5 Cities that are Perfect for First-Time Female Solo Travelers

Ready to embark on your first solo trip but not sure where to go? I compiled a list of 5 AMAZING international cities that are great for beginner female solo travelers who are looking for easy, safe destinations. I have personally visited all of these cities a solo traveler. Each offers a unique combination of safety, accessibility, and enriching activities that make them ideal for exploring on your own.

Just a disclaimer, I haven’t stayed at all the hostels recommended in this post, but they all have great reviews on HostelWorld, are in good locations, and have female dorms available. Personally, these are the 3 things I look for when choosing a hostel. I love HostelWorld because it has so many trusted reviews from solo travelers so you know exactly what to expect before you arrive.

London, England

Although I don’t consider it my first solo trip, London is technically where my solo travel journey began when I studied abroad there for a summer at 19. I was so nervous arriving in a big international city by myself, but I quickly realized there was no reason to be concerned. London is an incredibly safe city, and I felt comfortable walking around, taking public transport and going places on my own during my month-long stay.

As an English-speaking country, London is obviously going to be easy to navigate for Americans and other English speakers. The Tube – London’s 162 year old subway system – is fast, efficient, and connects you to every corner of the city. Most neighborhoods are also highly walkable, making it simple to explore at your own pace. With countless solo-friendly activities, you’ll never run out of things to do. Visit the iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben, take a stroll around the British Museum and Tate Modern, or relax in lush parks and gardens like Hyde Park or Kew Gardens.

Be aware that London is pricey. Budget for at least $100 a day, as hostels, food, and activities can add up quickly. Still, the city’s vibrant culture and endless attractions make it a fantastic starting point for any female solo traveler. Better yet, its close proximity and affordable flights from the US make it a great starting point for your European adventure. From London you can get flights to countless cities in Europe for less than $100!

Nice, France

The sunny city of Nice, located on the French Riviera, offers a safe and stunning environment for female solo travelers. When I visited, I was blown away by the natural beauty and culture. Most importantly, I felt comfortable walking around, even at night and the city has an excellent public transportation system, including trams and buses, makes it easy to get around. As a budget traveler, you’ll probably stay in the city about a 30 minute walk from the beach, but there is an easy-to-use tram that will take you directly to the beach in Old Nice in about 10 minutes.

One of Nice’s biggest draws is its proximity to other picturesque destinations. You can easily take a short train ride to explore Monaco, Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, and Cannes. You can even take the train to the Italian city of Ventimiglia! English is widely spoken, so I didn’t need more than a “merci” when I was there. (But as always, learning a few local phrases doesn’t hurt)

Nice is not the cheapest destination, with hostel prices ranging from €40 to €60 a night. However, transportation and many activities are affordable or even free, and food prices are reasonable. These factors make Nice a balanced choice for solo travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is a vibrant and welcoming city that feels tailor-made for solo travelers. As one of Europe’s safest cities, it offers peace of mind for those venturing out alone. The locals are incredibly friendly, and English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate and communicate. Plus, with direct flights from the U.S., Lisbon is another convenient gateway to Europe.

The city is relatively affordable compared to other major European capitals. Meals typically cost between €5 and €10, and you’ll find a wide range of hostels, many with social atmospheres perfect for meeting fellow travelers. Lisbon’s beautiful hilly streets and colorful tiles make it a perfect place to just strolling around. You can also take accessible day trips to stunning nearby destinations like Sintra and Cascais, both less than an hour away.

For solo adventurers looking for safety, affordability, and a lively social scene, Lisbon checks all the boxes. Not to mention it’s home to my favorite dessert ever, the Pastel de Nata….

Madrid, Spain

Madrid is a dynamic and safe city with excellent public transportation, making it a dream for solo travelers. If you stay in a central neighborhood like Lavapiés, you’ll be within walking distance of many main attractions. Madrid also serves as a fantastic hub for exploring other parts of Spain. Take a high-speed train to Sevilla or Córdoba in under three hours (which is exactly what I did when I was there), or plan easy day trips to Toledo and Segovia.

The city is packed with activities, from world-famous museums like the Museo del Prado and Reina Sofía to tranquil green spaces like El Retiro Park. Visit the bustling Mercado de San Miguel for delicious food or the Royal Palace for a glimpse of Spanish grandeur. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but I would definitely recommend learning a few Spanish phrases

Madrid’s has one of the best nighttime social scenes I’ve seen, and excellent dining options, making it easy to connect with others during your solo travels.

Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is a charming and budget-friendly destination that’s perfect for first-time solo travelers. It’s the only non-Europe destination on this list, because I do think that Europe is best for first time female solo travelers. But, if you’re going to choose one place in Latin America for your solo trip, it should be Guatemala! It’s also the most affordable destination on this list.

Just an hour’s drive from Guatemala City’s airport, Antigua is a convenient starting point for exploring Guatemala or a great option for a weekend getaway. The city’s small size and walkable layout mean you can wander its cobblestone streets easily, discovering restaurants, shops, and museums along the way.

Guatemalans are the most friendly and welcoming people I have ever met, which made me feel safe and at ease throughout my visit. Because English isn’t widely spoken, learning some Spanish can really help. Antigua is also known for its excellent Spanish schools, so consider taking a class while you’re there. For a memorable (and challenging!) experience, book a guided two-day hike to Volcán Acatenango. This adventure is great for solo travelers, as you’ll meet plenty of fellow adventurers along the way.

Want to know more about solo traveling for the first time? Check out my blog post 10 Tips Every First-Time Solo Female Traveler Needs to Know!

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