Want to know more about Europe solo travel beyond the guidebook? These 24 pro solo female travelers share their stories on their chosen destinations with tips on how they managed to travel Europe alone.
Hi Trish! I came across your blog following your South America route and budget. Thank you for that – it was sincere and helpful! Now it’s time to travel again and I am thinking about Europe. I know it is more expensive than South America but I want to give it a try! I am so sick of the dangers here in the United States and I know people like you can give a good insight. Can you please let me know what destinations are best for Europe solo travel, especially for first-timers? I appreciate all the help in this blog, and I am planning to join your group trips next year as well! Thank you so much, and sending you love!
Stephanie Mosby, United States
Hi Stephanie!
Thank you for always being here and I am glad you pushed through South America! How was it? I spent many years in Europe as a student and lived in Milan and Barcelona.
Though I did many solo trips in Europe, I wanted to give a different insight for this post. I invited 25 solo female travelers to give their insight regarding Europe solo travel, together with their destination of choice.
I think it’s best if you hear them from many other women and not just me. It just makes it more clear to have different sets of opinions as opposed to only hearing mine!
As usual, consider your source when it comes to solo travel. Only listen to people who have been to Europe alone as they can relate and give more input to your circumstance.
Here are the best Europe solo travel destinations together with short stories from powerful females who are traveling the world on their own. I hope this will help you push through! Good luck!
Xx,
Trisha
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Best Europe solo travel destinations
1. Milan, Italy
My very first trip to Milan was way back when I got accepted into University in 2010. I lived there for a few years and studied fashion.
As a young girl from a very conservative and sheltered culture in Asia, I felt so liberated to be alone and it did not scare me at all to be in Milan alone. Milan opened my mind to a whole new world, and from then on, I have traveled to over 80 countries on my own (thanks to Uni and Milan!)
Never felt harmed in Milan, nor did I know the concept of safety when it comes to Europe solo travel. For me, Europe has always been this first-world region, and that no bad things happen there except for one time when a gypsy at the Duomo put her hand inside my bag.
I simply said, “No, do not touch me.” I did not know how to react, but I am thankful I was paying attention. Another thing is this tourist scam that mostly solo travelers are being targeted.
They will ask you for €20 EUR to take a picture before the duomo and put the birds on your hands (yup, that pic above). Since this was my first time in the duomo, nobody told me this was a scam, so I paid for that 20 EUR!
Those were the only instances, and I consider them minor. My only travel tip is that it may be hard for you to go around Italy because Italians are not English speakers. I was thankful that I had mastered my Italian very young, so Italy is not so strange to me.
Make sure to know a few Italian phrases before your trip; honestly, you only have to know the words for food (coffee, espresso, bread, which are relatively easy to learn). The rest, go with the flow, and you will find that the Italians will help.
Even if they put their hands up in frustration or may sometimes yell, they are not angry. This is the normal Italian tone of voice; they just want to help.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark
While I’ve always been an avid traveler, I took my first solo trip to Copenhagen in November 2022. I signed up for the United MileagePlus credit card, which gives you a bonus of 60,000 miles if you spend $3,000 within the first three months.
I was able to spend that amount and earn my bonus. I flew with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). Because SAS is a part of United’s Star Alliance Network, I booked a round-trip flight to Copenhagen from San Francisco for around 65,000 miles.
I’ve felt incredibly safe walking at night alone, which I would never do in the US. I took a taxi to my hotel after going through customs, and as we were driving, I was impressed with how squeaky clean Copenhagen was compared to other European cities I’ve visited.
Before my arrival, I had reservations about my trip to a homogenous area, especially as a Filipina woman. I was worried about being snubbed or dismissed. Thankfully, the locals were friendly and hospitable and helped me when I was lost or needed something.
Some strangers offered to help as I struggled with my luggage on my way to the hotel. Copenhagen also ended up being more racially diverse than I thought! While knowing some Danish words and phrases is good, most locals speak perfect English.
There are also many things to do in Copenhagen that you can do on your own (without feeling strange). These activities will help you meet other solo travelers, as I did!
Even though Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world, keep your eye out for things or sketchy people. Use common sense. But you can rest assured you will run into minimal problems in Copenhagen.
