Because feeling safe should be the bare minimum—right?
So, you’re thinking about traveling solo?
First of all—heck yes! Traveling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering things you can do. It’s like taking yourself on the ultimate date, only the restaurant is a café in Paris, and dessert? That’s watching the northern lights in Iceland.
But I get it—safety is priority number one. And while the internet is a jungle of advice (some of it helpful, some of it from your Aunt Linda who hasn’t left her zip code since 1998), you want info that’s real, practical, and not sugar-coated.
So I’ve rounded up the safest countries for solo female travelers in 2025, based on stats, vibes, personal experience, and the wisdom of the travel girlies who’ve been there, done that, and packed the bug spray.
Let’s get into it
🇮🇸 Iceland – The Queen of Safety
Why Iceland is a solo traveler’s dream:
Ever walked through a city at midnight and didn’t feel like you needed to clutch your pepper spray? In Iceland, that’s just a normal Tuesday.
- Extremely low crime rate
- Locals are chill and super helpful
- Everyone speaks English (like, really well)
- Epic landscapes that look like something out of Game of Thrones (because… they are)
What to do:
- Soak in the Blue Lagoon
- Road trip around the Golden Circle
- Chase waterfalls and northern lights
Pro tip: Rent a car and drive yourself. The roads are easy to navigate, and you’ll feel like you’re on another planet—but with great cell service.
🇯🇵 Japan – Where You Can Leave Your Wallet and Still Get It Back
Why Japan makes the list (every. single. year.):
Japan’s basically the gold standard for public safety, cleanliness, and punctuality. Seriously, the trains run so on time it’s kind of creepy (in a good way).
- Zero tolerance for street harassment (thank you, culture)
- Super efficient transportation
- Solo dining is a thing (no awkward stares when you ask for a table for one)
What to do:
- Wander the backstreets of Kyoto
- Take a sushi-making class in Tokyo
- Get your zen on at a traditional onsen
Just FYI: You’ll probably never want to use a public restroom anywhere else again. Japan spoils you like that.
🇵🇹 Portugal – Small, Safe, and Sooo Pretty
Why Portugal is perfect for first-time solo travelers:
This gem of a country gives you Europe, but make it friendly and affordable. Portugal has become a fan favorite for female travelers thanks to its warm people, laid-back lifestyle, and ridiculously photogenic coastlines.
- Low violent crime
- Amazing weather year-round
- English is widely spoken in touristy areas
Must-dos:
- Stroll through the fairytale town of Sintra
- Sip wine and listen to fado music in Lisbon
- Take a surf lesson in Lagos
My take: It’s a great place to dip your toes into solo travel without being totally overwhelmed. Also… pasteis de nata. You’ll understand soon.
🇳🇿 New Zealand – Where Even the Sheep Are Friendly
What makes New Zealand a solo traveler’s paradise:
This country is basically one big, safe nature documentary. I solo-traveled here and felt safer walking through small towns at night than I do ordering takeout in my own city.
- Insanely low crime
- Outdoor adventures galore
- Locals are friendly AF (in that charming Kiwi way)
What to explore:
- Hike Tongariro Alpine Crossing
- Kayak through Milford Sound
- Visit filming locations from The Lord of the Rings
IMO: New Zealand is what happens when nature and safety have a baby. And she’s gorgeous.
🇨🇦 Canada – Polite People, Maple Syrup, and Safety
Why Canada is underrated for solo travel:
It’s not just America’s well-behaved cousin. Canada is clean, super safe, and vast. Whether you’re into cityscapes or wild, wide-open wilderness, it delivers.
- High safety ratings
- Strong solo traveler culture
- Canadians will apologize if they bump into you. Even if it’s your fault.
Where to go:
- See the Northern Lights in Yukon
- Explore artsy cafés and neighborhoods in Montreal
- Visit Banff for jaw-dropping mountain views
Just saying: If nature is your love language, Canada will treat you right.
