Traveling alone for the first time can be scary, but once you’ve taken the first step, there is nothing more pleasurable than solo adventures. Every woman should experience the thrill of solo travel at least once in her lifetime.
I remember my first time heading to Athens, Greece, alone. As I walked through the otherworldly Acropolis, a wave of excitement and liberation washed over me. Europe is the perfect continent for solo female travelers, as most of the cities are safe, and there is a lot to do to please the wandering soul.
Join me as I take you through some of the best European cities. Keep reading until the end, as I will cover some hidden gems and guide you on some fantastic activities to do during your travels.
Let’s get started!
The 12 Best Places for Female Solo Travel in Europe
If you’re looking for the best places for female solo travel, Europe is where you should start. It is an excellent destination for solo travelers, and while exploring this region, I found it incredibly liberating and fun.
In my adventures, I made some amazing friends, saw breathtaking landscapes, and experienced how the locals live their daily lives.
Here are some of the best European cities for solo female travel:
Athens, Greece (The Best European City for Solo Female Travel)
Athens, Greece, is one of the best European cities for solo female travelers. I love the city so much that I’ve visited it multiple times during my solo journey across Europe.
Whether you’re looking for ancient structures or some delicious food, you’ll find everything in the city of the Violet Crown.
Home to the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Athens has a rich history and incredible historic buildings that will leave you in awe. As you walk through the streets, you’ll find yourself lost in the grand architecture.
If you’re wondering whether Athens is safe, you should know that there is nothing to worry about. It’s a popular tourist destination, and solo travelers may find it extremely safe to wander around the city.
Best of all, Athens is in Greece, and the country has some of the best beaches in Europe. If you’re visiting this place, make sure that you spend at least two days in the country’s capital.
A couple of things that I highly recommend solo female travelers to do when in Athens are as follows:
- Visiting the Acropolis;
- Walking around the Plaka area; and
- Experiencing a day trip to the Temple of Poseidon.
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Spain is one of the best places in Europe for solo female travelers, and I love heading over to Palma de Mallorca to spend my summers.
There are so many things to do in this gorgeous European city, and you’ll find that it’s not only safe but the locals are extremely friendly.
Palma is a Spanish resort city in the western Mediterranean where you’ll find stunning beaches and 13th-century cathedrals, Gothic landmarks, and fortresses.
If I remember correctly, I spent around four days in Palma, which was enough for me to explore the grand architecture, munch on tasty street food, and visit some local art galleries.
Here are a couple of things solo travelers should do in Palma de Mallorca, Spain:
- Rent an electric scooter and hire a tour guide to show you around the old town of Palma. You can do this alone, but having a local around means you get to see some hidden gems and cover as much ground as possible.
- During your solo trip, take a boat tour and move through the gorgeous coastal towns of the Southeastern coast. The entire experience will last you an hour, and you’ll get to interact with new people.
- Serra de Tramuntana mountain range is a UNESCO site, and if you’re a solo female traveler in Spain, you don’t want to miss out on this adventure. You can hop on a vintage train or take a boat tour to explore Mallorca’s west coast, including the coastal village of Port Soller.
Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes is the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands and one of the best European cities to visit for solo female travelers. It is a resort city where you can explore historical sites and see the crystal clear beach on the same day!
Since Rhodes is safe for females to explore, you can wander around the cobblestone streets alone at night and marvel at the medieval architecture in this old fortified city.
The best time to visit is during the summer, but you can also travel between November and May, as the weather is pleasant, unlike other cities in Greece.
If you’re a solo female traveler in Rhodes, here are a couple of things you should definitely try:
- Take a wine-tasting tour in Rhodes. You’ll get to experience the local alcoholic beverages while chatting with other solo travelers.
- Explore the turquoise waters by taking a boat trip to Symi Island. The wild natural landscape is simply breathtaking. You can swim in Saint George Bay amid the brilliant blue sea.
- Spend a day in Lindos, a small town in Rhodes known for the Acropolis, which features monumental 4th-century gates and reliefs. I recommend taking a tour so that you can meet other solo travelers on your journey.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
As a solo female traveler, interacting with the locals can be challenging if they don’t speak English. Fortunately, there is no language barrier in Amsterdam, making it an excellent choice for women to visit.
