The 16 Best Solo Female Travel Europe Destinations

When it comes to the best European destinations for solo female travelers…I’m kind of an expert.

I’ve been to 17 countries solo (with plans for plenty more), and after years of traveling alone, I’ve gotten pretty good at figuring out which places are actually worth the trip—especially when you’re rolling solo.

I only recommend destinations that are safe, easy to make friends in, and realistic to do on a budget—even without someone to split the costs.

Regardless of if you’re a solo travel veteran (like me) or if you’re gearing up for your first solo trip ever, these are some of my all-time favorite spots to visit as a solo traveler in Europe!

(Pic of me solo traveling in Honduras for attention 👇🏼)

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The Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe

Traveling solo as a woman can be one of the most empowering, exciting, and freeing things you’ll ever do. You meet people you never would if you were with someone else, and you never have to compromise—you get to spend every second doing exactly what you want.

If you’re ready to start planning, here are my favorite solo female travel Europe destinations—perfect for meeting people, staying safe, and making the absolute most of each and every trip.

1. Brasov, Romania

I spent a week in beautiful Romania last year over Halloween, and of the three destinations we visited, Brasov was my absolute favorite.

I didn’t do this trip solo—I had a few friends with me—but I’d go back to Brasov alone in a heartbeat. We met so many other travelers on walking tours and at the world-famous Dracula’s Castle Halloween party that it would’ve been so easy to make friends if I’d been on my own.

This Transylvanian town is packed with history, charm, and just the right amount of spooky.

Towering cliffs from the Carpathian Mountains surround the city, giving it this storybook feel—especially if you’re a Dracula fan like me. And if you’re on a budget, it doesn’t get much better.

Brasov is super affordable, which means you can pay for your own accommodation and transportation costs—and still have cash left over for plenty of cocktails and souvenirs.

⭐️ Brasov solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Brasov is affordable, safe, and social—the perfect triad for solo female travelers. The Old Town is compact and walkable, locals are friendly but not pushy, and it’s easy to meet other travelers at hostels or on group tours.

🧭 Things to do in Brasov:

• Take a free walking tour to hit the city’s highlights: Biserica Neagra, the Saint Nicholas Church, the First Romanian School, Strada Sforii, Piata Sfatului, Catherine’s Gate, Turnul Alb, and Turnul Negru
• Take the cable car to Tampa Peak
• Visit Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle)
• Tour the Rasnov Fortress
• Try lots of Romanian food at the tastiest restaurants in the city

📆 Best time to visit: Summer for hiking, winter for skiing, fall/spring for overall exploring—but fall is ideal if you also want to factor in the Halloween party at Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania.

🏠 Where to stay: SECRET Boutique Hostel is perfect for solo and budget-conscious travelers with rooms starting around $25/night in the city center. Hotel Boutique Casa Chitic is perfect for solo travelers looking for an elevated, but still affordable, experience.

2. Kotor, Montenegro

I visited Kotor on a day trip from Dubrovnik back in 2018, and I’ve been dying to go back ever since.

The city was stunning, insanely affordable, and basically empty—even in April. I hiked up to a fortress overlooking the Bay of Kotor and was rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen.

Afterward, I enjoyed some fresh and affordable seafood at a little restaurant in the city center.

We love an off-the-beaten-path destination, and Kotor is exactly that—for now. I wouldn’t be surprised if Montenegro starts blowing up the way Croatia did over the next couple of years.

Kotor also has its fair share of youth hostels, which makes it an easy spot to meet other travelers. If you stayed a couple nights here on a solo trip, you’d have no problem making friends and finding things to do around every corner.

⭐️ Kotor solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Kotor is safe, affordable, and easy to navigate—making it a dream destination for solo female travelers.

🧭 Things to do in Kotor:

• Hike the city walls
• Explore the fortress of St. John
• Tour the Cathedral of St. Tryphon
• Wander through Kotor’s Old Town
• Indulge in fresh seafood from the Dalmatian Coast

📆 Best time to visit: May through September is ideal if you’re craving warm weather and swimming in the bay. But if you’re like me and prefer fewer crowds and slightly cooler temps, aim for April-May or September-October—Kotor is especially peaceful once the cruise ships stop rolling in.

🏠 Where to stay: Old Town Youth Hostel is one of the town’s highest-rated hostels with an on-site cafe/bar, luggage storage, air conditioning, and security lockers. Hotel Marija, with its boutique charm and on-site restaurant and bar, is perfect for a private, more elevated experience.

3. Krakow, Poland

When I found an insanely cheap Ryanair flight from Pisa to Krakow back in 2019, I had no idea I was about to fall head over heels in love with this city—and it ended up being one of my favorite solo trips to date.

I made a friend in my hostel dorm the second I dropped my bags, and we went out to enjoy a hearty dinner of pierogies and beer that same night.

