Many women are reluctant to travel solo, mainly for fear of loneliness, but also for safety reasons. While it's true that some destinations are not recommended for single women, many cities do their utmost to welcome them in the best possible conditions. In a study carried out in January 2023, tour operator Tourlane compiled a list of the best cities in which to travel alone as a woman. And the good news is that JOOKS has tourist and sports itineraries in every one of them! So strap on your sneakers and get ready for adventure!
1- Copenhagen
At the top of the rankings, the Danish capital has many assets to attract solo travelers: well-lit streets, an extensive public transport network, friendly locals... all in one of the world's most pleasant cities. JOOKS offers you three routes to discover Copenhagen and its treasures. From the Little Mermaid sculpture to the National Museum of Denmark and Nyhavn harbor, you won't miss any of the Scandinavian capital's must-sees.
2- Stockholm
Second place goes to another Scandinavian city, Stockholm. Regularly ranked among the world's safest cities, the Swedish capital boasts a very low crime rate and a highly efficient police force. The city is also known for its welcoming attitude, particularly towards women. Numerous initiatives and programs are in place to promote gender equality and empower women. Thanks to our fifteen itineraries, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to unlocking the secrets of the Venice of the North.
3- Oslo
Like most Nordic countries, Norway is one of the safest places in the world to travel. An extremely low crime rate, an efficient transport network, open and welcoming locals for all visitors, especially women: Oslo has all the ingredients for a perfect solo trip. The Norwegian capital is enchanting, with its close proximity to nature, its openness to the sea, its culture, its architecture and its trendy terraces. You won't miss a thing with our three routes of 5km, 10km and 16km.
4- Singapore
The only non-European city in the ranking, Singapore has it all. Solo travelers will appreciate the cleanliness of the streets, the strong sense of security (even late at night), and the great diversity of the city, where skyscrapers rub shoulders with historic districts and numerous parks and gardens. Measuring less than 50 kilometers from east to west and around 27 kilometers from north to south, Singapore is a city where nothing is too far away. Our three itineraries should be enough to tour the city-state and appreciate all its iconic sites and monuments.
5- Vienna
Known for its famous Schönbrunn Palace and cafés, Vienna is generally considered a safe city for women traveling alone, with a low crime rate and high standard of living. Some hotels and hostels in Vienna even offer women-only floors or rooms, adding to the sense of safety and privacy for solo female travelers. With no fewer than 27 routes in the Austrian capital, you're bound to find a suitable itinerary for exploring the city.
6- Barcelona
For those who prefer sunny destinations, Barcelona is the place to be. Spain is known for its friendly, open culture, and Gaudí's city is no exception. The streets are well-lit and enjoy a strong police presence, and violent crime is rare. In addition to its lively, welcoming atmosphere, Barcelona has a charm all of its own and an incomparable cultural and religious heritage. The 30 or so routes available on JOOKS will enable you to explore all of them, from the Sagrada Familia to Parc Güell.
7- Helsinki
Helsinki's inclusion in this ranking confirms, once again, that the Nordic countries are among the safest in the world for women travelling solo. Finnish culture places great importance on respect for rules and the law, and the country regularly tops world rankings for gender equality and safety. Our three itineraries will take you on a tour of Helsinki's architecture, heritage and incredible gardens, making the Finnish capital a real favorite for any woman who dares to venture out alone.
8- Lisbon
Dynamic and lively, Lisbon is a city with a rich history and culture. It's also a destination where the sun shines almost all year round and the people are friendly and smiling. Lisbon also has an extensive public transport network and affordable accommodation, including youth hostels, guest houses and hotels, which are suitable for solo travelers. All the more reason to discover the city of a thousand colors. Thanks to our four itineraries, the Portuguese capital will no longer hold any secrets for you!
9- London
A cosmopolitan, multicultural and captivating city, London is a must for those wishing to travel solo. Indeed, most women who visit London solo find the city a refreshing contrast to their previous experiences. The UK also places great emphasis on gender equality and women's rights, helping to create a safe and inclusive environment for female travelers. Discover the British capital and its many neighborhoods on our 41 routes, which take you from the heart of the City to Richmond Park and Wembley.
10- Berlin
Berlin's lively nightlife, extensive dining options and unique art scene have contributed to its reputation as Europe's coolest city. Although there is no empirical data to suggest that the German capital is safer for women than other cities, Berlin has implemented a strict zero-tolerance policy towards sexual assault and violence against women. With over twenty routes throughout the city, JOOKS lets you discover the richness and diversity of Berlin, from the Brandenburg Gate to Potsdamer Platz.
Find all these routes and more than 1,300 others on the JOOKS app.