3. London, United Kingdom
After traveling with my partner for a few weeks in Scandinavia, I decided I was ready for a city break to cap off our adventures. He planned to travel to Svalbard, so it was the perfect time for me to explore the city for a few days.
London would have great food, museums, and many things to do, so I was confident I could fill a solo itinerary.
I felt safe the entire time I was in London, but it’s worth noting that I didn’t stay out late at any point, and I chose a hostel in a more excellent, semi-residential area of the city. In general, the city felt very safe when taking standard precautions.
The city of London is so multicultural. Nearly every person I met was kind and helpful, but most ignored me unless I directly approached them. I didn’t notice any hatred or prejudice in the city, but I am cis-gendered and white, so it’s possible it wasn’t directed at me.
One of the highlights of my trip was a day trip to Brighton, the unofficial LGBT capital of the United Kingdom.
I always try to look alert when walking in public, especially at night or in sparsely populated areas. I look where I’m going, keep my earbuds out, put my phone in my pocket, and share my location on WhatsApp if I feel nervous.
See also: How to plan a solo trip to London
4. Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland, is the second largest city in Poland, not far from where many of my extended family live. Traveling to Krakow solo made sense from a family, historical, and cultural perspective.
I have traveled solo in many countries and had varied experiences. As a blonde Caucasian woman, I tended to get more stares in some places than others and felt uneasy in several countries. However, Poland was nothing like that.
I found the city very safe as I wandered around the picturesque streets and squares, both during the day and in the evenings, without ever feeling threatened or uneasy.
Of course, I always remain vigilant and use common sense, just as I would in any other place, but overall, the general feeling in Krakow was welcoming and secure.
The locals I encountered were helpful and hospitable. I was pleasantly surprised that people treated me with respect and kindness, making my experience all the more enjoyable. The city has a mix of ethnicities today.
Overall, the city is diversified and sees tourists of many races and cultures come through- especially as it’s a significant stopping point before heading to one of the most famous sites in the world: Auschwitz Birkenau.
One safety hack I discovered while in Krakow was using electric scooters. Rather than relying on bus transportation in the evenings, the e-scooter made getting to places faster and more efficient.
However, I did have to be aware of where I could park it, as there are zones, such as in the central area, where you cannot park e-scooters. This hack also helped reduce my usage of my phone’s map apps. Once you start zooming around on a scooter, it becomes more fun to explore places.
5. Paris, France
Paris is the first city that I’ve visited solo. I chose it because it’s just a 3-hour train ride from where I live and I’ve been to the city before.
So, I knew what to expect. For my solo trip, I wanted to travel slower and focus on three arrondissements instead of crisscrossing the entire city. I felt safe in Paris during the day, but, at the same time, I never let my guard down, especially in crowded places and on public transport.
After dark, I stayed near my accommodation so I wouldn’t have to take the subway to avoid unwanted attention. Paris is a metropolitan city, so people are not spontaneously helpful.
But when I asked for help or directions, I always got the help I needed, albeit somewhat hasty and not very personal.
The Parisian population consists of a colorful mix of origins supplemented by visitors from all over the world. Therefore, I don’t believe that people of color would be treated differently than me as a Caucasian woman.
The most important tip I would give other solo travelers is to consider where to stay in the French capital carefully. In my experience, the best arrondissements to stay in Paris are the 6th and the 7th. Especially the 6th arrondissement is central yet residential and relatively upscale, dotted with unique places to stay for all budgets.
I recommend against staying in the 10th, 18th, and 19th arrondissements because there’s a thin line between safe and not-so-safe neighborhoods.”
6. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul was one of my first Europe solo travel destinations – after reading about the culture, incredible history, and stellar food scene, I knew it was exactly my kind of place!
I had been on a couple of package holidays to Turkey before this and enjoyed myself, but I’d always sensed that my experience was more ‘Brits abroad’ than seeing what Turkey was all about. Istanbul sounded so vibrant and frenetic that I wanted to experience it myself.
Istanbul is a crowded city; generally, people are everywhere, doing something at all hours. This is one of the things that made me feel safe upon arrival – my flight landed in the early hours of the morning, and I ended up being dropped off by the shuttle bus in Taksim Square at about 2:00 AM.
