In recent years, solo travel among women has grown significantly, with 74% of women either traveling alone or planning to do so. Many women are searching for destinations that blend safety, adventure, and empowerment activities. Europe stands out as a top choice for solo female travel. Hence, I have compiled a list of the six best places in Europe to travel alone as a woman.
Most countries in Europe are accessible, safe, and generally female-friendly. In fact, European countries dominate the top seven spots on the list of the world’s most peaceful countries. Moreover, the continent has a great mix of nature, history, culture, and modernity to keep solo female travelers busy and comfortable.
Therefore, in this guide, you’ll discover the safest and most adventurous destinations across Europe for solo female travel.
You should also read my guide on the best places for solo female travel in 2025.
The Top 6 Best Places in Europe for Solo Female Travelers
To help you plan your next solo adventure, here are the six best places in Europe for women traveling alone.
1. Florence, Italy – Best Places in Europe to Travel as a Woman
Solo Female Travel in Florence, Italy
The Italian city Florence tops the list of the best places in Europe to visit alone as a woman for its safety and rich history. The birthplace of the Renaissance is rich in art and culture that would keep you busy throughout your stay.
Some of the best solo-friendly activities in Florence include visiting the Accademia and Uffizi Museums. Spend a full day exploring at the beautiful Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. The Duomo Museum is also worth visiting.
Opera del Duomo Museum in Florence
You can walk around the city without fear, so explore old architectural buildings such as the churches, Santa Maria Novella, and Santa Croce.
Explore the countryside with other solo travelers by booking a half-day visit to Chianti with Florence Tours. In Chianti, you will visit the winery for wine tasting and enjoy a small town in Chianti called Greve.
While in Florence, take a tour of Tuscany where you can join a cooking class and enjoy delicious meals like the Tuscan pasta.
All in all, you’re in for a treat when you solo travel to Italy as a woman. Florence is just one of the best places to visit in Italy.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark – Best Scandinavian Country for Solo Female Travelers
Copenhagen, Denmark
Europe’s Scandinavian countries are ranked among the safest destinations for women traveling alone. Denmark is one of them and although it is among the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, we can’t shy away from the fact that Copenhagen, the main city, is one of the cleanest and happiest cities in the world. The locals are very welcoming and you can walk around beautiful neighborhoods in the city or rent a bike.
Explore the three largest neighborhoods in Copenhagen: Osterbro, Norrebro, and Vesterbro, often called the “bros.” In Vesterbro, you will find vibrant nightlife, trendy cafes and restaurants. Norrebro is where you will find local restaurants serving delicious Danish cuisine. While in Osterbro there are parks and gardens where you can relax and people-watch.
Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen
Apart from the “bros”, other solo activities you shouldn’t miss include visiting the old town, Nyhavn, where you can take one of the canal tours and taste fresh seafood. Then, visit some of Copenhagen’s museums like the National Gallery of Denmark and The David Collection.
The greatest highlight in Copenhagen is the famous Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park that draws tourists from all over the world. Relax in the gardens, watch sea animals in the aquarium, and take part in the rides and games.
There’s something for every solo female traveler in Denmark.
3. Reykjavik, Iceland – Safest Places in Europe for Solo Female Travelers
Best Places to Visit in Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland has consistently been named the safest country in the world according to the Global Peace Index. The country has strict equality laws, low crime rates, and great outdoor activities, making it one of the best solo European female travel destinations.
The capital city, Reykjavik, is a walkable city, so you can take a stroll downtown to see several chic boutiques and fast food joints where you can shop for gift items and Icelandic spices and herbs like sea salt. Another highlight of downtown Reykjavik is Rainbow Street, which is a road painted in rainbow colors.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Iceland – Blue Lagoon
After your tour, you should take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon and enjoy the health and wellness that Iceland is known for. You can also swim in the less busy Sky Lagoon and take part in the seven-step ritual for natural healing and wellness.
Then, enjoy a cup of Iceland coffee at Reykjavik Roasters before taking a guided tour to the Golden Circle. You may be lucky to catch the Northern Lights if you travel in winter.
It’s important to note that Iceland is also among the most expensive European countries, so plan your expenses carefully.
4. Ljubljana, Slovenia – Cheap Places in Europe to Travel Alone as a Woman
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Next on my list of women-friendly destinations in Europe is the hidden gem, Slovenia. Solo female travelers seeking a quiet and off-the-beaten-path experience would love Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia. The city has excellent safety records and violent crimes rarely happen.