The rest of my 3-days in Krakow was packed with new friends, absolutely mind-blowing traditional Polish food, and a crash course in the city’s fascinating (and heartbreaking) history.

Krakow is a perfect destination for solo travelers: it’s super safe, incredibly budget-friendly, and full of hostels, tours, and experiences that make it easy to connect with other people.

⭐️ Krakow solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Krakow is one of the best cities in Europe for solo female travelers. It’s safe, budget-friendly, and super easy to get around.

🧭 Things to do in Krakow:

• Take a pierogi-making class from a professional Polish chef
• Experience a vodka tasting at Wodka Bar
• Party the night away on a Krakow pub crawl
• Climb the Town Hall Tower
• Shop for souvenirs at The Cloth Hall
• Visit the Wawel Castle Complex
• Take a free walking tour of Krakow
• Wander around Kazimierz—the Jewish Quarter
• Stop by the city’s most famous synagogues: Stara Synagoga and Tempel Synagogue
• Tour St. Mary’s Basilica

📆 Best time to visit: May through September is perfect if you want warm weather and long days to explore. But I prefer September or October—fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and perfect weather. If you’re visiting in December, you’ll catch Krakow’s dreamy Christmas markets, which are some of the best in Europe.

🏠 Where to stay: The Little Havana Party Hostel for social solo travelers, party-lovers, and budget-conscious travelers. Hotel Wielopole for solo travelers looking for a nicer, mid-range hotel in a great location.

4. Paceville, Malta

I firmly believe that Malta is one of the most underrated solo travel destinations in Europe.

I visited back in 2017 during my study abroad semester in Rome after learning about Malta in a history class. At the time, it wasn’t a super well-known destination—most of my friends had barely heard of it and couldn’t understand why I was so excited to go.

When we arrived, I was instantly obsessed.

Malta has some of the most fascinating history, stunning architecture, and bright turquoise grottoes I’ve ever seen. And randomly? Some of the best nightlife in Europe.

Paceville is the island’s party hub, and the streets were packed and buzzing until 4:00 AM every night. Forget Ibiza, if you love nightlife—this spot is unmatched.

That said, Malta’s a small island—so if you’re looking for something quieter, it’s easy to stay in Valletta or M’dina instead. Both are rich in history, beautiful, and way more chill.

Paceville and St. Julian’s attract a younger crowd, so there are tons of solo travelers around and lots of chances to make friends.

⭐️ Paceville solo female travel safety rating: 4/5 | Paceville is generally safe, but the nightlife scene can feel a bit chaotic. It’s a popular party spot, so just keep your guard up at night, watch your drinks, and stick to well-lit areas. Outside of that, it’s a laid-back place to explore solo.

🧭 Things to do in Malta:

• Explore Valletta—Malta’s historic capital—on a walking tour
• Take a street food tour of Valletta
• Visit M’dina—the walled city
• Take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto
• Experience Malta’s fantastic nightlife in St. Julian’s
• Take a day trip to Gozo
• Take a catamaran sailing tour to the Blue Lagoon
• Scope out Game of Thrones filming locations

📆 Best time to visit: We visited Malta in late April and it was perfect for exploring cities like Valletta on foot. But if you’re planning on swimming, diving, or doing boat tours like the Blue Lagoon or Blue Grotto, I’d recommend visiting in the summer—it’ll be pricier and more crowded, but the warmer water is worth it.

🏠 Where to stay: Marco Polo Party Hostel is honestly one of my favorite hostels in Europe for socializing and meeting other travelers. It’s in the heart of St. Julian’s and offers a rooftop terrace, female-only dorms, and an on-site bar. For a more private, more luxurious (but still affordable) stay, check out H Hotel & Spa.

5. Budapest, Hungary

In May of 2019, I found a super cheap Ryanair flight from Milan and decided to plan a little solo weekend trip to Budapest to check out this Hungarian city I’d heard so many good things about.

I stayed at the Wombats City Hostel and immediately made a new friend in my dorm—despite the fact that she only spoke Chinese and I only spoke English. Cue Google-translating voice notes back and forth.

I spent two glorious days exploring the city—soaking in the views from Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle, devouring cabbage rolls and goulash at the Central Market Hall, and facing my fear of heights on the Budapest Eye (hated every second, by the way).

The highlights of my trip? Splurging on the Thermal Beer Spa at the Széchenyi Baths and eating a life-changing deep-fried lángos at Retro Lángos, thanks to a friend’s recommendation.

Budapest is an amazing destination for solo travelers. The public transit is easy to figure out, I always felt safe, and the prices are super budget-friendly—making it one of the best cities in Europe to explore solo.

