From solo-friendly cities to adventure-packed getaways, here’s where to go in 2026 for culture, safety, and unforgettable experiences.
Solo travel has grown by over 700% from 2019 to 2021, and it’s not slowing down. More women are traveling alone than ever before—seeking adventure, culture, and experiences that can’t be found on a generic resort.
If you’re planning a trip in 2026, here are 12 destinations that deliver safety, walkability, incredible food, and the kind of experiences you’ll actually remember.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Why Go
One of the easiest cities in Europe to explore solo. It’s flat, bikeable, incredibly safe, and English is widely spoken. Casual, open vibe makes it easy to blend in.
What to Do
- Rent a bike and explore the city like a local
- Visit Nyhavn for colorful waterfront views
- Eat at Torvehallerne food hall (perfect for solo dining and people-watching)
- Check out Tivoli Gardens
- Day trip to Malmö, Sweden (just across the bridge)
Best For
First-time solo travelers, biking enthusiasts, design lovers, food hall hoppers
2. Singapore
Why Go
One of the safest countries in the world—ranked 9th globally overall. Ultra-modern, sparkling clean, and English is an official language. You can walk around at night with zero issues.
What to Do
- Explore Gardens by the Bay (futuristic gardens and Supertrees)
- Sample diverse dishes at hawker centers (cheap, incredible food)
- Stroll Marina Bay at sunset
- Hit up Clarke Quay for nightlife
- Stay in a capsule hotel for affordable, solo-friendly accommodations
Best For
Foodies, safety-conscious travelers, urban explorers, people who love efficient public transit
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
Why Go
Iceland has the lowest crime rate in the world. The city is small, walkable, with quirky cafes and friendly locals. Perfect base for outdoor adventures.
What to Do
- Join small-group excursions to Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, or glacier hiking
- Soak in geothermal spas (Blue Lagoon or local hot pots)
- Chase the Northern Lights (Sept-April)
- Rent a car and explore on your own (roads are simple to navigate)
- Visit Hallgrimskirkja Church for panoramic city views
Best For
Nature lovers, outdoor adventure seekers, anyone who wants to see the Northern Lights
4. Lisbon, Portugal
Why Go
Portugal is safe, affordable, and beautiful with incredible coastlines and glowing cities. Locals are friendly, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
What to Do
- Ride the iconic yellow trams through Alfama
- Eat pastel de nata for breakfast (Portuguese custard tarts)
- Sunset walk at Belém Tower
- Explore colorful tile facades throughout the city
- Day trip to Sintra for fairy-tale castles
- Try fresh seafood at Time Out Market
Best For
Budget travelers, history buffs, foodies, sunset chasers
5. Tokyo, Japan
Why Go
Japan topped the list of where solo travelers want to go in 2026. Tokyo is considered one of the safest cities in the world. People are polite, most speak some English, and public transit is impeccable.
What to Do
- Visit historic sites: Meiji Jingu Shrine, Senso-ji Temple
- Explore museums: Edo-Tokyo Museum, Tokyo National Museum
- Experience Tokyo Disneyland
- Stroll through Imperial Palace and Hamarikyu Gardens
- Eat your way through late-night food markets
- Try a capsule hotel experience
Best For
Culture lovers, history enthusiasts, people who want ultra-safe solo travel
6. Melbourne, Australia
Why Go
Melbourne is a favorite for solo travelers thanks to café culture, friendly locals, and walkable artsy neighborhoods. Always something going on—from street art tours to book festivals.
What to Do
- Take a day trip to the Great Ocean Road (join a small tour)
- Self-guided art crawl through laneways and galleries
- Explore the café scene (Melbourne takes coffee seriously)
- Check out Queen Victoria Market
- Experience live music in the bohemian neighborhoods
Best For
Art lovers, coffee snobs, people who love a creative, bohemian vibe
7. Edinburgh, Scotland
Why Go
Perfect for history, literature, and moody walks. The Old Town is compact and filled with museums, great food, and music. Safe, walkable, and endlessly atmospheric.
