The 12 Best Solo Travel Destinations for Women

More women than ever are choosing solo travel. Whether it’s joining a group tour or going at it alone with a customised itinerary - if you’re longing to explore the world, why wait?

Booking my first group tour a few years ago was the best thing I have ever done. Aside from leading me to work at Gap 360 (and what a full-circle moment that was!), the experience taught me how much I was capable of and what was possible outside of my comfort zone. Still, I remember how nervous I felt navigating the airport by myself for the first time and boarding a flight to another country.

Now? I’m addicted to the freedom that comes from knowing I can go anywhere I want. So if you’re debating whether you should take the plunge or are seeking inspiration for your next adventure, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 12 of the best solo travel destinations for women around the world, whether you’re planning your own trip or joining a group tour with ready-made mates.

What Makes a Destination Great for Women Travelling Solo?

Safety

The number one priority for any trip, not just solo adventures, should be keeping safe. Safety concerns can look completely different for everyone, which is why we encourage you to do independent research and to seek out the stories shared by other women with similar backgrounds. Some of the most effective ways to stay safe include keeping updated on FCDO advice and checking reviews before booking accommodation.

Social

Who said that solo travel had to be lonely? Yes, it’s cheesy… But one of the best parts of travelling is all the awesome people you meet along the way. For this reason, our choices of the best solo travel destinations for women are famed for their friendly backpacking and digital nomad communities.

Ease of Travel

You’re already pushing yourself by booking that solo trip. Ease of travel for when you get there is one of the most important factors to consider, whether we’re talking about public transport, tourism infrastructure or navigating language barriers. No experience is perfect, but the odd thing going wrong usually makes for a legendary travel story.

1. Portugal

Portugal is easily one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. From gorgeous cities to golden shores, Portugal feels both exciting and effortless, making it the perfect pick for women looking to go solo travelling for the first time.

Why Portugal?

Between the walkability of cities like Porto and Lisbon, the welcoming community of backpackers, and the easy-to-navigate train network connecting you to opposite ends of the country, it’s got everything you need to make your first solo trip seamless. If you fancy exploring Portugal’s beach towns in the Algarve, buses are the way to go.

Although Portuguese is the official language, English is still widely spoken throughout the country’s most visited destinations. So whether you’re looking to get away for a few days on a city break or want the full Portugal experience, getting a taste of everything this destination has to offer, we cannot think of a better place to begin your solo travel adventures.

Portugal Highlights

• Soak up the sunshine along the Algarve’s coastline
• Enjoy Lisbon’s nightlife with new travel mates
• Explore the fairytale palaces and castles of Sintra
• Watch the sunset from Porto’s famous bridge viewpoint
• Learn how to surf with a beginner-friendly lesson in Peniche

2. Thailand

First time in Southeast Asia? Thailand is the best introduction you could ask for. Whether you’re planning an epic single-country trip or looking to tick multiple countries off your bucket list, here’s why we cannot get enough of this iconic destination.

Why Thailand?

Thailand’s energy is unmatched. From the lively local culture (this is the “Land of Smiles” we’re talking about!) to the buzzing backpacker scene, Thailand is perfect for finding your people. Whether you’re island-hopping your way through paradise or getting a taste of city life in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, get ready for some of the best nights out of your life, making memories with like-minded solo travellers.

Despite how popular it is, prices are super affordable throughout Thailand. In-country transportation does take some planning, which a group tour will take the stress out of - sleeper buses, ferries and internal flights typically require booking in advance. Yet chances are, there may be someone else (literally) in the same boat.

Thailand Highlights

• Party all night down the legendary Khao San Road in Bangkok
• Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary
• Island-hop your way through paradise, from Koh Samui to Koh Phi Phi
• Attend Thailand’s world-famous Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan
• Explore the golden temples and local markets of Chiang Mai

3. Japan

Need another reason to visit Japan, beyond awe-inspiring temples, neon-soaked cities and tasty cuisine? This is an easy choice as one of the best solo travel destinations for women, consistently ranking high for safety.

Why Japan?

Although there is a language barrier that may make tours a preferable option, Japan has one of the smartest public transport systems in the world. Getting around between the major cities is a dream on the speedy bullet trains, and many solo travellers choose to purchase a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for this reason. To help you navigate independently, apps such as Google Translate can go a long way in figuring out menu items and which subway route to take.

