Of all of the travel experiences I’ve had over the years, some of my best memories are from trips I’ve taken alone. While I love traveling with friends and family, there is something so empowering and liberating about going it alone.
Whether you are considering your first solo trip (if so, read my article on 10 Tips for Taking Your First Solo Trip before you go) or you’re a seasoned explorer, there are so many amazing experiences out there just waiting to be had. And, going alone doesn’t have to mean being alone!
There are countless adventures that’ll connect you with other travelers.
I firmly believe that solo travel for women is one of the best ways to learn about yourself and the world. Taking a solo trip is a fantastic way to grow.
When it comes to the best solo travel destinations, consider what kind of trip you’d like to take — be it more cultural, adventurous, or something in between.
Ready to hit the road? Here are my top 10 experiences for solo female travelers around the world.
Walk Camino de Santiago
Spain is an ideal place for solo female travelers. It’s been ten years since I went to Spain to study abroad, and the country will always have a special place in my heart.
If you want the see Spain, there’s no better way to do it than walking the Camino de Santiago. Also, known as the Way of Saint James, there are several different paths to follow that’ll show you the authentic side of Spain.
Common paths will take you through Santiago de Compostela, San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Santander. Whichever way you go, though, you’ll find many solo travelers on the path, so it’s a good way to connect.
Go On a TBA Escapes Retreat
Another ideal way to meet other like-minded ladies is on a TBA Escapes. Why not enjoy a trip with yours truly and an amazing group of ladies?
We’ve had such a good time on previous trips! You can explore South Africa, hone your photography skills, and make connections from around the world.
Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
I spent four incredible days hiking up the Inca Trail to finally reach Machu Picchu. It is an intense hike but SO worth it when you finally reach Machu Picchu!
I joined a hiking group with guides, which is a good way to connect with other travelers and get help along the way.
Read More: How to Prepare for Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
A European River Cruise
Explore the rivers of France, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, The Netherlands, and Hungary with U by UNIworld. A travel company specializing in creating travel experiences for millennials, these guys do it all.
U by UNIworld organizes trips to the best festivals in Europe and other specialized options. Take their travel personality quiz to find out which cruise fits you best.
Go On The Yacht Week
I’ve been on several The Yacht Week trips, and they are an awesome way to connect with other travelers. For solo travelers, I’d say that The Yacht Week in Greece is the best experience.
When you sign up for TYW Greece, you’ll be paired with another solo traveler, so you meet people on your yacht and get the chance to connect with people from other yachts during the parties.
I met so many wonderful friends during TYW, and couldn’t recommend the trip enough.
Backpack Europe
Traveling around Europe is great for solo female travelers. I got a Eurail Pass while I was there and it gave me the chance to get around to a wide range of different places.
It’s easy to hop from city to city, and you quickly meet people at every destination.
UK Road Trip
The United Kingdom is a prime destination for a road trip. Self-driving through England brings you through fascinating places like London and Stratford-upon-Avon.
It also offers you the chance to continue up into Scotland and even take a ferry over to Ireland.
Explore Iceland
This gorgeous destination is one of my favorite places in the world. Iceland has so much to see and do. There are countless tours that you can join, and stay in hostels which will give you the chance to meet other travelers.
Iceland is also one of the best diving destinations on the planet, and it’s another dream destination for a road trip.
Backpack Southeast Asia
Thailand was my first solo trip, and it’s one I’ll never forget. It’s such a beautiful country, and it’s perfect for solo travel. With flawless beaches, unforgettable food, and friendly people, this place ticks all of the boxes.
I also had a great time in Cambodia exploring the temples of Angkor, and my recent trip to Indonesia for a diving liveaboard was a dream come true. I met so many interesting people from all over the planet.
Adventure through New Zealand
Another place I’ll always love is New Zealand! This is an ideal country for solo female travelers.
You’ll meet an endless stream of people who are backpacking around the country. If you stay in hostels, you’ll find countless travelers looking to swap stories.
Plus it’s such a safe place! You never have to worry about stumbling into a bad neighborhood, and it’s easy to get a car or hop on a bus.
The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide
Solo travel for women can be challenging — I’ve learned so much over the years (and I’m continually learning!). I put together this comprehensive guide to solo travel destinations and taking solo trips so you can better prepare for your next trip!
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great post nice sharing
It really surprises me to see Iceland on this list! I was told you’re not “supposed to” travel Iceland alone because it’s so sparsely inhabited that you can get in real trouble if you find yourself stranded outside a city.
Do you recommend generally looking for travel groups or do you feel it’s safe to go it alone?
I never felt there was an issue there, but I did do a lot of things with tour groups! If you feel nervous, you won’t have a problem finding tours to go with.