When it comes to European travel, there are certain places that are easier for travelers to get around, especially solo female travelers. Europe is a continent that is generally safe with low levels of crime, reliable transportation, and a respectful attitude towards women—but naturally, this can be felt more strongly in some places than others.
Whether you are looking to go on a solo adventure or a trip with your girlfriends…
here are my suggestions on the top ten European destinations for female travelers!
Iceland
The spectacular scenery of Iceland makes for an amazing destination to explore nature—and when this is combined with a low crime rate, friendly locals, and developed tourist infrastructure, it makes it a great place for female travelers.
A good range of day trips and attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, glacier hiking, and diving at the Silfra Fissure, means you can either join organized trips or do things on your own!
Read More: The Ultimate Iceland Travel Guide
The Ultimate Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
Sweden
With great levels of equality, clean and efficient transportation, and amazing sights to see, all of Scandinavia is ideal for female travelers, but Sweden is among the best with stunning cities such as Stockholm and Gothenburg.
In the north of the country, you can find stunning views of the Northern Lights or you can pay a visit to one of the many islands that make up Sweden’s archipelagos.
Read More: Ultimate Sweden Travel Guide
The Ultimate Stockholm Travel Guide
Portugal
There are plenty of historic attractions to be found in Portugal, along with some amazing winelands and stunning beach destinations!
Portuguese food is so delicious, and the foodie scene walks such a fine line between tradition and innovation. I love the wine culture too, especially in cities like Porto.
Lisbon is also a top destination for those looking for some retail therapy as it is home to a great range of independent fashion designers!
Read More: Ultimate Portugal Travel Guide
10 Places to Visit in Portugal (That Aren’t Lisbon)
Italy
Italy is a beautiful country that has a balance of thriving culture and amazing cuisine, along with a distinguished history, unique culture, and really stunning sights to see.
From exploring Rome to wine tasting your way through Florence, eating pizza in Naples, walking the canals of Venice, and driving the beautiful Amalfi Coast, female travelers will find no end to things to do in Italy!
The country is welcoming and friendly, and even more so when you start to discover the excellent local wine and food!
Read More: Ultimate Italy Travel Guide
The Ultimate Two-Week Italy Itinerary
10 Places to Visit in Italy (That Aren’t Rome)
Switzerland
The mountainous country of Switzerland in Central Europe has long been a popular tourist destination. Female travelers have their choice of adventures, ranging from the cosmopolitan city of Zurich, the picturesque streets of Geneva, and the old town of Bern.
Plus, what girl doesn’t want to visit a country known for cheese and chocolate?!
Read More: Ultimate Switzerland Travel Guide
Ireland
Most people will naturally think of whiskey, Guinness, and lots of greenery when thinking of Ireland… but I think of warm and charismatic locals, beautiful winding roads, stunning natural scenery (and some whiskey and beer too!). There are no shortages of hidden gems around this country.
From the beautiful architecture and lively scene of Dublin out to the rugged terrain on the Wild Atlantic Way, this is a great country to explore that is generally safe and friendly for female travelers. I did a Two-Week Ireland Road Trip with girlfriends and it was an absolute blast!
Read More: Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide
10 Places to Visit in Ireland (That Aren’t Dublin)
Hvar, Croatia
Croatia
If you are looking to travel on a budget, Croatia is generally cheaper than many European countries, while still being a super friendly, easy-going, and safe place to visit.
It’s one of my all-time favorite destinations!
The wonderful coastline means there are plenty of beautiful beaches and seafood-rich cuisine, along with great sailing and sunset cocktails. Come hungry and indulge in farm-to-table dishes, plus local truffles, honey, wine, and olive oil!
Read More: Ultimate Croatia Travel Guide
The Netherlands
Famous for the canals of Amsterdam, tulip fields, windmills, and a history of artists, the Netherlands has a population that is welcoming for all female travelers.
The flat terrain makes it great for outdoor sports such as cycling and hiking, and there are epic sights steeped in a rich history and Dutch culture throughout the country.
Read More: Ultimate Amsterdam Travel Guide
10 Places to Visit in the Netherlands (That Aren’t Amsterdam)
Greece
Where stunning ruins, volcanic cliffs, and friendly locals meet the sparkling blue Mediterranean Sea. My first trip to Greece was a summer adventure through Athens and Mykonos. I returned again to sail the Saronic Islands on The Yacht Week Greece, and then again to explore the Cyclades islands of Santorini, Milos, and Naxos!
The laid-back culture is great for those who want to soak in some sunshine and ultra-fresh food.
Read More: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide
10 Places to Visit in Greece (That Aren’t Santorini)
Belgium
This charming country has a wealth of history throughout its cities, and excellent transport connections sitting in the heart of Western Europe, making it ideal to include as part of a longer European adventure.
Brussels is home to some wonderful architecture, the European Parliament, and the major EDM festival ‘Tomorrowland’, while cities like Ghent and Bruges offer walks along romantic canals (complete with white swans)!
Sightseeing aside, Belgium is also famous for its chocolate, waffles, frites, and beer!
Read More: The Ultimate Belgium Travel Guide
10 Places to Visit in Belgium (That Aren’t Brussels)
Where have you felt safe and comfortable as a female traveler?
Greetings from Denver CO!
In my attempt to stay inspired through Covid 19 and hopeful to travel some day again when the world opens up, I found your site! It is happy, bright, and really informative. I have never been to Europe, but cling tight to my Italian heritage so I’m happy to see Italy as one of your top 10 friendliest places for female travelers. I’m super curious, what are you doing during these times to stay inspired for travel?
Hi Mary! I’m so glad you found this post 🙂 I’ve been planning for future trips and doing local staycations along with socially distanced road trips. You might like these posts: https://theblondeabroad.com/tips-for-curing-wanderlust-during-covid-19-isolation/ https://theblondeabroad.com/how-to-plan-the-perfect-staycation/ https://theblondeabroad.com/best-places-to-travel-in-the-united-states-right-now/ https://theblondeabroad.com/how-to-travel-safely-during-covid-19/
Those countries are super beautiful. I would have loved to visit Switzerland, however covid-19 has spoiled it for me this year. I love love Iceland, so different from the rest of Europe. Let’s hope 2021 is much more promising than 2020. Keep up the inspiring work..
Hey there! I’m with you on that — I would love to explore more of Europe in the future. We’ll see what 2021 has in store!