While not every destination is ideal for solo travelers, many countries offer safe, welcoming environments, especially for women. To help with your next adventure, we’ve compiled the countries that give solo female travelers the most peace of mind.
Iceland
Within Europe, Iceland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries to visit, making it ideal for solo female travelers. The low crime rate and high level of gender equality create a secure environment, and the country’s natural wonders, including geysers and waterfalls, will ensure you’re never bored when visiting.
Switzerland
The meticulous organization and safety measures of Switzerland make it a haven for solo female travelers, and the country’s efficient public transport and picturesque landscapes have so much to offer. It also hosts some of the greatest chocolate in the world, not to mention some of the greatest mountains, so you’d be crazy to want to miss out on all of that.
Australia
While you’ll have to be careful to avoid Australia’s crazy wildlife, the vibrant cities and welcoming locals still leave this enormous country as a safe and exciting environment for solo female travelers. There’s heaps of tourism infrastructure, which helps a lot and ensures a welcoming experience, so don’t sleep on visiting Australia (unless you’re scared of snakes).
Japan
TimeOut reports that Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, renowned for its impeccable safety standards and regulations. The country’s efficient public transportation system and polite society ensure a comfortable experience for everyone, and women-specific accommodations and public spaces are common, too. Best of all, it’s also one of the most fascinating and culturally rich countries you could possibly visit.
Canada
Another very safe country that you shouldn’t be afraid to visit as a solo female traveler is Canada, which has a very welcoming atmosphere and shockingly low crime rates. The locals are super friendly and there are countless outdoor activities to dive into, resulting in an absolute must-visit, especially if you’re based next-door in the U.S.
New Zealand
While it’s likely on the other side of the world to you, there’s no denying New Zealand’s impeccable safety standards. It’s known for its friendly communities, supportive travel network, and vibrant cities. More importantly, though, its natural landscapes are simply next-level.
Norway
Another wonderfully safe country for solo female travelers is Norway, which doesn’t just boast breathtaking scenery, but a low crime rate, too. The country’s commitment to gender equality and excellent public services ensure your stay will be comfortable, so go ahead and explore the majestic fjords and charming towns with peace of mind.
Denmark
Another European country on this list is Denmark, which holds a strong emphasis on safety and well-being, making it a prime spot for solo female travelers. The country’s efficient public transportation and friendly locals mean you’ll never be lost for long, and there’s plenty of both countryside and vibrant city culture, making it the perfect balance for exploration.
Singapore
If visiting Asia is more your cup of tea, countries don’t get much safer than Singapore. Its stringent laws and low crime rate ensure a safe environment for any tourists, and the city-state’s cleanliness and efficient public transport make getting around a refreshing breeze. You’ll experience countless diverse cultures and world-class amenities, making it a seriously appealing destination.
Finland
Not too far away from Norway is Finland, another country with exceptionally high safety standards and gender equality. This makes it wonderful for solo female travelers, not to mention its stunning lakes and forests, offering a serene backdrop for any trip. So, if you’re stopping by Norway, you may as well plan a tour of Scandinavia that includes Finland.
Austria
As mentioned earlier, Switzerland’s chocolate is reason enough to visit, but it still comes second to Austria. Chocolate culture is enormous in this country, just like its rich cultural heritage. Best of all, it’s a very safe country to visit as a solo female traveler, and the nature is almost as beautiful as Switzerland. Don’t pick sides, though–they’re neighbors, so you can visit both.
Netherlands
Despite being famous for its counterculture, The Netherlands actually has a very low crime rate and friendly atmosphere, and all of its countercultural elements are highly regulated. This makes it an excellent spot for solo female travelers, especially if you’re a cyclist, because the country practically runs on bicycles.
Sweden
The only country missing from your Scandinavia tour is Sweden, and we’ve got good news–it’s; yet another very safe country for lone travelers like you. Just like its neighbors, it holds a strong focus on safety and gender equality and has beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. There’s not much to dislike about all that.
Portugal
If the chilly weather of Scandinavia isn’t for you, consider visiting Portugal instead, which has a very warm climate. The locals are famously friendly, too, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for solo female travelers. Perhaps most appealing of all is the country’s stunning beaches, of which there are plenty, especially in the South.
Ireland
While there’s no denying that the United Kingdom isn’t the safest country to visit, its friendly neighbor, Ireland, offers one of the most welcoming atmospheres on the planet. It also has very low crime rates, great infrastructure, and landscapes that, sometimes, beat that of the U.K. So, don’t be afraid to pop over for a pint of Guinness in Dublin on your travels.
Germany
One of the safest countries in mainland Europe is Germany, which boasts famously efficient public transport. These transport routes are also incredibly cheap, giving you all-inclusive access to many routes at outrageously low prices. This allows you to explore this wonderfully safe country comprehensively, so you can really get to know Berlin, Munich, Dortmund, and more without worrying too much.
Belgium
If you’re visiting Germany and the Netherlands, don’t overlook Belgium, which provides an idyllic central location within Europe accompanied by low crime rates, historic cities, and countless cultural landmarks. It truly is the perfect European country for solo female travelers to visit, so make sure you write it on your bucket list.
Czechia
Another commonly overlooked country on this list is the Czechia, or as you may know it, the Czech Republic. This Eastern-European country has countless charming cities to offer, along with a wonderful safe environment for solo female travelers. The country’s rich history and vibrant culture offer numerous exploration opportunities, so don’t let anything stop you from taking a look.
Slovenia
To finish up on European countries that cater to female travelers, Slovenia is perhaps the most hidden gem of all. Everyone who visits picks up on the country’s uniquely welcoming atmosphere, and after spending some time there, you’ll notice that it’s absurdly clean for Europe. To top it all off, the country has some of Europe’s most unique landscapes and lowest crime rates, making it a no-brainer to visit.
South Korea
Flying back to Asia, it’s worth visiting South Korea if you’re a solo female traveler who is already set on visiting Japan. This neighboring country is famous for its safety, and you’ll experience some of the most futuristic skyscrapers and modern amenities that you can see on this planet. Best of all, the food is incredible, and you’ll likely find it difficult to come home to American cuisine.