I lived in Europe for over four years and during that time had the pleasure of exploring lots of it myself. I also hosted several of my solo traveling friends that passed through my home city, Berlin.
When considering our favorites and remembering which places we disliked or wanted to avoid in the future, it usually came down to how safe we felt, how social it was, and how welcoming the locals were.
With that in mind, I’ve put together a list of some of the best places to consider if you’re traveling alone to Europe, and I asked a few of my fellow solo female travel bloggers to share their favorites as well. Some suggestions are big cities and some are natural areas, from the coast to the mountains and everything in between.
These are the best spots for solo travelers in Europe:
1. Reykjavík, Iceland
Iceland is the ideal place to travel alone for three big reasons: it’s popular, so there are other solo travelers around; there are so many amazing things to do in Iceland; and it’s the safest country in the world.
When I was in Iceland, I noticed that the locals would leave their cars running when they went into the grocery store — that’s how much they trust each other!
I was also astounded by how often I had full cell phone coverage. I had initially planned on being disconnected the whole time while camping in Iceland, but in the end I felt like if anything happened while I was out driving on the Ring Road, it wouldn’t be too hard to find some help.
The only downside is that the cost of traveling in Iceland can be expensive. However if you stay in a hostel and do day trips from Reykjavík, you’re bound to find someone to split things like car rental costs with.
Check out my solo female traveler’s guide to Iceland for more info.
2. Berlin, Germany
As soon as I landed in this quirky and artistic city, I instantly felt like part of the energy and intrigue. So much so that I actually moved to Berlin and called it home for five years!
Because of its promise of fantastic night life and counterculture, lots of young people come here with the intention of socializing. Whether out at a bar or nightclub or while taking a free walking tour, I find that meeting people in Berlin is easy. No matter what kind of person you are and what you’re looking for, you can find your tribe here.
On top of that, Berlin is an especially great destination for women due to its strong feminist culture and inclusive atmosphere. The city is also home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community, with many bars, clubs, and events dedicated to celebrating diversity and acceptance. This progressive attitude also extends to women’s rights, making Germany a safe and empowering environment for female travelers.
Check out my guide on the best things to do in Berlin.
3. Granada, Spain
Sonja of Migrating Miss says: “I loved wandering around the city center in Granada, and felt safe even at night. It’s easy to make friends in hostels or even in bars, because everyone goes out for tapas, and you don’t feel out of place standing or sitting alone at a bar having a drink and some food, as opposed to needing to have a whole sit-down meal alone somewhere else.
“You can also visit the Alhambra and spend as much time there as you like without having to worry about anyone else! Since it’s a more touristy area of Spain, you don’t really need to worry about a language barrier either.”
4. Barcelona, Spain
Paula of Curly Hair Adventures says: “The cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is the perfect place to visit if you’re a solo female traveler. Spain in general is an inexpensive country, and Barcelona is no exception — for food, shopping, and even using public transportation, it is a relatively cheap city to visit if you’re on a budget!
“Although Barcelona is big, it’s very safe — I traveled there solo last November and felt completely safe when I was out at night. I also believe it’s a great place to visit because of the rich history, art, food, culture, etc. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Barcelona!”
5. Florence, Italy
Florence is not only one of the most beautiful cities in all of Italy, it’s also one of the best places for solo female travel! Smaller than Rome and Milan, it is very walkable and easy to navigate, making it just right for solo travelers. It’s also a hub of art, history, and culture, with world-renowned museums like the Leonardo da Vinci Museum and Uffizi Gallery.
Florence is generally considered a safe city for solo female travelers. I felt comfortable walking around alone, even at night, and never encountered any major issues.
Check out my Italy guide for more info.
6. Stockholm, Sweden
Jill of Reading the Book says: “Stockholm combines a pretty, walkable city center with a very safe, egalitarian environment. The streets are clean and tidy, and in this country where women have long been treated as equal to men, a solo woman is nothing to be remarked upon.
“There is plenty to see and do: a historic center with lovely, winding streets, royal palaces to lose yourself exploring, and gorgeous islands a ferry ride away, where you can hike to your heart’s content or just sit on a rocky shoreline for hours with a good book, undisturbed.
“The light summer evenings mean it’s not dark until well after 10pm, making it a safe place to wander after dinner too. It’s somewhere I keep going back to.”
Check out my Sweden guide for more info.
