I didn’t grow up thinking solo travel was “normal.”
The first time I considered going alone, my mind was loud:
- What if it’s unsafe?
- What if I look lonely?
- What if I can’t afford it?
- What if something goes wrong?
But what I learned slowly, trip after trip is this:
The world is far more welcoming than we’re taught.
And travel doesn’t have to be expensive to be transformative.
In fact, some of the safest and most soul-expanding destinations for women traveling alone are also incredibly affordable.
This guide isn’t just about “cheap places.”
It’s about places where you can feel independent, inspired, safe, and financially smart at the same time.
Let’s plan your next solo adventure properly.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon feels warm in every way the sunlight, the colors, the people, the pace of life. It is one of the easiest European capitals to navigate alone, and one of the most affordable in Western Europe.
How to Get There
You will fly into Humberto Delgado Airport. The airport is only about 7 kilometers from the city center, which immediately makes arrival stress low.
From the airport, you can take the metro directly into central Lisbon for around €2. The journey takes roughly 25 minutes and is straightforward even if it’s your first time in Europe.
If you arrive late at night or simply prefer convenience, Uber is extremely affordable and usually costs between €8 and €12 into the city center.
Flights from the U.S. often range from $350–700 round trip depending on season. Within Europe, you can often find budget airline tickets for under $50.
What It Actually Costs Per Day
If you are traveling carefully but comfortably, you can spend about $55–70 per day.
A hostel dorm bed typically costs $18–25 per night. A private Airbnb or boutique guesthouse room usually ranges from $50–80 per night. A sit-down local meal averages €10–15, and wine is often cheaper than bottled water.
Public transportation is extremely inexpensive, and most of the city’s magic is free viewpoints, wandering historic streets, sunsets over terracotta rooftops.
What to Do as a Solo Woman
One of the most beautiful things about Lisbon is that you don’t need a packed itinerary to enjoy it. You can spend an entire morning walking through Alfama, letting yourself get slightly lost among tiled buildings and hanging laundry.
Spend a sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, where you’ll see locals and travelers quietly watching the sky turn gold.
Take a day trip to Sintra, where fairytale palaces sit among misty hills. The train ride costs only a few euros, and it feels like stepping into a storybook.
Is Lisbon Safe for Solo Women?
Yes and I say that carefully.
Lisbon is considered one of Europe’s safer capitals. Violent crime is rare in tourist areas. The main concern is pickpocketing, particularly on Tram 28 or in crowded squares.
The key is simple: carry a crossbody bag, stay aware in crowded spaces, and avoid empty alleyways late at night. Otherwise, the city feels relaxed and welcoming.
2. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest feels dramatic, elegant, and romantic but surprisingly affordable compared to Western Europe.
How to Get There
Fly into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. The airport bus (100E) runs directly into the city center and costs only a few euros. It is safe, clean, and clearly marked in English.
Flights from major European cities are often under $60 round trip. From the U.S., you can expect $500–800 depending on season.
Daily Budget in Real Terms
You can comfortably explore Budapest on $45–65 per day.
Hostels cost around $15–20 per night. Boutique private rooms are often available for $60–90. A traditional Hungarian meal costs $8–12. Public transportation passes are extremely affordable and worth buying for multi-day stays.
What to Do
Spend an afternoon soaking in the outdoor thermal pools at Széchenyi Thermal Bath. The experience feels luxurious, but entry is usually under $20.
Walk across the Chain Bridge at sunset and watch the Parliament building glow across the Danube. Explore Fisherman’s Bastion early in the morning to avoid crowds and feel like you have the city to yourself.
Solo Female Safety
Budapest is generally safe in central districts. However, nightlife areas in District VII can get rowdy. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and use Bolt or Uber equivalents late at night.
Stay in District V or near the Parliament for the safest, most central experience.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the world that still feels luxurious.
How to Get There
Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport. From there, you can arrange a pre-booked transfer to Ubud or Canggu for $10–15.
Flights from the U.S. are typically $700–1,200, but once you arrive, daily expenses are incredibly low.
What You’ll Actually Spend
In Bali, you can live comfortably on $30–50 per day.