Ljubljana, also known as the “City of Dragons,” is a small city, making it easy to navigate compared to larger European cities.
There are many fairy tale things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Head outdoors to Ljubljana Castle and Castle Hill and explore the historic walls, museums, and galleries. You can take a funicular ride to have a scenic view of the top of Castle Hill.
Take a tour of the city’s architecture such as the National and University Library, Triple Bridge in the city’s center, and Zale Cemetery, all marvelously designed by the renowned Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik.
The Dragon Bridge, Ljubljana
Also worth visiting is the Dragon Bridge which takes its name from the dragon statues lining the bridge on both sides.
Be sure to take beautiful photos while on the Dragon Bridge as this is one of the most important highlights in Ljubljana.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Solo Activities in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Another less-known hidden gem to visit in Europe alone as a woman in Croatia. Croatia is ranked number 14 of the most peaceful countries in the Global Peace Index. It’s actually a small Balkan country, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in natural beauty and culture.
Dubrovnik is one of the most visited cities in Croatia. The best thing to do here is to explore the City Walls surrounding the Old Town. You can walk along the top of the walls to take in aerial views of the red-roof buildings and deep blue Adriatic sea.
Sandy Sunj Beach in Lopud, Dubrovnik
Another interesting solo activity for female travelers is to relax on the beaches but since most beaches are pebbly and rugged, I recommend taking a ferry to the car-free island, Lopud, and enjoying the sandy Sunj Beach.
6. Lisbon, Portugal – Best Places in Europe to Travel Alone as a Woman
Safest Cities in Europe for Women Travelers – Lisbon, Portugal
Ranking number 7 on the Global Peace Index and among the first 20 countries in the Women, Peace, and Security Index, Portugal is no doubt, one of the safest destinations in Europe for solo women. From friendly locals, and natural wonders to lush scenery, Portugal is an ideal solo destination.
One of the best places to visit in Portugal is the capital city, Lisbon, which is a mix of medieval history and modern styles. You would never get enough of this city as it is a walkable city with trams and trains for comfortable transportation.
For fun things to do in Lisbon: take a scenic train ride to Estoril to bask under the sun on the sandy beaches. You can also swim in the waters if you’re up for it. Walk around Alfama to Estachio Fluvial. As you go along, you will see the towering hills and scenic rivers.
Also, visit Oceanaria, a colossal aquarium where you will see sea creatures and birds. When you get hungry, get a cheap lunch in any of the numerous cafes in the city.
Belem’s “Museu Coleccao Berardo,” Lisbon
A must-visit attraction in Lisbon is Belem. Hop on a Tram 28 ride to Belem where you can visit the famous Discoverer’s Monument. I recommend going inside the fort as you can go to the top for scenic views across the estuary. However, Belem’s hidden gem is the Modern Art Collection called “Museu Coleccao Berardo.” It has a pretty rooftop garden where you can sit on the grass or bench beside the waterfalls and brilliant artwork.
Solo Female Travel Tips in Europe
While these destinations in Europe are safe for women traveling alone, you should also be aware of your environment and take necessary precautions as in other places.
These are some solo female travel tips to help you maximize your solo experience in Europe:
- Respect the local customs and dress codes of the places you visit.
- Avoid isolated areas at night.
- Drink and party responsibly.
- Download Google Maps and use safety tools like bSafe.
- Share your itinerary with your family members and a local (a trusted hotel receptionist or tourist official)
- Learn some phrases of the local language like Portuguese.
- It’s better to carry a cross bag to keep your valuables (credit cards, money or passport).
- Go on guided tours to meet like-minded travelers.
Best Places in Europe to Travel Alone as a Woman – Conclusion
These are some of the safest and most unforgettable places to visit in Europe alone as a woman. For budget-friendly solo female travel, visit Portugal, Croatia and Slovenia. However, even in high-end places like Denmark, you can still travel on a budget by staying in hostels and using public transport.
Traveling solo as a woman can be fulfilling and enriching because you get to visit places that interest you without encumbrance from anyone. So, step out of your comfort zone and explore these destinations.
Also read: the best European solo travel destinations and best solo travel destinations in December.
Have you traveled solo in Europe? Share your favorite destinations in the comments below!
