Best Solo Travel Destinations for Summer 2026
It’s official: planning for solo travel summer 2026 is in full swing – meaning if you’ve been dreaming of solo summer vacations, now is the perfect time to pick a solo travel destination and start planning your trip.
I’ve always had a deep passion for solo traveling, having been to the majority of Europe, countries in Asia, and even South Africa alone.
When traveling alone, you have completely freedom to discover everything at your own pace. There’s a newfound sense of confidence that naturally develops, and soon – you’ll begin to believe that you’re capable of accomplishing your dreams all by yourself.
I’m going to share with you the best places for solo travel in 2026. I’ve compiled this list based on general safety, public transportation, and places with opportunities for both bustling city life and vivid scenery.
At the Alahambra solo traveling in Granada, Spain; December 2023
Top 7 Best Places to Solo Travel in 2026
Lisbon, Portugal
I’ll be honest, Lisbon wasn’t one of my favorite places – but I see the appeal for solo female travel in 2026.
Portugal has become especially popular with digital nomads, with the country experiencing a continuous spike in tourism.
Lisbon has stunning scenery, interesting food, and distinct influence from Brazil – with many young Brazilians moving to the country with their shared language and work opportunities.
Street view in Lisbon, Portugal; June 2019
Why is portugal a good solo female travel destination?
Portugal is affordable, warm, and perfect for a backpacker – such as with amazing hostels like Goodmorning Solo Traveler Hostel, which can cost as little as $27 USD a night offering a full included breakfast and cheap happy hour drinks to mix and mingle with other solo travelers.
What should i do in Lisbon?
Some of the best things to do while in Lisbon include:
🏰 Belém Tower
One of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Located along the Tagus River, it’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the light hits the water.
🏛️ Praça do Comércio
A massive waterfront square that opens directly onto the river. It’s perfect for strolling, people-watching, or grabbing a drink at golden hour, especially during the long summer evenings.
🚠 Santa Justa Lift
A historic elevator connecting Baixa to the higher Chiado neighborhood. In summer, extended daylight hours make it ideal for panoramic city views — though lines can be long, so timing is key.
🌿 Day Trip to Sintra
Sintra is an easy day trip from Lisbon and especially magical in summer, thanks to longer opening hours at palaces and cooler temperatures. It’s perfect for exploring Pena Palace, gardens, and scenic viewpoints.
View of the Santa Maria Maior in Lisbon, Portgual; June 2019
2. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is a stunning country with amazing things to see and do such as Reykavik, the Blue Lagoon, and the Golden Circle.
As of 2026, Reykjavik is named as the safest city in the world – making it perfect for solo female travel this summer in 2026.
Rainbow street in Reyjkavik, Iceland; December 2022
Why is iceland a safe solo female travel destination?
Iceland is good for solo female travelers as it has reliable infrastructure, numerous group travel tours and excursions, and a reputation for low-crime.
Furthermore, Iceland has been rated as one of the safest countries in the world – making it perfect for first time solo female travelers looking for a country with a bit of everything to offer.
View of Reykjavik from the Hallgrímskirkja Church in Iceland; December 2022
Visiting Iceland in the summer means you may have a chance at seeing the midnight sun, and with all of the extra daylight – you’ll have more time to see this beautiful country from head-to-toe.
What should i do in reykjavik?
Some of the best things to see while in Reykjavik include:
🌈 Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street (Skólavörðustígur) is one of Reykjavik’s most photographed spots, lined with colorful pavement, cafés, and local shops. It’s especially lively during summer when the midnight sun keeps the city buzzing late.
⛪ Hallgrímskirkja Church
Hallgrímskirkja is Reykjavik’s most iconic landmark, inspired by Iceland’s basalt columns. During summer, the church is typically open longer hours, and the tower elevator offers panoramic views over the city and coastline — especially stunning in extended daylight.
🚢 The Sun Voyager
The Sun Voyager is a modern sculpture along Reykjavik’s waterfront symbolizing travel and discovery. It’s completely free to visit and best enjoyed in summer evenings when the sky stays bright well past 10 PM, making it perfect for a sunset walk.
3. Tokyo, Japan
Japan is also known to be one of the safest countries for solo female travel, and with lots to see including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Mount Fuji.
Although Japan is known for its humidity in the summer, traveling to Japan solo in 2026 also allows for fun festivals and fireworks such as:
🎎 Iconic Japanese Festivals to Plan Around 🇯🇵
🏮 Aomori Nebuta Festival
Held in Aomori City, this high-energy summer festival is famous for its massive illuminated paper lantern floats, traditional drumming, and dancers filling the streets each night.
📅 2026 dates: August 2–7, 2026
🎐 Gion Matsuri (Kyoto)
One of Japan’s most historic festivals, Gion Matsuri spans the entire month of July and is best known for its grand yamaboko float processions through Kyoto’s streets.
📅 2026 dates: July 1–31, 2026
⭐ Main parades: July 17 & July 24
🎆 Sumidagawa Fireworks (Tokyo)
Tokyo’s most famous fireworks festival lights up the sky along the Sumida River, drawing huge crowds for one unforgettable summer night.
📅 Expected 2026 date: Late July 2026
(Traditionally the last Saturday of July)
View of Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto, Japan; January 2020
Why is Japan a safe solo female travel destination?
Trust me, even if you stick out like a sore thumb in Japan (which I very much did during my time there) – no one will bother you. This allows you to enjoy your time solo traveling and enjoy all that this country has to offer.
In addition to this, the chances of petty theft in Japan is less likely, too – making Japan a truly stress-free female solo travel destination.