My hotel was just a short walk away, and while in other cities I would probably have taken a taxi to get there, the fact that the streets were busy even late at night meant that I didn’t mind walking.
The other thing that made me feel safe was that Istanbul was unbelievably welcoming. People always want to help you – the minute you look lost or unsure, someone will offer to help you, even if they don’t speak your language.
It’s common for locals to ask you to share a cup of çay (tea) with them just because they are curious about where you are from and not because they want to sell you something! Istanbul is a highly diverse city, and you will see people from everywhere: because of this, Istanbulites are very used to seeing people from different countries and cultures.
Although it’s very safe, Istanbul is still a big city, so taking the same precautions as any other major metropolis is sensible. Be aware of pickpockets on the tram and around the Old City area of Sultanahmet, as thieves tend to target tourists here.
7. Barcelona, Spain
I had high expectations before I arrived in Barcelona, and the city did not disappoint as one of the best places to visit in Spain for first timers.
As a solo traveler, I discovered that the city has much to offer. From its lively nightlife, world-famous architecture, and good weather to its friendly locals, pretty beaches, and amazing vibe.
The delicious food was another major reason to visit. I found no reason to worry about sitting alone as the abundance of tapas spots made it easy to eat alone without feeling self-conscious.
For the most part, I found Barcelona to be a safe city and explored the major tourist areas with ease and without much worry or concern. It’s really easy to get around, and the city is very walkable.
However, I was warned to be cautious in crowded areas, inside the metro, and when wandering in the main tourist zones since pickpockets are common in the city and target unwary tourists.
The Spanish are known to be gregarious and welcoming, and I noticed that this was no different in Barcelona. As a person of color, I did not feel out of place or treated any differently from those around me.
While walking around the city, particularly after dark and in busy areas such as Las Ramblas, I made sure always to be aware of my surroundings and valuables. This, along with keeping my hands in my pockets and concealing my wallet and phone in a zippered pocket, ensured that I was safe from pickpockets.
8. Ghent, Belgium
On my first solo trip, I decided to visit Ghent, Belgium. In choosing where to visit, I knew I wanted to go somewhere beautiful with many exciting things to see and do.
A friend suggested Ghent, and it turned out to be the ideal destination for my first solo trip.
Ghent is easily accessible by train and takes only 40 minutes to reach from Brussels. Ghent’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, so I knew it would have stunning architecture, an interesting past, and fantastic places to visit. In addition, Ghent is small enough to be entirely walkable.
I wasn’t fully expecting Ghent to be as beautiful as it was when I first arrived. In the city’s center, views of the Graslie and Korenlei, two medieval structures on either side of the Leie River, took my breath away.
Many tourists were visiting Ghent when I arrived, and almost everyone spoke English. I immediately felt safe and comfortable.
Participating in a free walking tour was one of my best decisions. I wanted to explore the city on foot at night, but I wasn’t sure how safe it would be as a solo traveler, especially in an unfamiliar place.
As the local guide showed us around the city at dusk, I quickly became familiar with its layout and learned some fascinating facts about its past.
Overall, my experience in Ghent was so positive that this was a life-changing decision for me, as I am now forever hooked on Europe solo travel.
9. Algarve, Portugal
I have been based in southern Spain for the last ten years, and it was natural to travel to the Algarve on my own, which was only a few hour’s drive away. There is enough natural beauty and fun towns to fill your itinerary for weeks.
I love water activities, so going in late summer when the crowds have calmed down to kayaking to explore natural wonders like Benagil Cave or Ponta da Piedade is very attractive.
Most of my trips there have been solo, and I always felt very safe. As one that usually travels by car, the most important thing I had to think of was not to leave any visible valuables in the car, not even for a quick stop. This is generally a rule of thumb when road-tripping in southern Europe.
Furthermore, I would always look after my bag in crowded areas, especially in the high season – like anywhere.
But the Algarve is much more relaxed in the off-season, so I have never felt worried about my belongings like I could in more prominent Portuguese destinations like Porto or Lisbon.
