Are you looking for countries to start your next solo adventure? We recommend these destinations to travel alone. This list is a must-see and is packed with advice for first-time solo travelers. So take a look at these best places to solo travel and start planning your next trip!
Women’s safety is an essential factor to consider when traveling alone. And the mortality of solo travel in women is increasing considerably, with it the concerns. So what are the best and worst countries to travel solo in 2022? To resolve this question, various rankings, such as the ‘Women’s Danger Index,’ were prepared by the travel consultant Asher & Lyric.
Or ‘The most dangerous places for women travelers’ by Forbes magazine, which measure magnitudes such as safety, crime against women, and respect for their fundamental rights. Beyond the most suitable, the last position of South Africa stands out, followed by Brazil and Russia. On the other hand, these countries lead the classification obtained by adding and weighting both indices.
We believe that a woman’s place is where she wants to be. However, despite everything, although our fight for a world with equal rights is advancing, the act of traveling alone continues to resist. It is not difficult to find countries where violence against women is still very high, which ends up intimidating travelers in some way.
We dream of the day when women don’t have to rely on recommendations to find a safe place to travel alone. But, as long as this does not come true, we believe that some countries have factors that offer more security for us women travelers.
We have decided to list the best countries for traveling alone. Yes, they are 100% safe. But according to our experience and research, they are quiet places.
If you are starting to travel solo, let’s look at Worldpackers, which offers volunteer opportunities worldwide. Traveling and exchanging is a great way to start traveling solo.
1. Finland
Finland is ideal for nature lovers. There is the Lemmenjoki National Park, one of the largest in Europe. It has different wild areas and is one of the most significant lakes on the continent.
Why is Finland an ideal destination for solo travel?
Finland ranks first for safety in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness ranking.
Where to stay: check out the Worldpackers host list!
2. Canada
Canada is home to a wide variety of settings. In the country, you can find centuries-old forests, snow-capped mountains, fields, and lakes. It is worth making the trip.
Why is Canada an ideal destination for solo travel?
Among all the countries in the Americas, Canada is considered the safest destination for female travelers.
Get to know the best landscapes in Canada in this article.
Where to stay: Check out the list of Canadian hosts.
3. New Zealand
A country with landscapes from another world, New Zealand, or the Shire of Middle-earth for “Lord of the Rings” fans, is a perfect destination for those who like adventure, sports, and/or nature. This small country has two main islands and different scenarios. You’ll find paradisiacal beaches, active volcanoes, and colorful lakes on the North Island. In the South Island, the scenario is different: snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and a coast full of seals and whales.
Why is New Zealand an ideal destination for solo travelers?
The destination is considered the 4th safest country to travel to, according to the Institute for Economics & Peace report.
Where to stay: From paradisiacal beaches to snow-capped mountains, check out where you can stay as a Worldpacker!
4. Uruguay
This small country is charming, and its people are very welcoming. First, in Montevideo, the capital, you can take advantage of the beaches that contrast beautifully with the city’s urban part. Next, in Punta del Este, the most famous resort in Uruguay, you will find beaches, monuments, and a quiet place to relax. Finally, in Colonia del Sacramento, you will discover a region full of history and charm.
Why is Uruguay an ideal destination for solo travel?
The country has the lowest crime rates in the Americas.
Where to stay: check out the hosts to remain in Uruguay, exchanging work for accommodation.
5. Switzerland
Located in the heart of Europe, this country cannot be defined by just making good watches. Switzerland is much more. It is a country that has cultural diversity, a wide variety of artistic attractions, and cosmopolitan landscapes that converge with nature.
Why is Switzerland an ideal destination for solo travelers?
Switzerland ranks 7th in the list of the most peaceful countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index (IGP).
Where to stay: find volunteer opportunities in Switzerland.
6. Belgium
They say Belgium is a must-see destination in Europe, and this is not just saying it. The country is charming and has many historical attractions. Brussels, for example, can walk through the streets and find medieval architecture. Bruges, you will discover landscapes worthy of a good romantic movie.