7. Lisbon and Porto, Portugal
Namrata of Ecophiles says: “I’ve done a long solo trip across Europe during which, most of the time, I felt pretty safe. But Lisbon and Porto were special, because they’re extremely laid-back, and the people are very friendly.
As a solo traveler, I felt extremely safe — and there were so many random acts of kindness. I even spent a night couch-surfing with the loveliest family in the mountains surrounding Porto, who not only made me feel safe but very welcome.
“Lisbon and Porto are very budget friendly, the architecture is stunning, and the food is delicious. The bars and cafés in both have character. And the sunset in Lisbon is memorable — and free!”
When in Portugal, don’t miss out on visiting the Azores!
8. Glasgow, Scotland
Scotland is one of my favorite places to travel solo because of the approachable and friendly locals. No matter where you go, everyone is happy to help and offer guidance, making it easy and comfortable to navigate on your own.
Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and has also been named one of the friendliest in the UK. It’s known for its street art, stunning Victorian architecture, and awesome nightlife. As a solo traveler, I loved exploring the city on foot and discovering hidden gems among the popular tourist spots.
Plus it’s the perfect jumping-off point to explore the rest of Scotland, a country that I’ve heard and seen from photos is breathtakingly beautiful. I can’t wait to go back and explore more of it someday.
9. Montenegro
Nina of Where in the World Is Nina? says: “As my plane was landing at the Podgorica airport, I was already gobsmacked. Montenegro looked gorgeous! I booked tickets here on a whim, without much of a plan, and within moments, I was patting myself on the back. Montenegro is full of friendly people, and I never at any point felt unsafe during my stay.
“I traveled up north in the Tara region to adventure down the canyon’s rapids, down to Ulcinj to chill on the beach, and hung out in the old city of Kotor. Prices were affordable, I had my own apartment with a sea view in Ulcinj for $23 USD a night (during shoulder season), and I ate a two-course meal with wine for $11 USD. Montenegro is a great place for solo women wanting some adventure or just a beach to chill out on.”
While in Montenegro, hike the Via Dinarica Trail!
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a fantastic choice as a solo traveler. Communication with the locals is a breeze, because the Dutch are generally fantastic at English. It’s also pretty small and compact and therefore easy to get around.
It might seem scary at first, but I highly recommend renting a bike and exploring the city. Literally everyone gets around on two wheels here, and it’s such a fun and liberating experience. This is a great bike tour for an introduction to the city and its sights, as well as for getting a feel for navigating through the bustling streets.
In addition to biking, you can spend hours on end visiting the various art museums in Amsterdam — a perfectly delightful solo activity. If you go in the spring, be sure to enjoy the tulips as well.
Overall, there is a lot to do and a ton of potential to meet others in a place as popular as Amsterdam.
Oh, and you can get stroopwafels there — delicious caramel waffle cookie things. Need I say more?
11. Budapest, Hungary
Lola of Miss Filatelista says: “Budapest is a fantastic European city for solo female travelers. It’s incredibly budget friendly, with low-cost boutique accommodation, delicious local food and wine that is a fraction of the cost of other European capital cities, and wonderful experiences that are also affordable, such as thermal bath spa days, exploring ancient castles, walking in historic districts to admire architecture, and frolicking in beautifully maintained parks.
“I’ve been to Budapest alone twice and never felt threatened during my trips. I met many other solo female travelers on wine cruises on the Danube River and at the many ruin pubs.”
12. Belfast, Northern Ireland
The warmth and friendliness of the people in Northern Ireland are unmatched. Whether you’re up for a pint or not, simply stepping into a pub will almost always lead to making new friends.
Not only are the Irish friendly, but the city of Belfast is a fantastic launchpad for solo adventures, especially if you are a Game of Thrones fan! Other places worth checking out are the Belfast Castle and the Titanic Museum — yes, the Titanic itself was built right here!
There’s so much to this city that I never expected when planning my trip, and now I can’t wait to go back.
Check out my Ireland guide for more info.
13. Geneva, Switzerland
Victoria of Vic Advisor says: “I was drawn to the French Alps nearby, but thought that Geneva itself was actually just the right place for an independent trip (especially the first one), because it is a very international city, meaning you won’t feel out of place, no matter where you’re from. Most people speak English, so communication is not a problem.
“While Geneva is known for being an expensive place, public transportation is free (if you stay in a hostel or hotel), and the city is also filled with water pumps you can use.
