Top Female Solo Travel Destinations with Safety Ratings (2025 Edition)

Imagine stepping off a plane, backpack slung over your shoulder, and breathing in the crisp morning air of a brand-new city. The excitement of exploring unknown streets, trying local food, and meeting people from different cultures is unmatched. For many women, solo travel represents freedom, independence, and empowerment.

But here’s the truth: while solo travel is thrilling, safety often becomes the number one concern. From worrying about walking back to a hotel at night to making sure rideshare apps are reliable, women often spend extra time researching where they can feel secure.

That’s exactly why we’ve created this guide to the safe solo travel destinations for women in 2025. Using updated data from travel safety indexes, local crime statistics, and traveler reviews, we’ve rounded up some of the best countries and cities where women can travel confidently. This isn’t just about safety—it’s also about creating unforgettable adventures while minimizing stress.

Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned traveler, this blog will give you everything you need: destination recommendations, safety ratings, personal travel tips, and practical resources.

Why Safety Matters for Female Solo Travelers

Solo travel is growing rapidly. A 2024 Skyscanner report revealed that 65% of women plan to take at least one solo trip in 2025, compared to 47% of men. Yet, in forums and surveys, women consistently report higher safety concerns.

Here are some of the common challenges women face when traveling alone:

• Street Harassment: Catcalling or unwanted attention is a top worry.

• Transport Safety: Concerns about taxis, rideshare apps, or walking after dark.

• Accommodation Risks: Finding hotels/hostels that are women-friendly and secure.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Navigating dress codes or social expectations in different regions.

• Emergency Resources: Access to English-speaking police, hospitals, or embassies.

That’s why choosing destinations with low crime rates, strong tourism infrastructure, and cultural openness can make all the difference.

How We Selected These Destinations (Safety Methodology)

To create this 2025 list of safe solo travel destinations for women, we combined multiple sources:

• Global Peace Index (2024 data): A ranking of the safest countries worldwide.

• Numbeo Safety Index (2025 update): City-level statistics on crime, safety, and costs.

• Women’s Travel Reviews: Feedback from female bloggers, forums, and solo travel communities.

• Local Laws & Policies: Countries with strong protections for women and travelers.

• Tourism Infrastructure: Availability of safe transport, reliable internet, and women-friendly accommodations.

We’ve rated each destination on a safety scale from 1–10 (10 being the safest) and added specific safety tips for women.

Top Safe Solo Travel Destinations for Women in 2025

1. Iceland

• Safety Rating: 9.8/10

• Best For: Nature lovers, wellness retreats, Northern Lights

• Why It’s Safe: Iceland has topped the Global Peace Index for over a decade. Violent crime is extremely rare, locals speak fluent English, and women often report feeling safe even when walking alone at night.

What to Do in Iceland (Solo-Friendly):

• Chase the Northern Lights in winter.

• Relax in the Blue Lagoon or natural hot springs.

• Explore Reykjavik’s colorful streets and cozy cafés.

• Take day tours to waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches.

Safety Tips for Women:

• Public transport is limited; book guided tours or rent a car.

• The weather is unpredictable, so pack layers and share your travel route when hiking.

2. Japan

• Safety Rating: 9.6/10

• Best For: Culture, food, technology, tradition

• Why It’s Safe: Japan is known for its low crime rate and respectful culture. Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka consistently rank as some of the safest major cities in the world. Trains are punctual, streets are clean, and solo dining is widely accepted.

What to Do in Japan (Solo-Friendly):

• Stay in a capsule hotel for a unique experience.

• Visit Kyoto’s temples and cherry blossoms.

• Try street food at Osaka’s Dotonbori.

• Explore Tokyo’s anime and fashion districts.

Safety Tips for Women:

• Trains often have “women-only cars” during rush hours—use them for extra comfort.

• Learn a few Japanese phrases (locals appreciate it).

• Respect cultural norms, like quietness in public spaces.

3. Portugal

• Safety Rating: 9.2/10

• Best For: Budget travelers, history, and beaches

• Why It’s Safe: Portugal is one of Europe’s most welcoming countries, especially for women. Lisbon and Porto are vibrant cities where English is widely spoken. Street crime exists, but is usually limited to pickpocketing.

What to Do in Portugal (Solo-Friendly):

• Explore Lisbon’s pastel streets and tram rides.

• Take a wine tour in Porto.

• Relax on the Algarve’s beaches.

• Visit fairy-tale castles in Sintra.

Safety Tips for Women:

• Pickpocketing is common in tourist areas—use a crossbody bag.

• Public transport is safe, but avoid isolated train stations late at night.

• Locals are warm and helpful, especially if you ask politely.

  More Top Safe Solo Travel Destinations for Women

  4. New Zealand

  • Safety Rating: 9.4/10

  • Best For: Outdoor adventures, road trips, hiking

  • Why It’s Safe: New Zealand is famous for its friendly locals (known as “Kiwis”), well-marked hiking trails, and strong tourism infrastructure. Violent crime is extremely rare, and solo women often share how locals go out of their way to help travelers.