What should i do in tokyo?
Some of the top things to not miss out on while in Tokyo include:
🗼 Tokyo Tower
One of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks, inspired by the Eiffel Tower. It offers sweeping city views and is especially beautiful at night when the tower is illuminated.
🏮 Sensō-ji Temple
Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, located in Asakusa. Walking through Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise Street is a must for first-time visitors.
🚦 Shibuya Crossing
The world’s busiest pedestrian crossing and a true symbol of Tokyo’s energy. Watching the scramble from above — or crossing it yourself — is an unforgettable experience.
View of Tokyo from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building; January 2020
4. Sydney, Australia
Australia is an extremely safe and exciting travel destination for solo female travelers, as it’s an easy place for backpackers to meet up and attracts tourists from all over the world.
As Sydney serves as an accessible start to your trip to Australia, with the majority of international flights arriving either here or in Melbourne –Sydney is the perfect place to explore alone with confidence.
At Mrs Macquaries Point in Sydney, Australia; January 2019
Why is Australia a safe solo female travel destination?
Australia is a safe destination for solo female travel as the country has good public transportation and Australians are some of the most friendliest and helpful people you’ll ever meet – making it the perfect solo travel destination. This is because even if you do get lost, someone in Australia will always be willing to help you.
In 2026, Sydney was ranked as the 6th best place to live and study in the world – making it the perfect spot in 2026 for solo female travelers.
What should I do in Sydney?
Some of the secret spots you won’t want to miss out in Sydney include:
Mrs Macquaries Point
Kirribilli Lookout
Sunrise near Kirribilli Lookout in Sydney, Australia; January 2019
5. Interlaken, Swizterland
Switzerland is a country that is often overlooked by people planning a trip to Europe, but it shouldn’t be – as it has so much to offer from cities, scenery, to the relaxing Swiss Alps.
View of Spiez, Swizterland; April 2025
Why is Switzerland a good solo female travel destination?
Interlaken makes for the perfect solo female travel spot as you’ll have easy access to several fun solo adventures such as paragliding, hiking, and going up to the “Top of Europe”.
I’ve been to Switzerland numerous times, and while it’s true that the country is slowly becoming more aligned with other European cities in terms of pickpocketing – it is still much less likely here than in other European countries such as France, Spain, or Italy.
Park where people paragliding in Interlaken, Switzerland; April 2025
What should i do in interlaken?
Remember, when visiting Switzerland this summer – don’t forget to do the following:
🍫 Visit a Chocolate Shop
Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, and Interlaken is full of charming chocolate shops where you can sample local treats or pick up gifts. It’s an easy, cozy stop between outdoor adventures.
🏞️ Swim in Lake Thun or Lake Brienz
During summer, locals and travelers alike cool off in Lake Thun or Lake Brienz. The water is refreshingly cold, incredibly clear, and surrounded by mountain views — making it one of the most scenic swims in Europe.
🚆 Day Trip by Train
Interlaken is perfectly located for unforgettable train rides to Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, or Jungfraujoch. In summer, long daylight hours mean you can explore waterfalls, alpine villages, and viewpoints without rushing.
6. Nice, France
Often penned as overrated, Nice is a wonderful summer escape for solo travelers – as it offers the perfect combination of beach, city, and cuisine.
Old Town Nice, France; June 2023
Now a place I like to return to for an annual summer visit, there’s always something new to do or see while in Nice – and the added Italian influence will make for a culturally intriguing trip, as you’ll get the chance to enjoy both French and Italian food.
Trust me, you won’t want to leave Nice off of your summer 2026 Europe travel plans – solo female travelers will feel right at home the way I have every summer when visiting.
Why is france a good solo female travel destination?
France is a great place for a solo traveler as there is something to interest everyone, from the classic monuments in Paris, to enchanting castles in Mont-Saint-Michel, and the adventurous beach villages in the South of France.
View of Nice from Castle Hill; March 2024
What should I do in Nice?
When visiting Nice, don’t forget to:
Walk through the Old Town
Take a day trip to Monte Carlo
Discover beach villages such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze, and Cap-d'Ail
7. New York City, New York
Last but certainly not least, summertime in New York City always has it’s own special vibe – with late night rooftop bars or even catching up with friends under the sun in Central Park.
View of Manhattan from Pebble Brook Beach in Brookyln, New York; November 2024
It’s no secret that New York City is one of my favorite places in the world, and although I do prefer the city during Christmas – summer in New York city offers fun excursions that won’t happen any other time of year, such as free concerts in Central Park or at Rockefeller Plaza.
Why is new york a good solo female travel destination?
New York City is the perfect place for a solo trip, as it’s easy to navigate and has a never-ending list of things to do – from Broadway shows, museums, parks, markets and simply discovering NYC’s diverse and distinct neighborhoods.
What should I do in New york?
You can never run out of things to do in New York City, but here’s a just a few things to get started on your solo trip to New York:
Take pictures of the Brooklyn Bridge at Pebble Brook Beach
See a show on Broadway
Wander around SoHo and do some shopping
View of the Manhattan Bridge in Brookyln, New York; November 2024
No matter which destination you’ll choose for your solo trip this summer, you’ll be living the dream!
Looking to plan your future trip?
Click here to discover more articles on my blog on all of these destinations to make sure your solo trip goes off without a hitch!
Additional articles you might find helpful include:
10 Best Neighborhoods in NYC: Where to Stay (A Local’s Guide)
Be Prepared in Portugal: 6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going There
One Night in Nice + Monte Carlo: Is the French Riviera Overrated?
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Last updated: January 1, 2026