⭐️ Budapest solo female travel safety rating: 4.5/5 | Budapest is affordable, safe, and social—the perfect triad for solo female travelers. That said, I’m giving it 4.5 stars instead of a full five because of the higher risk of petty scams and pickpocketing in tourist-heavy areas.

🧭 Things to do in Budapest:

• Take a free walking tour of Budapest
• Enjoy the views from Fisherman’s Bastion
• Tour Buda Castle
• Ride the Budapest Eye
• Marvel in the majesty of the Parliament Building
• Shop around the Central Market Hall
• Take a Hungarian food tour
• Relax in the Széchenyi Baths and take a soak in the Thermal Beer Spa
• Eat delicious langos at Retro Langos
• Experience the city’s best nightlife on a pub crawl

📆 Best time to visit: April through June or September through October are ideal for warm weather, smaller crowds, and exploring the city comfortably. If you’re visiting in December, Budapest’s Christmas markets are a must.

🏠 Where to stay: Wombat’s City Hostel for its location in the city center, a great social atmosphere (perfect for solo travelers), and dorms (female-only available) starting at $12/night. House Beletage-Boutique Hotel for a more elevated experience with air conditioned rooms, a lovely outdoor terrace, and on-site breakast.

6. Split, Croatia

I first visited Split in 2018 on a family trip along the Dalmatian Coast and immediately fell head-over-heels for this Croatian gem. Since then, I’ve been back twice more—each time discovering a little more to love (and a lot more to eat).

Split is still surprisingly affordable—especially when you compare it to Dubrovnik, which has gotten pretty pricey in recent years. There are tons of fun, social activities to jump into, and the city has no shortage of great youth hostels, so finding a spot where you can meet people is easy.

Some of my favorite moments in Split came from a full-day island-hopping tour—swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, eating fresh seafood, and bouncing around an inflatable water park that felt straight out of Wipeout (and yes, it was so fun).

I also got my adrenaline fix whitewater rafting, tapped into my inner fangirl at the Game of Thrones Museum (minus those last three episodes), and even took a day trip to Krka National Park to see its iconic waterfalls.

If you’re heading to Croatia solo, I’d 100% recommend Split over Dubrovnik—it’s just better suited for solo travelers.

⭐️ Split solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Split is lively, social, and easy on the budget—making it a solid pick for solo female travelers. The Old Town is always buzzing, even after dark, and I never felt uncomfortable walking around alone.

🧭 Things to do in Split:

• Take in the views from the top of Diocletian’s Palace (if you dare!)
• Explore Old Town Split and relax on the Riva
• Hike Marjan Hill for sunset
• Take a free walking tour of Split
• Take a touristy pic with the Split sign
• Tour the Mestrovic Art Gallery
• Take a Game of Thrones walking tour
• Go White Water Rafting
• Sip tropical drinks at Joe’s Beach Bar
• Or go all in with an Island Cruise
• Take a day trip to Krka National Park

📆 Best time to visit: If you’re big on beach days and island-hopping, summer is your season—but prepare yourself for high prices and crowds (and dear God, do not try to visit Dubrovnik’s Walled City in the summer…you’ll want to die). I actually preferred Split in early April—chilly enough for a jacket, but super affordable and almost empty. You’ll find a similar vibe in the fall, with mild weather and way fewer tourists.

7. Florence, Italy

Let’s get one thing out of the way—Florence is not the most budget-friendly destination on this list.

Italy used to be super affordable, even as recently as 2020, but once tourism came roaring back post-pandemic, Florence got three times as expensive. That doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting solo, just that it might take a little extra planning if you’re traveling on a tighter budget.

That said, Florence has so much to offer solo travelers.

The food is unreal, the nightlife is super fun, and there’s art, history, and beautiful views around every corner. It also attracts a younger crowd, which means more solo travelers to meet—and almost everyone speaks English (which definitely makes it easier to make friends).

I actually lived in Florence for a year and a half—I moved there solo, I’ve visited solo, and I plan to go back solo. Its smaller size and walkability make it so much easier to explore alone compared to massive, chaotic cities like Rome or Milan.

⭐️ Florence solo female travel safety rating: 4/5 | Florence is generally safe, especially in the city center and around major landmarks, but I’m giving it four stars because of the higher risk of petty theft and some occasional unwanted male attention (which honestly, is everywhere in Italy).

🧭 Things to do in Florence:

• Take a free walking tour of Florence
• Watch the sunset over the city at Piazzale Michelangelo
• Cross the Ponte Vecchio
• Climb il Duomo di Firenze and Giotto’s Bell Tower
• Snap iconic pics at the best photo spots in Florence
• Tour Palazzo Pitti and the beautiful Boboli Gardens (bonus points for adding the Vasari Corridor!)
• Enjoy the best views in Florence at View on Art rooftop bar
• See Michelangelo’s David at Galleria dell’Accademia
• Order a glass of vino from the famous wine windows
• Shop for souvenirs at the San Lorenzo Leather Market
• Eat your way through Florence’s famous restaurant scene
• Take a pasta-making class with unlimited vino

📆 Best time to visit: Do not visit Florence in the summer. It’ll likely be over 90°F, packed with a million tourists, and everything will cost way more than it should. I highly recommend going in the shoulder season—spring or fall—or even winter. Florence doesn’t get that cold, and the Christmas markets in Santa Croce are lovely.