Throughout my solo travels to the Algarve, I was only met with a helpful and positive attitude. Sometimes I have met locals that only knew a few words of English, and even so, they have helped me out even if they had to follow me somewhere to make me understand.
I also find people in Portugal very dog friendly, and traveling with my pooch makes it easy to connect with the locals there. I have never seen any negative or rude attitude against tourists of any color, size, or nationality there. Be nice and you will get nice in return.
10. Stockholm, Sweden
A great Europe solo travel destination is Stockholm! I’ve always wanted to travel to the Scandinavian region, especially coming from somewhere that is sunny practically year-round.
It made perfect sense when I saw that I could fly to the Swedish capital for relatively low prices. Immediately upon arrival at the airport, big signs telling you how to get to the city’s center, and the process was relatively easy to navigate.
Upon stepping foot outside of the Stockholm Central Station, I was filled with so much joy! The city is clean, the architecture is beautiful, and the air was so crisp I couldn’t help but smile!
On top of this, the locals are kind and welcoming. For example, I received several recommendations on must-try Swedish foods! Not once during my trip did I feel unsafe or in danger while exploring the city, and that’s saying a lot as a smaller female who’s a person of color!
Along with the city being safe and having a relatively friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to get around. For example, I appreciated the metro system.
Although there are many forms of public transport in the city, I found the metro to be the most convenient and reliable. Each metro station is uniquely decorated with a specific theme, so riding to various stations is like viewing one of the city’s tourist attractions!
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a wonderful city to visit with awesome public transportation, consider Stockholm your Europe solo travel destination.
11. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is easily one of the best Europe solo travel destinations. I decided to travel Prague solo as it’s notoriously such a beautiful city, it’s pretty compact, but there’s still loads to do and see!
Having done my research, I felt reassured that, as a solo female traveler, it was one of the safest cities in Europe to visit. It was also my first time here, but the atmosphere was consistently warm and friendly!
The local Czech people were friendly and always very nice and polite. Everyone would help me with directions if I was ever stuck or provided great food recommendations!
Even though I was a solo female traveler and probably looked foreign to them, they were still happy to help me whenever needed. That being said, it’s not as if I didn’t get weird looks from groups of guys, but you get them from any city in the world!
I overlooked a single situation where someone was discriminated against due to their color or physique.
Prague has an unbelievably popular nightlife scene, and being in the city for the first time was quite nerving. However, stay at hostels so you have friends to hang around with when you go out, as there’s always safety in numbers!
12. Belgrade, Serbia
I decided to travel solo to Belgrade for a day as some friends had told me it is a really lovely vibrant city with a rich history – plus it is a very affordable destination (great as I was traveling on a budget)!
I had never been to Eastern Europe before, so I thought Belgrade would be a great place to start as it seemed safe for Europe solo travel and full of exciting places to visit, such as the Balkan’s largest Orthodox Church and the historic Belgrade Fortress.
I felt safe the whole time I was in Belgrade. Like any capital city, be smart with your belongings and be streetwise. The city has a lively atmosphere, and there were always many people around, making me feel safe.
I also saw many other solo travelers around, which meant the locals were used to seeing solo travelers, and nobody seemed to find it strange that I was traveling alone as a female there.
The local Serbian people were friendly, helpful, and welcoming – especially those in the hospitality sector. Foreign visitors, especially Westerners, are generally treated with respect and kindness.
However, Serbian friends have told me that most of the older generation is not used to seeing people openly homosexual (as it is still quite taboo in their culture), as well as people of color.
A safety tip for solo travelers in Belgrade is to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in unlit areas at night.
13. Iceland
Iceland is known for its incredible natural beauty, stunning fjords, geothermal hot springs, and spewing volcanoes. It’s also known as one of the safest countries on the planet, making it the ideal destination for Europe solo travel.
As a female traveler, I’m always on high alert for my surroundings and can feel anxious when traveling solo. In Iceland, though, my mind was at ease—Iceland has an incredibly low crime rate, from more minor offenses, like theft, to much worse crimes. It also feels like the best of both worlds.
While there’s plenty of tourist infrastructure, like hotels and rental cars, and it’s easy to get around, limited parts of Iceland feel overly touristy. And in fact, parts of it still feel incredibly untamed and wild.