🇫🇮 Finland – Quiet, Clean, and Confident
What makes Finland fabulous for solo female travel:
Finland consistently ranks at the top of global safety and happiness charts. It’s like that introverted friend who’s lowkey amazing once you get to know her.
- Extremely low crime
- One of the best public transport systems
- Women can (and do) walk alone late at night—comfortably
What you’ll love:
- Cozy up in a lakefront cabin
- Experience a real Finnish sauna
- Wander the vibrant streets of Helsinki
Warning: May cause severe love for Nordic minimalism and clean design.
🇳🇱 Netherlands – Bikes, Canals, and Calm
Why the Netherlands is chill (in all the right ways):
Yes, Amsterdam has a reputation. But outside the red-light district, it’s an incredibly respectful and safe place for women—especially if you’re pedaling your way around like a local.
- Super safe urban areas
- Easy to get around with public transport and bikes
- English is spoken everywhere
What to check out:
- Visit the Van Gogh Museum
- Take a canal cruise through Amsterdam
- Cycle the countryside tulip routes
My take? It’s effortlessly cool, and you’ll feel like you belong from day one.
🇦🇹 Austria – Culture Meets Comfort
Why Austria hits the sweet spot:
Austria is like the low-key overachiever of Europe. It’s got music, mountains, museums—and more safety than you’ll know what to do with.
- High rankings for personal safety and health care
- Gorgeous, walkable cities like Vienna and Salzburg
- Well-lit streets and efficient transport systems
Do this:
- Channel your inner Maria from The Sound of Music in Salzburg
- Attend a classical concert in Vienna (fancy, huh?)
- Stuff your face with Sachertorte (zero regrets)
Real talk: It’s elegant without being intimidating.
🇸🇮 Slovenia – Europe’s Hidden Gem
Why Slovenia is blowing up (in the best way):
If you haven’t heard much about Slovenia, that’s about to change. This small Central European country is stunning, safe, and full of friendly locals.
- Low levels of petty crime
- English is commonly spoken
- It’s small enough to explore without stress
Top picks:
- Take a boat to Lake Bled
- Wander Ljubljana’s charming old town
- Hike the Julian Alps
FYI: It’s still under the radar, so now’s the time to go before everyone else finds out.
🇸🇬 Singapore – The Cleanest Place You’ll Ever Visit
Why Singapore is solo-travel royalty:
This island city-state is ridiculously safe and squeaky clean. Like, you’ll hesitate before chewing gum. (And honestly? Same.)
- One of the lowest crime rates in the world
- Public transport is spotless and easy
- Female solo travelers are very common
What to do:
- Eat your way through hawker markets
- Stroll through Gardens by the Bay
- Snap a selfie at Marina Bay Sands (because why not?)
Word of advice: Don’t litter. Like, seriously. Just… don’t.
Quick Tips for Staying Safe on the Road
Okay, let’s be honest—even in the safest countries, common sense is still your best travel buddy. Here are some non-negotiables:
- Always share your itinerary with someone you trust
- Stay in accommodations with good solo female reviews (lookin’ at you, Hostelworld and Booking.com)
- Trust your gut—if something feels off, bounce
- Avoid flashy jewelry or anything that screams “Please rob me”
- Use a money belt or anti-theft backpack for peace of mind (this one on Amazon is my ride-or-die → [affiliate link])
Related Post: Couples Getaway: 7 Dreamy Destinations for Two
Final Thoughts: You Got This
Traveling solo as a woman in 2025? Totally doable. Totally worth it. The world isn’t as scary as the news makes it seem—especially when you’re prepared and informed.
These countries aren’t just safe—they’re vibrant, welcoming, and packed with experiences that’ll make your friends low-key jealous when you get home.
So whether you’re sipping coffee in a tiny Portuguese alleyway or floating in a hot spring in Iceland, remember this: You’re brave, you’re capable, and you absolutely deserve this adventure.
Now go book that ticket. I’ll be cheering you on from afar (and probably low-key planning my next trip, too).
Happy travels!
