A solo traveler admiring the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, one of the best scenic spots for solo female travelers. Included in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations.

13 Best Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations

Solo female travel in Europe is one of the most empowering and exciting adventures to experience.

As a solo female traveler, I know the excitement of exploring Europe alone from the freedom, the adventures, and yes, even the challenge, all while surrounded by historic buildings and picture-perfect streets.

Personal development, an increased sense of self, the transformative effects of traveling, observing, being independent, and learning to appreciate your company while exploring some of the best destinations are genuinely priceless.

I’ve traveled to and explored several of these destinations solo, navigating new cities, trying local foods, and learning to feel safe while making the most of every moment.

I’ll walk you through Europe’s best solo female travel destinations in this travel guide, considering safety, public transport, walkability, affordability, and unique experiences.

Let’s dive into the top destinations to visit as a solo female traveler in Europe!

Plan Your Trip With My Favorite Resources

– Best accommodation site: Booking.com
– Book day tours here: Viator.com
– Purchase your travel eSIM: MayaMobile.com
– Browse my recommended travel essentials here: Travel Essentials For Your Next Trip!

13 Best Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations

1. Porto, Portugal

A solo female traveler in Porto, Portugal, enjoying the golden hour with the Dom Luís I Bridge and city lights in the background. Porto is one of the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations, known for its stunning riverfront and welcoming atmosphere.
Left: Exploring Porto on a night tour – Right: Views of the Duomo River from the Dom Luís Bridge I

Porto is a dream for solo travelers who love a mix of history, culture, and affordability.

The city’s compact size makes it incredibly walkable, and locals are welcoming, making it easy to ask for directions or recommendations, which is perfect for solo female travelers.

I especially loved walking along the Douro River, exploring the colorful Ribeira district, and joining a few tours, especially a walking tour of the city’s history and best viewpoints.

Don’t leave without trying a traditional port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia—perfect for solo travelers to enjoy a relaxed afternoon.

Must-do experiences in Porto

>> Read More: What I did on my solo trip to Porto, Portugal 🇵🇹

2. Santander, Spain

A solo traveler stands in front of the grand Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander, Spain. On the right, a peaceful ocean view with a lighthouse. Santander is a hidden gem in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations for coastal charm.
Left: Standing in front of the Palacio de la Magdalena – Right: Views of the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse from the Palacio de la Magdalena

If you’re looking for a laid-back coastal destination, Santander is one of Spain’s best-hidden gems and is a perfect choice!

The city is known for its stunning Playa del Sardinero, where you can take long, peaceful walks or soak up the sun, no matter the season.

I visited in winter, and as someone used to Illinois’ brutal winters, winter is mild, and exploring outdoors is doable. Just pack an umbrella!

Santander is less crowded than other Spanish hotspots, offering a more authentic local experience, which I personally loved, but at the same time, there was plenty to do and explore.

I especially loved exploring Magdalena Palace on the Magdalena Peninsula, which I recommend for the history of the grand palace and Santander. The grounds are stunning!

Also, a walking or boat tour of the bay is a must because the city’s history is fascinating.

If you’re looking to explore nearby, you can visit cities like Bilbao from Santander on the bus for a few euros and return in one day! I recommend the scenic bus route from Santander to Bilbao for the scenic journey alone.

>> Read More: 12+ Reasons to Visit Santander, Spain 🇪🇸

Must-do experiences in Santander

3. Bilbao, Spain

A giant floral sculpture of a puppy outside the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. On the right, a solo female traveler enjoys a scenic view of Bilbao’s riverfront, a great stop in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations for culture and architecture.
Left: The Puppy statue in front of the Guggenheim – Right: Exploring Bilbao and crossing the Nervión River

Less crowded than Madrid or Barcelona, Bilbao is a hidden gem for solo female travelers who love art and really good food.

The iconic Guggenheim Museum, one of the most popular museums in Western Europe, is a must-visit, even if it’s just from the outside, with stunning contemporary art and architecture indoors and out.

For food lovers, you’ll be in pintxos (small tapas-like snacks) heaven!

The food is truly an experience in and of itself, hopping from one pintxos bar to another in the historic district and La Ribeira Market, worthy of a tour alone.