A more unexpected benefit of exploring Japan by yourself is that eating alone is becoming increasingly popular. Several noodle bars specifically cater for solo diners (this is usually super affordable, too!). So even if you’re only looking to touchdown in Tokyo, we’re confident you can find activities to fill the time with.

Japan Highlights

• Discover the sights of Tokyo, from Shibuya Crossing to Senso-ji Temple
• Step back in time whilst exploring Kyoto’s traditional alleyways and shrines
• Befriend the local deer at Nara Park
• Catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji’s snow-capped peak from Lake Ashi
• Join a Japanese cooking class and learn how to make sushi or soba noodles

4. Australia

Seeking out surf and sunshine? Famed for its beachside towns, high-energy cities and iconic wildlife, there’s a reason why every backpacker wants to be living the dream Down Under.

Why Australia?

Australia is like a home away from home. For starters, this is one of the trendiest destinations among backpackers - so you’re in great company! Many solo travellers choose to move here on an Australia Working Holiday visa, where you have the chance to earn one of the most competitive minimum wages in the world and travel on your time off. 

Because Australia is so big, public transport is limited when travelling across the country. Sleeper buses and internal flights are the most common means of travel. You may prefer the convenience of a group tour, where all transportation is taken care of on a trusted route, to really get to know the country before starting your job search.

Or if you’re looking to travel independently, you may prefer hiring a campervan. We recommend choosing a service that allows for unlimited mileage and 1-way journeys without charging you extra, so you can freely organise your itinerary. If you need some inspiration, our East Coast Australia Road Trips: Best 3-6 Week Itineraries guidebook can help you get started.

Australia Highlights

• Go snorkelling or scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef
• Set sail for the Whitsundays, famed for their sapphire waters and swirling white sands
• Tick the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House off your Australia bucket list
• Watch the sunrise over Uluru whilst exploring the Aussie outback
• Discover secluded beaches on Australia’s lesser-known West Coast

5. Bali

Indonesia’s most iconic paradise is where you need to go solo travelling next. When it comes to variety, Bali has got you spoilt for choice with beach clubs, yoga retreats and surfing camps - not to mention lively backpacker hubs like Ubud and Canggu.

Why Bali?

Because Bali is so popular, it means that you’re always likely to meet other women travelling solo. You can choose from a range of accommodation options, or even opt for speciality activities where you can connect with people who share the same interests. Prices are also generally affordable compared to Western prices, so you may prefer to treat yourself to upgraded accommodation.

Public transport is limited in Bali. Many backpackers navigate the island by joining a guided tour, or for shorter journeys, official ride-hailing apps are often used. Bali is a fairly small island, so with a bit of practice, you should have no trouble getting around.

Bali Highlights

• Kick back over cocktails at Bali’s legendary beach clubs
• Visit the famous Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud
• Island-hop over to Gili Trawangan, famed for its snorkelling and bar crawls
• Have your cameras ready at Nusa Penida’s unmissable viewpoints
• Climb to the top of Mount Batur for sunrise

6. Vietnam

If Vietnam is all over your socials, you may be wondering what a solo trip here looks like. Get ready to experience one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting destinations, famed for its rich local culture and friendly backpacking community. Think bright emerald valleys, epic road trips and dynamic cities with a buzz like no other.

Why Vietnam?

The backpacker scene is legendary in Vietnam. This is a safe and super affordable country to visit, with a wide range of accommodation options available depending on how you want your solo travel experience to look. Because of Vietnam’s popularity, the country is well set up for tourism. Some English is spoken at Vietnam’s most famous locations.

Similar to Thailand, this country’s popularity means that in-country transportation can sell out fast. Whereas a tour takes care of this for you, you may need to book and plan out your routes in advance if you’re handling this yourself. Going from north to south is generally the preferred route due to transport routes, so it’s possible to connect with other solo travellers along the way.

Vietnam Highlights

• Ride along the Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam’s most famous road trip
• Experience Hanoi’s most iconic viewpoints, including Train Street!
• Crawl through the historic Cu Chi Tunnels
• Go on a street food and nightlife crawl in Ho Chi Minh City
• Visit the floating markets along the Mekong Delta

7. Switzerland

Whether you’re after city breaks or mountain escapes, Switzerland has got the makings of a dreamy solo trip. Famed for its scenic train journeys and stunning hikes, the journey is the destination here.

Why Switzerland?