“Finally, there’s plenty to do in Geneva, even for a short break, and you get a city, lake, and mountain break all at once.”
14. Zermatt, Switzerland
For those who love the mountains and hiking but don’t want to be on a trail all alone, heading to a popular area like Zermatt, located at the base of the famous Matterhorn peak, is a great option.
This small mountain village, an adventurer’s dream, offers a nice combination of solitude in the mountains and opportunities to meet like-minded travelers.
If your heart races at the thought of chasing waterfalls, adding Oeschinen Lake to your itinerary is a must! Just a stone’s throw from the well-trodden paths of Zermatt, this breathtaking lake surrounded by dramatic mountains is absolute paradise.
Check out my Switzerland guide for more info.
15. Avignon, France
Laura of Travel Addicts says: “I went there for my first solo trip after quitting my job to focus on the blog and my photography business. Avignon is a convenient and culture-filled destination in France’s Provence region. Its compact, walled center is easily walkable and bustling at most hours of the day with locals enjoying wine in the sidewalk cafés and squares or hanging out on trendy (and cobblestoned) Rue des Teinturiers.
“Must-visit spots include the vibrant indoor market, a distillery producing pear brandy (with the pears grown in the bottles), and the Palace of the Popes — now a UNESCO World Heritage that housed seven popes in the 1300s, when controversy caused the papacy to leave Rome.
“Thanks to great train connections, Avignon is also an ideal location from which to explore nearby towns in Provence.”
16. Vienna, Austria
Situated in Central Europe, Vienna, the Austrian capital, is my favorite city in the country. The historic center is so packed with beautiful architecture, fascinating museums, old coffee houses, and baroque castles that it would literally take you weeks to see it all.
The MuseumsQuartier, in particular, is a great place not only to visit the city’s incredible museums but to meet other international travelers and locals as well.
Check out my Austria guide for more info.
17. Prague, Czech Republic
Veronika of Travel Geekery says: “Prague is a perfect destination for solo women, even for those just starting out. Of course, you still have to be cautious of your surroundings and not walk around drunk at night (even though I did that at a certain age), but overall, it’s very safe here.
“The public transport works great, and Uber does too, so you don’t have to rely on taxis. Plus, you can easily communicate in English in most places. Prague also offers plenty of cool hostels where you can meet like-minded travelers. It’s great to visit in any season, be it summer or winter.”
Prague is also one of the cheapest destinations!
18. Zagreb, Croatia
Croatia is one of those destinations that has skyrocketed in popularity over the years, with most travelers heading to places like Dubrovnik and Split. And while I love both of those cities, I actually think Zagreb is the ultimate solo travel destination in the country.
Not only are there activities and events going on all year long, but there is a great digital-nomad and expat community as well. Plus, with affordable accommodations, safety, and a laid-back lifestyle, it’s no wonder that many people consider it one of the best places to live in Europe.
19. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is a wonderful destination for solo travel, as it is very safe and small enough to be explored on foot. One of the main reasons I love Ljubljana is because it feels like a hidden gem: it’s not as well known or touristy as other European cities, which adds to its charm.
You really only need a day or two to see all of the highlights of the city, but its location makes it a great jumping-off point to places like Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge, and the Logar Valley. Oh, and Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, so you’ll definitely be getting more bang for your buck.
20. Finland
Finland stands out as an ideal spot for those venturing into solo travel for the first time, not just because of its beautiful scenery but also for being one of the safest corners of the globe for solo adventurers. The country has impressively low crime rates, the locals are super friendly, and most people speak great English, so there’s no need to worry about language barriers.
Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Helsinki, the charming coastal villages, or the Nordic wilderness, Finland is a match for travelers who love the outdoors and don’t mind chilly temps.
***
While my search is far from over, those are a few of my and others’ favorites for traveling alone in Europe. These are places where I or they felt safer, had an easier time meeting people, and enjoyed the scenery or the city vibe the most.
What are some of your favorite spots?
Nigel William says
Hi, Kristin! Yet another great article I really enjoyed reading! These are some very interesting trip suggestions, so I hope more women will feel motivated and encouraged to take a solo adventure to one of these beautiful places. of course, safety is probably a first thing that comes to mind when it comes to solo travelling. I was wondering, what would you advise to women who are planning to go on a trip alone?
Kristin says
Just do it. Like Nike.
