Top places in Europe for solo female travel

Embarking on a solo journey can seem like a daunting adventure, particularly if you’re a woman. However, Europe, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, provides a plethora of safe and empowering destinations for solo female travelers. Every country in Europe is so different from the previous, that you’ll never be bored and you’ll be sure to find the right place for your style. 

Ready to head out on your solo adventure? Check out the top places in Europe. 

Valencia, Spain

Known for its vibrancy, Valencia beautifully blends the old and the new. As the third-largest city in Spain, it’s a treasure trove of diverse architecture, from the ornately decorated historic ceramics of the National Ceramics Museum to the ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences. Valencia is also the birthplace of Spain’s famous dish, paella, and travelers can enjoy an authentic paella experience by the beach at one of the many seaside eateries. The city has a vast network of cycling paths and it’s known for its safety, making it easy and comfortable for solo female travelers to navigate and explore the heart of the city. Enjoy the buzzing nightlife, and don’t forget to visit the vibrant Central Market, a bustling food market filled with local delicacies.

Crete, Greece

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, offers a rich tapestry of experiences that range from gorgeous beaches to ancient ruins. The island’s diverse landscape includes the stunning white sandy beaches of Elafonisi, the mesmerizing Samaria Gorge, and the snow-capped White Mountains. History enthusiasts will appreciate the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, while food lovers can indulge in Cretan cuisine, known for its use of fresh local produce and olive oil. Crete has a reputation for hospitality, and local businesses are generally welcoming and accommodating to solo female travelers, making it an ideal destination for a solo adventure.

Valletta, Malta

This breathtaking island country in the Mediterranean is a paradise for history buffs, beach lovers, and adventure seekers. Malta’s rich history can be experienced through its prehistoric temples, underground catacombs, and the fortified medieval city of Mdina. The capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a baroque masterpiece filled with grand buildings like the St. John’s Co-Cathedral. For beachgoers, the Blue Lagoon on the nearby island of Comino offers crystal clear turquoise waters perfect for a refreshing swim. The Maltese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, and English is widely spoken, which makes traveling around the country easy for solo female travelers.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, exudes a charming old-world atmosphere with a modern, creative twist. The city’s heart is the enchanting Ljubljana Old Town, punctuated by the Ljubljana Castle towering over the city from a hill. From wandering around the colorful central market, exploring the vibrant street art, to enjoying a leisurely cruise along the Ljubljanica River, there’s plenty to do. Ljubljana is compact and easily walkable, and its safety makes it ideal for solo female travelers. Don’t miss out on trying traditional Slovenian dishes at one of the open-air restaurants along the river.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city steeped in history and grandeur. Solo female travelers can look forward to visiting imperial palaces like Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace, attending opera performances at the Vienna State Opera, and wandering through the narrow, winding streets of the historic Innere Stadt (Inner City). Art lovers must check out the world-class Museum Quarter, an art hub housing renowned museums like the Leopold Museum and MUMOK. Vienna’s famous coffee culture is also a highlight, with cozy coffeehouses serving as perfect spots to relax and get some work done.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, successfully combines historical charm and modern design. From the colorful houses lining the historic Nyhavn harbor to the enchanting Tivoli Gardens amusement park, the city exudes a delightful charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Amalienborg Palace or visit the famous Little Mermaid statue. Copenhagen is also the epitome of ‘hygge’, a Danish concept that embodies coziness and contentment, which can be experienced in the city’s numerous cozy cafes. With its commitment to safety and gender equality, Copenhagen is a great destination for solo female travelers.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a compact, pedestrian-friendly city that offers a captivating blend of medieval and modern. Wander through the charming Old Town, visit the impressive Bratislava Castle which offers panoramic views of the city, or soak up the city’s youthful energy in the numerous trendy bars and contemporary art spaces. The city is safe and the locals are friendly, making solo exploration a delight. Don’t forget to cross the bridge to visit the unique and futuristic-looking UFO Observation Deck for an unbeatable view of Bratislava.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, known as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’, is a city of contrasts. This vibrant city offers a mix of rich history, stunning architecture, and relaxing thermal baths. Explore the historic Castle District, take a leisurely cruise on the Danube River, or relax in Széchenyi, one of the city’s famous thermal baths. The city’s ruin bars, old abandoned buildings turned into hip bars and clubs, offer an exciting nightlife. Thanks to the city’s high safety standards and the welcoming nature of its inhabitants, Budapest is a great place for solo female travelers.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-kissed capital, is a city of stunning vistas, historic neighborhoods, and delicious food. From exploring the narrow streets of Alfama to tasting the famous ‘pastel de nata’ (Portuguese custard tart), there’s always something to do in Lisbon. The city offers a variety of walking tours, rooftop bars, and markets, making it a lively destination for solo travelers. Lisbon’s locals are renowned for their friendliness, making it a welcoming city for solo female travelers.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow, with its rich history and captivating architecture, is a must-visit city in Poland. The city’s heart is the bustling Main Market Square, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, surrounded by historic buildings and churches. There are plenty of free walking tours that are great for solo travelers. If you visit, you’ll also want to check out Wawel Castle and the historic Jewish Quarter. With strong safety statistics and a welcoming atmosphere, Krakow provides a comfortable and enriching experience for solo female travelers.

Embarking on a solo journey can be a liberating and empowering experience. Exploring these wonderful European cities alone will offer you the chance to set your own pace and indulge in your personal interests. Safe travels!

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Magdalena Grozdanova
In the past years I've been living in different countries in Europe (I'm potentially the slowest slowmad). Sofia is my home base now and in my free time I like reading, spending time in nature and practicing yoga.
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