With its high safety levels and efficient public transport throughout the country, these factors make Switzerland a fantastic option for your first solo trip in Europe. Some cities even provide free local public transport. This is a multi-lingual destination, and English is also widely spoken at the most popular destinations. Although spending money in Switzerland can be quite expensive, you can still find more affordable hostel options.

Switzerland Highlights

• Kick back aboard one of Switzerland’s beautiful train journeys
• Chase adrenaline in Interlaken, the “Adventure Capital of Europe”
• Go skiing and après in Zermatt, famed for its magical winter scenery
• Learn the art of Swiss chocolate making in Lucerne
• Ride a cable car to the top of Klein Matterhorn

8. South Korea

South Korea is only becoming trendier as a destination for women travelling solo. From the high safety levels to the seamless public transport (with frequent English signage on the subway), it’s got everything you need to make your solo travel experience the best it can be.

Why South Korea?

Similar to Japan, South Korea’s public transport system is truly on another level. South Korea has its own high-speed rail network called the KTX, which can connect you between major cities such as Seoul to Busan in just a few hours. The exception to this is Jeju Island, where internal flights and private tours or vehicle hires are the preferred option.

English speaking can be limited, yet staff and shopworkers are usually willing to help, and translation apps can help you to navigate the language barrier. Many women have shared their experience online of feeling safe walking around alone at night, although general precautions are always recommended.

South Korea Highlights

• Get to know Seoul’s coolest neighbourhoods, famed for shopping, food and nightlife
• Catch a glimpse into North Korea on a day trip to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)
• Witness the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Sing your heart out at karaoke on a night out in Busan
• Climb to the top of South Korea’s highest peak on Jeju Island

9. Austria

Austria is another fantastic choice for women planning a solo trip. Whether you’re seeking out relaxed city breaks like Vienna and Salzburg, or heading into the Austrian Alps for some hiking or skiing, take your pick of adventure.

Why Austria?

Alongside its exceptional safety rankings, Austria’s public transport is one of the most efficient in Europe, from affordable high-speed trains to the extensive Postbus service. Clear signage makes getting around all the easier. Some English is also widely spoken throughout the country, so you can always ask for directions if you need some assistance.

Austria is a popular stop for longer interrailing journeys, so it’s completely possible to meet other solo travellers, particularly when staying at hostels or social chalets, like our 8-day Austria Ski Trip!

Austria Highlights

• Ski by day, après by evening at Austria’s famous chalets
• Tour the sights of Salzburg, as made famous by The Sound of Music
• Let Vienna sweep you off your feet with its historic palaces and fancy café culture
• Unwind in the Austrian Alps, transformed with each season
• Plan a day trip to Hallstatt, Austria’s most picturesque village

10. Scandinavia

Our next choice is technically 3 countries… That’s how much we love it as one of the best solo travel destinations for women! Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cosy weekend in Copenhagen or climb the fjords of Norway, your next adventure is right around the corner in this northern region of the world, where summer and winter could not feel more different.

Why Scandinavia?

Denmark, Norway and Sweden all rank consistently high when it comes to safety and are known for their progressive policies. Railway networks and public transportation are of a high standard, although you’ll also find that many Scandinavian cities are easy to navigate on foot. English is widely spoken throughout Scandinavia, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers when visiting.

Although Scandinavia is comparatively more expensive than other parts of Europe, there are still many ways to cut back on your daily spending, such as opting for breakfast included in your accommodation and researching free activities to do in each location.

Scandinavia Highlights

• Escape to Tromsø for your best chance of seeing the Northern Lights in winter
• Go hiking in Norway and discover the country’s most breathtaking fjords
• Fall in love with Stockholm’s colourful architecture and chilled city vibes
• Experience a real-life fairytale in Copenhagen
• Discover Oslo’s contrasts, from trendy city districts to woodland trails

11. Singapore

If you’re flying long-haul to Southeast Asia or Australia, you may end up ticking Singapore off your travel bucket list without even planning to. This is one of our favourite destinations for a layover - and all those reasons make it an ideal choice for women looking to dip their toes into solo travelling.

Why Singapore?

Singapore can suit any pace. Because the country is so tiny and public transit is of such a high standard, you could easily plan out the major highlights you want to see in a day. Staying here for longer? Perfect. It’s easy to pass the time when you can hop between Singapore’s vibrant neighbourhoods, wander along the river or fill up on tasty street food at the world-famous hawker stalls.