With amazing public transport, a safe, laid-back atmosphere, and tons of day trips from Bilbao available to explore more of the Basque Country, Bilbao offers the perfect balance of culture and relaxation.

>> Read More: How To Spend 3 Days In Bilbao For First Timers 🇪🇸

Must-do experiences in Bilbao

4. Budapest, Hungary

A solo traveler poses in front of the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest, one of the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations. The right image captures the lively street leading to St. Stephen’s Basilica, filled with outdoor cafés.
Left: Exploring Budapest around the Parliament building on a walking tour – Right: Views of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest

Budapest is one of Europe’s most underrated capital cities in central Europe, perfect for solo female travelers who want a rich experience in architecture, history, and food.

One of my favorite things was walking across the Chain Bridge and admiring the breathtaking views of Buda Castle and the Parliament Building, among so many other things.

I did a night cruise tour, one of my favorite highlights of my trip to Budapest, where I saw the city glow at night, specifically the Parliament Building, while listening to folk music.

Also, the food scene was not something I was expecting to be as good as it was, I say ignorantly.

Goulash, schnitzel, Lángos, and more are some foods to try in Budapest, so if you’re wondering what to try while visiting Budapest, I recommend starting with those food items.

>> Read More: Is Budapest Worth Visiting? What You Need to Know Before You Go 🇭🇺

Must-do experiences in Budapest

5. London, England

The left image showcases Big Ben at sunset, while on the right, a solo female traveler enjoys a crisp day at Tower Bridge. London is a must-visit in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations, offering history, culture, and ease of travel.
Left: Views of the Thames River and Big Ben – Right: Exploring the area around Tower Bridge

While London is technically not European, geographically, it is categorized as Western Europe. For that, it’s worth mentioning on this list as an ideal destination for solo travel in Europe.

London is one of the best cities for solo travelers because it’s easy to navigate, filled with endless activities, and incredibly diverse.

Stroll through the most beautiful parks and gardens, like my favorite, Regents Park or Hyde Park, explore the many world-class free museums, or enjoy a cozy afternoon at a café.

Neighborhoods like Notting Hill and Chelsea are perfect for solo explorations, with boutique stores and cute cafes and restaurants.

People commonly say that the food is not good in London, and England in general. I’ll say that despite the naysayers, London has a spectacular food scene simply because of its diversity.

Turkish, Colombian, Chinese, and Indian food are just a few cuisines to try while in London because they are spectacular.

Lastly, London’s easy-to-follow public transport system makes it comfortable to explore on your own without hassle.

>> Read More: +30 Safety Tips Every Solo Female Traveler Should Know

Must-do experiences in London

6. Florence, Italy

A solo traveler poses in front of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), while the right image captures a stunning panoramic view of the city's rooftops. Florence ranks high in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations for art, food, and walkability.
Left: Walking around historic Florence (The Baptistery of St. John and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) – Right: Views of Florence from the Piazzale Michaelangelo

Florence is a dream for art and history lovers, and it’s compact enough to explore entirely on foot, which I loved!

See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, admire the Duomo’s stunning architecture, and enjoy a glass of wine or a coffee and pastry by the Arno River.

The city has plenty of charming cafés and trattorias, where solo travelers can enjoy a relaxed meal while people-watching.

It’s also a great place to take a cooking class or guided art tour, perfect for meeting other travelers.

>> Read More: 13 Proven Tips on How to Make a Trip Memorable for Solo Travelers

Must-do experiences in Florence

7. Athens, Greece

lively street scene in Athens with a view of the Acropolis, and a solo traveler sitting on the steps of a charming white chapel. Athens is a highlight of the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations, offering ancient history and vibrant city life.
Left: Views of the Acropolis from Plaka – Right: Sitting on the steps of the church on top of Lycabettus Hill

Athens is a fantastic solo travel destination, especially if you love history, local culture, and amazing food.

Explore through the picture-perfect streets of Plaka, visit the Acropolis, and soak in the city’s tangible energy at Monastiraki Square.

If you’re looking for fun day activities while in Athens, there are many places to explore, including island hopping. 

Greek hospitality is well-known, and solo travelers often feel welcomed by the locals, especially if you try speaking their language.

The city’s affordable accommodations and food scene make it easy to enjoy traditional dishes like souvlaki and moussaka without breaking the bank.

