15 Countries That Are Surprisingly Safe to Travel Solo
Traveling alone can be exciting and freeing, but it can also be a little scary—especially if you’re worried about safety. Luckily, there are many countries around the world where solo travelers are welcomed with open arms, and where you can explore without stress. From friendly locals to easy transportation, these places make solo travel feel simple and safe.
Here are 15 countries that are surprisingly safe—and perfect—for exploring on your own.
Japan: Clean, Calm, and Incredibly Organized
Japan is super clean, super safe, and very organized. Even in big cities like Tokyo or Osaka, it’s easy to get around on your own. Public transport is reliable, signs are often in English, and people are polite and helpful. You can eat alone at ramen shops, stay in capsule hotels, and visit quiet temples. Solo travel is widely accepted and even encouraged. With its low crime rate and structured systems, Japan consistently ranks as one of the best countries for solo travelers.
Portugal: Sunshine, History, and a Warm Welcome
Portugal is full of sunshine, friendly locals, and scenic towns. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are walkable, relaxed, and filled with great food and history. You can ride trams, visit castles, and enjoy ocean views—all on a budget. Most people speak English, and it’s one of the safest countries in Europe for solo travelers. Portugal’s welcoming culture makes it easy to meet people, and the laid-back pace is ideal for enjoying your own company. From the Algarve coast to the Douro Valley, it’s a solo travel gem.
New Zealand: Adventure and Kindness in Every Corner
New Zealand is all about nature and adventure—but it’s also known for its kindness and safety. You can hike through mountains, visit glowworm caves, or road trip across the islands without worry. People are helpful and laid-back, and the country is easy to explore whether you’re backpacking or renting a van. English is the primary language, and solo travel infrastructure is well developed. The country’s compact size and friendly hostels make it easy to plan spontaneous trips and connect with other travelers.
South Korea: High-Tech Comfort and Solo-Friendly Vibes
South Korea is high-tech and low-crime, making it a great solo travel spot. The metro is easy to use, cafes are everywhere, and solo dining is common. You can explore palaces in Seoul, hike in the mountains, or relax in a jjimjilbang (Korean bathhouse). It’s modern, exciting, and surprisingly easy to navigate alone. South Korea also has strong Wi-Fi coverage and efficient transportation networks. With so much to do and see, it’s perfect for solo travelers seeking culture and convenience.
Slovenia: Alpine Adventures in a Peaceful Paradise
Slovenia is small but packed with charm. It’s one of the safest countries in Europe and great for solo nature lovers. You can visit lakes, hike in the Alps, or explore cute towns like Ljubljana. It’s clean, calm, and full of green spaces—perfect for peaceful adventures. The country offers excellent eco-tourism opportunities and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re strolling along Lake Bled or exploring caves, Slovenia is serene and easygoing.
Costa Rica: Pura Vida in a Solo-Friendly Jungle
Costa Rica is known for its wildlife, beaches, and ‘pura vida’ lifestyle. It’s also one of the safest countries in Central America. You can zipline through forests, relax in hot springs, or spot monkeys in the trees. Many locals speak English, and there’s a strong backpacker community, so it’s easy to make friends on the road. The public transportation system is decent and budget-friendly. Costa Rica offers both relaxation and adventure for any solo explorer.
Ireland: Warm Conversations and Coastal Roads
Ireland is full of friendly people, cozy pubs, and beautiful countryside. It’s a great place to road trip solo or hop from town to town. You can explore castles, cliffs, and cute villages—and chances are, someone at the pub will invite you into a conversation. English is the main language, making communication easy. The country has a strong tourism infrastructure and a low crime rate. Ireland’s scenic beauty and cultural richness make it ideal for independent travelers.
Georgia (the Country): Hospitality and Hidden Treasures
Georgia is still under the radar, but it’s one of the warmest and safest places for solo travelers. Locals are incredibly hospitable, and it’s common to be invited for meals. The country is filled with mountains, old churches, and wine. It’s affordable, beautiful, and welcoming to visitors. Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, is rich in culture and history, while the countryside offers stunning natural escapes. Solo travelers will appreciate the genuine connections and slower pace of life.
Finland: Peace, Nature, and Northern Lights
Finland may be cold, but it’s one of the safest and most peaceful places on earth. Whether you’re watching the Northern Lights, exploring forests, or just wandering Helsinki, everything feels calm and easy. English is widely spoken, and public transport is excellent. Solo travelers can enjoy lakeside saunas, peaceful walks, and efficient city experiences. The country’s emphasis on nature and wellness adds a restorative quality to any trip. It’s perfect for introverts or those seeking solitude.
Vietnam: Culture, Cuisine, and Comfortable Travel
Vietnam is perfect for solo travelers who love food, culture, and adventure. It’s very affordable, and the people are kind and curious. You can take cooking classes, explore cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, or cruise through Ha Long Bay. Traveling solo here is common and easy. There’s a well-trodden backpacker trail, which makes it simple to meet other travelers. With excellent street food and countless markets, every day is a new experience.
Uruguay: Low-Key Luxury and Safety
Uruguay is stable, peaceful, and often overlooked. It has clean cities, calm beaches, and a relaxed vibe. Montevideo and Punta del Este are great spots to unwind, and people are welcoming. It’s a safe and chill destination for solo explorers. Uruguay also offers wine country, historic towns, and modern cafes. It’s an easygoing escape with a high quality of life and little tourist congestion.
Czech Republic: History and Hospitality in Every Alley
Czechia (or the Czech Republic) is known for its fairytale towns and castles. Prague is fun, walkable, and full of solo travelers. Public transport is cheap and easy, and there are hostels and cafés where it’s simple to meet others or enjoy time alone. The country also boasts charming villages and countryside worth exploring. Safety levels are high, and solo tourism is common. Whether sipping coffee in a square or hiking to a castle, it feels secure and enriching.
Bhutan: Peaceful Paths and Guided Journeys
Bhutan focuses on happiness and nature, and it’s one of the safest and most unique places you can visit. Solo travel here requires a guide (as part of Bhutan’s tourism policy), but it offers personal, meaningful experiences. Expect peaceful monasteries, mountain views, and kind locals. The focus on Gross National Happiness shapes a deeply thoughtful and gentle culture. Bhutan’s pristine nature and limited tourism make it a one-of-a-kind destination. For mindful, reflective travel, it’s hard to beat.
Iceland: Freedom and Safety Among the Elements
Iceland is a land of volcanoes, waterfalls, and endless sky. It’s very safe, even for women traveling alone. You can rent a car and drive the Ring Road, stop at hot springs, or hike across lava fields. The freedom and beauty make it ideal for solo travel. English is widely spoken, and tourist infrastructure is excellent. With dramatic landscapes and cozy towns, it’s both adventurous and reassuring.
Canada: Big Adventures with a Friendly Smile
Canada is huge, friendly, and full of places to explore solo. Whether you’re in a city like Vancouver or out in nature near Banff or Jasper, it’s clean, safe, and welcoming. People are polite, and there’s something for every kind of traveler—urban or wild. The country offers multicultural experiences and epic natural beauty. Solo travelers can take advantage of excellent transport, good food, and reliable safety. It’s one of the best all-around destinations for going it alone.