Elina says
I agree so much on Berlin and Barcelona – although in Barcelona you’ll have to look after your stuff especially well! It was cool to see Montenegro included as well, I’m planning on heading there and around next year so it’s good to know I won’t be the only one, haha. I know it’s a classic but I would add Krakow to the list, it’s such an easy place to meet awesome people.
Kristin says
True there are so many pickpockets in Barcelona. Thanks for the Krakow suggestion!
Jub says
Quality stuff as usual Kristin, like how you included a few of ya fellow solo travel gals in the post.
Tends to be the bigger cities in this list, even as a lad, I find them safer to walk around. Especially at night…I find everything feels safer if I can at least see one human, regardless of how far in the distance…people = security? (not for everyone I realise, but would think it’s a common theme)..
Kristin says
Thank you! It’s weird, I do feel safe walking around Berlin because there are always people around, even when it’s dark, but I always feel safest in a tiny village. Then I know it’s pretty much all good.
Ijana Loss says
I love Europe for traveling because of the awesome hostels, there’s a really awesome hostel culture there where you can meet lots more cool travelers. Thanks for the reminder about skiing in Austria! I loved the articles you wrote about it but then had kind of forgotten about it until now lol, I need to get down there
Kristin says
I love how cheap it is! And cozy, and social.
Kate says
Great list! Europe has so many wonderful and unique cities; I can’t wait to explore them all!
sukhi says
Travelling to Athens on a solo trip.in two.weeks.
Did my first solo trip to Edinbutgh last year after getting your thoughts on where to go on my first solo adventure kirsten.
Nina Ragusa says
Thanks for including me and Montenegro, Kristin! 🙂
LOVE this list. I was a solo traveler for four years and I still do here and there!
I think Europe is also a great start if someone hasn’t done it before. It’s pretty easy. I started in SE Asia which is another great area but maybe a bit shocking for some!
Sarah says
I think Galway (and all of Ireland!) are great for a solo traveler! Especially a first time (American) solo traveler who might be nervous about the language barrier in other places.
GG says
I noticed this statement “Considering our favorites and remembering which places we disliked or wanted to avoid in the future, it usually came down to how safe we felt, how social it was, and how welcoming the locals were”. I know you all promote a positive environment on the blog which is awesome, but other than cat callers in some cities in Italy (so obnoxious, you’re not the only ones I heard this from), are there places you would avoid in Europe for the reasons you listed? Or is it just the general, “avoid touristy areas” or “depends on your experience, use your gut to find the right place”? This would be useful to know since I know several people who travel to Europe and would appreciate such advise. In some cases, they go to certain places not by choice (for work) and if it is a place to normally “try to avoid”, what could someone do to make lemonade out of lemons? I guess every city/place has its highlights/lowlights, even if overall “below average” or “above average”. You even blogged about being robbed in Berlin (an “above average” place) once and how there is a bit of poverty there, but love the place and positives far outweigh any negatives (plus helping a city thrive and citizens caring for each other can help poverty). I don’t intend to spread dirt on any place based on your info, I will be tactful about it and just provide the info to help my friends/colleagues (I can cite the blog as good PR 🙂 ). Thanks so much! I invite any other readers to comment too, please.
Kristin says
For me, it’s less that I feel the places not listed are bad or should be avoided, it’s just that the ones on this list are particularly nice when alone for various reasons. Sometimes touristy places can be really cool, like Berlin or Amsterdam.
And yeah, I got pick-pocketed here AND YET still think it’s amazing and still love it! It’s a sad truth that in most major cities in Europe pickpocketing is rampant.
GG says
Oh okay. So, there really isn’t a specific list of places to avoid, it is just part of the vetting process where the ones listed here are ones that are stand-outs from the rest, whether having a strong social vibe, being safe, or having friendly locals or “all or some of the above”. I guess depending on which of the three is top priority would define favorite and least favorite places which is why it is great you got some different viewpoints in this post. I will certainly, in addition to your blog suggestions, when traveling ask about these three points before visiting abroad myself (and when recommending places to others), makes common sense. And certainly in every city there are places you like better than others (seems like there are good and bad bus stations, that really mattered when I was in the Middle East). Thanks for the quick response!!!
John Burris Jr. says
I LOVE THAT WORD STROOPWAFFLE. iT CRACKS ME UP.
Aysh says
Hi there kristin! Just found your blog today & absolutely loved this post, found it very helpful so thank you for sharing!