🏠 Where to stay: YellowSquare Florence for a high-end hostel with a rooftop swimming pool, female-only dorms, and elite social vibes. Hotel Medici for a nice, mid-range hotel in the city center with the favorite rooftop bar in the world on top—View on Art.

8. Porto, Portugal

I first visited Porto in October 2023, and I couldn’t believe it took me that long to get there. I’d heard amazing things, and honestly—after living in Lisbon for almost two months at that point—I kind of wished I’d chosen Porto instead.

Not that Lisbon isn’t fantastic (it’s also a great solo travel destination), but something about Porto just resonated with me more.

Between the winding river cutting through the city, glowing sunset views at every turn, and the blue-tiled churches on nearly every block, I was completely hooked. The vibe is super laid-back, and the Portuguese food is elite.

It’s also a fantastic destination for solo travelers. We stayed at Selina Porto—which sadly no longer exists because that hostel had the best vibes—but thankfully there’s no shortage of amazing hostels and affordable private stays all over the city.

Another major perk? Porto is super close to the iconic Douro Valley and all its delicious wineries. If you’re a wine lover like me, definitely carve out time for at least a day trip to wine country.

⭐️ Porto solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Porto is calm, friendly, and easy to navigate solo. I never felt unsafe walking alone, even at night, and the locals are some of the kindest I’ve met in Europe.

🧭 Things to do in Porto:

• Visit the beautiful Igreja do Carmo and Igreja de Santo Ildefonso churches
• Book a local cooking class
• Try Portugal’s most famous sandwich—the Francesinha
• Climb the Clérigos Tower
• Take a free walking tour of Porto
• Visit Cais da Ribeira
• Cross the Dom Luis I Bridge and watch the sunset from Jardim do Morro
• Shop around the Mercado do Bolhão
• Explore Se do Porto
• Go wine tasting in the Douro Valley

📆 Best time to visit: I went to Porto in October and it was perfect—hot during the day, but not packed with tourists. Spring is another great option for warm weather and fewer crowds. I wouldn’t recommend summer (too crowded) or winter (too rainy).

🏠 Where to stay: Rivoli Cinema Hostel for an unbeatable location, a rooftop terrace, female-only dorm beds with privacy curtains, and an on-site bar. PortoBay Flores for luxurious (yet affordable rooms), an indoor swimming pool, and top-notch service.

9. Seville, Spain

Seville had been sitting on my bucket list for years, and I finally made it there for a long weekend in September 2023 while I was living in Lisbon. I didn’t do this trip solo, but I’d absolutely come back on my own—no question.

We stayed at Joy Plaza de Armas, and it was incredibly social.

Sadly, I was sick as a dog, so I wasn’t exactly the life of the party—but when there’s a rooftop pool, a bar, and 80ºF weather, it’s pretty hard not to make friends.

While I was horizontal and hopped up on Portuguese cold medicine, my friends were up on the roof making new pals and diving into Seville’s buzzing nightlife scene.

Seville is a fantastic solo travel destination. It’s got a fun, social vibe, a wide variety of things to do, and an affordable, delicious food scene. Everyone loves some tapas, am I right? Add in the rich history and vibrant culture, and it’s kind of the full package.

⭐️ Seville solo female travel safety rating: 4/5 | Seville is a beautiful and generally safe city to explore solo, but I’m giving it four stars due to a situation my friends and I witnessed at our hostel—a girl got drugged on a pub crawl after leaving her drink unattended (don’t worry—we took care of her). It could happen anywhere, but it’s a reminder to stay alert and follow simple safety tips, especially on nights out.

🧭 Things to do in Seville:

• Eat churros at Bar El Comercio
• Tour the Royal Alcázar of Seville
• Take a tapas tour of the city
• Explore the Seville Cathedral (the best views are found nearby at La Terraza del EME)
• Wander around Plaza de España and Parque de Maria Luisa
• Take a free walking tour of Seville
• Have tapas at Casa Morales
• See a flamenco show
• Experience the nightlife (safely) on a pub crawl

📆 Best time to visit: I went to Seville in September and it was still plenty hot, but not overly crowded or expensive. The sweet spot here is definitely shoulder season—spring and fall have the best balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and decent prices.