  What to Do in New Zealand (Solo-Friendly):

  • Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing—one of the world’s best one-day treks.

  • Explore Hobbiton, the movie set from The Lord of the Rings.

  • Road trip across the South Island to see fjords, glaciers, and mountains.

  • Try extreme sports in Queenstown (bungy jumping, skydiving).

  Safety Tips for Women:

  • Public buses connect major cities, but a rental car or campervan is best for exploring.

  • Weather can shift suddenly—pack rain gear and share your hiking route.

  • New Zealanders are open and friendly, but always trust your instincts when meeting strangers.

  5. Canada

  • Safety Rating: 9.0/10

  • Best For: City breaks, nature, multicultural experiences

  • Why It’s Safe: Canada consistently ranks as one of the safest countries for women. Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are cosmopolitan, walkable, and diverse. Solo travelers love Canada because of its polite culture and efficient public transport.

  What to Do in Canada (Solo-Friendly):

  • Explore Toronto’s multicultural neighborhoods.

  • Visit Niagara Falls or Banff National Park.

  • Try French-inspired culture and food in Montreal.

  • Experience whale watching in Vancouver.

  Safety Tips for Women:

  • Cities are safe, but carry warm clothing if visiting in winter (temperatures drop below -20°C).

  • Use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft for convenience.

  • In nature areas, follow safety guidelines for wildlife encounters.

  6. Singapore

  • Safety Rating: 9.3/10

  • Best For: Urban explorers, foodies, cultural diversity

  • Why It’s Safe: Singapore has some of the lowest crime rates in the world. Strict laws make it one of the cleanest and most orderly cities globally. Women often highlight that they feel safe walking around even at midnight.

  What to Do in Singapore (Solo-Friendly):

  • Wander through Gardens by the Bay.

  • Shop and dine on Orchard Road.

  • Visit Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.

  • Try hawker food stalls—cheap and delicious.

  Safety Tips for Women:

  • Singapore is extremely safe, but laws are strict—avoid chewing gum or littering.

  • Public transport is reliable and budget-friendly.

  • Accommodation ranges from hostels to luxury hotels, all with high safety standards.

  7. Austria

  • Safety Rating: 9.1/10

  • Best For: History, music, architecture, alpine adventures

  • Why It’s Safe: Austria is a dream for women traveling alone. Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck are well-connected, rich in culture, and have excellent public transport. Austria’s safety score is boosted by low violent crime rates and high trust in the police.

  What to Do in Austria (Solo-Friendly):

  • Explore Vienna’s museums, coffee houses, and opera.

  • Visit Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, and the filming location of The Sound of Music.

  • Ski or hike in the Austrian Alps.

  • Take scenic train rides across the countryside.

  Safety Tips for Women:

  • Austria is very safe, but train stations can attract pickpockets.

  • Most locals speak good English, but learning basic German greetings is helpful.

  • Carry cash, as small cafés sometimes don’t accept cards.

  Comparison Table: Safe Solo Travel Destinations for Women

  Here’s a quick overview of the destinations we’ve covered so far:

  Destination	Safety Rating (1–10)	Highlights	Budget Range	Best For
  Iceland	9.8	Northern Lights, hot springs	$$$$	Nature & wellness retreats
  Japan	9.6	Temples, food, culture	$$$	Culture, technology, tradition
  Portugal	9.2	Beaches, castles, wine	$$	Budget & history lovers
  New Zealand	9.4	Hiking, road trips	$$$$	Outdoor adventure seekers
  Canada	9.0	Cities & national parks	$$$	Nature & multicultural cities
  Singapore	9.3	Urban life, hawker food	$$$	Foodies & city explorers
  Austria	9.1	Music, Alps, architecture	$$$	Culture & Alpine Adventures

  Pro Tip: If you’re budget-conscious, Portugal stands out as the most affordable destination on this list, while Iceland and New Zealand are pricier but worth the investment for their natural beauty.

  Expert Advice: Staying Safe While Traveling Solo

  Even the safest destinations come with challenges. Here’s what experienced female travelers recommend:

  • Book women-friendly hostels or hotels. Many places now offer female-only dorms or secure accommodations.

  • Use rideshare apps instead of hailing taxis off the street. Apps like Uber, Grab, and Bolt track your ride in real-time.

  • Keep your valuables close. Use a crossbody anti-theft bag and store passports in a hotel safe.

  • Stay connected. Get a local SIM card or eSIM to always have internet for maps, translation, and emergency calls.

  • Blend in with locals. Dressing modestly in conservative countries can help you avoid unwanted attention.

    Final Top Safe Solo Travel Destinations

    8. Switzerland

    • Safety Rating: 9.5/10

    • Best For: Scenic trains, hiking, luxury wellness retreats

    • Why It’s Safe: Switzerland is among the world’s most peaceful countries, with efficient transport and reliable infrastructure. Crime rates are low, and solo travelers praise the safety of walking through Zurich or Geneva at night.

