Are you an avid solo female traveler like me? Or are you still flirting with the idea of taking a solo adventure? Either way, you’ll want to keep reading for a list of the best places for solo female travel. 

There are so many factors to consider when choosing a destination for your next (or first) solo female adventure including cost, safety, and ability to mingle with other solo travelers. If you’ve never solo traveled before you may want to start with my top tips for solo female travel, and of course my guide to smart solo travel safety tips. 

Solo Female Travel Articles

Many people recommend traveling somewhere locally for your first solo trip, however I don’t necessarily agree. While there are plenty of cities in the US that are great for solo travel, many international destinations have more of a infrastrure set of more solo travelers which make it easier to meet other travels.

Vietnam 

Vietnam is one of the best places for solo female travel, and one of my personal favorites. Vietnam was actually the first stop on my first extended solo backpacking trip, so it will always hold a special place in my heart. Vietnam checks all of the boxes for the perfect solo travel destination, budget accommodations, delicious food, and tons of other solo travelers. 

It is super common for solo backpackers to spend a few weeks traveling from North to South, or vice versa, through Vietnam, which makes it easy to connect with other travelers. 

There are so many incredible places to visit in Vietnam, but I’ll highlight a few of my favorites, plus what to do and where to eat. 

Hoi An 

Hoi An is one of the most picturesque areas to visit in Vietnam. It is the perfect solo travel destination because it is relatively small, and easy to navigate by bike. 

Things to do in Hoi An

There are so many things to do in Hoi An, from biking through the Old Town to taking a local cooking class. Cafe 43 offers a cooking class where you chose the entree that you’d like to eat, and then simply pay an additional $5 USD to join the chef in the kitchen to cook it. This is a great way to understand the local dishes, and meet some other travelers and locals. Hoi An is also known for their abundance of tailors. You won’t want to leave town without purchasing some custom pieces, so save some room in your bag. 

You’ll find plenty of hostels in Hoi An, but Hoi An Lovely Hostel is one of my favorites. They offer free breakfast daily and free dinner three days a week, plus free beer a few nights a week, which is a great opportunity to socialize with other solo travelers. 

Hanoi 

If you are a foodie like me, then any trip to Vietnam isn’t complete without a visit to Hanoi. I’ve got a list of the places that you need to eat at in Hanoi, but Bun Cha 34 Hang Than and Banh Mi 25 are definitely at the top. 

enjoying street food in Hanoi as a solo traveler

Things to do in Hanoi

A visit to the Train Street is one of the best things to do in Hanoi. It’s a cool way to experience the local lifestyle, plus it is thrilling when the train goes by. After you visit, spend some time shopping at the Dong Xuan Market before grabbing a Bia Hoi, the local beer, at one of the many street corner shops. 

Hanoi is a great place to meet other solo travelers as they have quite the hostel scene. However, make sure that you find a hostel that fits your travel style needs. Many of the hostels in Hanoi are geared heavily towards partiers. That may be your vibe, or it may not be!Q

Taiwan

The first thing that struck me when I landed in Taiwan was that nobody bothered me. No one asked me strange questions, or tried to sell me anything. After having spent a few months in Southeast Asia backpacking, I became accustomed to the haggling and bartering, locals trying to sell you just about anything and everything. 

Walking through the markets in Taiwan, I felt invisible in the best way possible. Taiwan is one of the best places for solo female travel because it is incredibly safe, easy to get around, and there are tons of things to see and do. 

visiting Taiwan as a solo female traveler

Bali, Indonesia

Bali and solo female travelers practically go hand in hand, as it has quickly become a top destination for digital nomads. Bali is an extremely safe (and popular) destination for solo travelers, so it is easy to meet like minded travelers. Plus, it is super easy to visit Bali on a budget. 

girl in yellow dress at sunrise in canggu bali

Canggu

If I could pack up my bags and move tomorrow, I would book the next flight to Bali and head straight to Canggu. This Indonesia surf town captured my heart from my very first visit in 2015. Since then I’ve been back quite a few times, and I fall more in love each time. 

best places for solo female travel - canggu, bali

Things to do in Canggu 

I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to Canggu, but there are a few must-do’s to add to your travel list right away. Grab a scooter on arrival and start exploring. 