🏠 Where to stay: JOY Plaza de Armas (formerly the Oasis Backpackers’ Palace) is one of the nicest hostels in town with air conditioning, security lockers, female-only rooms, and a rooftop pool & bar combo. Hotel Doña María for a more private experience—also with a rooftop terrace and swimming pool, but this one overlooks the Seville Cathedral.

10. Copenhagen, Denmark

I’m kind of cheating here—Copenhagen is the only city on this list I haven’t visited yet as of October 2025.

But it’s high on my list, and as soon as my visa finally comes through (I’m manifesting that Italian consulate approval), it’s one of the first cities I plan to hit on my return to Europe.

My parents visited back in 2022 and couldn’t stop raving about it. I’ve met solo travelers from all over the world who absolutely love Copenhagen, and one of my friends even studied abroad there. I’ve rarely heard anything negative—aside from the price tag.

It’s widely considered one of the safest destinations for solo female travelers in Europe and, between the cozy canal views, the social hostels, and friendly locals, it’s got great energy.

From canal tours and food markets to Tivoli Gardens and historic palaces, there’s plenty to keep you busy (and well-fed) in Copenhagen.

⭐️ Copenhagen solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Copenhagen is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world, and it shows. The streets are clean and well-lit, public transport is reliable, and locals are respectful.

🧭 Things to do in Copenhagen:

• Take a free walking tour of Copenhagen
• Wander around Nyhavn
• Experience the hippie community of Christiania
• Visit the seat of Danish parliament at Christiansborg Palace
• Eat meatballs and smørrebrød at Market Torvehallerne
• Book a canal tour
• Enjoy the theme park at Tivoli Gardens
• Taste the best eats in the city on a Copenhagen food tour

📆 Best time to visit: May through September is the best window for visiting Copenhagen, with mild temps, long days, and plenty of sunshine. Just keep in mind that the peak summer months will also be the most crowded and expensive—worth it for the weather, but not exactly ideal if you’re on a tight budget.

🏠 Where to stay: Next House Copenhagen for a high-end hostel with top amenities like an on-site rooftop bar and restaurant, air conditioning, and female-only dorms with privacy pods. Hotel SP34 is perfect for solo travelers looking for an affordably-priced private room in the heart of the city.

11. Munich, Germany

I’m a Munich girl through and through. I’ve been to Munich 10+ times, but I could go 1,000 times and never get sick of it.

I made it to Munich for my first Oktoberfest back in 2018, and since then, my financial goal has been to make enough money to go every single year.

My last trip was in 2023 with a group of girlfriends, and it was hands-down one of my favorite travel experiences. Between the liters of beer, the dirndls, the singing along to Neil Diamond—it’s impossible not to have a good time.

That said, if you’re traveling solo during Oktoberfest or Frühlingsfest, be smart. Munich is incredibly safe, but I wouldn’t recommend going to the world’s biggest drinking festival alone if you’re planning to really party. If you’re good about knowing your limits and staying aware, you’ll be fine.

Outside of festival season, there’s so much to do in Munich besides drinking (I know—shocking).

Climb St. Peter’s Church in Marienplatz for one of the best views of the city, watch the river surfers in the English Garden, eat your way through Viktualienmarkt, or take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle— the castle that inspired Walt Disney.

I also strongly recommend visiting Dachau Concentration Camp. It’s a humbling and important experience that everyone should have at least once.

⭐️ Munich solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Munich itself gets a 5-star rating for solo female travelers. However, I would rate going to Munich for Oktoberfest a 2/5 for solo female travelers—purely because it’s not the safest plan to travel solo to the world’s largest drinking festival.

🧭 Things to do in Munich:

• Get your party on at the biggest drinking festival in the world—Oktoberfest!
• Eat the best Bavarian food in Munich
• Listen to live music and drink beer at the historic Hofbräuhaus
• Visit Marienplatz and marvel at the Rathaus and the Glockenspiel
• Admire the skills of the river surfers
• Climb St. Peter’s Church for amazing views
• Take a free walking tour of the city
• Cruise around the city on a Munich bike tour
• Snack your way through the Viktualienmarkt
• Take a step back in history at Residenz München
• Pay your respects at Dachau Concentration Camp
• Take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

📆 Best time to visit: If you’re heading to Munich for Oktoberfest or Frühlingsfest, plan your trip for late April to early May, or late September to early October. Otherwise, Munich is a great year-round destination. Summer brings bigger crowds and higher prices (but great weather), while winter rewards you with festive Christmas markets and cozy vibes—just bundle up.

🏠 Where to stay: Jaeger’s Hostel is located smack-dab in the middle of the city, a stone’s throw from the Hauptbahnhof train station, and has an on-site bar and female-only dorms—perfect for meeting other solo travelers. For a more elevated option, Hotel Augustin is right next door to the Oktoberfest festival grounds and offers both private and family-style rooms.