    What to Do in Switzerland (Solo-Friendly):

    • Ride the Glacier Express train across the Alps.

    • Explore Lake Geneva’s vineyards and castles.

    • Go hiking in Interlaken or Lauterbrunnen.

    • Treat yourself to a spa in a mountain wellness resort.

    Safety Tips for Women:

    • Switzerland is safe, but it’s expensive—budget accordingly.

    • Always validate train tickets to avoid fines.

    • Keep essentials handy, as tourist areas may have pickpockets.

    9. Norway

    • Safety Rating: 9.3/10

    • Best For: Northern Lights, fjord cruises, nature escapes

    • Why It’s Safe: Norway’s culture emphasizes equality and respect, making it one of the best destinations for solo female travelers. Women consistently report feeling secure even in remote areas.

    What to Do in Norway (Solo-Friendly):

    • Cruise through the stunning Geirangerfjord.

    • Witness the Northern Lights in Tromsø.

    • Visit Oslo’s modern museums and the Viking Ship Museum.

    • Go hiking to Trolltunga (with proper gear).

    Safety Tips for Women:

    • Norway is safe but very costly—consider cooking your own meals.

    • Trains and ferries are safe and scenic.

    • Always check weather forecasts before hiking.

    10. Costa Rica (Hidden Gem for 2025)

    • Safety Rating: 8.8/10

    • Best For: Adventure, rainforests, eco-tourism

    • Why It’s Safe: While not as high as Europe in safety scores, Costa Rica is one of Latin America’s safest destinations for women. Its commitment to eco-tourism and “Pura Vida” lifestyle attracts many solo female travelers.

    What to Do in Costa Rica (Solo-Friendly):

    • Zipline through Monteverde’s cloud forests.

    • Relax on Pacific coast beaches like Tamarindo.

    • Spot wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park.

    • Explore volcanoes like Arenal.

    Safety Tips for Women:

    • Stick to tourist-friendly regions and avoid isolated areas at night.

    • Use official taxis or rideshare apps.

    • Carry mosquito repellent—Zika and dengue are still concerns in tropical areas.

    Safety Resource Toolkit for Solo Female Travelers

    Traveling alone doesn’t mean traveling unprepared. Here’s a curated list of must-have resources for women:

     Essential Safety Apps

    • bSafe: Allows friends/family to track your journey live.

    • Google Maps Offline: Download maps to navigate without Wi-Fi.

    • Sitata: Alerts you of safety concerns, health risks, or protests nearby.

    • Hostelworld: Find female-only hostels and safe accommodations.

    Packing Essentials

    • Crossbody anti-theft bag

    • Portable door lock for hotel rooms

    • Personal alarm or whistle

    • Power bank & universal adapter

    Emergency Numbers (General)

    • Europe: 112 (works EU-wide)

    • USA & Canada: 911

    • Australia & NZ: 000

    • Singapore: 999 for police

    Case Example: Real Stories from Solo Female Travelers

    • Sofia (28, from Spain): Traveled across Iceland in winter. “I felt safer in Reykjavik at 2 AM than in my own hometown. Locals were incredibly helpful when my car got stuck in the snow.”

    • Aisha (32, from Bangladesh): Explored Singapore solo. “It was my first time abroad, and I never once felt unsafe, even on late-night metro rides. Clean, orderly, and welcoming.”

    • Emily (25, from the USA): Went backpacking in Portugal. “Budget-friendly, beautiful, and safe. I met other solo women in hostels and made lifelong friends.”

    These stories highlight the confidence boost that comes from safe travel destinations.

    Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Destination

    Traveling solo as a woman in 2025 has never been safer—or more empowering. From Iceland’s northern lights to Singapore’s futuristic skyline, the world is opening up for female adventurers.

    But remember:

    • Safety starts with research and planning.

    • Trust your instincts and choose destinations aligned with your comfort.

    • The world is full of safe, welcoming places ready to host you.

     Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned explorer, these safe solo travel destinations for women 2025 prove that adventure doesn’t need to be intimidating—it can be empowering, healing, and unforgettable.

    FAQs About Safe Solo Travel for Women in 2025

    Q1: Is it safe for women to travel alone in Europe?
    Yes! Europe remains one of the safest regions. Countries like Iceland, Austria, and Switzerland rank among the top in safety.

    Q2: What budget should I plan for solo travel?
    It varies. Portugal or Costa Rica can be budget-friendly ($50–70/day), while Iceland or Norway can exceed $150/day.

    Q3: How do I meet other solo travelers safely?
    Stay in hostels with female dorms, join walking tours, or use Meetup/Backpackr apps.

    Q4: Should I get travel insurance as a solo female traveler?
    Absolutely. It covers emergencies, lost luggage, and unexpected cancellations—giving peace of mind.