As a remarkable surge in women embarking on solo adventures continues to reshape the travel landscape, the definitive list of the world's best cities for females travelling alone in 2026 has been unveiled. This revelation arrives alongside compelling data showing that an astonishing 84 per cent of solo travellers are now women, with UK Google search trends strongly indicating that this year is poised to break all previous records for solo journey bookings.
Navigating the Solo Travel Boom
While overall interest in solo travel has experienced a dramatic year-on-year spike of 116 per cent, selecting the perfect destination remains the most daunting challenge, particularly for women venturing out on their own. To provide clear guidance for solo female adventurers, a comprehensive new study has meticulously analysed and highlighted the premier urban destinations across the globe.
Methodology Behind the Rankings
The research examined several critical factors that directly impact the solo travel experience, including comprehensive crime and safety level assessments, average public transport wait times, broadband internet speeds, and current solo travel search trend data. This multi-faceted approach ensures the rankings reflect both practical logistics and growing traveller interest.
Singapore Claims the Top Spot
Singapore has emerged as the leading destination for female solo travellers, achieving this status through an exceptional safety index score of 77.5, remarkably fast Wi-Fi averaging 407.05 Mbps, and highly reliable public transport with an average wait time of just six minutes. The Southeast Asian metropolis offers a compelling combination of tropical climate, serene beaches, and abundant green spaces, creating an ideal holiday environment for travellers seeking sunshine, coastal activities, and outdoor exploration.
According to data compiled by the global pet-sitting service TrustedHousesitters, demand for 'Singapore holidays' has increased by 27 per cent over the past month compared to the same period last year, solidifying its reputation as a hidden gem for independent female travellers.
Global Contenders and UK Representation
New York City secures the position as the second-best destination for women travelling alone, featuring a crime rate of 21.1 out of 100, high internet speed of 295.18 Mbps, and an average public transport wait of eight minutes. The city's walkable layout makes its numerous attractions easily discoverable, while reliable connectivity ensures women can navigate confidently even when exploring independently.
Dubai, while already a premier destination for many holidaymakers, ranks third globally for solo female travel due to its outstanding safety credentials. The UAE city boasts an impressive 83.9 out of 100 safety index score alongside very low crime rates, providing a secure, well-connected environment filled with unique cultural experiences.
For British travellers preferring domestic adventures, London proudly makes the top ten, placing ninth overall. The UK capital records approximately 21,000 monthly searches for solo travel and presents an ideal setting for those wishing to meet new people while exploring vibrant cultural and historical attractions throughout the city.
London's extensive Transport for London network, combined with an average taxi wait time of just eight minutes, ensures that exploration is both safe and efficient for solo visitors.
Complete Top Ten Ranking
The full list of top ten global destinations for solo female travellers includes:
- Singapore
- New York City
- Dubai
- Tokyo
- Seoul
- Paris
- Amsterdam
- Abu Dhabi
- London
- Bangkok
Expert Advice for Solo Adventurers
In light of these findings, experts at TrustedHousesitters strongly encourage female travellers to share detailed itineraries with trusted contacts before departure, conduct thorough research into destination safety profiles, and carefully plan activities that support personal wellbeing throughout their journey.
Meanwhile, seasoned solo traveller Lee Thompson, co-founder of travel company Flash Pack, who has visited over 100 countries, offers valuable insights for combating potential loneliness. 'The trick is to be open and curious to new opportunities as they arise and say “yes” to invitations – even if you feel a bit shy about doing so,' Thompson advises. 'Volunteering, such as teaching English, can be an excellent way of meeting new people while travelling alone, particularly in major urban centres.'
This guidance addresses a common concern among intrepid solo travellers, who often worry about dining alone repeatedly during their adventures. Thompson emphasises that holidaying independently can actually become one of the most social travel experiences available when approached with the right mindset and strategies.