Guesthouses cost as little as $15–25 per night with private bathrooms. Smoothie bowls cost $3–5. Scooter rentals are around $5 per day. A one-hour massage often costs under $12.
What to Do
Spend mornings in Ubud walking through rice terraces. Take a yoga class. Visit water temples. Watch sunsets in Canggu.
Mount Batur sunrise hikes cost around $30–40 and include transport and breakfast.
Solo Female Safety
Bali is generally safe for women traveling alone. The main issues are minor scams or reckless scooter drivers. Dress respectfully in temples and avoid isolated beaches at night.
Stay in well-reviewed accommodations and use Grab for transportation.
4. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City feels empowering, creative, and alive.
How to Get There
Fly into Mexico City International Airport. Uber operates legally and is inexpensive from the airport.
Flights from the U.S. are often under $300 round trip.
Realistic Daily Budget
You can travel comfortably on $40–70 per day.
Street tacos cost $1–2 each. Boutique Airbnbs in Roma Norte cost $40–60 per night. Museums are inexpensive, often under $5.
What to Do
Spend time in Roma and Condesa neighborhoods. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum. Take a day trip to Teotihuacan pyramids. Explore Chapultepec Park.
Solo Female Safety
Stay in Roma, Condesa, or Polanco. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas. Use Uber at night.
Mexico City is large, but central neighborhoods are vibrant and full of women walking alone.
5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai feels gentle. It’s the kind of place where mornings begin slowly, with temple bells in the distance and the smell of street food drifting through quiet lanes.
For a solo female traveler, especially on her first long-haul trip, it feels manageable, welcoming, and surprisingly easy.
How to Get There
You’ll fly into Chiang Mai International Airport, which is only about 10–15 minutes from the Old City. That short airport transfer alone reduces so much arrival anxiety.
From Bangkok, you can catch a one-hour domestic flight for as little as $30–50. Taxis or Grab rides from the airport into town usually cost under $10.
What It Actually Costs Per Day
Chiang Mai is one of the best-value cities in Southeast Asia.
You can travel comfortably on $25–40 per day.
A private guesthouse room often costs $15–30 per night. Local Thai meals cost $2–4. Even a half-day cooking class, which includes market visits and multiple dishes, costs around $25–35.
Massages are typically under $10 per hour.
What to Do
Spend your first morning temple hopping inside the Old City. There are dozens of peaceful temples within walking distance of each other, and entry is often free or under $2.
Take a Thai cooking class it’s social, safe, and a wonderful way to meet other travelers. Visit Doi Suthep for discoverable mountain views overlooking the city.
If you’re interested in animal tourism, choose an ethical elephant sanctuary that does not allow riding.
Solo Female Safety
Chiang Mai is widely considered one of the safest cities in Thailand. It has a strong solo female travel community and a calm energy.
Avoid driving a scooter unless you’re experienced. Use Grab or songthaews (shared taxis) instead. Stay inside the Old City or Nimman area for convenience and safety.
6. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague feels like stepping into a fairytale, except the prices are far more forgiving than Paris or Vienna.
How to Get There
Fly into Václav Havel Airport Prague. The Airport Express bus connects directly to the city center and is easy to navigate.
Flights from within Europe can be under $60 round trip. From the U.S., expect $500–800 depending on season.
Daily Budget
You can explore Prague on $50–75 per day without feeling deprived.
Hostel dorms cost $18–25 per night. Boutique private rooms range from $60–100. Hearty Czech meals often cost $10–15.
Many of Prague’s highlights Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, city viewpoints are completely free.
What to Do
Wake up early and cross Charles Bridge at sunrise before the crowds arrive. Explore Prague Castle, which overlooks the city with dramatic beauty.
Spend an afternoon wandering through Old Town Square, watching the Astronomical Clock strike the hour. Enjoy cozy cafés with a journal and warm pastry.
Solo Female Safety
Prague is very walkable and generally safe. The primary concern is pickpocketing in tourist-heavy zones.
Stay in Old Town or Mala Strana for central access. Avoid exchange offices with poor rates and always use official transport.
7. Porto, Portugal
Porto feels intimate and artistic, and often even more affordable than Lisbon.
