There are lots of reasons to travel solo, especially as a woman. A sense of achievement, empowerment and expanded horizons are just a few of the many benefits to lone adventuring, so it comes as no surprise that the urge to travel solo is on the rise . 

Stepping out of your comfort zone to travel alone can be incredibly rewarding but requires planning to ensure your chosen destination is equal parts safe, welcoming and fun.

To get your plans off to a flying start, we’ve put together a list of the best destinations for solo female travel. Here, we reveal not only the top cities to visit in 2023, but also the most welcoming hotels and fantastic things to experience in each location. And don’t forget, you can redeem or earn miles while visiting, whether that’s through shopping, securing insurance or renting a car.

Taipei, Taiwan China

The city: If you’re a fan of good food, friendly people and fascinating culture, Taipei is for you. It’s also one of the world’s safest cities, making it an ideal destination for solo female travellers.

By day, immerse yourself in history at ancient temples and historic landmarks; get lost along the buzzing streets of Ximending; embark on hikes, such as elephant mountain or, for the more adventurous, Bitoujiao Trail; or rent a bike and explore the riverside parks. When the sun goes down, it’s time to feast. Eat your way around Taipei’s night markets, where you can sample local delicacies such as pepper pork bun, oyster maa sua, jian bing, and the infamous stinky tofu.

The hotels: For a great value stay in the heart of the city, Miramar Garden Taipei  is a solid option. Or if you’d prefer to splash out and treat yourself on your solo adventure, opt for Regent Taipei , whose hotel spa has been named the best in Taiwan for seven consecutive years.

The experiences: A self-guided audio tour is a great way to explore Taipei solo and at your own pace. But why not experience the night markets by bike? Pedal between markets, stop to sample street food, and admire the city’s landmarks on two wheels.

Toronto, Canada

The city: Toronto’s motto is ‘diversity is our strength’, which makes it a welcoming place for locals and tourists alike, but especially for solo female travellers. Whether it’s exploring superb museums, sampling the incredibly diverse range of food to be found, wandering along the idyllic harbourfront, or whiling away the hours in the city’s many parks, there are plenty of ways to fill your itinerary. For a taste of the great Canadian outdoors, jump in a rental car and head east to Scarborough Bluffs – a nine-mile stretch of cliffs – for great views, hiking trails, and a tranquil dose of you-time.

The hotels: For a fantastic view over the harbour and Toronto’s CN Tower, book yourself a room at Hotel X Toronto , located on Lake Ontario. Downtown, you’ll find the Hilton Toronto , which offers travellers an ideal base from which to explore the city.

The experiences: Explore Toronto’s most popular neighbourhoods, Kensington Market, Chinatown and the Art Gallery of Ontario with a self-guided tour , watch the sunset on a boat tour of the Toronto Islands , or head further afield for a day trip to Niagara Falls .

Melbourne, Australia

The city: Melbourne’s slower pace has lots to offer travellers on a solo escape. Considered one of the most liveable cities in the world, Melbourne abounds with world-class coffee shops, charming markets, a thriving art scene, and a fantastic transport system (which includes free tram for tourists). Not to mention that the surrounding Mornington Peninsula region produces some of the best wines in the world .

Located on the bay of Port Philip, the city not only has some great beaches, but the Great Ocean Road close by, too. This epic road trip will take you on one of Australia’s most scenic drives, offering you some quality time to reflect and admire your spectacular surroundings.

The hotels: Down by the docklands, you’ll find Four Points Sheraton: a great option for those looking to avoid crowds but still be close to all the action. There’s also Ovolo Laneways, a boutique hotel inspired by Melbourne’s hidden laneways and street art, which has the heart of the city on its doorstep.

The experiences: Spend the day tasting wine and savouring a delicious three-course lunch in Yarra Valley , take Great Ocean Road at a leisurely pace as part of a full-day tour , and jump on a ferry for a Melbourne river cruise .

Tel Aviv, Israel

The city: The food, the beaches, the markets and the year-round fair climate are obvious draws to Tel Aviv, but it’s the city’s hospitality that will stand out to any solo female traveller. Wherever you turn, you’re greeted with warm smiles and friendly conversation, making a trip to this Middle Eastern food capital a memorable one. Try local delicacies at Carmel & Levinsky market, breathe in the warm, salty air as you stroll down the Tel Aviv promenade, try your hand at bartering for rare and unique treasures at Jaffa Flea Market, then catch the sunset from a rooftop bar before doing it all over again the following day.

The hotels: Looking for comfort and convenience? Tal by the Beach offers solo travellers a prime beachside location, spacious rooms with kitchenettes and free bicycle rental. Or set back on the tree-lined Tchernichovsky Street, where the locally owned and run Hotel Saul is an intimate and authentically Israeli stay.

The experiences: A historic walking tour is a great way to learn more about Tel Aviv’s culture and people, but for a more in-depth understanding of local cuisine, opt for a guided tour of Carmel Market .

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The city: With its charming canals, hip shopping districts, vast open parks, and friendly locals and fellow adventurers, Amsterdam is a perennial go-to for solo female travellers. Forgo the more hedonistic districts, and instead enrich your days with cultural attractions, such as the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum, and by sampling local street food, relaxing in Vondelpark and shopping on Kalverstraat. There’s so much to love about this charming, cobbled street city.

The hotels: If you’re keen to meet like-minded travellers on your adventure, a no-frills hotel such the Urban Lodge Hotel is a great option for mingling. But for those looking to splurge on something a little more special for their solo journey, W Hotel offers travellers a fun, five-star stay right next to Dam Square.

The experiences: The best way to explore Amsterdam is by bicycle . Pedal through winding alleyways and out of the city into the countryside (which can also be explored via a guided tour ) to live the city like a local.

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