Why is Belgium an ideal destination for a solo traveler?
The country ranks 10th in the International Women’s Travel Center’s ranking of the best countries for women to travel alone.
Where to stay: see the list of 5-star hostels to stay in for free in exchange for work.
7. Austrian
Many travelers say that Austria is an almost perfect country. It must be because the destination has Europe’s best quality of life indices. In addition to the great quality of life, Austria has extraordinary landscapes.
Why is Austria an ideal destination for solo travelers?
The country was in 4th place in the best countries for women to travel alone from the International Women’s Travel Center.
8. Iceland
This is another ideal destination for solo travel. Known as the Land of Ice, 15% of Iceland’s territory is covered in ice. It is possible to walk on the ice and even visit some caves. Despite its name, the country has a lot of fire. Yes, you read it right!
Here, there are 20 active volcanoes. Between ice and fire, Iceland delights its visitors with extraordinary landscapes. Its capital, Reykjavik, is charming and has many attractions and lively nightlife.
Why is Iceland an ideal destination for solo travel?
Iceland has the lowest crime rates on the planet, ranking first in the Global Peace Index (IGP).
Where to Stay: Travel to Iceland by trading your skills for accommodation in these fantastic places.
9. Japan
Japan is a perfect country to travel to alone. Its cultural richness, delicious gastronomy, and the comfort of transport make a trip to this destination an absolute delight. In addition, it is a tremendously safe country, and the Japanese are naturally kind and polite. However, sometimes you find that the culture shock and the difference in language make communication almost impossible. But precisely, that difference in culture is one of the attractions of this trip; know that nearly everything you discover will leave you speechless.
The essential visits are Tokyo and Kyoto. In the first one, you immediately realize that you could spend weeks and do something different every day, although what you cannot miss is the ‘kwai’ culture of Takeshita street, the Meiji shrine, or the Senso-ji temple. And in Kyoto, if you go when the cherry blossoms bloom, there is nothing more appealing than spending an afternoon walking the Philosopher’s Walk. If you have more days, feel free to use the trains (always punctual) to get to know the Japanese Alps or the Hakone area, where you can enjoy a night in a ryokan.
To discuss Japan, we have to start with an old cliché “the destination where ancient traditions coexist with the most advanced technology.” Despite everything, to talk about this country, you have to visit it. We can speak of Tokyo, a megacity considered the cleanest and most organized in the world. We can also talk about Osaka, a modern, charming city full of entertainment.
Why is Japan an ideal destination for solo travel?
Japan is in 6th place among the world’s most peaceful countries, according to the Global Peace Index (IGP).
Where to stay: Check out the most recommended places to stay in the country with Worldpackers.
10. Chili
A country with a unique beauty and capable of pleasing the most demanding travelers, Chile has landscapes worthy of movies. It is there where the driest desert in the world is located, the Atacama, and a good part of the beauties of Patagonia.
In addition, the destination has historic cities, beaches full of life, and perfect regions for camping. Its capital, Santiago, has an enchanting landscape. Surrounded by mountains, the city is home to a wide variety of entertainment.
Why is Chile an ideal destination for solo travel?
The country has low crime rates and ranks 24th on the Global Peace Index.
Where to stay: There are more than 130 opportunities to remain in the country without having to pay for accommodation.
11. Poland
Poland is in tenth place in this ranking. The Central European country concentrates one of the lowest levels in terms of sexual violence against women and attempted homicide. Known for its extraordinary medieval architecture and Jewish heritage, it is an ideal destination for all those women who want to discover a region full of history.
12. Croatia
Characterized by its coastline on the shimmering Adriatic Sea and its medieval cities, the Balkan country is ideal for women travelers. Like Canada, Croatia stands out for being one of the destinations with the lowest number of attempted homicides. In addition, women travelers can enjoy magical corners that history has left on its streets over the years.
