Traveling solo for the first time can be equal parts thrilling and nerve wracking. Especially as a woman. Choosing the right destination for your trips will make all the difference in the world. Today, I am sharing the best countries for solo female travelers who are ready to explore on their own. These beginner solo travel destinations are known for safety, ease of navigation, and warm welcomes from the locals. So, whether you are searching for bustling cities or cultural adventures, you’ll discover all the top places for solo female travel right here.

Best Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Where to Go for Your First Trip Alone

Japan – One of the Best Countries for Solo Female Travelers

You may be surprised to know that Japan is a safe and incredibly efficient country. The locals are polite. Public transportation is simple to use. And dining solo is completely normal.

No wonder Japan is one of the best countries for solo female travelers!

Spending time in Tokyo should include time wandering the neon streets in Shibuya and Harajuku. Over in Kyoto, there are plenty of temples to visit. However, Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-Dera are two of the most popular temples.

A ride on the bullet train to see Mount Fuji should be near the top of your list of things to do if you can squeeze it into your vacation in Japan. And you won’t want to miss soaking in the onsen, or hot spring, in Hakone or Beppu.

Two other favorite activities include experiencing a traditional tea ceremony and taking a cooking class.

A few tips for traveling as a solo female in Japan include:

• Learn a few basic Japanese phrases
• Use a Suica or Pasmo card for public transportation
• Be respectful of the quiet atmosphere on trains and within temples
• Don’t worry when dining alone – most restaurants cater to solo diners

Check out these other tips for solo female travelers. 

Portugal

If this is your first time traveling solo, Portugal is an amazing beginner solo travel destination. This walkable country is warm and full of charm. And the relaxed vibe only adds to the ambiance.

I recommend spending a few days in Lisbon, so you can explore the colorful streets. Or ride the iconic Tram 28 to see everything in a shorter amount of time.

The magical town of Sintra is filled with fairytale castles. You can easily relive your princess stage during your visit.

Vineyards are everywhere in the Douro Valley. Wine tastings at many of them are a must. Although, after a few days of discovering new wines, you may be more than ready to relax on a sandy beach in the Algarve.

A couple tips for solo female travelers visiting Portugal include:

• Wear comfortable shoes, and not heels, for walking around the cobblestone streets
• Try pastel de nata – this will be the custard tart of your dreams
• Choose your accommodations wisely if you wish to meet other travelers

Ready for more wine tastings during vacation? Check out these destinations filled with food and wine that are perfect for solo female travelers. 

Iceland

Iceland is always ranked as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers. So, it shouldn’t be surprising that it is near the top of my list of best countries for solo female travelers!

The stunning landscapes and hot springs draw many travelers to the country. However, it is the ambiance that makes them want to stay longer than planned.

A visit between the months of October and March will have you chasing the Northern Lights. These magical dancing lights can usually be seen on clear nights throughout the country.

No matter when you visit, you must drive the Golden Circle. This drive will allow you to see Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss. The latter is a must-see waterfall in Iceland.

I recommend hiring a guide to take you hiking on a glacier or horseback riding on Icelandic ponies. Those two unique activities are exactly what will take your vacation in Iceland to the next level.

The Blue Lagoon is quite popular. Soaking in the hot springs there is worth your time. Or you can venture over to Sky Lagoon for the same experience.

My favorite tips for solo female travelers in Iceland include:

• Rent a car for the most flexibility, but be prepared for changing weather
• Pack waterproof layers – no matter when you visit
• Book accommodations early – everything books quickly in Iceland

Thailand

Most people think of backpacking when they think of vacations in Thailand. However, this best country for solo female travelers offers so many other options. You can easily stay in luxury hotels, as you experience the culture of this region.

Start your solo female vacation in Bangkok. Check out the Grand Palace and vibrant night markets. Then head to the temples in Chiang Mai or go island hopping in the Andaman Sea. After all, the islands of Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Krabi are waiting for you!

There are a few ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand. I can help you find one that offers the experience you want to have during your solo female vacation in Thailand.

Of course, you can’t visit Thailand and not participate in a wellness retreat. Most of these retreats are in the mountains or near the beach. I can share some of the best options with you to really elevate your Thailand vacation.

A couple tips for solo female travelers in Thailand are:

• Dress modestly – especially when visiting the temples
• Be cautious with street food – but don’t skip it
• Wellness retreats are perfect for meeting new people
• Utilize Grab (the local Uber) at night instead of tuk-tuks

Costa Rica

Are you searching for a nature-filled vacation? Well, Costa Rica is known for its eco-tourism. Plus, you can find plenty of activities to do outside amongst nature. These two things may be why Costa Rica is always near the top of the list of best countries for solo female travelers.