The locals are generally warm and friendly, most speaking perfect English. One thing I experienced, though, when speaking to older Icelanders was a very mild hint of resentment, given that some areas of the country have struggled with damage or congestion from over-tourism.
So, please do your part and be a responsible traveler, leaving Iceland better than you found it!
One tip for traveling in Iceland is to check the weather early and often, as it can rapidly change unpredictably. And be sure to include cool and warm layers on your Iceland packing list—it is the Land of Fire and Ice, after all.
14. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
I traveled solo to Amsterdam in the Netherlands after finding an affordable plane ticket for March. I hoped to have moderate weather for exploring while avoiding the insane, high-season crowds.
Over four days in Amsterdam, I always felt safe and found the city lively. Many people walked and biked everywhere on the city streets, even in the late winter drizzle. Amsterdam’s city center is clean and easy to navigate, with plenty of cute cafes, trendy eateries, and museums.
Although it’s possible to walk almost anywhere, Amsterdam’s extensive public transportation saves your legs and is easy to use. Having stayed outside the city center, I took the tram often and always had plenty of company at the stops and on board.
Even when taking the metro after dark for a Thursday night exposition at the Rijksmuseum, there were plenty of people around the well-lit station, and I didn’t feel uncomfortable.
The Amsterdam locals I encountered were generally friendly and helpful throughout my stay. I had little trouble communicating as an American, with many locals speaking very well.
I was incredibly grateful to the woman at my hotel’s front desk, who pointed me towards a Dutch food delivery app after Uber Eats listed every nearby restaurant as out of range.
Solo female travelers in Amsterdam should stay safe by avoiding the Red Light District after around 10 pm. This is when the daytime tourists transition to late-night partiers, and the environment gets seedy with drunkenness and shady characters offering drugs.
However, this area is OK to explore during earlier hours, especially as daylight allows you to appreciate the neighborhood’s historic architecture.
15. Bratislava, Slovakia
I love to explore less conventional destinations, incredibly picturesque, historical, and walkable cities. This is why I made Bratislava my base for a week during my recent Europe trip.
Although not entirely off the beaten path, Slovakia and its capital, Bratislava, see fewer tourists than the neighboring Czech Republic and Prague.
As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe exploring the city day and night. The main streets are well-lit, and no suspicious characters are lurking around.
Slovakians are welcoming, hospitable, and proud to welcome visitors since the country is not yet a popular tourist destination. The people helped my solo trip to Bratislava easier and more fun!
In Bratislava, visitors of all backgrounds are welcome, including black and colored people. However, they may receive the occasional curious stares from friendly locals due to the small number of people of color living in Slovakia.
Encountering ignorant racists is not more common than in any other city (as sad as that fact is) and should not deter visitors. Bratislava is also very LGBTI-friendly, with many bars and venues, although public displays of affection may not be advisable due to the country’s conservative nature.
When it comes to safety, petty crimes like pickpocketing are the primary concern in Bratislava. Visitors should take basic precautions to avoid becoming victims of pickpocketing and should keep a close eye on their belongings, especially when visiting the main square, particularly The Christmas markets. So extra caution is advised when visiting during the holiday season.
16. Basel, Switzerland
Visiting Basel, Switzerland as a solo traveler is an incredibly rewarding experience. I chose to travel to Basel for its cultural nuances – it is a compact city and pretty easy to navigate for a first-time solo female traveler.
As soon as I arrived at the Basel SBB (train station) from Zurich as part of my Switzerland itinerary, I was at ease. Right across the train station was a tram line that took me to my centrally located hotel in Old Town.
And this is where all of the primary attractions were situated. It felt safe when using public transportation and navigating the lanes of Old Town.
Switzerland is one of the European countries I feel at ease. I am a woman of color and never felt out of place in Basel when visiting restaurants on my own, shopping, or walking around in the evening.
I did some photo shoots for Instagram, and people just smiled at me as I set up my tripod. The locals spoke English and were friendly.
Basel overall is very safe. It is one of the Swiss cities I can don designer clothes and accessories without the fear of getting robbed.