How to Get There
Fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport. The metro runs directly from the airport into the city center in about 30 minutes.
Daily Budget
Expect to spend $50–65 per day.
Guesthouses range from $40–70 per night. Local Portuguese meals cost €8–15. Wine tastings in Vila Nova de Gaia can be surprisingly affordable.
What to Do
Walk along the Ribeira district near the Douro River. Cross Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset. Take a Douro Valley day trip to see terraced vineyards and rolling hills.
Porto is compact, which means you save on transport and can explore mostly on foot.
Safety
Porto is relaxed and safe. Stick to well-lit streets at night and keep belongings secure in crowded areas.
8. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi feels alive in a way that wakes you up.
The sound of scooters, the smell of fresh pho in the morning, the tiny plastic stools on sidewalks it’s chaotic at first, but once you settle in, it becomes empowering. You realize you can navigate this. You can do this.
How to Get There
You’ll fly into Noi Bai International Airport, located about 30–45 minutes from the Old Quarter.
When you land, avoid random taxi offers inside the airport. Instead, book a transfer through your hotel or use Grab. A private ride into the city usually costs $15–20.
Flights from the U.S. typically range from $700–1,100 round trip depending on the season. If you’re already in Southeast Asia, regional flights can be as low as $50–100.
What It Actually Costs Per Day
Hanoi is one of the cheapest capital cities in Asia.
You can comfortably travel on $20–40 per day.
A boutique hotel room in the Old Quarter can cost just $20–35 per night. A dorm bed can be under $10. Street food meals are $2–4. Vietnamese coffee is under $2.
Even organized day tours are affordable. A full-day tour to Ninh Binh might cost $40–50, including transportation and lunch.
What to Do as a Solo Female Traveler
Spend your first day walking through the Old Quarter. The streets are narrow and filled with energy. You’ll find silk shops, handmade crafts, and cafés tucked above busy intersections.
Visit Hoan Kiem Lake early in the morning. Locals gather there to exercise, stretch, and socialize. It’s a beautiful, safe introduction to the rhythm of the city.
Book an overnight cruise to Ha Long Bay. Most reputable cruises include transport, meals, kayaking, and a private cabin. It’s one of those experiences that feels far more expensive than it actually is.
Solo Female Safety
Hanoi is generally safe, but it is intense. The biggest challenge is traffic, not crime.
When crossing the street, walk slowly and steadily do not run. Scooters will flow around you.
Stay in the Old Quarter or French Quarter. Avoid wandering into very quiet alleys late at night. Keep your phone secure while walking near traffic, as occasional motorbike snatching incidents happen.
Overall, many women travel here alone and feel safe when staying aware.
9. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is quiet, grounded, and incredibly affordable. It’s not flashy, which is exactly why it’s peaceful. If you want a European experience without Western European prices, this is it.
How to Get There
You’ll arrive at Sofia Airport, which connects directly to the city center via metro in about 30 minutes.
Flights within Europe are often under $80 round trip. From the U.S., flights range between $500–900 depending on season.
Daily Budget
Sofia is one of the cheapest capitals in Europe.
You can travel comfortably on $35–50 per day.
Private boutique stays cost $40–70 per night. Hostel dorms are around $12–18. Meals in local restaurants cost $6–10.
Public transportation is extremely affordable, but the city center is also very walkable.
What to Do
Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Wander through the city center where Roman ruins sit casually next to government buildings.
Take a day trip to Vitosha Mountain. The hike is free and gives you sweeping views over the city. It feels empowering to climb a mountain solo and realize you’re capable of this.
Explore small cafés and bookstores — Sofia has a cozy, intellectual vibe.
Solo Female Safety
Sofia feels calm. Violent crime is rare. The city is not overly crowded with tourists, which actually makes it feel less chaotic.
Stay central near Vitosha Boulevard. Avoid isolated parks at night, and use taxis or rideshare if returning late.
10. Medellín, Colombia
Medellín is a story of transformation. Once known for its troubled history, it has become a creative, colorful city full of art, music, and warmth.
How to Get There
You’ll fly into José María Córdova International Airport, located about 30–45 minutes from El Poblado, the safest and most popular neighborhood for travelers.
