Solo Female Travel: 7 Countries Perfect for First-Timers

Introduction

 

There's something wildly liberating about packing your bags and heading out into the world on your own. As a solo woman traveler, you're not just exploring new places; you're discovering new versions of yourself. But with the freedom comes one key question: where can I go that's truly safe, empowering, and unforgettable?

 

Good news: solo travel doesn't have to feel risky. Some countries feel like they were designed for solo women, where safety, infrastructure, friendliness, and beauty go hand in hand.

 

So if you're dreaming of your next solo escape, here are the 7 best countries for solo female travel that tick all the right boxes and then some.

 

Best Countries for Solo Female Travelers 

 

1. Japan: Clean, Polite, and Peacefully Independent

 

If solo travel had a safe space, it would be Japan. This country is a masterclass in respect, order, and solo-friendly vibes. Whether you're slurping ramen at a counter in Tokyo, soaking in an onsen in Hakone, or strolling Kyoto's bamboo forest, you'll find a culture that values quiet independence.

 

Why it's safe:

 

• Extremely low crime rates

 

• Public transport is clean, punctual, and safe, even late at night

 

• Polite social norms make solo travelers feel respected and unbothered

 

Solo Bonus: Many restaurants offer counter seating, and capsule hotels cater especially to solo guests.

 

2. New Zealand Nature, Nurture, and Zero Fuss

 

New Zealand isn't just postcard-perfect. It's also ranked as one of the world's safest and most welcoming countries. It's ideal for solo women who love adventure but want structure and friendliness along the way.

 

Why it's great:

 

• Kiwis are famously warm and helpful

 

• Outdoor adventures are solo-friendly

 

• English-speaking, with excellent safety standards

 

Solo Tip: Join a guided tour for the Milford Sound or drive the scenic South Island with confidence. Solo road tripping is the norm here!

 

 

3. Iceland: Safe, Surreal, and Soothing

 

If you want a destination where you can wander solo under waterfalls or chase the Northern Lights without a second thought about safety, Iceland is it. With a population that's famously trusting and one of the world's lowest crime rates, Iceland is practically built for solo exploration.

 

Why it's magical:

 

• Women's rights and gender equality are taken seriously here

 

• Reykjavik is quirky, cool, and full of other solo travellers

 

• Nature spots are well-signposted and widely explored

 

Solo Vibe: It's not unusual to meet other solo women relaxing in geothermal hot springs or hiking volcanic trails.

 

4. Portugal: Warmth, Walkability & Woman-Friendly Cities

 

Lisbon's mosaic-tiled streets and Porto's riverside magic aren't just Instagram-worthy, they're walkable, welcoming, and refreshingly safe. Portugal combines southern European charm with modern sensibility, making it one of the most underrated spots for solo female travel.

 

Why it's ideal:

 

• Low violent crime, high solo-friendly vibe

 

• English is widely spoken

 

• Locals are kind and helpful and dont make solo women feel out of place

 

Must-Do Solo: Wine-tasting in the Douro Valley or a solo beach day on the Algarve coast.

 

 

5. Switzerland: Safe, Scenic, and Surprisingly Easy to Navigate

 

Switzerland might be known for luxury, but it's also a solo female traveller's dream. Clean cities, stunning train rides, and punctuality make it a stress-free choice. Whether you're solo skiing in Zermatt or walking along Lake Geneva, you'll feel secure and spoilt.

 

Why it works:

 

• Extremely low crime and high safety standards

 

• Women travelers are respected and unbothered

 

• English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas

 

Solo Tip: Take the scenic Glacier Express train and stop at towns like St. Moritz or Andermatt, perfect solo luxury spots.

 

 

6. Norway Feminist Values Meet Fairytale Views

 

Norway is calm, clean, and confident—the kind of country where you can hike in the fjords solo without a hint of danger. It also consistently ranks in the top 10 globally for gender equality, which translates into a respectful, empowering environment for solo women.

 

Why it stands out:

 

• Extremely low crime and high personal freedom

 

• Amazing infrastructure, even in remote areas

 

• Locals are private but incredibly kind when approached

 

Don't Miss: The scenic Flåm Railway and solo cruises through Geirangerfjord.

 

 

7. Slovenia: Europe's Hidden Gem for Solo Explorers

 

Slovenia is the kind of place you feel safe in from the moment you arrive. It's small, beautiful, and often overlooked, but that's what makes it so great. Ljubljana, its capital, is one of the cleanest, most walkable cities in Europe.

 

Why it's perfect:

 

• Excellent public safety and minimal street harassment

 

• Compact cities and countryside that are easy to navigate alone

 

• Eco-conscious, serene, and full of soul

 

Solo Moment: Rent a bike, ride around Lake Bled, and enjoy that I can't believe I'm here alone feeling.

 

Honourable Mentions:

 

• Finland, like Norway, is extremely safe and progressive

 

• Costa Rica: Ecotourism and solo travel are on the rise here

 

• Ireland is Friendly, English-speaking, and packed with charm

 

Before You Go: Solo Travel Safety Tips

 

• Keep your accommodation address saved on your phone

 

• Share your itinerary with a friend or family member

 

• Trust your gut. If it feels off, it probably is

 

• Walk confidently and look like you know where you're going

 

Final Word: It's Not Just Safe, It's Empowering

 

Travelling solo as a woman isn't just about ticking places off a list. It's about freedom, growth, and feeling like your own best companion. And in the countries above, you'll find not just safety but stories, soul, and a whole lot of self-discovery.

 

So go ahead, book that ticket. Your solo adventure? It's not just possible. It's powerful.