Adventure lovers will want to go ziplining through Monteverde’s Cloud Forest. Surfers can hit the waves in Tamarindo. And yoga enthusiasts will love the retreats offered in Nosara and Santa Teresa.

Everyone wants to see the monkeys and sloths throughout Manuel Antonio National Park. And you won’t be able to resist soaking in a hot spring during your visit to the Arenal Volcano.

The best tips for solo female travelers in Costa Rica are:

• Stick to well-traveled routes and shuttle services
• Pack mosquito repellent and reef-safe sunscreen
• Keep valuables out of sight – especially at the beach

New Zealand

If you are going to travel as a solo female for the first time, you might as well go big and fly to New Zealand! This country is one of the top places for solo female travelers.

It is easy to navigate your way through New Zealand. Plus, the outdoor adventures are perfect for those who don’t want to sit around on a beach all day.

I recommend taking a road trip across the North and South Islands. This will ensure you don’t miss any of the must-see sights and activities during your solo female vacation in New Zealand.

Lord of the Rings fans will love spending time in Hobbiton. Although, the glowworm caves in Waitomo are just as appealing.

Bungee jumping and hiking are excellent options when you want to be outdoors while visiting Queenstown. There are quite a few options for both activities in this part of New Zealand.

Oh, and if you do want to relax one day, take a cruise through Milford Sound’s Fjords. Or soak in the hot springs in Rotorua.

Excellent tips for solo female travelers in New Zealand include:

• The country is extremely safe – it is still best to let someone know your plans
• The locals are extremely friendly – be prepared to make lots of new friends

Canada

You don’t need to travel too far from the US to visit one of the best countries for solo female travelers. Canada is an amazing solo travel destination for women of all ages.

This massive country is packed with bustling cities and untamed wilderness. So, you should be able to find exactly what you’re looking for during your vacation in Canada.

Over in Old Montreal, you can wander along the cobblestone streets. Toronto and Quebec City offer amazing festivals. And Vancouver is perfect if you are searching for sandy beaches, rugged mountains, and delicious cuisine.

One of the best ways to see the most of this country is riding the VIA Rail. I can plan for you to stop along the way, so you don’t miss any of the stunning sights and activities Canada has to offer.

My favorite tips for solo female travelers in Canada:

• Use public transit in cities
• Use rental cars in national parks
• Dress in layers – the weather can change quickly
• Free walking tours are perfect for solo female travelers

Check out the must-have items every solo female traveler needs while on vacation. 

Netherlands – One of the Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers

When it comes to safe countries for solo female travelers, the Netherlands is always at the top of the list. The city of Amsterdam is easy to get around, either on foot or by bike.

Once you have visited the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum, take the time to relax as you cruise the canals of Amsterdam. You will be amazed at how much more you will see from a different vantage point.

A day trip to Zaanse Schans is perfect if you want to see the windmills and tulips. And you won’t want to skip exploring the charming cities of Utrecht and Haarlem.

I recommend renting a bike and exploring like a local for the ultimate experience in the Netherlands.

My top tips for solo female travelers visiting the Netherlands:

• Book museum tickets in advance
• Stay in centrally located boutique hotels
• Learn the bike lane etiquette

Check out these amazing destinations in Europe for solo female travelers. 

Norway

Norway is the perfect country for solo female travelers who are seeking serenity and slower days. Plus, it is a safe country, so you won’t need to worry about traveling alone.

In Oslo, you can admire the art and architecture. Although, if you are an outdoorsy person, you may prefer the fjords around Geiranger and Aurland.

Riding the scenic Flåm Railway is the perfect way to see the local scenery. Although, you won’t see better views than you will at the summit of Trolltunga or Pulpit Rock.

Oh, and if you plan your visit right, you can experience the Northern Lights in Tromsø. We can chat about when you should visit if the Northern Lights are on your bucket list.

The best tips for solo female travelers in Norway include:

• Pack waterproof clothing – the weather in unpredictable
• Download the Entur app to help with public transportation planning
• Public restrooms are widely available and clean – no endless searching when you need one

Traveling solo as a woman doesn’t need to be intimidating. It can be the most empowering adventure of your life. These best countries for solo female travelers offer the perfect mix of safety, culture, and connection. From the fjords of Norway to the temples of Thailand, each of these solo travel destinations for women is ideal for first time adventurers. Your solo journey is just beginning, so welcome it with open arms.

Are you ready to book a trip to one of these best countries for solo female travelers?

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