Ubud

Located in Central Bali, Ubud is Indonesia’s cultural hub. You’ll find tons of access to temple hopping, North Bali waterfalls, and some great hikes, especially as you head North from Ubud.

visiting bali as a solo travel, exploring the waterfalls of munduk

I do recommend staying centrally, especially if you’re not super comfortable on a scooter, as the traffic in and around Ubud can be quite bad. I’ve put together a Ubud travel itinerary, but here are a few must-dos:

Nusa Penida 

The Nusa islands are located just off of the island of Bali, and make a fabulous addition to any trip to Indonesia. I recommend alloting a least a few days on the islands, with at least two days on Nusa Penida. I’ve got a full Guide to Nusa Penida, but here are a few highlights:

The Best Things to Do on Nusa Penida Island - Snorkel with Manta Rays

Iceland

Iceland has consistently been ranked as the safest country in the world, which obviously makes it a great contender for my list of the best places for solo female travel. While not as budget-friendly as many of the other destinations on this list, there are plenty of ways to visit Iceland on a budget. 

girl in iceland over a cliff

Best Things to do in Iceland 

I put together an Iceland road trip itinerary, that will allow you to travel to Iceland on a budget, while still seeing all of the best things that the country has to offer. The itinerary takes advantage of a camping card, which is valid for 28 nights of camping for only 159 euros. While I haven’t personally traveled to Iceland solo, I would absolutely feel safe doing so. In fact, I’d love to explore Iceland solo one day!

As I mentioned above, the best way to explore Iceland is by car. I recommend spending only a day or so in Reykjavik, and spend the rest of your time driving the Ring Road. It’s really one large circle, so you don’t have to worry much about getting lost. There are so many incredible gems to explore, with tons of amazing hiking and walks to explore. Most of the campsites have bathrooms and cooking facilities. Some also have a common space, making it easy to meet other travelers.


Canada

Canada is ranked as the 6th safest country based on the Global Peace Index.Which definitely makes it one of the best solo female travel destinations. Plus, it is an absolutely gorgeous country.

Despite growing up in New York, so close to the Canadian border, I didn’t really start exploring until I was out of college. Without a doubt, Banff National Park, and the nearby Yoho National Park, are my favorite areas in Canada to explore.

If you’re arriving from outside of Canada, then I recommend flying into Calgary. It is super easy to get from Calgary to Banff National Park. Once in Banff National Park, here are some must-visit spots, including some of the best hikes in Banff:

moraine lake banff

Thailand 

I know that Thailand is the stereotypical solo travel destination, but I promise that there is a reason for it. One of the things that makes Thailand so great for solo travel is that it is based with solo travelers!

As great as the islands are, if I had to choose, I would visit Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pai instead. Northern Thailand just has so much to offer, and I feel that it is a more unique experience than island time.

A few safety measures to keep in mind when visiting Thailand:

girl in purple sarong and white tshirt at wat arun temple in Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok

Bangkok is easily one of my favorite cities in the world. The city is filled with so much culture and incredible cuisine. I have visited Bangkok five times, and I am sure that I will be back many more. If you’re planning a solo trip to Thailand, make sure to allot at least 48 hours in Bangkok.

Things to Do in Bangkok

You’ll want to keep out my full guide to Bangkok, but here are some highlights:

dameon floating market bangkok thailand

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of my favorite places in the world, and I have considered moving here many times. But for now, I’ll just be content with frequent visits.

Things to do in Chiang Mai

Cambodia

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, you’re probably quickly finding out that there are so many amazing things to do in Cambodia, especially in Siem Reap. Siem Reap is one of the best places for solo female travel because it’s affordable, filled with culture, and there are tons of other solo travelers.

solo female traveler at a temple in cambodia

Things to do in Siem Reap

You probably could have guessed it, but I have a full guide on the best things to do in Siem Reap. But I’ll still share a snapshot here for you:

angkor wat in the early morning

New York City 

Although I can’t say that I’ve ever solo traveled in NYC, as I have lived in the area most of myself, it is actually one of the best cities to explore alone. Trust me, no one will look twice when you arrive at a restaurant alone, or even grab a solo drink at the local bar. NYC is all about anonymity, which is great for a solo adventure.

