Thinking about solo female travel in Europe? Whether it’s your first solo adventure or your tenth, Europe is one of the safest and most rewarding regions for women traveling alone. In this guide, you’ll discover the best cities in Europe for solo female travelers, female-friendly tours, and practical travel tips from someone who’s explored over 20 European destinations.
Why Travel Europe Solo as a Woman?
Female solo travel in Europe is one of the most empowering and accessible ways to explore the world. With excellent public transportation, walkable cities, and a wide range of cultural experiences, Europe is an ideal region for women traveling alone. From big cities to charming small towns, there’s a strong sense of safety, structure, and independence.
Many places across Europe are perfect for first-time solo travelers. English is commonly spoken, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, and Lisbon, and train travel makes it easy to visit multiple destinations in one trip. You can explore at your own pace, stop when you feel like it, and build an itinerary around your own interests.
Female solo travel in Europe also makes it easy to meet people. Whether through hostels, walking tours, or cooking classes, there are plenty of social spaces that don’t feel forced. You can enjoy meaningful solo time and still connect with other travelers along the way.
If you’re looking for freedom, variety, and a strong sense of personal safety, female solo travel in Europe is a great choice. Whether you want museums, nature, food, or coastlines, this region offers everything you need to travel confidently on your own.
Best Cities in Europe for Female Solo Travel
One of the best parts of female solo travel in Europe is the wide variety of destinations that feel safe, inspiring, and easy to explore on your own. Whether you’re drawn to cobblestone streets, seaside views, or vibrant nightlife, there’s a city that fits your vibe. Below are some of the best cities in Europe for solo female travelers – places known for walkability, safety, and experiences you can enjoy without needing a travel companion.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is perfect for solo female travelers looking for laid-back charm and lots of character. The city is walkable, affordable, and full of stunning viewpoints. Solo travelers can join food or fado tours, ride the iconic tram 28, or just relax in a miradouro with a pastel de nata. Locals are friendly, and English is widely spoken.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is consistently ranked as one of the best cities in Europe for solo travel. It’s safe, bike-friendly, and filled with cultural spots like the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. Stay in a well-rated hostel or boutique hotel and spend your days wandering canals, visiting markets, or joining small boat tours.
3. Florence, Italy
If you love art, history, and slow living, Florence is an excellent choice for solo female travel. The city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and local markets on your own. It also has a relaxed pace that suits solo travel beautifully.
4. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is one of the most underrated cities in Europe and a hidden gem for solo travelers. It’s small, colorful, and incredibly safe. You can explore the old town, hike up to Ljubljana Castle, or take a day trip to Lake Bled. It’s clean, eco-friendly, and perfect if you want something unique but easygoing.
5. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a solo travel classic. The city has a strong solo-friendly energy with its cafés, museums, coworking spaces, and creative neighborhoods. It’s ideal if you want a mix of culture and edge. The public transport system is excellent, and it’s easy to navigate alone.
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia
For coastal beauty and cinematic backdrops, Dubrovnik is perfect. It’s safe, walkable, and filled with history. You can explore the old city walls, take the cable car for epic views, or book a kayak tour. It’s also a great base for short solo day trips to nearby islands.
7. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is clean, safe, and stylish. While it’s more expensive, it offers a calm solo travel experience with top-tier design, great cafés, and friendly locals. You can explore the city by bike or take a solo stroll through Nyhavn and the botanical gardens.
8. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona offers energy, sunshine, and plenty to do. It’s easy to meet people in hostels or on group tours, and there are endless tapas bars and beach walks to enjoy solo. Just stay alert for pickpockets in tourist-heavy areas. The city is vibrant, creative, and full of personality.
Female-Friendly Tours and Experiences in Europe
One of the best parts of female solo travel in Europe is how easy it is to join a tour or experience when you want structure or company. You’re never truly alone unless you want to be.
Small group tours like G Adventures, Intrepid, and Contiki are popular with solo travelers and often include others exploring solo too. They’re great if you want a ready-made itinerary with minimal planning.
Prefer flexibility? Try walking tours from local operators like SANDEMANs, Walkative, or GuruWalk. These are low-commitment, tip-based, and a great way to meet people on day one in any city.
Platforms like Airbnb Experiences and GetYourGuide offer local-led activities from cooking classes and wine tastings to day hikes and art walks. These feel personal, safe, and often attract other solo travelers, especially women.
For something active, try photography tours, surf lessons, or creative workshops. These experiences let you explore with intention and often lead to unexpected connections.
Whether you want to join a multi-day tour or just book one local experience, there are countless options designed to make solo female travel in Europe feel social, safe, and fulfilling – all on your terms.
Safety Tips for Solo Female Travel in Europe
Europe is generally very safe for solo female travelers, but it’s smart to stay aware and prepared. Here are practical tips to keep your trip stress-free:
- Trust your instincts – if something feels off, walk away.
- Stay in central, well-reviewed accommodations with good lighting and easy access to public transit.
- Use offline maps and avoid looking lost in unfamiliar areas. Have a plan before heading out.
- Keep valuables close using a crossbody bag or anti-theft backpack. Don’t flash expensive gear or jewelry.
- Avoid walking alone late at night in quiet or poorly lit areas, especially in cities you don’t know well.
- Limit alcohol when you’re out alone and keep your drink in sight.
- Share your location with someone you trust, especially if hiking or heading to a remote area.
Solo travel doesn’t mean being paranoid – it means being smart, observant, and confident. With basic precautions, solo female travel in Europe can feel safe, free, and empowering.
Where to Stay as a Solo Female Traveler in Europe
Your choice of accommodation can shape your solo travel experience. The good news is that Europe has endless options that are safe, social, and solo-friendly.
Hostels are great for meeting people, especially those with female-only dorms and strong security. Look for well-rated options like Generator, Wombat’s, or Selina, especially in major cities.
Prefer more privacy? Choose a centrally located boutique hotel or guesthouse. Being close to public transport and main attractions means you’ll avoid late-night walks through unfamiliar areas.
Airbnb can be a good choice too, especially with superhosts or private rentals that have consistent, high safety reviews. Always read reviews carefully and message hosts before booking if you have concerns.
Wherever you stay, prioritize walkability, access to transit, and verified reviews. A safe, comfortable base makes solo female travel in Europe way more enjoyable and gives you confidence to explore freely.
Final Thoughts on Solo Female Travel in Europe
Solo female travel in Europe is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world. With its well-connected cities, safe public spaces, and endless variety of experiences, Europe offers something for every type of traveler from art lovers and foodies to hikers and history buffs.
Whether you’re planning a short trip to one city or a multi-country adventure, you’ll find that solo travel gives you the freedom to follow your own rhythm. With the right mindset, smart planning, and a few local tours or experiences, traveling alone doesn’t feel lonely – it feels empowering.
From choosing the best cities and tours to knowing where to stay and how to stay safe, this guide is designed to help you feel confident and excited about your journey. So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to book that solo trip to Europe – this is it.
If you like this type of content, check out my other blog posts for more solo travel tips, destination guides, and photography inspiration across the world. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for new places to explore, there’s plenty more to discover.