When I travel alone, nothing is more important to me than safety. In my research ahead of my trip, I found that some countries are generally safer than others for solo travelers.
The migration firm Global Citizens Solutions releases an annual study about the safest destinations for women traveling alone, based on gender equality, crime rates, and community security initiatives. Both of my solo destinations, Austria and Germany, made the 2025 list, though only Austria made the 2026 list, which included 14 countries.
When I visited Austria, I stayed in the heart of Vienna, which allowed me to explore the city streets into the night. In my experience, people kept to themselves, and I didn’t doubt my safety while exploring after dark.
When I visited Germany, I stayed in an Airbnb in Neustrelitz, a quaint town outside Berlin. I found it relatively easy to figure out the local train system and get to and from Berlin each day. I felt safe walking around on my own in both places.
If you’re traveling solo, researching your destination beforehand is a must, but your safety is never guaranteed. So stay aware of your surroundings along the way, and use your best judgment throughout your trip.