While hostels aren’t nearly as popular in the US as they are elsewhere, they are still a thing! If you’re looking to meet some fellow travelers, or just a really great host with all of the insider tips, then I recommend a stay at The Funky Loft. They have 3 bedrooms at the airbnbs, plus a shared space. However, NYC is also a great solo trip for when you need an escape. You can be completely alone, doing your own thing, yet always surrounded by crowds.

girl sitting on the counter in a retro kitchen in Brooklyn, NYC

Best Things to do in NYC

Honestly, I don’t even know where to start as a local because there is SO much to do and see, and it really depends on your interests.

girl in yellow dress with views of NYC from top of the rock

Portugal 

Portugal is one of my favorite travel destinations in Europe, perfect for a girls getaway, a couples trip, and of course, one of the best places for solo female travel. In fact, Portugal is ranked as the 3rd safest country based on the Global Peace Index. 

Beautiful buildings in Graca, Lisbon

Lisbon

I’ve visited Lisbon a few times now, and I love it more and more with every visit. It’s a small city, which makes it easy to navigate, and one of the best places for solo female travel. It’s also extremely affordable, with some of the best food in the world. I recommend staying somewhere central, ideally somewhere that is close to public transportation and many of the main sights. I always recommend staying near the subway or bus stop when traveling solo, so you don’t find yourself walking alone late at night.

Best Things to do in Lisbon

Get to know the city by wandering through the Alfama district, stopping for a meal on Rua dos Bacalhoeiros for a seafood dish. You’ll also want to catch a sunset in Graca, before grabbing dinner at Penalva Da Graca. And don’t leave Lisbon without a pasteis de nata — the best ones are is Belem, but you can find them all over the city.

The Best Instagram Photo Spots in Porto, Portugal - Steps to Porto Cathedral

Porto 

Best Things to do in Porto - Riberia

Best Things to do in Porto

From wandering around the streets of Riberia, to drinking port wine and dining on Portuguese classics (don’t miss the pasteis de nata), there is no shortage of great things to see and do in Porto.

Porto is incredibly solo traveler friendly, and one of my favorite cities in the world. It is a small, super walkable city so you shouldn’t need to rely too much on public transportation. 

Mexico 

I will caveat this suggestion by saying that this is probably the destination that your family will push back on the most for solo travel. I’m not going to sit here and pretend that it’s the safest destination in the world, but it is a beautiful country that can definitely be traveled smart and safely. I’ve even put together a Mexico solo travel guide, featuring Tulum, Mexico City, Guanajuato, and more!

tulum is on the best destinations for solo female travelers - cenote choo ha

Tulum

I love Tulum and have visited a handful of times, both with friends and as a solo traveler. I felt incredibly safe during all of my trips, and love how close to home the destination is. Plus, there are so many things to do on a Tulum itinerary.

Best Things to do in Tulum

matchamama-tulum

Guanajuato

Guanajuato is a true hidden gem in Mexico, and a city that I can’t wait to visit over and over again. Located in central Mexico, Guanajuato City is the capital of the state with the same name. Will rolling hills of scattered colorful buildings, and some of the best food I’ve ever eaten, Guanajuato should be on your bucket list whether you’re planning a solo trip or not. To be honest, I didn’t even know of Guanajuato’s existence until a few months before my trip there. Now I can say that it might just be one of my favorite places in the world. 

girl alone on a street in guanajuato

Italy 

I visited Italy for the first time when I was 18 (baby Taylor pictured below), when I moved into my first apartment, the start of a 4 month solo adventure in Rome. I have been back countless times since, visiting all parts of the country. From the big cities of Rome, Venice, and Florence, to the quaint towns of Cinque Terre, Lucca, and villages in Tuscany, there is so much to explore as a solo female.

gelato-rome-italy

The Dolomites

As much as I love the cities and the culture that they hold, my favorite part of Italy is the Dolomites region. The Dolomites are an excellent place for solo female travelers who are looking for adventure. What’s better than a solo road trip through one of the world’s most beautiful destinations? Plus, there are so many things to do in the Dolomites.

Best Things to do in the Dolomites

a girl in a blue dress sitting on the steps at lago di braies in the dolomites

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How to Take Your Own Photos as a Solo Traveler

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Equipment Solo photography tips Basic photography tips

Tip: Make sure to invest in a good tripod

As someone who often solo travels and has a social media presence, people are always asking me how I manage to take my own photos if I’m traveling alone. Lucky for you, I’ve got lots of easy tips to help you snap your next Instagram photo on your own. This guide will cover everything you need to know about how to take your own photos as a solo traveler. These solo photography tips and tricks will help you capture Instagram-worthy shots, and photos that include your whole body and not just an awkward face selfie.

