For many women, there are few things more empowering, rewarding, and exciting than traveling alone.
Perhaps that's one of the reasons why search volume for the term "solo travel" has increased by over 60% across all search engines in the last three years.
With more than 70% of travel agents finding that women take more solo trips than men, it's only fitting we dedicate a blog to the best solo travel destinations for women.
We know that choosing the right destination can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially if you're traveling alone and are responsible for all the planning, research, and packing.
That's why in this blog, we're going to introduce you to some of the best and safest destinations to live your travel dreams in 2022.
There will never be a perfect time. So take the time now to discover all the fascinating things the world has to offer.
Flatio has accommodation options in over 60 cities around the world. So be sure to check them out when planning your next trip.
Are you ready to learn about our recommended destinations? Then let's dive in.
Bangkok, Thailand
If you're less interested in cities and find a tropical escape more interesting, Thailand is where you want to be.
The country is full of great destinations to party and relax. Start your trip in the capital Bangkok, a fast-paced city with lots of incredible street food and night markets. Then make your way to Phuket, home to some of the country's most visited beaches.
If you love ancient structures, dense rainforests, and trekking, you should visit Chiang Mai.
France, Paris
Many people who have visited France several times will tell you that they never tire of visiting Paris.
If you want to travel to Paris on your own, it's good to choose a centrally located accommodation. This way, you can explore much of the city on foot and easily access the metro for longer trips.
Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Paris to explore:
- 11th Arrondissement (for food and restaurants and a local vibe)
- Marais (for nightlife and shopping)
- 7th Arrondissement (to stay for first timers)
- Montmartre (for romance)
- Saint-Germain-en-Laye (for families)
Madeira Islands, Portugal
The Portuguese archipelago of Madeira is best known for its beautiful cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, fresh air, sun-drenched beaches, and friendly locals.
Does the thought of standing on the edge of the highest sea cliff in Europe and enjoying the view from a glass-bottomed lookout send a delicious shiver of delight down your spine? If so, you can't miss the Cabo Girao Skywalk, which gives you the wonderful illusion of walking on air.
Another spectacular highlight of Madeira tourism are the impressive natural lava pools that flow into the ocean and are filled with crystal clear water. The archipelago is also a popular spot for sky-high adventure enthusiasts.
Funchal, Madeira's capital and largest city, is one of the best places for windsurfing and paragliding almost all year round.
If you're looking for great hiking trails, you should visit the many levadas scattered throughout the island. These stone irrigation channels or aqueducts are typical of the Madeira region, and some of them, like the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, pass under impressive waterfalls.
In addition, in Madeira you can walk through incredible terraced vineyards and take a variety of wine tasting tours that will satisfy both beginners and experts.
Madeira is known for its namesake wine, a nutty-tasting, rich drink that experts say conjures up images of sea voyages, pirates, kings and queens.
Popular dishes include tomato and onion soup, tuna steak, and beef on a skewer, also known as espetada.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland has topped the list of safest countries for years and is an ideal destination for solo female travelers who value safety.
Reykjavik is the capital and largest city of Iceland. It's arguably the best place to stay in Iceland, especially for short trips, as it's within easy reach of tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping malls, and nightlife areas.
Reykjavik is home to the National and Saga museums, which trace the history of the Vikings in Iceland. Be sure to visit Perlan, a museum with a revolving glass dome that gives you sweeping views of the surrounding hills and sea.
Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa are other highlights not to be missed.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the most populous city in Hungary, will captivate you with all the amazing wonders it has to offer. It's a very safe city, is centrally located to other travel gems in Europe, and is relatively inexpensive for travelers.
As a solo traveler, it's very easy to make new friends in Budapest, and you can easily get by with English. The food is tasty, and you'll never be bored during your stay.
Are you wondering which neighborhood to stay in? Buda or Pest? Buda is a place full of old buildings, cobblestone streets, and street musicians. If you're looking for a peaceful visit, this is the neighborhood for you. Pest is the perfect neighborhood for fun and action.
In the Jewish Quarter, you'll find many cool cafes, famous ruin bars, and great hostels. Whichever neighborhood you choose, we assure you that you'll leave with wonderful memories.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a rewarding destination where you can experience a beautiful mix of old neighborhoods and vibrant modern structures.
Old Lisbon shines best in autumn. In spring and summer, you get to see more of its youthful side. Winter is more like summer in Northern Europe.
There are countless reasons to visit Lisbon, but is there really a better reason than the fact that the beaches are only half an hour away?
Here are some of the top-rated tourist attractions:
- Torre de Belém (a historic tower)
- Oceanário de Lisboa (a modern aquarium)
- Elevador de Santa Justa (an antique elevator with great city views)
- Se Cathedral (Lisbon's iconic religious building)
- Arco da Rua Augusta (a triumphal arch)
- Museu de Arte, Arquitectura e Tecnologia (MAAT) (an art, architecture, and technology museum)
Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is known for its bullet trains, but it also has some magnificent natural parks.
Shinjuku Gyoen is a garden where you can admire seasonal flowers, and Ueno Park is the place to go for those interested in historical sites.
Shibuya is one of the most popular areas for shopping in Tokyo, and Harajuku offers you a glimpse of Japanese pop culture.
And of course, you can't get to know Japan without trying its unique cuisine, which is popular all over the world.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, also known as the City of a Hundred Spires, is home to colorful Baroque buildings, the medieval Astronomical Clock, and Gothic churches that will make you want to stay forever.
Some travelers call Prague a 3D architecture textbook, and few cities in Europe can boast a river as picturesque as the Vltava.
What are you waiting for? You'll never go anywhere if you always wait for the moment when the starts align, you finally have enough money, and your trip is meticulously planned.
It's good to be cautious and consider the necessary factors before making travel plans, but don't overthink it. Take a leap of faith and trust that the experiences you'll have along the way are really worth it.