Uber and authorized airport taxis are recommended.
Flights from the U.S. often range from $250–500 round trip.
Daily Budget
Medellín is affordable if you stay in the right areas.
Expect to spend $35–60 per day.
Airbnbs in El Poblado cost $30–60 per night. Local meals are $5–10. Metro rides cost less than $1.
What to Do
Take the metro cable cars up into the hills for incredible views. Visit Comuna 13 with a guided tour to understand its artistic transformation.
Take a coffee farm day trip to learn about Colombia’s world-famous beans. Spend slow afternoons in Parque Lleras cafés.
Solo Female Safety
Stay in El Poblado or Laureles. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Do not display expensive phones openly.
Medellín requires situational awareness, but thousands of women travel here solo successfully every year.
11. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi feels soulful and welcoming. The architecture is colorful and slightly worn, which adds charm rather than discomfort.
How to Get There
Fly into Tbilisi International Airport, about 20 minutes from the city center.
Flights from Europe are often under $150. From the U.S., expect $600–1,000.
Daily Budget
You can live comfortably on $25–45 per day.
Guesthouses cost $20–40 per night. Restaurant meals cost $5–10. Wine tastings are incredibly affordable.
What to Do
Explore the Old Town’s narrow streets. Take the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for sunset views.
Relax in sulfur baths, which cost around $10–20 depending on whether you choose public or private rooms.
Take a day trip to Kazbegi to see dramatic mountain scenery.
Solo Female Safety
Georgia is widely regarded as very safe. Hospitality culture is strong here.
Stay in central Old Town or near Rustaveli Avenue for convenience.
12. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul feels cinematic and layered with history. It is one of the most culturally rich cities you can visit on a moderate budget.
How to Get There
You will land at Istanbul Airport, which is modern and well connected to the city via shuttle buses and taxis.
Flights from Europe are often under $150. From the U.S., $500–900.
Daily Budget
You can explore Istanbul on $40–65 per day.
Boutique hotels in Sultanahmet cost $40–80 per night. Street food meals cost $3–6.
What to Do
Visit Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Explore the Grand Bazaar. Take a Bosphorus cruise at sunset.
Sit in rooftop cafés overlooking the city skyline.
Solo Female Safety
Stay in Sultanahmet or Beyoğlu. Dress modestly when visiting mosques. Ignore persistent street sellers politely and keep walking.
13. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is colorful and intense. It stimulates every sense.
How to Get There
Arrive at Marrakesh Menara Airport, which is about 15 minutes from the medina.
Airport taxis are inexpensive but agree on price beforehand.
Daily Budget
Expect $35–60 per day.
Riads cost $40–70 per night and include breakfast. Street food costs $3–6.
What to Do
Explore the souks. Visit Jardin Majorelle. Take a guided Sahara Desert tour for 2–3 days (often $100–200).
Solo Female Safety
Dress modestly. Walk confidently. Choose riads with excellent reviews. Avoid wandering quiet medina alleys at night.
14. Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua feels charming, colorful, and manageable.
How to Get There
Fly into La Aurora International Airport, then take a shuttle to Antigua (about 1 hour).
Daily Budget
Travel comfortably on $30–50 per day.
Boutique stays cost $30–60. Meals cost $5–10.
What to Do
Climb Acatenango Volcano with a guided tour. Visit Lake Atitlán. Explore colonial streets and artisan markets.
Safety
Stay central. Book hikes with established companies. Avoid isolated streets late at night.
15. Kraków, Poland
Kraków feels cozy, historic, and extremely walkable.
How to Get There
Arrive via John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice, just 20 minutes from the city center by train.
Daily Budget
You can explore Kraków on $40–60 per day.
Private rooms cost $40–80. Meals cost $8–12.
What to Do
Visit Wawel Castle. Explore Kazimierz district. Take a day trip to Zakopane in the mountains.
Solo Female Safety
Kraków is one of the safest cities in Central Europe. Stay aware in crowded areas, but otherwise enjoy the ease of exploring alone.
Final Words From Me to You
You don’t need:
- A partner
- A massive savings account
- Years of experience
You need a destination that matches your budget and your courage.
And now you have fifteen.
