Top 10 Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in 2025

In recent years, solo female travel has surged in popularity — and 2025 is shaping up to be the most exciting year yet. With travel trends prioritizing safety, sustainability, and immersive experiences, more women are packing their bags to explore the world on their own terms. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned solo explorer, these top 10 destinations offer a perfect mix of charm, safety, and soul-stirring adventure.

4/8/20256 min read

Solo female traveler overlooking the mountains during sunset
Solo female traveler overlooking the mountains during sunset

1. Kyoto, Japan – Timeless Beauty and Serene Empowerment

Kyoto remains a top pick for solo female travelers, especially those seeking peace, culture, and a sense of timelessness. With its pristine temples, tranquil tea houses, and rich cultural heritage, the city invites you to slow down and tune into your inner rhythm.

Why it's great for solo female travelers:

  • Exceptionally safe, even at night.

  • Extensive public transportation system.

  • Welcoming locals, many of whom appreciate solo visitors in cafés and restaurants.

Top experiences:

  • Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in Gion.

  • Visit the golden Kinkaku-ji and the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine.

  • Take a peaceful walk along the Philosopher’s Path during cherry blossom season.

2. Lisbon, Portugal – Europe’s Sunny and Soulful Capital

With its colorful neighborhoods, sea-kissed breeze, and creative energy, Lisbon is a dream for solo female travelers in Europe. The city strikes a perfect balance between safety and spontaneity.

Why it stands out:

  • Portugal ranks high on the Global Peace Index.

  • Easy to navigate with English widely spoken.

  • A thriving community of solo travelers and digital nomads.

Top experiences:

  • Stroll through Alfama’s maze-like alleys and listen to live fado music.

  • Ride the iconic Tram 28 through the city’s hills.

  • Catch sunset views from the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand – A Peaceful, Spiritual Escape

Northern Thailand offers a more laid-back, spiritual energy than its southern beaches. Chiang Mai, in particular, is a haven for solo female travelers seeking connection, personal growth, and wellness.

Why women love it:

  • A large solo traveler community makes it easy to meet others.

  • Numerous yoga retreats, cooking classes, and meditation centers.

  • Safe and affordable, with delicious street food everywhere.

Top experiences:

  • Visit the mountaintop Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple.

  • Volunteer at an ethical elephant sanctuary.

  • Enjoy a Thai massage or a week-long wellness retreat.

4. Reykjavik & The Golden Circle, Iceland – Nature Meets Empowerment

Iceland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. Reykjavik offers a modern Nordic vibe while just a short drive takes you into breathtaking landscapes perfect for solo adventurers.

Why it's empowering:

  • Safety is unparalleled, even in remote areas.

  • A strong feminist culture; Iceland leads in gender equality.

  • English is spoken almost universally.

Top experiences:

  • Take a self-driving tour around the Golden Circle (or join a guided one).

  • Soak in the Blue Lagoon or a hidden geothermal hot spring.

  • Witness the Northern Lights from your cozy guesthouse.

5. Ljubljana, Slovenia – Europe’s Underrated Gem

Ljubljana is like a fairy tale brought to life — but without the crowds. It’s clean, eco-conscious, and full of charm, making it ideal for solo female explorers who love discovering lesser-known destinations.

Why it’s a top 2025 pick:

  • A very walkable city with low crime rates.

  • Excellent eco-initiatives and pedestrian-only zones.

  • A growing number of women-led travel experiences and local tours.

Top experiences:

  • Climb to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views.

  • Take a day trip to Lake Bled or Lake Bohinj.

  • Explore local art and flea markets by the Ljubljanica River.

6. Medellín, Colombia – A City Reborn

Medellín has reinvented itself dramatically over the past two decades. Today, it’s vibrant, safe (especially in key neighborhoods), and full of energy — a perfect city for bold, curious solo travelers.

Why solo women are flocking here:

  • A rising solo travel hub with great hostels and co-working spaces.

  • The city invests heavily in safety and urban innovation.

  • Warm, welcoming locals and an exciting food scene.

Top experiences:

  • Ride the cable cars over the city and visit Comuna 13’s vibrant murals.

  • Take a coffee tour in nearby towns like Jardín or Guatapé.

  • Join a dance class and learn salsa or reggaeton.

7. Melbourne, Australia – Creative Vibes and Laid-Back Living

Melbourne combines artsy charm with metropolitan convenience, making it one of the easiest and most enjoyable cities to explore solo. It’s ideal for creative spirits and foodies.

What makes it ideal:

  • Very safe with lots of solo travelers and expats.

