Want to get away but don’t want to wait for someone to travel with? Solo travel is on the rise, and women are the biggest group of travelers who prefer to go alone.

So many women are interested in solo travel, but a new report has found that a whopping 24% of women considering solo travel are put off because of safety concerns.

Factors such as independent city reviews, safety research, and insight from local experts all contribute to how safe a city is considered to be.

And these are the 5 safest cities for solo female travelers according to new research:

5. Madrid, Spain 

Madrid is a vibrant city with a friendly buzz. This is one of the best cities in Spain to gain an authentic Spanish experience and it is bursting with culture, architecture, and art.

Madrid is considered a city that never sleeps, so traveling solo here is an unforgettable experience.

Cibeles Fountain - a fountain in the square of the same name in Madrid

Highlights of a trip to Madrid include exploring the Royal Palace, relaxing in the El Retiro Park, or wandering along the Gran Via. This is the main tourist and shopping artery of the city, a rich historic site, and a great spot for people-watching.

Like any large city, pickpocketing is a risk in Madrid, so it’s important to keep your belongings close and safe. The Lavapies neighborhood and Retiro Park should also both be avoided at night.

Otherwise there are minimal safety concerns in Madrid and the city has excellent public transport links that make getting around incredibly easy.

4. Singapore 

As well as being considered the 4th safest country in the world for solo travelers Singapore is also considered the world’s cleanest city.

Laws are very strict and you can get fined just for just throwing chewing gum on the floor. This means that crime rates are very low and solo female travelers can feel safe to explore.

The Masjid Sultan mosque located in Kampong Glam in Singapore city

Another huge factor that makes Singapore so attractive to solo female travelers is that the country has an easy and efficient transportation network. You can get to all of the cities main tourist attractions with ease.

You’ll find temples, skyscrapers, and even an artificial beach in this Asian metropolis. Head to the Raffles Hotel for one of their famous Singapore slings or take a shopping spree. The city is famous for its high-end shopping.

3. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a great destination for solo female travelers. World-class attractions, bustling nightlife, wine tastings, and excellent tours for solo female travelers all make this city incredibly attractive.

If you’re seeking a quiet and peaceful stay then Buda is the place to be. If bustling nightlife, action, and fun are on your checklist, then cross the river and stay in Pest instead.

A back view of a Caucasian woman in winter clothes in front of the Hungarian parliament in Budapest

Budapest boasts many rich historical sights and is a world-class city in terms of the cultural attractions it offers. Highlights include Buda Castle, St Stephens Basilica, and the breathtaking Hungarian parliament building.

2. San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you’re new to traveling solo, then San Juan, Puerto Rico is a great place to visit. Travelers from the U.S. don’t need a passport to explore the island, so it’s a great choice if you’re thinking of dipping your toes into the waters of traveling alone.

San Juan is considered the 2nd safest destination for solo female travelers. It is a popular destination thanks to its beautiful landscapes, tropical rainforests, and wonderful mix of Caribbean, American, and Spanish heritage.

woman at bell tower san juan puerto rico

Travelers head to San Juan to indulge in a few days of sunshine, relax on the beach, and soak up the Caribbean culture.

The Caribbean isn’t an obvious solo female travel hot spot but San Juan is the exception to this rule. The people are friendly and welcoming. There are plenty of tours aimed specifically at solo female travelers. And Old San Juan is an easy destination to explore on foot and independently.

1. Reykjavik, Iceland 

The city officially considered the safest in the world for solo female travelers is Reykjavik. The capital of Iceland is such an easy place to visit as a solo female.

Woman sitting on iceberg in Iceland

A combination of low crime statistics and high regard for gender equality makes Iceland in general and Reykjavik in particular an ideal destination for solo female travelers with safety concerns.

The travel infrastructure is spectacular; there is a minimal language barrier as most people in the country speak excellent English.

Highlights of a trip to Reykjavik include the striking concrete Hallgrimskirkja church, the geothermal Blue Lagoon spa, and the many fascinating volcanoes that surround the city.

Aerial view of the city of Reykjavik Iceland

Doing your first solo trip in an easier country like Iceland will give you the confidence to take on more challenging destinations in the future.

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