Hey, adventurous ladies! Ready to grab your backpack and take on the world solo in 2026? There’s something so freeing about traveling alone—picking your own path, soaking up new experiences, and just doing you. Sure, it can feel a little scary at first (been there!), but with the right spots and some street-smart tips, it’s pure magic. I’ve roamed solo plenty, chatted with other women travelers, and put together this guide to the best places for solo female adventurers in 2026. These destinations are safe, welcoming, and bursting with vibes that’ll make your trip one for the books. Let’s jump in!
1. Reykjavik, Iceland
Okay, Iceland’s capital is like the ultimate solo female travel starter pack. It’s crazy safe—seriously, people leave their bags unattended at cafes and nobody blinks. Reykjavik’s got this artsy, small-town feel with colorful houses, cozy coffee shops, and live music that makes you wanna linger. I stayed at Kex Hostel last time, and it was perfect for meeting other travelers over a beer. Or grab a cheap Airbnb for some me-time. Days are for chasing waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss is a bus ride away) or chilling in hot springs like the Blue Lagoon. If you time it right in early 2026, you might catch the Northern Lights—pure bucket-list stuff. Buses and tours are super easy to navigate, but pack a good jacket. That Icelandic wind? It’s savage.
Solo Tip: Sign up for a Golden Circle group tour on GetYourGuide. You’ll see geysers and epic scenery, plus make instant friends to share the wow moments with.
2. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s like a dream you don’t wanna wake up from—think ancient temples, bamboo forests, and matcha everything. Japan’s one of the safest places for women, and Kyoto’s got this peaceful, respectful energy that’s perfect for going solo. I loved wandering Fushimi Inari’s red torii gates at sunrise (fewer crowds, more magic). Stay in a budget guesthouse or a capsule hotel like The Millennials—safe, clean, and great for meeting people. Buses and trains are a breeze, and a translation app (like Google Translate) saves the day when menus get tricky. Try a tea ceremony or sushi-making class to connect with others. If you hit spring 2026, those cherry blossoms will wreck you in the best way.
Solo Tip: Rent a portable Wi-Fi device at the airport and use Hyperdia for train schedules. It’s a lifesaver for staying connected and getting around.
3. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s like that cool friend who’s always down for anything. It’s sunny, affordable, and feels super safe, with locals who’ll point you to the best pastel de nata (custard tarts—trust me, you’ll eat ten). I stayed at Home Lisbon Hostel and loved the social vibe, but a budget Airbnb in Alfama gives you all the cobblestone street feels. Wander to Belém for history or LX Factory for quirky shops and cafes. Trams make getting around a cinch, and English is everywhere. At night, grab a glass of wine in Bairro Alto and chat with other travelers. Want a beach day? Cascais is a quick train ride away.
Solo Tip: Jump on a free walking tour with Sandemans. You’ll get the lowdown on Lisbon’s history and probably meet some cool people to grab dinner with.
4. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Ubud’s my happy place—a lush, soulful spot in Bali that’s perfect for solo gals. It’s all rice fields, yoga vibes, and smoothie bowls that make you feel like you’re living in an Instagram reel. It’s safe, super affordable (think $20-30 a night for a guesthouse), and there’s a huge expat community, so you’ll find your tribe fast. I loved The Kismet cafe for working and people-watching. Check out the Monkey Forest, join a yoga class at The Yoga Barn, or chase waterfalls like Tegenungan. Renting a scooter is fun but go with a trusted company and always wear a helmet. The locals’ smiles are contagious, and the vibe’s so relaxed you’ll never want to leave.
Solo Tip: Book a Balinese cooking class or jewelry workshop at a spot like Tegalalang Art Village. It’s a fun way to bond with other travelers over mango lassis.
5. Montreal, Canada
Montreal’s like Europe and North America had a super cool baby. It’s safe, friendly, and has this awesome mix of French charm and laid-back Canadian vibes. Walk Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets, stuff your face with poutine at Jean-Talon Market, or hike up Mount Royal for killer city views. I stayed at M Montreal hostel and met some awesome folks over board games, but Airbnbs in the Plateau are great for a cozy vibe. The metro’s easy, and there’s always a festival—jazz, comedy, you name it—especially in summer 2026. Canadians are so darn nice, you’ll feel right at home.
Solo Tip: Check Meetup for events like art walks or language exchanges. It’s a great way to meet locals and travelers without feeling awkward.
6. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s a total stunner for adventurous souls, with Table Mountain, beaches, and a vibe that’s equal parts chill and electric. It’s safe in touristy areas like Camps Bay or the V&A Waterfront, but stay sharp at night and stick to busy spots. I loved staying at Atlantic Point hostel—great vibe, super secure. Hike Lion’s Head at sunrise (those views!), wander Kirstenbosch Gardens, or take a group tour to see penguins at Boulders Beach. Day trips to the Cape Winelands are a must for wine lovers. The food’s amazing—try some bunny chow—and locals are so warm. Just use Uber for peace of mind.
Solo Tip: Book a group tour through Viator for Robben Island or a hike. You’ll feel safe and meet other travelers to share the adventure with.
Why Solo Travel’s the Best in 2026
Solo travel’s like a love letter to yourself—you get to do exactly what you want, when you want. These spots are awesome because they’re safe, have tight-knit traveler communities, and offer so much to see and do. Plus, 2026’s bringing more women-friendly options like female-only hostel dorms and group tours tailored for solo gals. Budget airlines like EasyJet and apps like Skyscanner keep trips affordable, and digital nomad hubs mean you’re never short on new friends to share a coffee or a sunset with.
My Go-To Tips for Solo Female Travel
Stay Connected: Grab a local SIM or portable Wi-Fi for maps and emergencies. Text a friend your plans so someone’s got your back.
Pick Safe Stays: Book places with solid reviews on Booking.com or Hostelworld. Female-only dorms are a game-changer for hostels.
Blend In: Dress for the culture (like covering shoulders in Bali temples) and learn a few local phrases. It makes you feel like less of a tourist.
Trust Your Instincts: If a place or person feels sketchy, bail. Solo travel’s about feeling good, not proving a point.
Find Your People: Free walking tours, cooking classes, or group hikes are perfect for meeting folks. I’ve made lifelong friends this way!
Pack Light: A carry-on backpack like Osprey’s Fairview 40 is my ride-or-die. Toss in a scarf for chilly nights or modest spots.
Ultimately
Solo travel in 2026 is your chance to live your best life, whether you’re marveling at Iceland’s Northern Lights, slurping ramen in Kyoto, or hiking in Cape Town. These places make it easy to feel safe, inspired, and totally in your element. So book that ticket, pack your fave playlist, and go make some memories—you’re gonna crush it. Got a solo travel story or a must-visit spot? Spill the tea in the blog comments—I’m dying to hear about your adventures.