I’ve been fortunate to visit Greece a couple of times. The first was when I studied abroad there for 3 months, exploring Athens and the rest of Greece, and then on a solo trip to Athens.

It’s an incredible city that you have to see at least once.

>> Read More: 5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Athens, Greece 🇬🇷

Must-do experiences in Athens

8. Málaga, Spain

A solo female traveler sitting on the historic walls of the Alcazaba fortress in Malaga, Spain, experiencing Andalusian charm. A featured location in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations.
Left: Walking along the shops on Larios Avenue in Málaga – Right: Exploring the historic Alcazaba fortress

Málaga is a laid-back beach city with a mix of culture, history, and coastal charm.

Visit the Picasso Museum, explore the Alcazaba Fortress, and enjoy the best of the city’s food scene at tapa bars or on a food tour, which I’m so glad I did to learn (and try) a sampling of the food scene.

The beaches here are easily accessible, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean on the sand or at a beach cafe.

Málaga also has plenty of hostels, making it a great option for solo travelers looking to connect with others.

Must-do experiences in Málaga

9. Paris, France

A solo female traveler in front of the Arc de Triomphe, one of Paris’s iconic landmarks. On the right, a charming curved street in Montmartre with cozy cafés. Paris is a timeless choice in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations for solo explorers.
Left: Me standing in front of the Arc de Triomphe – Right: Walking around Montmartre

Despite its romantic reputation, Paris is absolutely a great solo travel destination.

The city is packed with things to do, whether you want to visit world-class museums like the Louvre, explore the charming streets of Montmartre, or enjoy a café au lait and croissant or other decadent pastry at a sidewalk bistro.

Paris is known for its strong café culture, where dining alone is completely normal, making it a comfortable city for solo female travelers, easing into the experience of traveling and eating alone.

Must-do experiences in Paris

10. Dublin, Ireland

The breathtaking interior of the Long Room at Trinity College Library, and a solo traveler in the lively Temple Bar district. Dublin is a must-visit in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations, known for its literature, history, and friendly locals.
Left: The Library of Trinity College (so worth it!) – Right: Walking around the Temple Bar area

Dublin is often ranked as one of the friendliest cities in Europe, and I can attest to that, which makes it a top choice for solo female travelers.

Stroll through the Library of Trinity College, explore the historic Dublin Castle, visit the Guinness Storehouse for a tour and grab a drink at The Gravity Bar with amazing views of Dublin, or grab a pint at a local pub—where it’s incredibly easy to strike up a conversation with friendly locals.

The historic center is compact, which makes exploring very walkable, plus, there is music everywhere, especially near the pubs.

You don’t have to go inside to hear the music to enjoy it!

>> Read More: Visiting the Cliffs of Moher with Paddywagon Tours 🇮🇪

Must-do experiences in Dublin

11. Prague, Czech Republic

A solo traveler enjoying a walk along Charles Bridge, with Prague Castle in the background. On the right, the historic Powder Tower stands tall among cobblestone streets. Prague is a fairy-tale destination in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations.
Left: Standing on the St. Charles Bridge – Right: Walking around Prague near The Powder Tower

Prague is a stunningly beautiful city, perfect for solo female travelers who love history and architecture.

Walk across historic Charles Bridge, explore the Prague Castle complex, and admire the charming streets of the Old Town Square.

The city is very budget-friendly, offering affordable accommodations and dining options.

Its great public transport system makes it easy to navigate the city, even if you don’t speak the language.

Must-do experiences in Prague

12. Oxford, England

A grand, circular sandstone building with a domed roof, known as the Radcliffe Camera, stands in Oxford, England. Several people with backpacks and warm coats are gathered outside the black wrought-iron fence, while bicycles lean against it. On the right, a solo female traveler with long dark hair, glasses, and a black coat over a white turtleneck stands on a patch of bright green grass, smiling at the camera with historic Oxford architecture and a leafless tree behind her. Oxford is a must-visit for history lovers and is featured in the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations.
Left: The Radcliffe Camera (Circle Library) in Oxford – Right: Exploring the Music Department at School in Oxford

Oxford is the perfect solo day trip from London, offering a quaint, scholarly, historic atmosphere.