However, this guide isn’t just for solo travelers! Maybe you want to snap some photos in your own city, but don’t have any friends or family to take photos for you – at least not good photos! And, of course, hiring a professional photographer isn’t the most budget friendly option. Plus, shooting your own photos means that you don’t need to rely on anyone else’s schedule, which is definitely a priority for me!

How to Take Your Own Photos as a Solo Traveler - girl in a loft in brooklyn ny

How to Take Your Own Photos while Traveling

Solo Photography Equipment 

Tripod

My tripod is my best friend when I’m solo traveling, and actually trying to capture quality content. I remember my early days of blogging when I used to create makeshift tripods with whatever I could find. I’ve hung my camera from a ceiling fan, propped it on a stack of piled up rocks, and even hung it from a tree branch. Anything to get the shot, right? 

Let me tell you, traveling with a tripod will make things a whole lot easier for you if you’re trying to take your own photos. However, not all tripods are made the same. There are tripods that are made for phones and tripods that are strong enough to hold the weight of your camera. If you’re only taking photos with your phone, then you can probably get away with shooting with a pretty small tripod. 

When I am shooting locally, my go-to tripod is the Polaroid 72. It is 72 inches tall and super sturdy, which gives me tons of flexibility to capture my shot exactly as I want to. Plus, it costs less than $40 USD. However, it is not the easiest tripod to travel with, as it is a bit too big for my carry-on backpack. 

If you’re looking for a sturdy tripod to travel with, you may want to consider the: JOBY RangePod Smart. It’s definitely pricier than my at-home tripod, but it’s also much better for traveling.

make sure to make a travel tripod for couples photos

Camera 

If you’re serious about upping your solo photography game, you’re going to want to invest in a camera rather than only shooting with your photo. It’s obviously a personal preference, but shooting on a camera will give you a ton more flexibility and control over your shots, especially if you’re shooting your content as RAW image files. You’re also going to want to make sure that you are using a camera with Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities. Here are a few of my favorite cameras to shoot with: 

use a tripod for couple photos

Selfie Stick

I’ll be the first to say that I don’t actually use a selfie stick myself, and never have, but I do understand the appeal if you’re trying to capture some solo shots. However, selfie shots aren’t going to be as good as capturing the full body shots! The nice thing about selfie sticks is that they’re cheap, easy to use, and easy to pack! 

Drone

Another option for taking your own photos is to shoot with a drone. This is a more expensive option that takes more skill than a simple tripod, but it definitely helps you take some incredible solo shots. I’ll be the first to admit that I have little experience flying a drone and I find it absolutely terrifying. I did manage to successfully snap some shots of myself in Bali, using @solarpoweredblonde’s drone, but I made her take off and land for me, haha. If you couldn’t guess, I don’t personally own a drone, but a lot of my friend’s rave about the DJI Mavic Pro.

Ask a Stranger 

When I first started taking photos for my blog and social pages, this was definitely my go-to method for getting photos of myself when traveling alone. I would typically offer to take a photo of a passing stranger, and have them take them for me in exchange. This method is totally hit or miss. I have some beautiful photos from passing photographers, and I have even more photos with half of my head chopped off or the famous monument completely out of focus.

If you’re traveling solo, having friends that you meet along your journey it often easier, as you can provide a bit more feedback. For example, while traveling in Tulum I met up with a fellow blogger after connecting via DM, who happily shot tons of fun content with me.

girl on a beach in miami as a solo traveler

Self-timer versus Bluetooth Remote

Most cameras and phones can be set to self-timer mode. This allows you to set up your shot, and then delay the camera for a set period of time so you can get into place. I typically delay my camera by ten seconds, and then I have it take nine photos, one photo every second. 

If you have a bluetooth remote, you can get into place first, and then set the camera to start shooting. 

Tips for Taking Your Own Photos 

Ignore the Stare

Taking your own photos in public can be incredibly uncomfortable, I get it. Trust me when I say that it took a long time for me to embrace shooting with a tripod in public. People are going to stare, not because they are necessarily judging you, but simply because you are doing something different. Ignore the stares and just do the damn thing, and don’t let anyone’s opinion stop you! 