12. Dublin, Ireland

I took my first trip to Dublin in June of 2018 and had a great time. Am I going to sit here and tell you it’s one of my all-time favorite destinations? Honestly, no. As a Wisconsin girl, the Irish countryside honestly reminded me a lot of home—until you hit the cliffs, of course.

That said, if you’re looking for a super easy, low-stress spot to kick off your international solo travel journey, Ireland is an amazing place to start.

Everyone speaks English so there’s no language barrier, it’s extremely safe, and it’s easy to get around. Dublin has plenty of fascinating history, a ton of things to do, and so many hostels and tours that make it easy to meet new people—whether it’s at your accommodation or out at one of the city’s many bars.

If you’re in Dublin, make sure to pay a visit to the iconic Guinness Storehouse (it’s true okay—it does taste better in Ireland), stop by Trinity College and the Book of Kells, and wander around the iconic Temple Bar neighborhood.

Lastly, I highly recommend setting aside a day to visit the Cliffs of Moher and Galway—two of my favorite spots in Ireland.

⭐️ Dublin solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | In terms of safety, I would rate Dublin as one of the best destinations for solo female travelers in the world. Cue me in 2018 chasing my drunk friend around the city at 2:00 AM in the midst of a Taylor Swift concert…very annoyed, but not at all afraid.

🧭 Things to do in Dublin:

• Take a free walking tour of Dublin
• Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Wander around Temple Bar
• Have a pint (or two) at the Guinness Storehouse Gravity Bar
• Explore Dublin Castle
• See The Book of Kells (one of the oldest books in the world) at Trinity College
• Grab dinner at the oldest pub in Dublin—The Brazen Head
• Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway
• Take pictures in front of Dublin’s colorful doors
• Sip whiskey at the Jameson Distillery
• Head out on a pub crawl of the city’s best nightlife

📆 Best time to visit: Dublin is actually the one destination on this list I’d recommend visiting in the summer. The weather is beautiful, the days are long, and your trip to the Cliffs of Moher will be much more enjoyable. That said, if you’re on a strict budget, visiting during the off-season or shoulder season will make your trip way more affordable.

🏠 Where to stay: Abbey Court Hostel is always my go-to budget-friendly accommodation in Dublin. It has a perfect location in the city center, offers female-only dorms, serves a complimentary breakfast, and has a great social atmosphere. For a more private, upscale experience, I recommend Wynn’s Hotel right off of O’Connell Street.

13. Vienna, Austria

Throwback time—Vienna was the site of my very first solo trip ever. It ended up being just a weekend, but it was such a core memory.

I had no idea what to do with myself solo in a new city, so I booked my first-ever hop-on, hop-off red tour bus and cruised around taking in the layout and landmarks.

But the real highlight was the next day, when I joined a bike tour through wine country and genuinely felt like I had biked straight into The Sound of Music. (There is a limit to how tipsy you can be while still riding a bike, though. Ask me how I know.)

Vienna is a fantastic solo travel destination. I stayed at Wombat’s City Hostel (also loved their Budapest location) and had a great experience. It’s a little pricier in some areas, but definitely doable on a budget—and absolutely worth the trip.

⭐️ Vienna solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Vienna felt incredibly safe—it’s one of those cities where you can walk around at night without constantly looking over your shoulder. The streets are clean, public transport is a breeze, and everything just runs smoothly.

🧭 Things to do in Vienna:

• Take a free walking tour of Vienna
• Splurge on a coffee at Cafe Central
• Stroll through the Naschmarkt
• Visit the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens
• And tour the Hofburg Palace
• Climb the South Tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral for unbeatable views
• Book a Danube river cruise
• Take a traditional Viennese cooking class
• Take a wine tasting bike tour through the Wachau Valley

📆 Best time to visit: Shoulder season is your best bet for comfortable weather and lighter crowds. If you’re in the mood for Christmas markets, December is a magical time to visit Vienna.

🏠 Where to stay: Wombat’s City Hostel is my go-to for a fantastic budget-friendly stay in the city center, complete with female-only dorms, an on-site bar, and social vibes. Hotel Kaiserhof Wien offers a boutique-vibe with an on-site spa, fitness center, breakfast, and a bar for a more elevated solo travel experience.

14. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm might not be the most budget-friendly solo travel destination on this list, but it’s still an amazing spot for a solo trip in Europe.

This city is packed with history, charm, and fun and fascinating things to do—like wandering through the colorful old town of Gamla Stan, enjoying street art in the metro stations, visiting royal palaces, and dancing your way through arguably the most fun museum ever: the ABBA Museum.

I visited Sweden for the first time in 2018, where I got to meet a bunch of my Swedish relatives (my family actually comes from Stockholm!).

The country is incredibly safe, and while summer is definitely the most enjoyable time to visit, winter has its own cozy charms. Thanks to its wide selection of youth hostels, Stockholm is also a great place to meet other solo travelers.