Of course, I do avoid unknown areas at night time. It is truly one of those countries where you will be fine as long as you apply common sense and be mindful of your surroundings.
As a solo traveler in Basel or elsewhere, I avoid staying outdoors late into the night and ensure my cellphone is fully charged and available.
17. Valencia, Spain
I headed to Valencia as part of a weeklong solo trip around Spain. I have been to the country a few times and generally find it a great place to travel solo, especially as a woman.
Valencia is the perfect combination of city sights and a beautiful beach with great weather, so I was sold to explore it a bit.
I felt that Valencia was very safe. I explored public transportation, went out to a few tapas bars at night, took taxis, and wandered the city streets both during the day and at night, and the city has a great vibe.
I went for a run through the Turia Garden, a vast city park, and found tons of other solo female runners wearing headphones which I feel is always a good gauge of how local women feel in their city, at least during the day.
I am a white woman who speaks Spanish, and there is no doubt that both play a role in my experiences traveling Spain.
I could communicate at restaurants or with locals in the street when I got lost or had questions, and I found all those experiences to be friendly.
Valencia is a smaller city than Madrid or Barcelona, so there is less hustle and bustle, people take their time, are more laid back, and are generally much friendlier.
Although very safe, Valencia is still a city of almost 800,000 people. Use your common sense at night and consider taking a taxi or ordering an Uber if the walk is over a few blocks and you are alone.
Always keep your belongings close by, especially if you are hanging out in a park reading or in a busy place where pickpocketing is more likely.
18. Dublin, Ireland
I had always dreamed of traveling to Ireland, so I jumped to take a solo trip to Dublin when the opportunity arose. Ireland was my first solo trip, and it was a wonderful experience that built up my confidence to travel independently.
As a solo female traveler, safety was a top priority for me. Fortunately, I found Dublin to be a very safe city, even when traveling alone.
I felt comfortable walking around during the day and even after dark. Of course, as with any city, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, but overall I had a very positive experience.
The people in Dublin (and across all of Ireland) are incredibly friendly and welcoming, which made my Europe solo travel experience all the more enjoyable. I found that locals were more than happy to give me recommendations for places to visit and things to do.
While I can’t speak to the experience of people of color, I was included in the LGBTQ community in Dublin, and it was exceptionally welcoming and inclusive. Everyone I met during my trip was respectful and kind.
One safety tip that I learned during my time in Dublin was to plan for transportation. The public transit stops running at midnight, so if you’re out late (often while visiting the pubs), it’s important to take a taxi home.
Fortunately, plenty of taxis are available throughout the city, so it’s easy and safe to get around at all hours.
Overall, my solo travel experience in Dublin was incredibly rewarding. I had the chance to explore a new city, meet new people, and learn about a different culture. I highly recommend Dublin to anyone looking for a safe and welcoming destination for Europe solo travel.
19. Amalfi Coast, Italy
I have always loved the idea of exploring solo. So, when I found myself with a few weeks of vacation time, I decided this was the perfect opportunity to challenge myself and embark on an adventure alone. Years ago, I spent some time traveling from London to Amalfi Coast.
Its sea views, delicious fresh seafood, and history immediately captivated me. I relished exploring the area at my own pace, trying new things without worrying about anyone else’s preferences, and fully immersing myself in Italian culture.
And so, with a mix of nerves and excitement, I set off on my Europe solo travel to one of my favorite places in the world, the Amalfi Coast.
Amalfi Coast is considered a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, taking the necessary precautions to ensure your safety is always essential. As a female solo traveler, I tend to be cautious, securing all of my belongings with travel locks and using a travel pouch for my wallet.
Most travelers usually fly into Naples International Airport (NAP) and head south to Amalfi Coast. Naples is a major port city with a grittier side, sometimes known for pickpocketing. However, my planning worked well, and I limited my time in Naples to just getting to Amalfi Coast.
The Amalfi Coast is primarily known for its hospitality and friendly locals who welcome visitors with open arms. As a result, I tend to fly under the radar or sometimes go unnoticed as an average Caucasian woman.
However, locals were even more friendly than on my previous trip, providing more assistance, I speculate because I was alone.
