Safe Vacation Destinations for Women
When planning a vacation, safety is often one of the most important factors to consider, especially for women travelling solo or in small groups. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an adventure-packed trip, or a cultural exploration, there are plenty of destinations around the world known for being safe and welcoming to women travellers.
Here are some safe vacation destinations for women that offer a great mix of comfort, culture, adventure, and security:
Iceland
Why it’s safe: Iceland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. With low crime rates, excellent healthcare, and a strong focus on gender equality, Iceland is ideal for solo female travellers. The locals are friendly and helpful, and you can explore the country's natural wonders, from geysers and waterfalls to the Northern Lights.
Things to do:
Golden Circle Tour (including the Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, and Gullfoss waterfall)
Relax in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa
Visit the Reykjavík Art Museum or the National Museum of Iceland
Go whale watching or take a glacier hike
2. New Zealand
Why it’s safe: New Zealand is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and it’s also renowned for being safe for solo female travellers. The country boasts a low crime rate, a laid-back vibe, and well-maintained roads and public transport. New Zealanders (Kiwis) are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it a welcoming place to explore.
Things to do:
Hike the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing or explore the Fiordland National Park
Visit Rotorua for its geothermal wonders and Maori culture
Go on a Lord of the Rings tour and see iconic filming locations
Take a scenic drive on the South Island, which offers breathtaking landscapes
3. Canada
Why it’s safe: Canada is known for its multicultural cities, beautiful landscapes, and high safety standards. Canadian cities like Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto are some of the safest in the world, with excellent public transportation and a high standard of living. Canada also has a very strong healthcare system and a welcoming, tolerant culture.
Things to do:
Explore the cosmopolitan city of Toronto, with its museums, theatres, and diverse food scene
Go hiking, skiing, or kayaking in the Canadian Rockies (Banff & Jasper National Park)
Visit Quebec City for a taste of French-Canadian culture and history
Go whale watching or take a boat tour of Vancouver's harbour
4. Japan
Why it’s safe: Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world for female travellers. With its low crime rates, efficient public transportation, and helpful locals, Japan offers a unique blend of modernity and traditional charm. Whether you’re wandering the streets of Tokyo or exploring the serene temples of Kyoto, you’ll find the country to be both fascinating and secure.
Things to do:
Visit the Temples of Kyoto and Fushimi Inari Shrine
Take a stroll through Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo or visit the Meiji Shrine
Explore the hot springs in Hakone
Take a day trip to Nara, known for its friendly deer and historical landmarks
5. Switzerland
Why it’s safe: Switzerland is one of the most peaceful and well-organized countries in Europe, with low crime rates and excellent public services. The country’s well-known transportation network, clean streets, and welcoming attitude make it a perfect destination for solo female travellers. Its natural beauty—from snow-capped mountains to crystal-clear lakes—adds to the country’s charm.
Things to do:
Take a scenic train ride on the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz
Go hiking or skiing in the Swiss Alps
Explore the picturesque town of Lucerne and take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne
Visit Zurich for its museums, galleries, and cosmopolitan vibe
6. Costa Rica
Why it’s safe: Costa Rica is known for its eco-tourism and commitment to preserving its natural beauty. It’s a peaceful country with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere for travellers, including women. From lush rainforests and volcanic hot springs to beautiful beaches, Costa Rica offers plenty of outdoor activities in a safe environment.
Things to do:
Hike the Arenal Volcano and relax in hot springs
Explore the biodiversity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Visit Manuel Antonio National Park for wildlife and beach time
Take a zip-lining tour or go white-water rafting in La Fortuna
7. Finland
Why it’s safe: Finland ranks as one of the safest countries globally, with very low crime rates and a high quality of life. Helsinki, the capital, is known for its safety and efficiency, and the rest of the country offers stunning natural beauty, including pristine lakes, forests, and the Northern Lights.
Things to do:
Visit the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Experience the Northern Lights in Lapland
Explore the historic sites in Helsinki and Turku
Relax in a traditional Finnish sauna
8. Portugal
Why it’s safe: Portugal has a reputation for being one of the safest European countries for travellers, with a relatively low crime rate and a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region are all incredibly welcoming to tourists, and Portugal’s food, history, and culture make it a wonderful destination for women.
Things to do:
Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Lisbon, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto
Visit the historic Palácio da Pena in Sintra
Relax on the beaches of Algarve*
Take a Port wine tour in Porto
9. The Netherlands
Why it’s safe: The Netherlands is one of the safest countries in Europe, with a high standard of living and a focus on gender equality. The Dutch are friendly, and the country’s efficient public transport system makes it easy to travel around. Amsterdam, in particular, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and cultural landmarks.
Things to do:
Visit the world-renowned Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam
Take a boat tour of the Canals of Amsterdam
Explore the beautiful tulip fields in Keukenhof during the spring
Discover the historic cities of Utrecht and Rotterdam
10. Austria
Why it’s safe: Austria is another European destination that is safe, clean, and rich in culture. Cities like Vienna and Salzburg are known for their beautiful architecture, world-class museums, and general safety. The country's charming villages, alpine lakes, and mountainous regions offer great outdoor activities.
Things to do:
Take a walking tour of Vienna and visit the Hofburg Palace
Explore the Salzburg Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site
Take a scenic drive through the Austrian Alps and visit Hallstatt (one of the most beautiful villages in Europe)
Go skiing or hiking in Innsbruck
Conclusion
When choosing a vacation destination, safety should always be a priority. Fortunately, there are many incredible destinations around the world that are perfect for women who are travelling alone, with a group, or with family. From the stunning natural landscapes of New Zealand and Costa Rica to the cultural treasures of Japan and Portugal, these destinations offer a combination of low crime rates, welcoming locals, and plenty of things to see and do. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and enjoy a safe, memorable trip!