Explore the University of Oxford, visit the stunning Bodleian Library, and enjoy the charming cafés and bookstores scattered throughout the city.

Walking along the River Thames or Christ Church Meadow is a peaceful way to spend an afternoon.

Oxford’s friendly and intellectual vibe makes it a great place for solo female travelers, plus it’s so easy to get there from London.

Must-do experiences in Oxford

13. Copenhagen, Denmark

A solo female traveler stands smiling by the edge of a canal in Nyhavn, Copenhagen, with colorful, tightly packed buildings painted in shades of yellow, orange, blue, and red lining the waterfront behind her. The wooden hull of a historic boat with thick ropes is docked in the canal. The sky is bright blue with scattered wispy clouds, and people are walking along the lively harbor. In another image, Danish flags with red and white crosses hang above a cobblestone street filled with pedestrians, many of whom are holding ice cream cones and shopping. Copenhagen is one of the 13 Best of Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations, known for its welcoming atmosphere.

Left: Walking around Nyhavn – Right: Exploring around a side street near Nyhavn

Copenhagen, the Danish capital city,  is one of the safest cities in Europe, making it perfect for solo female travelers.

Rent a bike and explore the Nyhavn waterfront, Tivoli Gardens, and the cute streets of Christianshavn.

Locals are friendly and fluent in English, which is another reason why this city is another great solo travel destination.

Food lovers should visit Reffen Street Food Market for delicious Nordic and international bites.

While it’s on the pricier side, its safety, walkability, and cozy café culture make it a fantastic solo getaway to consider.

Must-do experiences in Copenhagen

Tips for traveling alone for the first time in Europe

Traveling alone for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking! These travel tips will help you navigate Europe confidently and safely as a solo female traveler.

Stay in well-reviewed hostels and hotels

Read reviews on platforms like Booking.com and Hostelworld to make sure your accommodation is safe and in a central location.

Consider your activities while visiting your solo travel destination, where you’ll be staying, and the distance between.

For example, if you plan to do night tours or activities, maybe consider staying in a central location close to the city’s action so you can feel safe walking alone at night back to your place.

Use public transport confidently – know routes beforehand

Research the public transportation situation.

Is there a metro, bus, or train? What’s the most popular method of moving around for locals?

If you have a late-night arrival to your destination, consider booking a transfer or check to see if Uber or an Uber alternative is available beforehand so you can safely get to your hotel.

Check all that beforehand to avoid looking lost and the route you’ll be taking to get from one point to another so you reduce the number of times you take out your phone and stay looking down at it.

You can also download offline maps like Google Maps or Citymapper if you lose connection while out and about.

Blend in with locals – avoid looking like a tourist

Regardless of what side you fall on, the debate of dressing like a local or dressing in what you’re comfortable and used to wearing at home, the point in picking what to wear is to help you blend in with the locals and avoid unwanted attention.

Don’t bring flashy jewelry or leave your things unattended.

Bring simple, comfortable outfit picks not only to avoid unwanted attention but also just simplicity to make use of a small wardrobe that can be mixed and matched, like a capsule wardrobe.

Use your best judgment, but dressing to blend in is more for personal safety than anything else, so stay aware of local customs and etiquette.

Trust your instincts – and be aware of your surroundings

Be mindful of your surroundings, whether walking around the city, dining, or joining a group activity.

If something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.

Ask the hotel front desk or your Airbnb host for local safety tips to be aware of, and they’ll be happy to share that valuable local knowledge with you.

Join group tours or stay at social accommodations to meet others

This is a great way to meet fellow travelers and enjoy experiences with others, especially in cities known for the solo travel scene.

If you don’t want to stay at a hostel, another great way to have that group feeling is to join tours and activities.

That’s what I do, and I feel like I get the right amount of social interaction during my solo travels.

Is Europe Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Yes! Europe is generally one of the safest regions for solo female travelers, with many countries ranking high on the Global Peace Index.

From general safety to great infrastructure, well-connected public transportation, and affordability.

However, safety varies by destination, and it’s always good to be cautious and research your destination, specifically from other solo female travelers and their experiences and tips.

Join Facebook groups for more destination-specific information and insight from other solo female travelers.

How to use your phone in Europe

Depending on your phone, you’ll require a physical SIM card or an eSIM (electronic), which must be unlocked to be used abroad.

