Traveling alone has been one of the most liberating, empowering experiences of my life, and I’m far from the only woman to feel this way.

Solo female travel has recently seen a major uptick in popularity, marking a 55% increase from last year.

However, it’s worth noting that traveling alone as a woman presents one major challenge — safety.

When it comes to choosing their next destination, female travelers have to consider the risks of getting around a certain place before they even think about experiences or sightseeing opportunities.

That’s why Airbnb teamed up with WalkSafe+ in order to find the safest cities in the world for solo female tourists.

The study carried out in 2022 among women of all ages, found that the following are the destinations that scored the highest among participants:

1. Paris

Paris, the capital of the most visited country on Earth, has chalked up yet another win by heading Airbnb’s study as the safest destination for female travelers.

aerial view of Paris

If you’ve been keeping up to date with travel news, you already know that the U.S. government recently upgraded its Travel Advisory Level for France after increased tensions in the Middle East.

However, it’s important to note that the report that was released by Airbnb and WalkSafe+ took into account longer-term trends and experiences, and Paris has consistently shown to be a safe destination for travelers throughout the years.

Between a well-developed public transportation system and a strong police presence, the French capital has several tools in place to ensure tourists feel secure while exploring the city’s enchanting streets.

Cozy street in quarter Montmartre in Paris, France

Beyond that, there’s no shortage of women-friendly accommodations and women-only tours in the city, which can give female travelers that extra peace of mind.

So, don’t hesitate to check Paris off of your travel bucket list this winter – where else will you get the chance to experience world-class landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Tuileries Gardens?

panoramic view of Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

2. Dubai

Dubai is widely known for being synonymous with opulence and modernity; however, what many are surprised to learn is that the Middle Eastern hotspot has also shown to be remarkably safe for solo female travelers.

Dubai skyline with beautiful city close to it's busiest highway on traffic

Dubai boasts a crime index score of 12.42. In comparison, New York City stands at 53.81, and its crime level is considered moderate, which proves just how safe the UAE tourist hub really is.

This means that you can go ahead and enjoy Dubai’s impressive skyline (Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is a must-see), luxurious shopping malls, and innovative architecture without having to look over your shoulder throughout the entire experience.

woman in front of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline

Moreover, the city is famous for its cultural diversity, which just adds another layer of comfort and a sense of belonging during your travels.

3. Barcelona

Home to the Sagrada Familia, the Picasso Museum, and the iconic Gothic Quarter, Barcelona has more to offer to its female travelers than just gorgeous attractions.

aerial view of Barcelona

Women can feel at ease exploring a city that boasts well-lit streets and a strong police presence, all of which contribute to a safe, unforgettable ambiance that lets you really take in the cultural and natural wonders that lie ahead of you.

4. Lisbon

Lisbon’s meteoric rise to popularity this past year has been nothing short of impressive.

However, it’s worth remembering that the accolades and international attention being paid to the Portuguese capital are long overdue, as Lisbon boasts everything a tourist would want – from reasonable prices and must-see attractions to a safe atmosphere that allows women to truly relax and enjoy their time abroad.

Colorful Houses Of Alfama, A District Of Lisbon, The Capital City Of Portugal In Southwestern Europe

The city’s charm, which lies in its colorful streets, historic neighborhoods, and stunning attractions like the Belém Tower, is only enhanced by well-monitored public areas and reliable public transport.

5. Cape Town

No. 5 in Airbnb’s ranking is Cape Town, a captivating destination that offers solo female tourists a unique blend of cultural allure, adventure, and, most importantly, safety.

The city’s diverse landscapes, ranging from Table Mountain to stunning beaches, provide the perfect backdrop for the experience of a lifetime.

table mountain cable way in cape town, south africa

Don’t forget to take advantage of the nearby wildlife reserves, though – local establishments have taken all necessary measures to make you feel safe even when surrounded by some of nature’s greatest predators.

The Rest Of The Top 10

If you’ve yet to find your next destination of choice, here are the cities that round up Airbnb’s report on the top 10 safest destinations for solo female travelers:

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