I am planning on doing some Solo travelling for the first time next year & won’t lie I’m a little daunted! Its not the travel so much that worries me, I’m very content with my own company, its only the worry of being unable to communicate/internet connection & all of that! But thankfully my mobile provider offers free data roaming abroad so thats a huge lifesaver!
But I am excited for the adventure & reading everyone else’s experiences definitely helps! I was thinking of using air bnb for accommodation but it seems like you’ve had good experiences with hostels so may consider that option for sure!
Thanks again!
Kristin says
You can get local SIM cards when you travel so that you’re always connected! However it’s getting easier and easier to find WiFi these days as well. I like a mix of hostels and AirBnB, but hostels are definitely more social. Have fun!
Ruby Benz says
Great article! I also travel mostly solo and I love it! Visiting most of the places you mentioned here are truly awesome for me! Europe is simply beautiful!
Evan Kristine says
Hi there Kristin! I really loved your post! Congratulations! Destinations you’ve been are all awesome! Europe is indeed full of wonder. Destination that are featured like Amsterdam, Zermatt, Swizerland, Avignon, France, Montenegro, and Stockholm, Switzerland are so lovely. Regarding solo traveling, it’s nice reading this for more tips and for other travelers that are planning to go on a solo trip. Again, Congratulations!
Mel says
Hey girl! Love watching you live my soon to be dreams! Was curious what you do about data service. What’s the best budget friendly option. I’m with ATT. Next year I’m heading to Greece and Paris/Spain. Both of these cruise boats have WiFi. But then we are off the boat during the day and well, you get my point.
Kristin says
I buy local SIM cards because it’s pretty much always cheaper! In Europe I have a Vodafone plan in Germany which covers me in most of Europe so look into that!
Sandalsand says
This is a great list. I was more or less reading between the lines that you were recommending these places for solo female travellers, and was about to remark that they are just as suitable to us solo male travellers. Then I read your heading once more and realised you had dropped the “female” this time. Anyway, great places and fortunately there are so many more throughout Europe. Thank you!
Kristin says
Yep! Most solo female travel advice is good for men, too, I just can’t speak for you guys 🙂
Daniel says
Just a Canadian trying to plan a trip to Europe. I was thinking Croatia and maybe Turkey, or Swiss and Austria. Have you been to Croatia at all?? Just came across your article and you have been to some amazing places that’s for sure, and thought you would be a great start to plan this trip. I won’t have lots of time..only a couple of weeks, but I want to enjoy my time and not rush city to city without taking in as much as I can.
Kristin says
I have not but I’ve heard fantastic things.
Matt says
Kristiiiiiin,
this is awesome, you included BOLOGNA. I am so in love with this city. It was my first city I visited in Italy and once you walked around Florence and Venice you can see why Bologna is so different and more chill.
I am actually right now in Malaga, a beautiful city as well. The cities around Granada that you mentioned are also really worth it. I could easily spend here a month. With Ronda, Gibraltar, Tarifa, Sevilla, Cordoba, Malaga and Granada – this area is packed. Not recommended for the summer itself though, way too hot 😀
Thanks for sharing, love your instagram!
Matt
Kristin says
Bologna is awesome!
Kanika Bakshi says
Great post! I don’t have exact plans set yet, but possibly Ibiza & Rome in next month as I will travel alone I have much insecurity but the experience traveling to different countries now had me a professional visitor thanks for sharing this article keep up.
Kanika Bakshi says
Traveling alone is the next level of fun you can do whatever you want I always travel alone. These are some exceptional travel destinations which everyone can visit without breaking the bank.thanks for writing such a wonderful article and sharing it on the internet.
William S says
Thanks for writing such a wonderful article. Traveling is the best way to meet new people and to let your heart take a much-needed break.
GLOBALHOPPERS.CO.UK says
beautiful places to go on a holiday. Great info, thanks for sharing!
Julia says
I’m always curious about the destinations other people recommend for solo female travel, particularly as more and more of my friends start traveling. This is a great list! Thanks for sharing!
Kristin says
Glad you like it!
Thebongexplorers says
Went through some of your solo travel blogs. They are fantastic and like it.
pradeep says
Great article – with plenty of great tips for exploring the city. Another one for the wish list!
Jenn says
Great list. I’ve visited Amsterdam, London, Prague, and Zermatt solo. I’d love to explore more.