A unique feeling of freedom
Traveling alone still carries a certain stigma of dangerousness. Going through this patriarchal world as a woman implies facing deeply rooted fears both in us and those who love us the most, which can be summarized in one question: will we be safe?
However, this fence is also there to be broken. Once you do, it will be challenging to disengage from the feeling of freedom, power and autonomy that comes from exploring the planet on your own, at your own pace, with no commitments other than the ones you want to acquire. It doesn’t matter if you are the typical extroverted traveler who makes friends on all trips, who prefer to lock yourself up and study museums for entire days or who is looking to find herself: in all cases, there is a perfect destination for you. You will see it!
13. Copenhagen (Denmark)
Copenhagen is a paradise for anyone interested in decoration, fashion, design or interior architecture. If you count yourself among them, don’t miss those classics you never forget, like Illums Bolighus or HAY, on Strøget street. You will go through it several times, because it crosses half the city. In the ones in the center (Møntergade, Christian Ix’s Gade) there are a good handful of very interesting decoration shops such as Gubi or Rabens Saloner.
The walk will continue through unexpected places, such as Café Paludan, halfway between a coffee shop and a bookstore, and trendy neighborhoods like Nørrebro. Finally, there is Jægersborggade, a street that concentrates many independent businesses, which will continue to feed our visual album of beauty.
14. Kathmandu (Nepal)
The mystique, that promise of boundless peace that we seem incapable of finding at home, and the eight thousand, which, even if they are not, seem increasingly accessible, have made Nepal a more than a desirable destination. Trekking is in fashion, but a slightly lighter plan is also possible: rest in Kathmandu.
This is a city that, despite its reputation for being polluted and chaotic, knows how to speed up your heart if you are into initiation trips. Be sure to visit its Buddhist temples or get lost in its intricate old town -Durbar Square, in the photo- full of medieval palaces. The best? The sympathy of its people, always willing to make a little hole for you in their life.
15. Fiordland National Park (New Zealand)
New Zealand, with cinematic landscapes (movies with extraordinary settings have been shot there, such as The Lord of the Rings or The Chronicles of Narnia), is a country of fjords. Fiordland National Park, recognized by Unesco as a World Heritage Site, surprises no less than 14 marine inlets that leave dreamlike landscapes and endless waterfalls in their wake.
If we want to visit any of them, we have two options: the Milford Sound fjord or the Doubtful Sound fjord. Both routes begin in the charming little town of Te Anau and promise unforgettable views of the purest and wildest nature.
16. Amsterdam (Netherlands)
Visit the Anne Frank house, the flower market, and coffee shops, and navigate the canal. That’s all very well, and you can do it in the capital of the Netherlands. But there is also an underground city beyond the tourist boats and blue porcelain shops, with unforgettable walks through the fashionable neighborhood, De Pijp, charming winter terraces, perfect cafeterias to feed your diet (and your soul), and even a meeting room. Concertos is an old 19th-century church. There are many Amsterdams; only you can discover yours.
17. Stockholm (Sweden)
Fourteen islands with 14 different attractions make up Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. Let’s see, take note: you have the best of the best of the worldwide admired Swedish design; you have some of the coolest and most exciting neighborhoods in Europe; you have trendy shops and cafes; you have curiosities of those that will allow you to do a “did you know what” at least seven times; you have an overwhelmingly beautiful landscape where equality is the norm.
Does anyone give more? No, believe us. Go to Stockholm. Now.
18. London, United Kingdom)
Get lost in London. Just pass by Big Ben, the Big Eye, or Picadilly Circus to squeeze the secret corners of a city with everything. Small bookstores with fabulous jewelry, street markets with extraordinary pieces, recently opened shops by an exciting designer that hardly anyone knows about, absolutely charming parks, art galleries that are art in themselves, and bars in which to stay and live.
So put on comfortable shoes and look like an explorer: London is your treasure map, and the Xs are everywhere.