What to Do
- Walk the Royal Mile
- Visit Edinburgh Castle
- Hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views
- Build a DIY whisky tasting tour in the Old Town
- Book a ghost tour or history walk to meet other travelers
- Explore the Scottish National Gallery
Best For
History buffs, literary lovers, moody aesthetic seekers, whisky enthusiasts
8. Vancouver, Canada
Why Go
Combines nature and city life perfectly. Spend mornings hiking, afternoons exploring markets, and evenings dining in chic neighborhoods.
What to Do
- Walk or bike the seawall (stunning waterfront path)
- Explore Stanley Park
- Visit Granville Island for markets and food
- Dine solo at Yaletown restaurants
- Day trip to Whistler or Victoria
Best For
Outdoor enthusiasts, people who want both nature and urban culture
9. Panama City, Panama
Why Go
One of the safest countries in Central America and budget-friendly. Mix of modern cities, idyllic islands, and vibrant nature.
What to Do
- Visit the Panama Canal
- Explore Casco Viejo (historic old town)
- Island hop to San Blas Islands or Bocas del Toro
- Hike in rainforests or coffee plantations
- Experience both Pacific and Caribbean coasts
Best For
Budget travelers, beach lovers, people who want Central America with better safety
10. Madrid, Spain
Why Go
Spain is one of the safest places to travel alone. Low crime rate, especially against women. Tons to do, incredible food scene, and welcoming locals.
What to Do
- Visit Prado Museum, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza
- Eat at Mercado de San Miguel and other food markets
- Take a tapas crawl tour (great way to meet people)
- Explore Retiro Park
- Day trip to Toledo or Segovia
Best For
Art lovers, foodies, people who want a lively social scene
11. Bulgaria
Why Go
Seriously underrated with historic towns, seaside escapes, and stunning nature. Well-connected by trains and buses. Affordable and safe—perfect for 2026 before it gets overrun.
What to Do
- Explore Sofia (capital with Roman ruins and Soviet architecture)
- Visit Plovdiv (one of Europe’s oldest cities)
- Relax on the Black Sea coast
- Hike in Rila Mountains or visit Rila Monastery
- Experience affordable wine tours
Best For
Budget travelers, people who want to go somewhere before everyone else discovers it
12. Jordan
Why Go
Very peaceful and safe country despite being surrounded by conflict zones. Excellent for solo female travelers who dress appropriately and respect cultural norms.
What to Do
- Visit Petra (one of the Seven Wonders)
- Float in the Dead Sea
- Sleep under the stars in Wadi Rum desert
- Explore Dana Biosphere Reserve
- Snorkel in Aqaba on the Red Sea
- Spend a day in Amman
Best For
Adventure seekers, history buffs, people who want a Middle Eastern experience that’s safe for solo women
How to Choose
According to 2026 travel surveys, solo travelers are prioritizing:
- Cultural activities (ranked highest)
- Food experiences
- Affordability
Nightlife ranked last—people want authentic experiences, not just parties.
Solo Travel Tips
Safety First
- Research the area before booking accommodations
- Stay in hostels or hotels rated well by solo travelers
- Check multiple review sites (Booking, Google, TripAdvisor)
- For Airbnbs, choose female hosts when possible
- Trust your gut—if something feels off, leave
Meet People
- Book one group tour or activity
- Stay in accommodations with common spaces
- Join walking tours or food tours
- Use apps designed for meeting travel buddies
Plan Smart
- Buy travel insurance (SafetyWing is popular for solo travelers)
- Download offline maps
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Keep digital and physical copies of important documents
- Bring a portable phone charger
Key Takeaways
- Solo travel has grown 700%+ from 2019-2021
- Japan, Australia, and New Zealand top 2026 wish lists
- Safety is prioritized but doesn’t mean expensive
- Cultural experiences, food, and affordability matter more than nightlife
- Copenhagen, Singapore, and Iceland are easiest for first-time solo travelers
- English widely spoken in most recommended destinations
- Research neighborhoods before booking accommodations
- Book at least one group activity to meet people
- Underrated gems include Bulgaria, Panama, Jordan
- Trust your gut and prioritize your safety always
Travel solo in 2026. You’ll surprise yourself with how much you’re capable of.
