Hey there, wanderluster!

So, you’ve been living in Dublin for a while, soaking up the craic and culture—but July is calling, and the open roads (and skies) of Europe are just too tempting to ignore. First time traveling solo? A little nervous? Normal. The good news? Europe is a solo female traveler’s dream, especially if you know where to go.

As someone who has traveled solo across Europe and compiled tips from a vibrant community of women who’ve done the same, I’ve curated this ultimate guide to 10 of the best cities for first-time solo female travelers in Europe. These places are not only safe, walkable, and welcoming, but also buzzing with culture, history, and joy.

This comprehensive article is designed to help you travel smart, feel empowered, and enjoy every moment of your journey.

🌍 Why Europe is Great for Solo Female Travelers

When it comes to solo female travel, Europe is one of the best continents to explore. It’s incredibly diverse—culturally, historically, and geographically—and offers a high standard of safety, infrastructure, and accessibility. For first-timers, it’s a gentle yet thrilling introduction to the world of solo exploration.

Here’s why Europe is a top destination for solo female travelers:

• Efficient and Safe Public Transportation: Trains, trams, buses, and low-cost flights make it easy to hop from one destination to another.
• High Walkability: Most European cities have walkable centers with pedestrian-friendly zones.
• Tons of Accommodation Options: From female-only dorms in hostels to cozy B&Bs and budget hotels.
• Widespread English Proficiency: Especially in Northern and Central Europe.
• Access to Health Services and Emergency Support: Europe has strong healthcare systems and reliable emergency numbers like 112.
• Established Travel Community: You’ll meet other solo travelers in hostels, cafes, tours, and even on trains.

And most importantly, the solo female travel Europe community is growing, thriving, and full of inspiring stories.

🏆 Top 10 Cities in Europe for First-Time Solo Female Travelers

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia

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Ljubljana is a compact capital with a laid-back vibe. Its green initiatives, historic city center, and easy access to natural beauty make it ideal for solo female travelers. It’s extremely safe, the people are friendly, and English is widely spoken.

Must-Do:

• Take a day trip to the dreamy Lake Bled and its fairytale island castle.
• Climb up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views of the city.
• Walk along the Ljubljanica River, lined with colorful cafes and bridges.

Insider Tip: Ljubljana has a strong café culture. Don’t miss trying local Slovenian wines and traditional dishes like jota or štruklji.

Safety Rating: 9.8/10

2. Stockholm, Sweden

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Stockholm is a city that balances design, nature, and safety beautifully. Known for its orderliness, cleanliness, and progressive mindset, it’s also a haven for solo women travelers.

Solo-Friendly Highlights:

• Tour the maritime Vasa Museum.
• Wander through the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan (Old Town).
• Use your transit pass for a self-guided metro art tour—each station is a visual masterpiece.

Tech Tip: Stockholm is 99% cashless. Use Wise, Apple Pay, or a contactless credit card.

Safety Rating: 10/10

3. Gdańsk, Poland

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Gdańsk combines Baltic Sea charm with a fascinating maritime history. It’s also affordable, especially compared to Western European cities. This city offers rich cultural experiences without the crowds.

Top Sights:

• Admire the architecture of Long Market.
• Learn about WWII history at the Museum of the Second World War.
• Day trip to nearby Sopot Beach or Malbork Castle.

Pro Tip: Summer is the best time to visit for local festivals and beach fun.

Safety Rating: 9.5/10

4. Copenhagen, Denmark

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Copenhagen blends sustainability with style. From cutting-edge cuisine to canals and castles, it’s a paradise for design lovers and active explorers.

Don’t Miss:

• Take an iconic photo at Nyhavn.
• Eat your way through Torvehallerne Food Market.
• Visit the Little Mermaid statue and Tivoli Gardens.

Getting Around: Rent a bike or use electric scooters—they’re everywhere.

Safety Rating: 9.7/10

5. Vienna, Austria

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Vienna is regal, refined, and a haven for women traveling alone. Culture thrives here—think classical music concerts, grand architecture, and amazing museums.

Things to Love:

• Visit the Belvedere Palace and Schönbrunn Gardens.
• Attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera.
• Relax in a Kaffeehaus with a slice of Sachertorte.

Solo Travel Bonus: The city has a low crime rate and is easy to navigate on foot or by public transport.

Safety Rating: 9.8/10

6. Prague, Czech Republic

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With its gothic spires, romantic bridges, and vibrant nightlife, Prague is a great budget-friendly option for solo travelers.

Must-See:

• Watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour.
• Take a boat ride on the Vltava River.
• Sip craft beer in a cozy underground pub.

Local Caution: Be vigilant around tourist hubs—pickpocketing is common.

Safety Rating: 9.3/10

7. Kraków, Poland

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Kraków is one of Europe’s oldest cities and home to a well-preserved medieval core. Its youthful energy, affordability, and cultural richness make it ideal for solo travelers.

Notable Experiences:

• Explore Wawel Castle and the Jewish Quarter.
• Take a sobering tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
• Try pierogi at Milk Bars—cheap and delicious!

Safety Rating: 9.4/10

8. Salzburg, Austria

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Salzburg is like a dream come to life with its alpine backdrop, baroque architecture, and musical legacy.

Don’t Miss:

• Tour Hohensalzburg Fortress.
• Enjoy a classical concert in Mozart’s Birthplace.
• Take the original Sound of Music tour.

Why It’s Great: Small, manageable, and endlessly picturesque.

Safety Rating: 9.6/10

9. Sofia, Bulgaria

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Sofia is an under-the-radar gem. It’s affordable, uncrowded, and full of cultural richness from both Eastern and Western influences.

Explore:

• Visit the golden-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
• Hike or ski in the Vitosha Mountains.
• Discover Roman ruins beneath modern streets.

Safety Rating: 9/10

10. Bern, Switzerland

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Switzerland’s capital is a hidden treasure. Bern’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and perfect for solo walking tours.

Solo Favorites:

• Wander the Zytglogge Clock Tower.
• Swim in the Aare River.
• Taste artisan chocolate at local cafés.

Safety Rating: 10/10

💡 Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Europe

• Trust your instincts and set boundaries.
• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations—hostels, hotels, or Airbnbs.
• Use Uber or Bolt, not street taxis.
• Use a crossbody bag and keep valuables secure.
• Avoid flashing cash or expensive items.
• Stay connected—share your itinerary and use location-sharing apps.

💳 Travel Money Tips

In many parts of Europe, especially the north, cash is rarely used. Cards and phone-based payments are the norm.

• Use Wise or Revolut for great exchange rates.
• Always have a backup card in case one fails.
• Use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

🧳 Packing Essentials for Solo Travel

Here’s your ultimate checklist:

• Crossbody anti-theft bag
• Reusable water bottle
• Flip flops for showers.
• Padlock for hostel lockers
• Portable charger and adapters
• Light scarf (fashion + utility)
• A printout of the passport and visa info

Your First Solo Adventure Awaits

You don’t need to be fearless—you just need to take the first step. Solo female travel in Europe is empowering, thrilling, and deeply enriching. Whether you choose Ljubljana’s serenity, Sto

ckholm’s sleek vibes or Kraków’s historic charm, you’re guaranteed memories that will shape your life forever.

The world is waiting. Go solo, go smart—and most importantly, go for it. ✈️🌍