10 wanderlust destinations for female solo travelers

Solo travel can be a liberating experience, more so for women. Stripping off any responsibility, be it work, family or school, for this brief period is a wholesome experience.

Also, getting away alone is a great way to discover oneself and see how to improve. For example, you are bound to run into a pickle now and then, which will prompt your problem-solving skills. Also, how good are you at making social connections? Solo travel is a great way to answer such questions about oneself.

So, if you hope to get in on the fun, you have come to the right place. Check out our list of 10 wanderlust destinations to consider for your female solo vacation.

Best travel destinations for female solo travelers

The female solo travel trend has picked traction globally, particularly over the last decade. Over 70% of American women reported having traveled alone. A Travel Industry Association study found that about 32 million women travel solo annually. Hostelworld also reported a surge of 45% in female solo bookings between 2015 and 2017.

Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

If it’s a paradise you seek, then paradise you have found. This beautiful coastal stretch on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica is still a hidden gem and a great place for female solo travelers. And undoubtedly, the biggest highlight of the town is its irresistible tree-lined beaches, where you can enjoy a few mimosas as you watch the sunset. If you love surfing, the morning ocean tide is a beautiful way to start your day.

Horseback riding is another popular activity to try out in Santa Teresa and a great way to raise spirits. The lovely bohemian Santa Teresa village has several shops, restaurants, co-working spots, ice cream parlors, yoga studios, and eco-stores. There are also many bike rentals where you can rent a bike and conquer unpaved roads. So whether you seek a laidback or a heart-throbbing female solo vacation, Santa Teresa is a great destination.

Where to stay

There are countless lodging options in Santa Teresa. Here are some recommendations;

• Hotel Nantipa: This boutique hotel is a true definition of an actual beachfront vacation.
• Manala Hotel: Its Mediterranean and Caribbean blend of design makes this a captivating sight.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is the perfect female solo traveler’s destination. How can one not fall in love with its Modernista architecture, unobstructed views of the Mediterranean, and tangled cobbled streets? It’s no wonder Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in the world. There are countless things to add to your itinerary; the best part is that most won’t cost you a dime.

There are countless shops along Las Ramblas where you can do window shopping. You can also take a self-guided tour of the 19^th Century built Exiample District. Also, check out the Temple of Augustus (one of the best-preserved Roman ruins you will ever see). Barcelona has a myriad of dining options. Head to Tapas at Bodega Biarritz 1881 for some scrumptious tapas. Barcelona’s rich history, explosive culinary scene and impressive architecture make for a superb female solo vacation.

Where to stay

Barcelona’s hospitality industry is one of the most advanced. So, finding a hotel shouldn’t be a problem. Here are some recommendations;

• Soho House Barcelona: The hotel has a great ambiance and is one of the city’s best.
• H10 Cubik: The colorful design and detailing make for a beautiful ambiance. The rooftop pool is a great spot to kick back in the evening.

Related: more solo travel ideas

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is a dreamy destination that often leaves a lasting charm on most solo travelers. Its palm-shaded beaches, glittering temples, steamy jungles and beautiful sunsets make it the ideal female solo destination. There are countless activities to do in Phuket, most of which are therapeutic. Phuket is one of the top female solo travel destinations, so you will likely make some new friends here.

Take massages, Thai cooking lessons, snorkeling, hiking, and lazing on the beaches. Phuket is also a good budget option compared to other cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok. The exceptional Phang Nga Bay National Park is perfect for kayaking. The 45-meter towering Mongkol Buddha at Kala Beach makes for some postcard-worthy moments.

Where to stay

Hotels in Phuket are just as endearing as the beautiful city. Here are some recommendations;

• Six Senses Yao Noi: This fantastic island retreat has excellent facilities and exceptional views of Phang Nga Bay.
• Iniala Beach Hotel: Nothing prepares you for the exceptional interior design at Iniala.

Siargao, Philippines

Siargao is the perfect place to get lost in the moment. The tear-drop-shaped island in Mindanao has gained traction as a top destination for many solo travelers. And its palm-lined roads, sandy beaches, and beauty make this gem a priceless destination. The island was named the best in the world in 2019 and is the most visited in Philippines.

The island is one of the best-surfing destinations in the region. Siargao has exceptional surfing conditions, particularly between August and November, when the southwest monsoon (habagat) courses through the island. Cloud 9 has made a name for itself as the best surfing spot on the island.

If you aren’t into surfing, then no worries. The island has other activities that should interest you, such as island hopping (there are several nearby islands you can see), Magpupungko Rock Pool, and Tayangban Cave pools, among others.

Where to stay

After checking into your hotel, it will feel a lot more like you are in the Caribbean because there is an uncanny similarity. Here are some recommendations;

• Nay Palad Hideaway Resort: The lovely beachfront resort is the perfect place to start your vacation.
• Sandy Feet Siargao: The hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a more peaceful stay.