One of my favorite safety tips is ensuring you get a local SIM card for Italy which provides local internet and phone service. The Naples International Airport has stores where you can purchase them upon arrival.
I could use Google Maps even in some of the most remote and charming towns like Ravello. I felt like a local – being able to navigate even on rural roads! Plus, my family could text or call, which put much of their worries about my Europe solo travel to rest.
If you haven’t had the chance to travel to the Amalfi Coast, it’s worth traveling solo! I still miss all the beautiful Mediterranean cliffside towns that truly take your breath away.
I also highly recommend staying in Positano and taking day trips to the other villages. Positano has the most to offer travelers, and you can quickly get a ferry, bus, or taxi from there to anywhere on your travel itinerary.
20. Edinburgh, Scotland
I was always fascinated by the medieval history of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city. So, when I got to visit this city, it was a dream come true, from exploring the medieval castle to hiking a hill in the middle of the city.
I found many amazing things to do in Edinburgh, particularly for solo travelers. It was a fantastic experience exploring the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh, both of which are part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The city is well known for its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and a dramatic castle perched over an extinct volcano.
Generally, Scotland is a very safe country. As a solo woman traveler, I felt no safety concerns while exploring the city for the first time. Also, there are not many tourist scams compared to other European cities. But it is important to take the usual precautions when traveling alone.
I found the people of Edinburgh super friendly and helpful. It is one of the friendliest cities in the UK. Being a person of color, I felt very comfortable exploring this city. I met many ethically diverse tourists and locals and didn’t hear of any untoward experience.
I didn’t find any red flags in terms of safety in Edinburgh. However, I recommend being wary of your belongings in crowded places. Edinburgh has a vibrant pub culture and nightlife.
Call a taxi to return to your accommodation if you drink a few. Night buses are very safe, and there seem to be more people taking it even late at night so you won’t really be alone.
21. Rome, Italy
If there’s one city that can’t be missed on this list of best solo travel destinations in Europe then it’s Rome. It was actually the first place I ever traveled to completely on my own. A solo trip had been on my mind for a long time and Rome just seemed the perfect place for it!
From the time when I arrived until the moment I had to say goodbye, I felt absolutely safe in the city. All areas in Rome were very lively until late in the evening with restaurants and cafes open until after midnight.
I felt very welcomed and everyone was super friendly and helpful, from the airport staff to the receptionist at my hostel. Because Rome is such an international city, I didn’t notice anyone, including me, being treated differently because of their looks.
To get the best experience it’s helpful to stay in the city’s center. Some areas might feel shady, but that’s usually the case in all major European cities. If you stay at a hostel, chances are high you will meet fellow travelers with whom you can explore the city if you prefer some company.
Another way to interact with like-minded people is to join a guided tour, one of the best things to do in Rome.
22. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, Bulgaria was one of the many stops on my Balkan itinerary but one that surprised me. Taking a six-week trip meant traveling solo – many people cannot afford to take so much time to explore destinations.
The central (downtown) area of Sofia is surprisingly safe. Sure, pickpockets can make your stay miserable like in any other tourist destination, but some basic precautions are all that are needed.
All the best free things to do in Sophia are within easy walking distance of each other. I was able to walk home at 2:00 am safely. I couldn’t even do that in my hometown! Other people were also walking home at that time.
Almost every other block has a 24/7 store. Try to schedule any late-night walks on streets (mostly residential) that have these convenience stores. At least you’ll know that someone will get you help if needed.
Bulgarians are friendly. People in Sofia were helpful even when I accidentally used the wrong currency. Visitors from all over the world explore Sophia. However, not many people of color come to this destination.
For your safety, use the Taxi Me app to order taxis. Set up the app at home, as there may be issues with verification if you attempt this on the road.
The app allows you to use a credit card for payment and ensures a meter is used. This means you will not be taken advantage of financially, and there is a record of who transported you.
Sophia, Bulgaria, is a beautiful city to explore for Europe solo travel! You’ll love it!
23. Kos, Greece
If you’re a solo traveler looking for an absolutely beautiful holiday destination, filled with culture and safe at the same time, then look no further than Kos in Greece.