  • Extensive public transport and bike paths.

  • A strong café culture that embraces solo diners.

Top experiences:

  • Explore the hidden laneways covered in street art.

  • Visit the Queen Victoria Market for local bites.

  • Take a road trip down the Great Ocean Road or hop on a wine tour in the Yarra Valley.

8. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia – Spiritual, Artistic, and Soul-Nourishing

Ubud has long attracted solo female travelers seeking healing, yoga, art, and personal transformation. In 2025, its slow-travel charm and wellness offerings continue to shine.

Why it’s perfect for solo retreats:

  • Home to countless retreats, yoga studios, and plant-based cafés.

  • Solo travel is common, and there’s a thriving community to connect with.

  • Balinese culture is rooted in spirituality and hospitality.

Top experiences:

  • Take a week-long yoga retreat at The Yoga Barn.

  • Explore the Campuhan Ridge Walk at sunrise.

  • Learn Balinese cooking in a farm-to-table setting.

9. Vancouver, Canada – Urban Adventures in Nature’s Lap

Vancouver offers the best of both worlds: a safe, cosmopolitan city surrounded by rugged wilderness. Whether you're into hiking, food trucks, or cultural festivals, it's all here.

Why women love it:

  • Incredibly walkable and cyclist-friendly.

  • A strong focus on inclusivity and diversity.

  • Safe neighborhoods and friendly locals.

Top experiences:

  • Walk or bike around Stanley Park’s seawall.

  • Take a day trip to Whistler or Capilano Suspension Bridge.

  • Discover Chinatown and the city’s booming plant-based scene.

10. Valletta, Malta – History, Sunshine, and Mediterranean Magic

Malta’s compact capital, Valletta, is a treasure trove of culture, sunshine, and sea views. With English as an official language and friendly locals, it’s a relaxed and safe Mediterranean escape.

Why it’s a 2025 favorite:

  • Rich history and architecture without overwhelming crowds.

  • Easy to explore solo, with public ferries and buses.

  • Local hospitality and beautiful weather year-round.

Top experiences:

  • Wander through the cobbled streets of Valletta’s old town.

  • Take a boat to the Blue Lagoon or explore the historic Mdina.

  • Enjoy fresh seafood by the water in Marsaxlokk.

Tips for Solo Female Travelers in 2025

Traveling solo as a woman is liberating, enlightening, and deeply rewarding. Here are a few 2025-specific tips to make your journey smoother:

  1. Use Women-Centered Apps: Platforms like Tourlina and NomadHer connect solo female travelers.

  2. Stay in Women-Only Accommodations: Many destinations now offer women-only hostels, floors, or wellness resorts.

  3. Pack Smart: Focus on lightweight, multi-use items and keep a portable power bank and digital copies of documents.

  4. Blend In When Necessary: While confidence is key, sometimes dressing modestly or respectfully helps you avoid unnecessary attention.

  5. Listen to Your Gut: Always. If a situation doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Final Thoughts

Traveling solo as a woman in 2025 is more empowering than ever before. With the world opening up to more inclusive, safe, and enriching experiences, this is your time to explore, reflect, and connect — with places, people, and your truest self.

Each of these destinations invites you to walk confidently into your next chapter, whether it's in the quiet of a Japanese temple, the rhythm of Colombian salsa, or the golden light of a Maltese afternoon. Wherever you go, know this: the world is waiting — and it’s beautiful on your own terms.

Solo traveler seated under torii gates in Kyoto
Solo traveler seated under torii gates in Kyoto
Female traveler enjoying sea view in Lisbon
Female traveler enjoying sea view in Lisbon
Solo female traveler meditating in Chiang Mai temple
Solo female traveler meditating in Chiang Mai temple
Solo female traveler enjoying city walk in Iceland
Solo female traveler enjoying city walk in Iceland
A Woman Sitting on Concrete Bench in Front of a Building in Ljubljana
A Woman Sitting on Concrete Bench in Front of a Building in Ljubljana
Solo traveler exploring sitting and surrounded by street art in Medellín, Colombia
Solo traveler exploring sitting and surrounded by street art in Medellín, Colombia
Female traveler enjoying coffee in Melbourne laneway café
Female traveler enjoying coffee in Melbourne laneway café
Solo traveler practicing yoga in Ubud, Bali
Solo traveler practicing yoga in Ubud, Bali
Solo traveler walking in Stanley Park, Vancouver
Solo traveler walking in Stanley Park, Vancouver
Solo female traveler walking through historic Valletta
Solo female traveler walking through historic Valletta