19. Ethiopia (with and for women)
“Discover the sources of the Blue Nile, share a coffee ceremony with an expat, chat with one of the country’s best-known photographers, lose yourself in the fascinating Merkato, take part in a procession…”.
These are just some of the experiences you will have in Ethiopia with the Focus On Women route and an agency specialized in adventures for women that will put you in contact with others all over the planet. Is it objective? “Enjoy the sorority among women from all over the world with whom to share dreams and goals.”
20. Ile de Ré (France)
The quintessence of French refinement is concentrated in barely 150 square kilometers of low houses with colored shutters, charming little terraces, and pirate-tale lighthouses. The Ile de Ré, scented with hollyhocks, awaits lovers of tranquility and savoir vivre at the gates of the Atlantic.
Take a book to enjoy sitting in their cafes while you taste delicious macarons. You may come across Gerard Depardieu, Jean Reno, or Juliette Binoche. They, like you, also spend the summer here.
21. Bergen (Norway)
It is the gateway to the spectacular Norwegian fjords, which you must visit no matter what. But, in addition, Bergen deserves a stop by itself. Walk through the picturesque port district; Bryggen is full of bars, restaurants, and cafes where you can rest.
Immerse yourself in the ways of the Hanseatic League, the association of German merchants between the 13th and 17th centuries that controlled the maritime trade of northern Europe, in the fascinating Schøtstuene Museum. Taste its rich fish in the primary market, and above all, go ahead and try its nightlife, always animated by live performances. There are even parties on board the ships!
22. Amman (Jordan)
Relax; we are not sending you to a dangerous place. Jordan, known as the Switzerland of the Middle East, is a haven of peace, with a fascinating history written on each of its stones. Its capital, Amman, located between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley and spread out over nineteen hills, is a cosmopolitan city full of archaeological monuments and vibrant modern buildings.
Its inhabitants’ hospitality is known worldwide, but if you feel more comfortable around fellow countrymen, don’t worry. WOM, a cultural travel agency that brings together women who travel alone in groups, will be your perfect ally to travel the many country’s treasures.
23. Switzerland
Yes, Switzerland, all, whole, complete. If you are looking for a peaceful, peaceful landscape with many whims to make your mouth water, this is your country. It has just 41 square kilometers (for us to locate ourselves: Spain has almost 506,000) and the best cheese and chocolate shops on the planet. Do you know where to start traveling so much beauty? The Grand Swiss Route may be the perfect guide, to begin with.
24. Discover Toulouse at your leisure
Toulouse is called the Pink City because of the tone of its bricks in its monumental architecture. But it is also the City of the Airbus, the City of Space, the city of beautiful shops, bars, restaurants, and fantastic pastry shops. It is the city of the Little Prince because Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Exupery conceived and wrote this work there while he was resting in the Grand Balcon Hotel from his flights piloting the Aeropostal.
Toulouse prides itself on its famous cake that enriched the city as the towers of the mansions testifies; the taller, the richer the owner. The Garonne river crosses it, and people gather on its banks; sometimes, you can even see the impressive minotaur for a walk. The Galeries Lafayette is an obligatory chapter, even more so when the famous Mabiche Sur Le Toit restaurant is located in its attic, where you can see the entire Pink City.
25. Gozo is perfect if you travel alone
When a friend asks me to recommend a place to travel alone, Malta always appears on my list, and more specifically, Gozo, the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago. It is a perfect destination for solo travel (especially if you are a newcomer). It is safe, easy to communicate in English, and very welcoming. Very remarkable is its capital, Victoria, with its citadel, medieval streets, and the Cathedral of the Assumption.
It is an island also full of magnificent natural settings such as the Xlendi cliffs and the Calipso cave. And, although it is no longer possible to visit the famous Blue Window (which collapsed due to a storm in 2017), we always have the series and movies to watch it. For example, here was the wedding of Daenerys with Khal Drogo in ‘Game of Thrones, and she also appeared in the film Clash of the Titans.
