A solo female traveler's guide to Europe

Solo female travel in Europe

Dreaming of vibrant cities, glorious countryside, pristine beaches, and incredible cuisine? Europe’s got it all, and that’s what makes it the perfect destination for solo female travelers. In this guide to solo female travel in Europe, we’re taking a look at some of the best places to visit, as well as top tips on safety and advice on where to stay. So whether you're gearing up for your first-ever solo trip or you’re a seasoned explorer with a passport full of stamps, an unforgettable European adventure awaits…

Best time to visit Europe

The peak travel season in Europe spans from June to August, bringing long, bright days and warm, sunny weather in most countries. It’s the prime time for sitting on a cafe terrace, soaking up the sun on the beach, and enjoying the lively festivals that spring up across the continent. However, it also means bigger crowds and higher prices, so if you’re looking for a balance of good weather and fewer tourists, you might consider the shoulder seasons - spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These months are typically calmer, and you can enjoy the spring blooms or autumnal hues without the rush. November to March is the time for budget-friendly travels and winter festivities. It’s the time to explore Christmas markets and catch the Northern Lights, and while some outdoor activities might be off the cards, ice skating and skiing take center stage.

So when is the best time for solo female travel to Europe? That all depends on you!

Must-see places in Europe

Not sure where to go in Europe as a solo female traveler? Start with some of the following destinations…

Paris, France

It might be home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world (the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral, to name a few), but wander through its charming cobblestone streets and you’ll find that there’s more to the City of Light than what meets the eye. A haven for art lovers, fashionistas, and foodies, Paris is filled with hidden cafes, cozy bookshops, and so much more. 

Florence, Italy 

One of the best places for female solo travel in Europe, dive into the heart of the Renaissance in Florence and marvel at Michelangelo’s David, climb to the top of the Duomo, and shop for jewelry on the iconic Ponte Vecchio. Art and history aren’t the only things to be found in Florence, and the mouthwatering cuisine ranges from ribbons of pasta bathed in hearty wild boar ragú to crunchy almond biscuits dipped in sweet dessert wine (cantucci e vin santo). 

Amsterdam, Netherlands  

Famous for picture-perfect canals lined with historic houses, Amsterdam is a welcoming city, making it one of the best places for solo female travel in Europe. Visit Anne Frank’s house, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum before exploring the streets like a true local by bike. Don’t miss out on a boat tour of the city’s waterways!

Reykjavik, Iceland

For solo female travelers on the hunt for nature and adventure, Reykjavik is the perfect starting point to explore Iceland’s incredible landscapes. Enjoy a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon, take a tour of the Golden Circle (Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Thingvellir National Park), and if you’re lucky, catch the Northern Lights. 

Berlin

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe for solo female travelers because you can walk along the remnants of the Berlin Wall, visit Museum Island, and go for a picnic in Tiergarten Park or Tempelhofer Feld, all in a day’s work! It’s the place to be for urban explorers and history buffs alike and is abuzz with energy and things to do.

London

London is one of those places you have to visit at least once in your life, so if you’re traveling Europe as a solo female, why not add it to your bucket list? Start your adventure around the Big Smoke with the classics - Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London, before taking a stroll along the Thames to visit famous museums like the Tate Modern and British Museum. 

Things to do in Europe

Now you know some of the best places in Europe for female solo travel, but what should you do there?

Be a culture vulture 

From ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage sites to top-tier galleries and museums, Europe is steeped in history and culture. Whether you want to take a full-blown tour of every monument or you’re more into seeing the sights from afar, there’s plenty to keep you busy as a solo traveler in Europe. 

Get outdoors

Explore some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth as you hike through national parks and along scenic coastal paths. There’s also a whole host of adventure activities to enjoy on your solo travels, including cycling, kayaking, and even skiing, depending on the region or season. 

Enjoy big city life

Wander through the quaint neighborhoods, bustling markets, and vibrant streets of European cities as you come across everything from cozy pubs to lively clubs, and everything in between.

Go on a boat ride 

Venture onto the water and cruise along the canals of Amsterdam and Venice, sail through Norwegian fjords, and hop from one sun-kissed Greek island to another.  

Get a taste of Europe

After indulging in all those fresh Mediterranean flavors and hearty Eastern European dishes, why not try recreating it all? Take a cooking class and learn to master some of the local recipes so you can wow your friends when you return home.

Getting around Europe

Traveling solo to Europe as a female is a remarkably smooth experience, and there are transport options for every style and budget. Traveling by train is one of the quickest and most comfortable ways to get around and for those wanting to visit more than one country, getting an Interrail Pass will make getting from A to B easy and affordable. You can choose between global passes, which offer unlimited train travel in 33 countries, and one-country passes, which allow you to explore a single country from top to bottom. 

Buses are another popular option for travelers, particularly those on a budget. Local buses take visitors to smaller towns and companies like FlixBus also cover long distances across Europe. Solo female travel between countries is also quick and affordable with budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offering low-cost flights. Finally, if you’re traveling around the Greek Islands or along the coast, you’ll probably opt for boats and ferries as your main mode of transport. 

