If you’re dreaming of setting off on your first solo adventure but don’t quite know where to start, you’re in good company. Europe is packed with destinations that are both easy-going and rewarding. Here are some of the best solo female travel destinations in Europe – with safety, scenery, and solo-friendly vibes high on the priority list.
I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase using my affiliate links.
I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger and solo female traveller of many years (actually decades). These destinations are known for being safe and welcoming for women travellers.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a fantastic city to explore on your own. It’s compact, peaceful (once you manage to avoid the cyclists!), and full of character. I’ve been there six or seven times myself.
You can float along the canals, check out the Anne Frank House, or spend a leisurely afternoon at the Van Gogh Museum.
The city is super walkable, with plenty of relaxed cafés and green spots like Vondelpark if you need a break from sightseeing.
One thing to note: Amsterdam is a popular spot for hen and stag parties, so some areas can get a bit lively at times.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Amsterdam is safe, friendly, artsy, and easy to get around.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is one of those cities that immediately makes you feel at home. With its bright harbourside buildings, clean streets, and a strong sense of equality (not to mention delicious pastries), it’s perfect for a laid-back solo trip.
Hope on a bike like the locals do, visit the Little Mermaid, and sip a coffee by the water in Nyhavn.
You’ll feel safe, welcome, and stylish – even if you’re just wearing your travel leggings.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Copenhagen is exceptionally safe for solo female travellers, easy to navigate, and full of cosy vibes.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is where medieval charm blends with modern warmth. Its old town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, hidden closes, and views that practically beg for a dramatic selfie.
The locals are known for their friendliness, making it a place where solo travel feels completely natural. Strolling down the Royal Mile by yourself is a fantastic experience – there’s so much to see and explore along the way.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Edinburgh is safe, atmospheric, and wonderfully walkable with welcoming people.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a city built on hills and good vibes. It’s got the kind of charm that sneaks up on you – cobbled laneways, yellow trams, and the scent of custard tarts wafting through the air.
There’s a laid-back energy in Lisbon that makes it perfect for solo exploring. With hostels, rooftop bars, and open plazas everywhere, it’s easy to make new friends (or just sip a drink and watch the world go by). The city’s vibe makes solo travel feel effortless and rewarding.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Lisbon is warm, safe, full of character, with custard tarts to die for.
Vienna, Austria
If you enjoy your solo travel with a touch of sophistication, Vienna could be the perfect match for you.
Wander through grand palaces, get lost in world-class art museums, and then reward yourself with a rich hot chocolate and a slice of Sachertorte in one of the city’s elegant, chandelier-lit cafés.
On top of that, Vienna is one of the cleanest and safest cities in Europe, as an added bonus.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Vienna is elegant, calm, safe and full of cultural (and chocolatey) treats.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik feels like stepping into a medieval painting – one that’s set against crystal-clear Adriatic waters and topped off with gelato on every corner.
The old town, encircled by its famous stone walls, is compact and solo-friendly, with enough scenic beauty to make your camera extremely happy.
It’s also super peaceful in the shoulder seasons, ideal for first-time solo wanderers.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Dubrovnik has gorgeous coastal scenery, safe streets, and lots of history.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik may be one of Europe’s smallest capitals, but it’s big on safety, friendliness, and wild natural beauty.
Explore the colourful streets, chill in the Blue Lagoon (pro tip: wear a warm hat because the water might be warm but the air is not!), and take day trips to see waterfalls and geysers.
Iceland is a country which is famously welcoming to solo female travellers. It regularly tops lists of the safest destinations for women travellers, and it just so happens that the scenery is otherworldly too.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights – I was fortunate enough to see them a few times in February!
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Reykjavik is incredibly safe, nature-rich, and easy to explore solo.
Palma, Spain
The city of Palma, on the island of Mallorca, is a hidden gem for solo travellers.
The capital is easy to explore on foot, with sunny terraces and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe at every turn.
You’ll discover stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful sea views, and bustling local markets that make wandering around solo a true pleasure.
It’s the kind of place where slow mornings and beachy afternoons are fully expected, but there’s also lots to do for adventurous types too. This is the reason I keep going back for more.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Palma is safe, and the perfect blend of beach and culture.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana might not be the first place that springs to mind when planning a European getaway, but perhaps it should be.