It also has surprises for history lovers, such as the megalithic temples of Ggantija, near the town of Xaghra. And at lunchtime, it is essential to taste excellent fresh fish in one of the small fishing villages on the island, such as Xlendi. The island leaves its mark on us. It’s okay if you want to be a gocitanas when you come back. This little corner of the world transmits a lot of calm and ends up trapping you.
26. Bordeaux, travel solo to the City of Wine
This lovely city is perfect for a solo getaway. It is a very comfortable and safe city, which you can explore by bike without any problem (it is very flat) and will conquer you. Very well cared for, with a beautiful historic center, it is ideal for a weekend of enjoyment. Discover its gastronomy, and stroll through its market stalls. On Sundays, you must go to Les Chartrons and get warm with oysters. And visit its wine bars (the Appellation de Origen Bordeaux has a Wine Bar where you can try a significantly adjusted price, a wide variety of Bordeaux wines, accompanied by local cheeses, a delight).
In addition, for a few years, if you like the world of wine, like me, they have created their City of Wine (Cité du Vin), which allows a complete experience within the framework of a hyper-modern building, a kind of giant decanter that looks at the Garonne. Although the charm of approaching Saint Emilion, that small medieval town surrounded by vineyards and with some of the best wineries in the area, continues to be an essential part for me to discover what makes the terroir and Bordeaux wines so unique. Do you dare?
27. Taiwan respectful of the travelling woman
Preconceived ideas or ignorance are often decisive when choosing a destination. In the case of Taiwan, what most affects our choice is the image we have of the island, of a technological place, of impossible constructions or cheap products. And if there are actual cities made up of cutting-edge companies and research from around the world, there are also buildings like the reed-shaped Taipei 101 (it was the tallest building in the world for a long time) and even a shoe-shaped church.
But, above all this, there is an exciting country full of culture, temples, cultural coexistence, exciting gastronomy for curious people, and landscapes that seem to be taken from a story. Furthermore, Taiwan is perfect for female solo travelers because of the sense of security, the friendliness of Taiwanese people who go out of their way to please them, and the ease of communication to move around the country.
28. Porto, bohemian and welcoming
One of the ideal destinations for women who travel alone is, without a doubt, Porto. It is a city I know well since I regularly travel for work reasons. It is calm, serene, bohemian, and, above all, very welcoming.
At the same time, Porto always surprises you with its intense cultural activity and the wide range of entertainment it offers if you like to live the night. Even going out alone, you feel safe walking through its streets, although you can still take all the precautions. It is one of the best European cities for women traveling alone for the first time. Check out Porto’s new WOW space with its Design Museum.
29. Azores, volcanic attraction
When I traveled to the Azores, I have tied to the ancestral link its people established, with a handful of volcanoes barely emerging in the middle of the Atlantic. I like its fields surrounded by hydrangea hedges, the attachment to the land they profess, the calm island rhythm, and its history linked to that spirit of freedom that living without borders provokes.
While surrounded by waves, the natives are as connected to the Portuguese mainland as to America, where many of them emigrated. The possibility of taking a plane that, in a few hours, lands you in North American cities or boarding a sailboat that will challenge the ocean is a permanent invitation to travel. Take advantage of a boat trip to watch cetaceans. At the same time, you feel welcomed by the open hospitality of its people, who are delighted to share a way of life that does not know the Portuguese Saudade but the pleasure of living in the middle of the ocean.
You May Also Like:
- Hotels in Istanbul: Experience the History at Heritage Hotels
- Hotels in Taipei : Discovering the Best Boutique Hotels
This is our list of solo travel destinations, but there are many more!
You will need good international travel insurance for this adventure, so get a 10% discount on Pax Assistance by clicking here! In addition, if you are a verified Worldpackers member with one of the Pack plans, we are giving a 20% discount on Pax!
And you, what are you waiting for to travel alone?
See you around the world 🙂