Singapore Highlights

• Catch the famous Singapore light show at night
• Chase waterfalls inside the Jewel Changi Airport
• Savour delicious street food at Hawker stalls
• Uncover Singapore’s vibrant Chinatown district
• Take a bicycle ride along the river, stopping at Merlion Park

12. Canada

Last but not least is Canada, where its famously friendly culture extends from its bustling cities to the national parks and wilderness retreats. Here’s what makes a great pick for women travelling solo.

Why Canada?

Canada is recognised as one of the safest countries in the world for women going solo, particularly within inclusive cities such as Toronto and Vancouver, which attract a diverse backpacking crowd. English is the main language spoken throughout most of the country, making it easy to navigate your way around most of Canada’s big cities via public transport.

Transportation options to national parks and more rural areas in Canada are limited, which may make a group tour preferable. Alternatively, there are some bus services available which you can book in advance. Railway services are also becoming more popular; however, this is usually more expensive than travelling by bus or on a tour. 

Car hires are highly regulated in Canada and require you to be 25 years or older and hold a major credit card, alongside a valid driver’s license.

Canada Highlights

• Hike along the rugged nature trails of Canada’s finest national parks
• Experience the best of Toronto, from hockey to nightlife
• See Canada’s side of Niagara Falls
• Master your skiing on the slopes of Whistler
• Enjoy a slower pace of life on Vancouver Island

Tips for an Awesome Solo Travel Experience

Consider Hostels

Hoping to make new friends whilst solo travelling? Nothing beats the buzzing social community at hostels. You’ll find that there’s an option for every solo travel style, whether you want to be partying all day and night or would prefer to be more low-key, even opting for co-working hostels. 

For travelling on a tight budget, you’ll be amazed by how low the prices can go. Prioritising comfort? Say goodbye to stereotypes, as many hostels offer upgraded accommodation in stunning locations - giving hotels a run for their money!

If you’re new to the hostel lifestyle, we recommend looking out for high accommodation ratings with lots of reviews and filtering by room type. You may feel more comfortable staying in a female-only dorm, or even opting for a private room (these can either include a shared bathroom or a private ensuite, so always check before you book).

Interested in one of our group tours and have a question about the accommodation? Our friendly travel advisors are here to help and can check this for you. Private upgrades are also available in some cases at a supplementary cost.

Check Your Travel Essentials

Really, you should be doing this for any trip - not just the solo ones! Staying organised may be the less exciting part of travel, but it’s the most important one and makes the biggest difference to your trip. Travel essentials can mean anything from staying updated on FCDO advice to smaller wins like packing a portable charger and earplugs for sleeping on the plane journey.

We regularly update our Travel Advice section with the latest guidance and tips to make your solo travel experience a fantastic one. Take a look at 12 Things Every Traveller Forgets and check off all your essentials as you read on, plus our What to Take Travelling guidebook for all your backpack or suitcase needs.

Know That It’s Okay to Be Nervous

The truth is that you’re always going to feel nervous the first time you do anything. Solo travel, particularly as a woman, can feel like a huge leap because, well, it is. Whether you’re worried about homesickness, loneliness or safety, just know that it’s all completely normal - not a sign that you’re not capable. The lows make the highs only more memorable, and you’ll come away from the experience either knowing so much more about yourself or daydreaming about your next solo trip!

If you are looking into one of our tours, you can request demographics from one of our friendly travel experts. If you have any questions before travelling or need a confidence boost, you can also book a free, 1-to-1 advice session with one of our travel coordinators. 

Our Solo Travel Guide for Women has also got you covered with tips and tricks for navigating going abroad as a woman, from staying safe to making new friends.

After More Inspiration?

This guidebook comes as part of our solo travel series, where we have also rounded off The 12 Best Solo Travel Destinations in the World in 2026 and The 12 Best Solo Travel Destinations in Europe in 2026. In other words, we’re kind of experts on this topic!

Here at Gap 360, we’re always encouraging future travellers to be brave and go solo (and 70% of you do! So you can always bet that someone else is in the same boat). Our friendly travel experts are happy to answer any questions you may have before joining a group tour, whether it’s finding out the demographics or deciding which adventure style suits you best.

It’s super easy to book a free travel advice session; just visit our Contact Us page for everything you need to get set up in a few simple steps. Alternatively, you can start messaging them now over our Live Chat.

What are you waiting for? That solo trip isn’t going to plan itself… (Unless you’re joining one of our 200+ group tours where the itinerary is already organised for you!)