Generally, iPhone 13 and older still require a physical SIM card, which you can order online and get before your international trip or shop for at your destination.

I don’t recommend waiting until you reach your destination to shop for a physical SIM card simply because you’ll spend some of your travel time searching various shops looking for a good deal at a reasonable price.

An eSIM like Maya Mobile, which I use, is the way to go if you have an iPhone 14 and older. You can buy it before your trip and have it ready to use as soon as you land.

>> Read More: Maya Mobile Review: Is This the Best eSIM for International Travel?

What is the best time to visit Europe?

The best time to visit Europe depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for:

  • Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and fresh blooms everywhere.
  • Summer (June-August): Best for beaches and festivals, but major cities can be crowded and expensive.
  • Autumn (September-November): Milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall scenery.
  • Winter (December-February): Ideal for Christmas markets, skiing, and off-season deals in major cities.

I recommend traveling during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for solo female travelers, which offer the best mix of good weather, affordability, and smaller crowds.

Info on visas and the Schengen Zone

If you’re traveling to multiple European countries, it’s essential to understand the Schengen Zone, which allows for visa-free travel between 27 European countries for up to 90 days in a 180-day period for U.S., Canadian, Australian, and many other passport holders.

However, be mindful that travelers from traditionally visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., must apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before visiting Schengen countries, and if you’re traveling to the UK, you must apply for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before departure.

Check Schengen Visa Info to ensure you meet your destination’s entry requirements.

The best ways to get around Europe

  • Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer cheap European flights. Book early for the best deals!
  • Trains are a comfortable and scenic option. Consider Rail Europe, Trainline, and Eurostar for flexible travel across multiple countries, including the UK.
  • Buses like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar (carpooling) are the cheapest option, though slower than trains or flights. Check bus options for possible day trips nearby or travel between destinations with Busbud.

Accommodation options for solo female travelers

Where you stay can shape your solo travel experience!

  • Hostels – Great for meeting other travelers, plus you can choose to stay in female-only dorms.
  • Boutique hotels & B&Bs – A cozy and safe alternative to large hotels.
  • Apartment rentals – Ideal for privacy and extended stays.
  • Coliving spaces – Popular in digital nomad hubs like Portugal, Spain, and Italy.

Packing essential for solo female travelers

Practical Must-Haves

>> Read More: 18 Travel Essentials You Need For Your Next Trip

Capsule wardrobe

  • Neutral colors for mix-and-match outfits.
  • Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers & flats).
  • A lightweight rain jacket or travel umbrella.

>> Read More: The Best Travel Wardrobe Essentials Checklist For Your Next Trip

Cultural etiquette and expectations

Do Your Research

  • Learn a few basic phrases in the local language for politeness. Remember, you’re a visitor in their city.
  • Be aware of dress codes, especially in religious sites.

What Are the Common Payment Methods?

  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some local currency is still a good idea.
  • Contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are popular in many European countries.

Can You Drink Tap Water?

  • Most of Europe has safe tap water, but in some areas, bottled water may be recommended.

Tipping Culture

  • Tipping is not always expected in Europe. However, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is usually enough in restaurants.

Connecting with other travelers

Join Group Tours

  • Walking tours, cooking classes, and pub crawls are great ways to meet people while traveling.
  • Websites like GetYourGuide and Viator are great starting points to look for activities that may interest you.

Stay in Social Accommodations

  • Choose hostels with common areas or co-living spaces to connect with fellow travelers.

Use Travel Apps

  • Apps like Backpackr, Meetup, and Bumble BFF can help you find like-minded people on the road.

The Wrap-Up: 13 Best Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations

Solo female travel in Europe is an empowering and unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re exploring Porto or Santander’s coastal beauty, Prague’s historic charm, or London’s diverse energy, Europe has something for every traveler.

Just make sure to do the proper planning to ensure a safe, fun time, and you’ll soon be confidently taking on your solo adventures, visiting amazing places in Europe, and getting to know yourself beyond anything else you’ve done before.

To more travel moments like this ✨

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Hi! I'm the founder and writer behind Travel Notes and Things. I write posts about travel destinations, share travel tips and resources, as well as talk about transformative travel to help inspire Latinas to travel to their dream destinations!

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