If you’ve never used a tripod before, you may want to consider first practicing at home or in less public places. This will help you to master your technique, and snap your photos quickly and efficiently. 

practice your photo poses indoors before taking solo photos outside with a tripod

Focus the Shot

One of the biggest learning curves when you first start taking your own photos on a self-timer or tripod is making sure that all of your photos are in focus. I recommend placing an item where you will be standing, even if it’s just a hat or your bag. Focus on your camera on that spot before starting the timer and hoping into place. This will ensure that when you step into that spot, you’ll be in focus. 

Trial and Error 

Unlike having a person take your photos, when you’re taking your own pictures, there is no one to tell you when you look awkward, or your poses just aren’t quite working. I recommend practicing some poses in the mirror beforehand, so you have a couple of go-to pose options. 

Be Mindful of your Surroundings

Make sure that you keep an eye on your camera, especially if you’re in a busy, public place. I often like to take photos with my back turned away from the camera, but I make sure to glance back every few seconds, just in case. 

How to Take Your Own Photos as a Solo Traveler - practicing indoors

Shoot at Off-Peak Hours

If you’re still feeling super uncomfortable taking your own photos in public, go at off-hours so less people will be around. This means that it will be easier to get your shot, and there are less people around to watch you! I personally love to shoot at sunrise. Oftentimes it means that I have a spot to myself, or with significantly less people. It’s also a great opportunity to capture sunrise colors and the natural morning light. 

Basic Photography Tips

Natural Light 

If possible, I always recommend taking photos in good, natural light. You’ll want to make sure that as the photo subject, you are looking into the light source or sunlight. The camera, on the other hand, should not be pointed directly into the sun. 

Add Movement

Adding movement to your shot is a great way to take them to the next level. Try swishing your hair or flowing your dress to create that extra bit of movement. Here is an example of playing with the water around me, to create that extra movement.

girl taking her own photos by a lake

Add Props

Adding small props to your photos helps to make them more interesting, while also making posing easier at the same time. For example, I like to wear a hat, as it gives me something to hold on to, or play around with.

Other good photo props or accessories include:

Interested in travel blogging? Make sure to check out these articles:

Interested in solo travel? Here are some must-reads:

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If there is one thing to know about me it is that I love Mexico. Well really I love all travel, but Mexico is one of those countries that I just keep visiting, again and again. The close proximity to the US makes it an easy and affordable trip. What I love about Mexico it that it has so much to offer, from sandy beaches and striking cliffs, to bustling cities with incredible cuisine (plus all of tequila and mezcal, of course). However, one of the questions that I get the most is on Mexico solo travel, and the best places in Mexico to travel alone. 

girl sitting on street in guanajuato
Mexico Solo Female Travel

Solo Female Travel: Why everyone should experience solo travel 

If you’ve never taken a solo trip before, you may want to first take a step back and dive into some of my solo travel resources. This guide covers exactly how to “become a solo traveller” a question that people ask me all of the time! I also have resources that outline my top tips for solo travel, as well as guides on how to choose the best hostel, how to make friends while traveling solo, and, of course, why everyone should experience backpacking alone. 

Why Should I Travel Solo to Mexico?

Mexico is truly one of the best solo travel destinations! I could go on for days listing all of the reasons that I love Mexico, but here are a few of the aspects that make it a great destination for solo travelers:

Casual Dining Options 

While I personally love dining solo, the experience is not for everyone, especially in more upscale dining locales. Luckily, you can find Mexico’s best dining options on street corners and in bustling markets, with some of the best street food in the world. 

crab tostadas at contramar
Best restaurants in Mexico City

Mexico is Easy to Get to (from the US)

If you’re traveling to Mexico from the US, it is extremely easy to get to. You can find direct flights to Mexico City, Cancun, Guanajuato, and Los Cabos from a number of major cities across the US, usually within 2-6 hours

Cheap $

Mexico is both cheap to get to, for those traveling from the US, and super affordable as a travel destination. There is a misconception that traveling in Mexico is all expensive resorts and beach clubs, but it definitely doesn’t need to be that way. Here is my ultimate guide to Tulum on a budget.   

Mexico Solo Travel: Is it safe?

No matter where in the world you’re traveling, you’re going to want to follow my smart solo female traveler safety tips. There is no denying that there is a higher rate of crime in Mexico, and other nearby countries in Central America. However, there are lots of ways to stay safe as solo traveler in Mexico. Just like any country, there are cities and neighborhoods with varying levels of crime. It is important to do your research in advance, so that you understand these nuances and can have a great trip. Based on my own travels and experiences, I feel that Mexico solo travel can be safe, as long as you are taking the right safety measures. I have solo traveled in Mexico before, and plan to do so again in the future!

swimming at the cenotes in tulum, mexico solo travel
Exploring Tulum as a Solo Female Traveler

Solo Female Travel Safety Tips

Here are a few high level tips for staying safe as a solo female traveler in Mexico, or anywhere else in the world. 