This compact, eco-conscious capital in central Europe is full of riverside cafés, leafy parks, and a pastel-painted old town that feels like something from a storybook.
It’s walkable, safe, and known for its friendly locals. And bonus: Lake Bled is just a short trip away.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Ljubljana is safe, beautiful, relaxed, and just the right amount of quirky.
Ghent, Belgium
Often overshadowed by Brussels or Bruges, Ghent is a bit of a hidden gem, and that’s part of its charm.
It’s got canals, medieval spires, and a studenty buzz that keeps things fresh. It’s also refreshingly down-to-earth and easy to navigate.
Spend your days wandering along the river, visiting the Gravensteen castle, or reading a book in a sun-drenched square with a waffle in hand.
Why it’s one of the best solo female travel destinations: Ghent is safe, walkable, and effortlessly cool with fewer crowds.
FAQs: Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe
Frequently asked questions about European solo female travel destinations.
A: Yes. Most European countries are safe and welcoming for women, especially in cities with good infrastructure and a strong solo travel culture. Like anywhere, it’s smart to stay aware, trust your instincts, and avoid wandering down dark alleyways at 3am. But overall, Europe is a solid choice for dipping your toes into solo travel.
A: Somewhere compact, walkable, and friendly – like Edinburgh, Lisbon, or Copenhagen. These cities are easy to navigate, have great public transport, and just feel like a warm hug in city form. My solo female travel-friendly cities post is a good place to start.
A: The first time might feel a bit weird (hi, invisible table companion!), but after that it gets easier, and even enjoyable. Bring a book, people-watch like a pro, or just lean into the freedom of ordering whatever you want without compromise.
A: Both can work! Hostels are great for meeting people, especially if they offer female-only dorms or private rooms. But if you’re more of a quiet-coffee-and-your-own-bathroom kind of traveller, small hotels or boutique guesthouses are also brilliant for solo stays.
A: Aside from the essentials (passport, comfy shoes, charger), pack light, bring layers, and always carry a portable phone charger. A lightweight crossbody bag with a zip is great for keeping things secure. And don’t forget your confidence – it’s the most useful thing you’ll bring.
A: Stay in sociable places, join walking tours or food tastings, and hang out in cafés, hostels, or co-working spaces. You might be surprised how many other solo travellers are out there looking for the same connection – even if you are introverted.
A: Share your itinerary with someone you trust, check Google reviews before booking accommodation, and be mindful of your belongings in busy areas. Avoid getting too tipsy when out solo, and if something feels off, don’t second-guess – just leave. Safety first, always.
A: Honestly, it depends on your comfort level. Some cities (like Naples in Italy) are incredible but can feel a bit hectic or pickpocket-prone for a first-timer. If you’re unsure, start with a quieter, safer base and save the more intense adventures for later.
A: You definitely can. In fact, many introverts love solo travel because it gives you total control over your pace, your space, and your silence. You can dip into social moments when you feel like it, or just wander at your own perfect rhythm.
A: You might do, sometimes. But that’s part of the experience, and there are plenty of ways to combat loneliness. Travel has a way of connecting you with strangers in beautiful, unexpected ways. And when you do get those quiet, reflective moments alone with your thoughts… you might just realise how great your own company is.
Related Reading
Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe
- Best European Cities for History: Solo Traveller Favourites
- The Best European Cities for Art: A Solo Traveller’s Guide
- Ultimate Guide: Solo Female Travel in Europe
- How to Plan Your First Solo Trip in Europe
- 10 Inspiring Books by Solo Female Travellers
- 19 Empowering Solo Female Travel Quotes to Inspire You
- Why You Should Travel Alone: 10 Benefits of Solo Travel.
Pinterest Pin for the Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe
Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe
General Travel Resources:
Booking.com is the best site for hotels with free reservation and cancellations.
Viator and Get Your Guide are the best sites for tours and activities.
Discover Cars is the best comparison site for car rentals.
Trip.com is good for booking flights and packages.
See my Travel Resources page for a full list of helpful booking links.
Popular Destinations: London | Edinburgh | Malta | Scotland | Madeira | Cyprus | Italy | Canary Islands
Tags: Europe, solo female travel
Leave a Reply