⭐️ Stockholm solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Maybe I’m biased because your girl is 16% Swedish, but I always felt incredibly safe in Stockholm. The city is super clean, people are respectful, and public transit is easy to use.

🧭 Things to do in Stockholm:

• Take a free walking tour of Stockholm
• Explore the historic and charming Old Town—a.k.a. Gamla Stan
• Enjoy the famous art at Stockholm’s metro stations
• Visit the Royal Palace
• Belt your heart out to Mamma Mia at ABBA The Museum
• Learn about one of the largest naval failures in history at the Vasa Museum
• Have rooftop drinks over Stockholm at Gondolen
• Go winter kayaking and warm up in a hot sauna
• Eat your way through the city on a small group food tour

📆 Best time to visit: May through September is ideal for Stockholm—long days, mild temps, and the city really comes alive. Just keep in mind that July and August are peak season, so prices will be higher.

🏠 Where to stay: The Generator Stockholm is perfect for solo travelers looking for a budget-friendly, social accommodation in the city center (female-only dorms available). For a more elevated stay, Hotel Gamla Stan is located in the heart of Old Town and boasts gorgeous city views across three 17th century buildings.

15. Prague, Czech Republic

Oh god, where do I even start? Prague is hands down one of my favorite destinations in the world—whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or honestly in any situation.

I’ve been to Prague five times—sometimes solo, sometimes not—and every single trip has been unforgettable. I always discover something new, whether it’s a hidden beer garden, a new mind-blowing viewpoint, or just a ridiculously good chimney cake.

Prague is insanely affordable, super charming, packed with fascinating history, jaw-dropping architecture, and some of the best food in Europe. It’s also overflowing with solo travelers.

I’ve met people in hostels, on pub crawls, Czech beer tours—you name it. If you’re looking for a solo travel destination where it’s basically impossible not to make friends (and impossible to break the bank), this is it.

⭐️ Prague solo female travel safety rating: 5/5 | Prague is safe, affordable, and packed with other solo travelers—it’s almost impossible not to make friends. The city is super walkable, well-lit at night, and easy to explore on your own without feeling unsafe.

🧭 Things to do in Prague:

• Take a free walking tour of Prague
• Wander around Old Town Square and explore the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn
• Try the best traditional Czech food in Prague’s foodie scene
• Climb Old Town Hall and check out the Astronomical Clock Tower (fondly considered the most overrated tourist attraction in Europe)
• Sip mulled wine at Teresa U Prince with a view of Old Town
• Grab a historic dinner at U Fleku
• Cross the Charles Bridge
• Make your mark on the John Lennon Wall
• Tour Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
• Snap a pic at the Starbucks Viewpoint (and the rest of Prague’s best Instagram spots)
• Stroll around Malá Strana
• Book a Czech beer tour
• Take a day trip to Cesky Krumlov
• Have a drink on the roof of the Dancing House

📆 Best time to visit: Honestly, you can visit Prague year-round. Even in peak season, it’s still pretty affordable, and while it does get crowded, the city’s big enough that it never feels overwhelming. Shoulder season is great for lighter crowds, and the Christmas markets in winter are some of the best in Europe.

🏠 Where to stay: Luma Terra Prague is one of the city’s highest-rated hostels with female-only dorms, a central location in the Prague 2 district, and an on-site bar—perfect for making friends over a frosty Pilsner Urquell. Alfons Boutique Hotel is a great mid-range option for solo travelers looking for a more luxurious stay.

16. Nice, France

Nice isn’t typically hyped as a solo travel destination, but I think it can be a great one—especially if you time it right.

I visited in November, which I wouldn’t recommend (a lot of the main attractions were closed), but the shoulder season? That’s where the magic happens. Prices are lower, the weather’s better, and the crowds are much more manageable.

While I wouldn’t suggest staying in Nice for too long, it’s the perfect home base for exploring the rest of the French Riviera. There are so many charming little towns nearby—like Èze—or even a quick hop over to Monaco.

Whether you’re hostel hopping, trying all the French food, shopping for souvenirs, or just chasing the best views, it’s a dreamy corner of Europe that’s absolutely worth a solo trip.

⭐️ Nice solo female travel safety rating: 4/5 | Nice is generally safe and has a laid-back vibe, but like most bigger cities, you’ll want to stay aware. Petty theft can be an issue in crowded areas, but overall, it’s a great spot for solo travelers with just a bit of added caution.