Berlin, Germany

I can’t think of a perfect city for female solo travelers than Berlin. Unique history, beautiful local culture, and diverse culinary scene make Berlin an ideal vacation escape.

Berlin offers travelers an array of attractions, each with a deep history. From the remnants of the Berlin Wall to the Holocaust Memorial, you will be short of breath trying to fit a lot into your itinerary. The culinary scene in this city also makes it a justifiable addition to our list. From Thai to Turkish delicacies, Berlin’s culinary scene is one of the most robust.

Where to stay

There are several lodging options in Berlin to cater to all travelers. Here are some recommendations;

• Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin: The hotel is one of the best stays in the city and has even hosted some famous names such as Michael Jackson.
• The Mandala Hotel: This hotel is an excellent escape from the bustle of the city, thanks to its oasis of zen-like tranquility.

Seattle, USA

Seattle makes for a fabulous female solo destination. Here is why. Seattle offers travelers a laidback vacation and a mindboggling culinary scene. But apart from finger-licking delicacies, Seattle has the famous sky-piercing Space Needle, countless museums (the Frye Art Museum should be top of your list), beaches (Alki Beach is a delight in the summer), and Spas, among others.

One of the perks of going to Seattle is that you will easily find the attractions. Seattle is known for its incomparable seafood, with briny oysters, geoduck, shellfish and mussels the top pick. There are also countless fast-food stops if you prefer a burger or pizza.

Where to stay

Seattle has a vibrant hospitality scene, and finding lodging shouldn’t be a problem. Here are some recommendations;

• Fairmont Olympic Hotel: The rustic hotel is one of the most subscribed in the city.
• Thompson Seattle: You are guaranteed to wake up to exceptional city views at this hotel.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Between exploring the charming city and chasing the aurora borealis, you will have your hands full in Reykjavik. This exceptional capital found in the southwestern part of Iceland is a bucket list destination not just for all travelers.

Iceland is one of the safest crime rates and, in 2022, took the top spot in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report and Institute for Economics and Peace’s Global Peace Index. But its calm demeanor aside, the country has some breathtaking attractions, especially in Reykjavik. From sweeping landscapes, countless hiking routes, and winter sports, you should have your hands full in Reykjavik.

Where to stay in Reykjavik

There several hotels in Reykjavik, but you need one where you can glimpse the aurora. Here are two recommendations;

• Hotel Husafell; The hotel is close to several attractions, and the management organizes several activities to entertain guests.
• Hotel Laxnes; The lovely rustic hotel is a great way to unwind after a long day scouring the city.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The breathtaking city has so much to offer female solo travelers. Between its renaissance palaces, exceptional piazzas, baroque churches, beautiful mountains and the shimmering bay of islands, you will have plenty to keep you entertained while here. You will probably need a guide, so you don’t miss a thing.

After a morning of scouring Old Dubrovnik, head to Banje Beach to get a sun tan and take cocktails. The exceptionally sunny weather in this town is one of the things you need to take advantage of, and going to the beach is a good start.

Where to stay

There are several lodging options in Dubrovnik. Here are some recommendations;

• St. Joseph’s: This hotel, set in the restored 16^th Century building, is the perfect starting point to see the old town.
• Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik: Wake up to breathtaking sea views at Hotel Kompas.

Taipei, Taiwan

This cosmopolitan city offers a perfect blend of a modern and traditional feel. Its lively nightlife and explosive culinary cuisines make it the ideal destination for female solo trippers. In addition, Taipei has countless attractions, such as Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall, Taipei 101 (the tallest skyscraper in the city with an observation deck on the 89^th floor), and Bopiliao History Block, among others.

For authentic culinary treats in Taipei, head to Ximending. The town also has several shops where you can buy souvenirs and other items such as clothes.

Where to stay

The cutthroat hospitality industry in the country has evoked some glitzy stays in Taipei. Here are some recommendations;

• KIMPTON DA AN: The hotel was once named on Wallpaper*’s Best Urban Hotel list.
• Eslite Hotel: The highlight of this stay is its exceptional décor.

Copenhagen, Denmark

After two days in this lovely city, you will not want to leave. Denmark’s capital is one of the most revered travel destinations. The even city has accolades to back its case. Copenhagen has been voted the most livable city four times. One of the perks of Copenhagen is it is relatively easy to get around.

The colorful city also has several activities to cater to female solo travelers. The town is an excellent destination for art and history buffs. Head to SMK to enjoy a fascinating tour of the museum’s art catalog. There are also several dining options with Michelin stars. Finally, head to Schønnemann, one of the oldest food hubs in the country, to taste Danish cuisine.

Where to stay

There are several lodging options here. Check out these recommendations;

• Hotel d’Angleterre: The landmark hotel is found in the heart of Copenhagen.
• Nimb Hotel: If you love the fairy tale façade, then Nimb Hotel is the place to stay.

Conclusion

Now that you know the best cities to visit as a female solo traveler and where to stay. It should be much easier to start planning your trip.

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