This gorgeous island offers something truly special to all types of travelers – whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore its incredible history. I visited it here alone and cannot recommend it enough!
Kos is renowned for being a safe destination for solo travelers, with very low crime rates and plenty of friendly locals. I felt completely safe throughout my trip; crime rates are very low and the locals are incredibly friendly.
Getting around was also a breeze, with plenty of public transport options and easy access to hire cars.
The hospitality was outstanding wherever I went on the Island – from 5-star hotels to guesthouses, it felt like home. The selection of amazing places to stay in Kos made my trip around the Greek Islands even better!
I found locals were incredibly friendly across the Island and are always on hand to help you. From looking for a good restaurant recommendation or needing help with your hire car, you will easily find someone to assist you. I had a problem with my rental car, and a local family saw me and made sure the car was okay and safe to drive!
Even though it is safe to visit Kos, you will still need to use some precautions when exploring. Pickpocketing is high in many tourist places across Europe, so it’s good to be prepared. I would recommend having an anti-theft bag and keeping valuables out of sight.
24. Malta
Malta, where’s that? I stumbled upon this small country island while studying abroad in Europe, as it had yet to be on my traveling radar.
With the promise of unveiling the unknown, it became one of my favorite European destinations due to its unique mix of cultures, ancient landmarks, Comino’s gorgeous Blue Lagoon, and the new friends I made there.
Safety is often a big concern for solo travelers, especially when visiting a new destination. Malta is ideal for solo travelers as it is very safe with a low crime rate.
Even petty crime is very rare. I personally felt very safe walking the streets at night, from the countryside fields to the main nightlife area of Paceville.
Malta is a nation of tourists and immigrants, making its demographic makeup quite diverse. It’s one of the few English-speaking nations in Europe, making it easy to navigate.
Maltese and visitors alike are warm and welcoming, all arriving with chill Mediterranean vibes. Everyone is always ready to suggest great places to eat and tips for getting around. I was even offered a job while there!
Although Malta is safe, I would not drive a car here. The traffic is heavy, and the gears are manual, but mainly it’s that Malta’s towns were not built for vehicles.
The streets are narrow and winding, with some hairpin turns, wondering how one could possibly fit through. Be confident in your driving skills before attempting to drive independently.
Is it OK to travel to Europe alone?
Yes, travelling to Europe alone can be a great experience. Many solo travelers enjoy the freedom of exploring new places at their own pace and meeting new people along the way.
It’s essential to take certain precautions to ensure your safety, such as researching the areas you plan to visit, staying aware of your surroundings, and avoiding isolated areas at night.
It’s always a good idea to plan for emergencies, such as keeping important documents and contact information on hand. With proper planning and caution, Europe solo travel can be a rewarding and exciting adventure.
Should I travel to Europe alone as a woman?
Many women do Europe solo travel and have positive experiences (like these women in this post). However, as a woman, you must be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions for your safety.
Research the areas you’ll be visiting ahead of time, avoid walking alone in isolated areas or at night, and consider carrying a personal safety alarm or taking self-defense classes before your trip.
Only take advice from people who already did Europe solo travel and don’t believe everything you see online. ALWAYS CONSIDER YOUR SOURCE!
Which country is the safest for solo female travelers in Europe?
While Europe is generally considered a safe region for travelers, certain countries are safer for solo female travelers than others.
Some of Europe’s safest countries for solo female travelers include Denmark, Iceland, Austria, Switzerland, and Portugal. These countries have low crime rates, a stable political situation, and generally low levels of harassment toward women.
How much money do you need for Europe solo travel?
The money you need for one month in Europe can vary widely depending on your travel style, destinations, and accommodations. A general European budget travel guideline is around $2,500 to $4,000 USD for a month.
Suppose you’re staying in dormitory-style hostels or budget hotels, eating local food and occasionally cooking your meals, using public transportation, and visiting free or low-cost attractions. In that case, you can expect to spend closer to the lower end of the range.
On the other hand, if you prefer to stay in higher-end hotels, dine at fancy restaurants, and take private tours, you can expect to spend closer to the higher end of the range or more.
To lower your costs, you could consider traveling during the off-season, taking advantage of student discounts, and finding free things to do in each city.
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