Amsterdam is one of the best European destinations for solo female travelers, as it is safe, and the friendly locals are always ready to help.
Solo travelers may find that public transportation is reliable when compared to other European cities. You can visit the state museum if you want to have a glimpse of the vast collection of Dutch Golden Age art or roam around the picturesque historic canals for a few Instagram pictures.
Sometimes, traveling solo can get lonely, and I find that interacting with other travelers during my adventures helps me stay busy. There are so many things to do in Amsterdam that you’ll never get bored. Some of these include the following:
- Visit Anne Frank’s house. It’s an experience that you won’t find anywhere. I highly recommend purchasing the tickets in advance.
- Take the all-inclusive canal tour by Captin Jack, which goes on for 90 minutes. You’ll get to see all of the famous sites, making it a fantastic opportunity for solo female travelers.
- If you’re a solo female traveler looking for some fun time, don’t forget to check out Amsterdam’s 9 Streets. Located in the city center, the vibe here is off the charts. You can shop till you drop, explore the boutique cafes, and grab some souvenirs before heading to your next destination.
- The best way for solo female travelers to see Amsterdam if they’re visiting for the first time is to join a bike tour. The guide will take you to the most popular tourist destinations in the city.
- A trip to Amsterdam is incomplete without visiting the Red Light District. Although many are quick to say that it’s not their cup of tea, taking a tour through this infamous area will give you insights into the laws and allow you to see this adventure from a different perspective.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is one of my favorite European cities, and it’s the safest city in Austria, making it a great destination for solo female travelers.
With views of the Eastern Alps, this small Austrian city on the border of Germany is known for its Baroque architecture, which is why it’s on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There is an abundance of natural beauty and national parks, enough to keep you busy for days!
From spending a day in the Untersberg park to taking a cable ride to the top of the Alps, there is so much to do in this beautiful city!
With so much to do in Salzburg, figuring out where to begin can be challenging for first-time solo female travelers. I enjoyed the following activities and highly recommend them:
- Take a walking tour around Salzburg. It’ll cover most of the popular places in just under three hours.
- One of the best things about traveling is the food. You can check out a food guide for Salzburg or hire a professional to show you around some local delicacies.
- Join a bike tour. I had a fantastic time going around Salzburg on a bicycle and meeting other solo travelers.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is the first city that comes to mind when I think of low crime rates and safety. To be honest, I never planned on visiting The City of Spires, but when I found an incredibly cheap ticket, I had to give it a go.
After visiting Copenhagen, I was completely hooked. Located in Northern Europe, this city is best known for a mix of Medieval and Renaissance architecture. Here, the public transportation is fantastic, which makes it easy to travel around the area as a solo female traveler.
Copenhagen is the place to be if you love dining in fancy restaurants and exploring landscapes that look like something out of a fairytale!
Here are a few things solo female travelers should do when in Copenhagen:
- Tivoli Gardens is a 19th-century amusement park that you should definitely visit. Since it can get crowded during peak season, it’s best to get VIP tickets to skip the long queues.
- Indulge in the local food scene by joining a culinary tour. This can take about four hours, and by the end of it, you’ll be thanking me for all the scrumptious meals you tried.
- If the weather is nice, you should consider taking a boat tour to experience the water canals in the city.
- The Round Tower is a 17th-century tower made by Christian IV of Denmark. It offers serene views of the city center and the gorgeous landscape in the backdrop. Solo female travelers must visit this place on a clear day.
Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux, France, is one of my favorite European destinations, and it is slowly picking pace as a tourist city. Known for its wine culture, this city offers a culinary adventure like no other. You’ll find yourself surrounded by world-class restaurants and cafes that provide a flavorful experience, regardless of what you order.
Besides checking out the many restaurants and hip cafes in Bordeaux, you can consider heading over to the vineries or checking out the medieval castles from ancient times. It is one of the safest cities for solo female travelers in Europe.
Here are a few things I enjoyed doing while roaming around Bordeaux, France:
- You can eat your way through Bordeaux by joining a food group tour. The culinary experience will leave you wanting more.
- If you’re a solo traveler and like meeting new people, you may want to consider taking a bike tour. It’ll take around three hours, and by the time you’re done, you’ll have made new friends and covered most of Bordeaux.