🧭 Things to do in the French Riviera:

• Take a free walking tour of Nice
• Climb Castle Hill and wander around the Cimetière du Château
• Tour the Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
• Have historic drinks at the Le Negresco Hotel
• Try socca at Chez Pipo
• Take a French Riviera food tour
• Get your museum on at the Musée Matisse, The National Marc Chagall Museum, or the Musée D’art Moderne e D’art Contemporain
• Take a day trip to Eze and Monte-Carlo

📆 Best time to visit: I visited Nice in November, which was lovely in terms of prices and crowds—and the weather was still pretty decent. But a lot of the restaurants and shops were closed for the season, which wasn’t ideal. Late shoulder season—May to June or September—is the sweet spot: warm enough, but way less crowded than peak summer.

🏠 Where to stay: Hostel Ozz Nice is perfect for solo travelers to the French Riviera with their central location, air conditioning, on-site bar, and female-only dorms. Hôtel Alcôve Nice is a great mid-range option for solo travelers looking for a private stay in a quieter neighborhood.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

No matter how experienced you are, safety should always be a priority when traveling solo. These are some of the habits I always try to follow while traveling alone—and they’ve served me well over the years.

• Set up emergency SOS on your phone. You’ll feel way more secure knowing you can call for help in just a few taps—no matter where you are in the world.
• Grab a local data plan or eSIM. Don’t wait until you find Wi-Fi. Being connected from the second you land makes it easier to get around, book transport, and stay in touch. I always use Airalo eSIMs to stay connected in new destinations—use code MADI10 for 10% off!
• Keep an eye on your drink. I still go out and have fun when I travel solo—but I never leave my drink unattended, especially at large drinking events or on pub crawls.
• Check in with someone back home. Whether it’s a friend, your mom, or your group chat—let someone know where you’re staying and when you’ve arrived safely.
• Protect your valuables. I always keep a backup credit card at my accommodation, use hostel lockers or hotel safes, and never carry my passport around a city (a scan works just as well and is less risky).
• Be friendly—not naive. Some of my best travel memories are thanks to people I’ve met on the road, but it’s still important to stay alert and keep your boundaries in place…especially when it comes to men.

Budget-Friendly Solo Travel Hacks

Solo travel doesn’t have to drain your bank account—especially if you’re smart about how you plan. Here are a few of my go-to tricks for keeping costs down without sacrificing the fun.

• Stay in hostels. Obvious, I know—but it’s hands-down the easiest way to save money and make friends. A solid hostel with a social vibe can totally make the trip. I like to browse options on Hostelworld, but then finalize the booking on Booking.com—where it’s typically cheaper.
• Learn the public transportation system. Most cities in Europe have fantastic (and cheap) transit options. You’ll rarely need a taxi or Uber—unless you’re heading home late at night, in which case I always say your safety is worth the splurge.
• Pick affordable countries. If your budget is tight, skip pricey hotspots like Copenhagen or Stockholm and head to budget-friendly gems like Brasov, Kotor, or Prague. Your money goes way further.
• Book early—but watch for last-minute deals. Especially during high season, booking ahead can save you major cash. But if you’re flexible, last-minute rates can also be surprisingly great.
• Travel light. I struggle with this one because I’m a chronic overpacker, but packing light can save you a lot on luggage fees—especially on budget airlines.

Protect Yourself with Travel Medical Insurance

Whenever I plan a trip, I always make sure to protect myself and my wallet with travel insurance. I’ve always booked travel insurance before trips, but I had to learn the hard way that not all travel insurance programs are created equal.

During the two months I lived in Thailand in 2022, I injured my foot on a weekend trip to Khao Sok National Park, which led to four months of limping around Southeast Asia and an eventual surgery in Canggu.

Since I was buying travel insurance month-to-month through AXA, none of my surgery was covered and I was out $3,500—even though I had active travel insurance at the time.

Since then, I started traveling with SafetyWing Travel Medical Insurance. It’s perfect for both short-term travelers and digital nomads since you can tailor it exactly to your dates and needs.

You can use it as a monthly subscription (what I usually do), or pay in full for a set date range. You can also take advantage of their useful add-ons like U.S. coverage (not for U.S. citizens, unfortunately), adventure sports, and electronics theft! Grab a quote below for your next trip 👇🏼

Solo Female Travel in Europe: What’s Next?

After traveling solo to 17 countries—including firsthand experience in every destination I’ve shared here (minus Copenhagen, but it’s high on my list)—I can confidently say these are some of the best European cities for a lil’ solo trip.

Whether you’re after sun-soaked beaches, centuries of history, or a city that’s still flying under the radar, there’s a destination here that’ll fit your vibe.

Still not sure which city is right for you? Take my solo travel quiz to help narrow it down and find your perfect match!

Solo travel has been one of the most empowering and rewarding parts of my life, and I can’t wait to keep exploring. I’ll be sharing even more solo travel tips, destination guides, and exciting travel experiences—so follow along for more solo travel adventures in Europe and beyond!

16 Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

How to Make Friends while Solo Traveling

11 Ways to Travel “Green” as a Solo Traveler

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