of New Mexico.
As the oldest US capital city, history hides in every corner and the unique architecture transports visitors to the old southwest. Art abounds and delicious New Mexican cuisine won’t bust the budget. At the center of the it all, the Santa Fe Plaza bustles with activity.
Dating back to 1609, the plaza was the endpoint of the famous Santa Fe trail trade route to Missouri. America’s oldest building in continuous, the Palace of the Governors boarders is at one end of the landmark square. Nowadays you’ll find handmade Native American jewelry and crafts for sale under the eves.
Santa Fe also boasts the oldest US church, Chapel San Miguel, and New Mexico’s oldest house, which is now a museum. All of these are great places for solo travellers to check out.
For art enthusiasts, the historic downtown houses many museums, the Georgia O’Keefe Museum being the most famous. Art galleries dot the plaza, and a short walk to the Canyon Road district offers a much wider variety of studios and even more galleries.
Stay at La Fonda on the Plaza, and you’ll be in safe walking distance to the best sights and restaurants in Santa Fe. For solo travellers looking to socialize over meals, try the communal table at Cafe Pasqual’s or the counter at Coyote Cafe Rooftop Cantina. Every restaurant serving New Mexican cuisine will ask if you’d like green or red chile sauce on almost any dish. If you want both (recommended), call it Christmas.
If you're visiting New Mexico as part of a US road trip, check out this handy post about road tripping through Southern New Mexico.
Contributed by Denise from Chef Denise.
Albufeira, Portugal
Albufeira is one of the best destinations for solo female travelers, and you can visit any time of the year. Portugal in all is one of the best places for women to try to travel to because it is considered one of the safest countries in all of Europe. And the Algarve, where Albufeira is located, is the picturesque southern coast full of beaches. When visiting Albufeira you will have over 20 different beaches to explore and almost all of them have amazing restaurants to relax at.
There are many different tours that you can book that will take you beach or island hopping. Or if you wanted to book a surf lesson it is so easy. All you would need to do is head over to Gale Beach. You will see a few cute surf shacks on the shore. You can do same-day lessons or book for a few days out if you are staying a while.
There is wonderful nightlife out in the old town such as the Pub O'Dayly where they have live music every night. Or head to what is known as the "strip" for a fun night out on the town.
If you are planning on staying in Portugal for while you can take a day trip from Albufeira to the romantic town of Silvers. When you arrive you will see a beautiful medieval castle sitting on the hill. You can go inside and explore for a small fee and walk along the castle walls. It is a day you will never forget.
If you are more into hiking the Ria Formosa Natural Park is also just a short drive away. No matter what kind of solo female traveler you are Albufeira has a little bit for everyone.
Contributed by Abbey from Trips on Abbey Road.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is easily one of the best destinations for solo female travelers. First, Seoul is extremely easy to get around via subway and bus. Solo female travellers can get around without worrying how exactly they will get from place to place. Second, Seoul is quite safe, as compared to many other destinations.
Third, Seoul offers a dazzling array of attractions and activities, including numerous free things to do. For example, many of the museums around the city are free, including the National Museum of Korea.
There are also many great day trips from Seoul. Tourists can visit the DMZ, the heavily-guarded demilitarized zone in between South Korea and North Korea. Nami Island and the Garden of the Morning Calm are also lovely places to visit.
It’s best to stay somewhere in central Seoul, preferably near a subway stop. This makes it easier and more convenient to get to Seoul’s main sights. For maximum convenience, book accommodation by a subway stop on Line 2, which encircles central Seoul.
Popular areas to stay include Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Dongdaemun. These areas are all central, near big attractions, and convenient for getting around. There are also many options for accommodation in each of these areas.
When traveling in South Korea, there are few things to be mindful of beyond regular travel precautions. Some taxis may avoid picking foreigners up when hailed from the street, though they’re not supposed to do so.
Also, be extra cautious when crossing the street or driving in South Korea, especially down the many alleyways. There are many motorbikes around and they can seemingly come out of nowhere.
Editor note: Those hoping to explore more of South Korea may want to look into purchasing a KORAIL pass, which allows unlimited travel on KTX high-speed trains throughout the country.
Contributed by Ashley from Culture Snapshots.
Singapore, Singapore
Singapore has been a popular destination for solo travellers for many years. It can be an expensive place to visit, but eating at Hawker centers and making the most of free activities can help to keep the cost down for travellers keeping an eye on their budget.
The best way to get around Singapore is by public transport. The city is well connected with train and bus routes, all running to a strict schedule. The bus and subway are clean and well-maintained, and extremely safe for women who are travelling solo. Most travellers choose to purchase an EZ-Link card which makes using public transport a breeze.
Some of the most popular activities for tourists in Singapore include visiting Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome and Floral Fantasy, all of which are located within close proximity of each other. Other popular attractions include getting a photo with the Merlion, visiting the Singapore Zoo (tickets here) - which is famous for its night safari - and relaxing on the beachy Sentosa Island (home of Universal Studios Singapore).
Singapore is known for its hawker centers, which serve up cheap and delicious food. Some of the most popular are Newton Food Centre (as seen in "Crazy Rich Asians,") Maxwell Food Centre, and Lau Pa Sat, although there are many others dotted throughout the city. Communal dining is normal here, so don't be shy!
Singapore is a great first trip for the solo female traveller, wanting to get a taste of travelling solo. Singapore's Changi Airport has some fantastic connections to destinations around the world. Be sure to check out the airport before departing Singapore - it's been named the best airport in the world several times for good reason!
Contributed by Lisa (me) of Lisa Eats the World.
Looking for more Singapore ideas? Take a look below!
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Loved this blog. I learned so much.. I am a solo female traveler and have visited a few of the cities you mentioned. Now I will have to check outbthe rest. Thanks
What an amazing list to share! I'm lucky enough to have been able to have been to quite a few already but this has definitely given me more to add to my list!
So many great choices! Wish I could do them all!
So many great options. I love the sound of Iceland solo!
So many great travel destinations, so little time!