- Take a boat or join a Bordeaux Guided Cruise to traverse across the mighty Garonne River, which flows from the central Spanish Pyrenees to the Gironde estuary in Bordeaux. Don’t forget to sip on a glass of wine during your water adventures.
- Those in Bourdeaux should not miss out on St. Emilion, a medieval city in Southwestern France. It’s a quaint little place that has a lot to offer, including world-famous wineries, beautiful architecture, and grand monuments.
Faro, Portugal
Bordering Spain, Faro is one of the cheapest European cities for solo female travelers. Portugal is in Southern Europe, and because of its location and history, Faro has a diverse culture that’s waiting for you to explore.
Wander through Faro’s enchanting Old Town and let the historic cobbled streets, mouthwatering cuisine, stunning coastal views, and some of the best beaches in all of the European countries amaze you. Plus, there are many day trips to nearby towns that you can do if you’re in Faro.
As a solo traveler, I found Faro to be an extremely safe European destination for females. You can travel alone on the train and buses, and the locals are warm and welcoming.
I enjoyed my time in Faro, Portugal, as there is a lot to do for solo female travelers. Here are a couple of things you should do in this quiet little city:
- Take a boat ride to Ria Formosa Natural Park, a place in the Algarve that offers breathtaking views of the stunning landscape.
- There is a Segway tour that you should consider. It involves a group of people exploring the streets of Faro at night. You’ll have the opportunity to make new friends and share a few laughs while you explore the narrow lanes filled with Renaissance architecture.
- If you’re a foodie, you may want to join a group culinary tour. It will take about three hours, but by the end of it, you will have tried some of the best meals in the entire city.
- When I visited Faro, I wanted to explore the city and the nearby beaches. The Algarve region has stunning Atlantic beaches, and it is easily accessible via public transport in Faro.
Dublin, Ireland
If you speak English and it’s your first time traveling alone, it’s best to stick with other English-speaking European cities. Dublin is a fantastic place for solo female travelers, as the locals are friendly and laid back.
This capital city is a fantastic place to be if you want to explore the country’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Plus, there are a lot of free walking tours that you can join to get the local experience.
Ireland is one of the best solo female travel destinations in Europe. Here are a few things to do if you’re in Dublin:
- Join the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle tour to see the most precious object in the Western world and learn about its profound historical significance. You’ll get to see Trinity College in all its might, which is a magical experience.
- Book a day tour to Kilkenny and Wicklow. These two places are amazing, especially Wicklow, which is also referred to as the “Garden of Ireland.” This tiny town has rolling mountains, high waterfalls, dramatic, untamed scenery, and more!
- You can rent a car from Dublin and explore Northern Ireland to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway, the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route, the buzzing nightlife, drinking at the Old Bushmills Distillery or Echlinville, and much more.
Sifnos, Greece
Home to the striking white Chrysopigi Monastery, sandy beaches, and much more, Sifnos is one of the best European islands for solo female travelers. It is a very chill and relaxing place, so don’t expect a buzzing nightlife.
Sifnos is an excellent place to be if you’re seeking tranquility during your adventures. To reach this Greek island, you must take a three-hour ferry from Athens.
Here are a few things solo female travelers can do in Sifnos, Greece:
- Greek food is finger-licking good, and when I was in Sifnos, I decided to try some of the best restaurants on the island, including Captain Sifakis, NUS, and many more.
- Visit the town of Kastro, which is one of the most fascinating and mysterious places on Sifnos. The journey to the Church of Seven Martyrs is humbling and will leave you mesmerized. You’ll definitely have a good time in Kastro if you’re looking to relax and walk around.
- Hang out by the Aegean Sea on the beautiful beach at Platis Gialos. Solo travelers should bring some food, water, towels, and sunscreen to relax near the calming waters of Greece.
Corfu, Greece
Corfu is one of the best solo female travel destinations in Europe for many reasons. It’s a Greek island that is further away from the hot tourist spots like Mykonos and Santorini.
I personally enjoyed roaming around Corfu as it is not a party town or a honeymoon destination. The beautiful sandy beaches, friendly and warm locals, and delicious food might be the best reason to extend your stay.