Weather in Europe

The weather in Europe varies depending on when and where you’re visiting. In the north, you’ve got Scandinavia with long, summer days and cozy winters that will teach you the true meaning of hygge. Head down south to the Mediterranean and you’ll find sizzling summers and mild winters. Central Europe is all about picture-perfect seasons - think crisp autumn leaves and springtime bursting with blooming flowers. And in some countries (namely the UK and Ireland), you might even experience all four seasons in one day, so it’s a good idea to keep an umbrella handy! 

Accommodation for solo female travelers in Europe

Fancy sleeping in a castle? Scotland and Ireland have got you covered with their historic, haunted (just kidding... or are we?) castles turned into cozy B&Bs. If you’re all about that modern life, the city centers of places like Berlin and Copenhagen are dotted with cool, minimalist hotels, and for budget-conscious travelers, there are plenty of European hostels where you can bunk up and meet fellow travelers. But if you really want to get to know a place, try house and pet sitting. This gives solo female travelers the opportunity to stay in the comfort of real European homes while taking care of the cute pets that live there. It’s the best way to travel, and if you plan ahead, you could snag yourself a house sitting gig in every destination you visit on your solo trip across Europe. 

Is Europe safe for solo female travelers?

Europe is generally considered a safe destination for solo female travelers, with friendly locals, efficient public transportation, and a well-established tourist infrastructure. While most European countries have low crime rates and prioritize public safety, like any travel destination, it’s important for solo female travelers to take precautions. This includes staying aware of your surroundings, especially at night, keeping your belongings secure, and researching the local customs and safety norms of the European countries you plan to visit. Overall, Europe has a pretty well-trodden tourist trail, making it relatively easy to travel, even for first-timers. 

Meeting people and connecting with locals

Just because you’re planning to solo female travel Europe doesn’t mean you have to do it completely alone! It’s easy to meet fellow travelers on tours, doing volunteer work, or at popular tourist destinations. If you want to learn more about the place you’re visiting, try connecting with the people who live there - they’ll be able to share insider tips and give you recommendations beyond the typical tourist trails. Get to know the locals by joining in with activities and classes in the area, visiting local markets and cafes, or even house and pet sitting! 

Tips from a local

• If a person or a situation is making you feel uncomfortable, prioritize your safety (rather than their feelings) and leave. Don’t worry about coming across as rude; it’s unlikely you’ll ever see them again.
• Research your destinations and chat with people who have been there. Ask them about the best places to travel in Europe as a solo female, but also find out about any common tourist traps or safety concerns. 
• Take advantage of the free walking tours that are offered in many European cities - these allow you to get an overview of a place, and then you can decide where you want to go back to. 
• Leave your suitcase at home and bring a rucksack instead - this will make walking around on the cobblestone streets much easier. 
• Avoid walking alone at night - take a cab or tag along with a group of people staying at your accommodation.
• Don’t just head for the big cities - explore the countryside and smaller towns and villages too. 
• Eat ALL the food! 

Europe for solo female pet sitters

From waking up in Paris with a purr pal making biscuits on your back to taking your furry friend for a stroll around the monuments in Florence, Europe is the perfect place for a solo female pet sitting adventure.   

Things to do with dogs in Europe

• Visit dog-friendly parks: London’s Hyde Park and Berlin’s Tiergarten offer big green spaces for you to explore with your furry friend.
• Hike along scenic trails: The Alps, Pyrenees, and the Scottish Highlands are just a few places with some stunning walks. 
• Play games at the beach: Some beaches in Europe are dog-friendly, especially outside of the peak summer season. 
• Enjoy the cafe culture: In cities like Paris, Vienna, and Rome, many cafes and restaurants have outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. 
• See dog-friendly sites: Some historic sites and castles allow dogs, particularly those with large grounds.
• Take a boat trip: In cities with rivers or canals, like Amsterdam or Venice, you can often take your pooch pal on boat tours to enjoy the city from the water.
• Explore the cities: Walk around pet-friendly cities like Barcelona or Copenhagen, where many shops and public spaces welcome four-legged friends.
• Get out in nature: Explore the European countryside with a pup by your side. 
  

Dog-friendly bars and restaurants in Europe

European bars and restaurants vary in terms of how friendly they are to dogs depending on which country you’re in. In countries such as Italy, France, and Austria, pups are welcome on the terraces of most bars and restaurants, but it’s less common for them to be allowed inside the establishment. Look for signs indicating whether dogs are welcome or ask ahead of time, and always double-check before taking a seat with your four-pawed pal. 

House and pet sits

So if you’re dreaming of hanging with a four-legged friend in Finland or a cute kitty cat in Croatia, house and pet sitting in Europe is for you! Not only will you get to enjoy immersing yourself in a totally authentic experience, but you’ll get to do it all with a pet by your side!