It’s important to note that public transport is very limited. You will have to travel by foot around town. However, you can rent a car if you plan to stay longer or visit the gorgeous remote villages on the outskirts.
When I think of Corfu, my mind instantly drifts towards the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters. However, there is much more to this Greek island. Here are a few things you should do if you’re visiting this spectacular place:
- You can book a local tour to visit all of the attractions. Make sure you allocate a complete day for this activity, as there are a lot of places to visit and sights to see. Walk around the Old Town, which is a World Cultural Heritage Monument according to UNESCO. Finish off your day with a glass of wine and some snacks.
- Corfu is a foodie island, and if you love trying new dishes, you must book a culinary tour to taste everything that this Greek island has to offer.
- Make sure you visit the Old Venetian Fort and The New Fort. It’s a spectacular sight that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Verona, Italy
Although Verona, Italy, is the birthplace of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, it is also a fantastic solo female travel destination.
Italians are pretty chill people, and Italy is safe, so why not visit Verona alone? You’ll surely meet new people and make good friends during your adventures.
Smashed between Milan and Venice, Verona is one of my favorite European cities that is famous for its stunning architecture, Roman Empire’s biggest arenas, historical landmarks, bustling open-air market, and much more.
Speaking of the Roman Empire, I must also add Rome, and to that note, check out Chris’ guide to hostels in Rome.
My solo female travel adventures in Verona, Italy, included a whole lot of eating risotto and cheese dips and exploring the Roman, medieval, and Venetian parts of the city.
Here are a few experiences that I highly recommend other women who are traveling alone should try:
- Whether it’s visiting Juliet’s House or going through the Piazza delle Erbe, booking a walking tour in Verona, Italy, is a great way to connect with the culture and see all of the important sightseeing spots.
- Your trip to Verona is incomplete without a wine-tasting tour. The Little Rome has delicious wines that you can sip on while enjoying the most beautiful and charismatic of landscapes.
- Lake Garda is just a 20-minute drive away from Verona and offers a magical combination of beauty, culture, and history. It should be on every solo female traveler’s list.
The Five Best Beach Vacations for Solo Female Travelers in Europe
If you’re looking for the best places for solo female travel, Europe stands out for many reasons. It has some of the safest cities in the world, and there is so much history in the region that solo female travelers should not miss out on.
Here are the best beach vacations for solo female travelers Europe has to offer:
Split, Croatia
Historically known as Spalato, Split is the largest city on the Croatian coast and offers some of the best beaches in the region. From white sands to crystal clear waters and pebble beaches, everything is within walking distance from the Old Town.
You’ll find all sorts of activities at the beaches in Split, including parasailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more. Best of all, there are bars, bathrooms, and lounge chairs!
Zakynthos, Greece
If you’re a female traveling alone in Europe, stop by Zakynthos, Greece. It is a Greek island that is also well known for being a summer resort for travelers. The sandy coves, lush cliffs, and turquoise waters will make your first solo trip memorable.
Some of the most popular beaches in Zakynthos are Agios Nikolaos, Alykanas, and Tsilivi. These are well-maintained, and there are many bars and restaurants for you to explore.
San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian is a great city on the Bay of Biscay in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country. It has a fantastic reputation for having some of the best beaches in Europe.
There is nothing better than basking in the sun at the golden La Concha Beach and heading over to one of the many Michelin-star restaurants for a tasty meal.
Valencia, Spain
One of the highlights of my many solo trips to Spain includes the time I spent in Valencia. Although the City of the Holy Grail is famous for paella and the Las Fallas festival, this gorgeous municipality has 13 beaches, with three of them near the city center.
It’s shocking to see how well-maintained Valencia and its beaches are. Honestly, I’ve never seen a large capital city that’s so clean.
Ibiza, Spain
As you’re reading this guide, you may have figured out that I’ve mentioned Spain twice in a row, and this is the third time. The country has stunning beaches, and if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation by the waters, you may want to consider Ibiza.
Although Ibiza is a party destination, don’t let that deter you from heading over there during your adventures. It has some of the best beaches for solo female travelers.
The course sandy beaches have gorgeous landscapes surrounded by clear, turquoise waters. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe or go swimming, you’ll definitely find a lot of activities to do in Ibiza.
Top Three Must-visit Destinations for Solo Female Travel in Europe
In this guide, I’ve gone over the best European cities for female solo travel. Here, I will go over some must-visit destinations according to Kipling:
Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg is notoriously known for its Red Light District, where the Beatles left their mark in the early 1960s. However, it’s packed with history and culture, making it a must-visit solo female destination in Europe.
The picturesque canals, historical art museums, mouthwatering food, and vibrant neighborhoods showcasing 19th-century architecture are some of the reasons why you should choose Hamburg as your next solo travel destination.
Munich, Germany
Munich is the Bavarian capital of Germany and is a German haven waiting for you to explore. It hosts the world-famous Oktoberfest, and according to recent reports, the city is number eight on the list of safest cities in Europe.
This German city is a financial hub and a major tourist destination in the region. People flock from all over the world to enjoy German delicacies, beers, green spaces, and the picturesque countryside.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Known for its rich history, cultural festivals, and architectural splendor, Edinburgh is one of the safest European cities for solo female travelers.
Edinburgh is also a must-visit destination for many reasons, including literary heritage, historic cobbled streets, striking architecture, and gothic buildings. Peter wrote a summary of the top hostels in this area for anyone looking for budget accomodations.
Let’s continue to go over the best solo female travel destinations Europe has to offer to all those travelers who are on a budget.
Budget-friendly European Cities Perfect for Female Solo Travel
Traveling solo can be addictive, as it gives you the time for self-reflection and exploration. It also teaches you to be independent.
After traveling across the world for the last decade, I found that some of the European cities are perfect for solo travelers, especially if you’re a woman traveling for the first time.
I’ve gone over the best European cities in the above sections of this guide. Here, I will quickly cover the best places to travel in Europe as a solo female traveler on a budget:
Seville, Spain
Located in the Andalusian region of southern Spain, Seville is the largest city of the Spanish autonomous community. As you walk through the cobbled stone streets, you’ll find yourself drawn to the brightly colored apartments and the gorgeous all-year-round weather.
Spain is one of the best places in Europe for female solo travel, as it is easy to navigate. The cities, including Seville, are extremely walkable, and it’s easy to get to the most popular tourist destinations on foot.
I highly recommend the solo travelers to visit Seville Cathedral, the Alcázar of Seville, and the Torre del Oro during their trip to this gorgeous little Spanish city.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is very close to Spain, and after your solo trip to Seville, you can head over to Lisbon for a fantastic adventure. It’s a lovely port city known for beautiful squares, wandering streets, scrumptious cuisine, and welcoming locals.
This stunning capital city is easy to explore on foot. If you’re heading over to Lisbon, make sure to board a Remodelado tram. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Prague, Czech Republic
If you’re into Gothic architecture, you don’t want to skip out on Prague during your solo adventures. The winding streets, historic bridges, and castles that look like they’re from a fairytale are a few reasons why you should visit the City of a Hundred Spires.
Solo female travelers will appreciate the fact that there are many budget hostels in and around the city center, and traveling within Prague is convenient due to a good network of public transportation.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is the country’s illustrious capital, and it has plenty of history, culture, and natural beauty to explore. It’s a popular tourist destination that offers free walking tours and more thermal and medicinal springs than anywhere in the world.
If you’re visiting Budapest as part of your solo trip, make sure you check out these hidden gems:
- Gül Baba Street
- For Sale Pub
- Vajdahunyad Castle
- The Buda Hills
- Füvészkert Botanical Garden
Final Thoughts
When writing this guide, I started to reminisce over my solo adventures and couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
Traveling alone has made me more independent, and as I continue to embrace the unknown, I feel empowered.
There are many places in the world to begin your solo adventures, but I highly recommend Europe, as there is no language barrier, and most of the cities are safe.
As you find the courage to travel across beautiful European cities, you’ll learn to embrace yourself and push new boundaries.
About Liz Skelcher
Originally from the UK, Liz has a passion for traveling. Liz writes for several blogs and is working towards being able to take her trusty Mac and work from anywhere. She loves exploring different cultures & countries, including some of Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the US & some of Europe. Her next big adventure will be 2023, when the Rugby World Cup is beckoning in South Africa. Highlights so far are diving with sharks in the Bahamas & bungee jumping in New Zealand.