As for the safety of traveling alone in Mexico, as long as you are taking the necessary precautions, you can have a super fun and safe solo adventure! 

girl twirling in the jungles of tulum

Best Places in Mexico to Travel Alone 

As I mentioned above, a destination’s level of safety is super dependent on the safety measures that you take when solo traveling. However, I’m going to outline a few of my favorite places in Mexico, and the safest places to visit in Mexico. This list is by no means comprehensive of all of the other incredible cities to visit in Mexico, just a snippet of my favorite spots. 

girl poolside in tulum

Tulum

In my opinion, Tulum is one of the safest places in Mexico to vacation. I have personally taken two Tulum solo travel trips, plus I led an awesome group of ladies there on one of my small group trips, and had an absolute blast each time. 

Tulum is located on the Yucatan peninsula. While travel safety in certain parts of Mexico is questionable, as I’ve discussed throughout this guide, Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula is well-known as a safe and beautiful destination. Tulum is quickly becoming one of Mexico’s trendiest destinations, known for their bohemian beach vibes, yoga retreats, and delicious healthy cuisine. You could spend a week just dining at all of the best restaurants in Tulum. Plus, I swear Tulum has the most Instagrammable spots.

Both the beach strip and Tulum town are super walkable, but if you are trying to get between the two I recommend biking. It is a super cheap, easy, and active way to get around Tulum on a budget. If you’re traveling to one of the nearby cities, or from Cancun airport to Tulum, the ADO bus is an easy option for solo travelers visiting Tulum. 

From here you can visit other nearby destinations, such as Holbox or Puerto Vallarta. There are also a number of great day trips.

Where to Stay in Tulum

Budget: Amorcito Corazon Hotel y Hostel

The rooms are clean and the staff is super friendly and helpful. The property has both a downstairs common area and a rooftop with a small pool. Dorm beds start at $16 USD/night, while private rooms start at $50 USD/night, making it a great option for anyone traveling to Tulum solo or on a budget.  Breakfast is included in the price of the room.

Budget: Mama’s Home Hostel 

Mama’s Home hostel is a great option if you’re traveling solo and looking for a more social atmosphere. Dorm beds start at $16 per night and private rooms start around $65/night.

Mid-Range: Una Vida

Una Vida is a great, moderately priced accommodation option in Tulum. Located in Tulum center, Una Vida has a large, Instagrammable pool, minimilist decor, and a great location for exploring the city. Prices start around $90 USD/night.

Luxury: Be Tulum

Be Tulum is one of the top hotels in Tulum, but with it comes a steep price tag. A night at Be Tulum averages close to $1,000 USD/night, for what will definitely be an unforgettable experience.

Luxury: Nomade

Everything about Nomade is perfect, from the decor to their various restaurants. Not to mention, your room will be only steps from the beach! Rooms typically range from between $300 USD – $700 USD per night.

Luxury: Azulik

Azulik is a luxury, eco-friendly haven. With no wifi or electricity, this hotel boasts some of the most interesting looking rooms. Whether you stay here as a guest, or stop by for a meal, Azulik should definitely be added to your Tulum itinerary.

colorful streets of Guanajuato
Exploring the Colorful Streets of Guanajuato

Guanajuato 

Guanajuato is a true hidden gem in Mexico, and a city that I can’t wait to visit over and over again. Located in central Mexico, Guanajuato City is the capital of the state with the same name. Will rolling hills of scattered colorful buildings, and some of the best food I’ve ever eaten, Guanajuato should be on your bucket list whether you’re planning a solo trip or not. To be honest, I didn’t even know of Guanajuato’s existence until a few months before my trip there. Now I can say that it might just be one of my favorite places in the world. 

girl sitting on street in san miguel de allende

San Miguel de Allende 

San Miguel de Allende is located in central Mexico, in the state of Guanajuato. San Miguel has been named the Best City in the World a handful of times, and it’s easy to see why. It is also a hub for artists all over the world, and is home to more than 100 locally owned galleries for you to explore. 

Where to Eat in San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel is known for its great restaurant scene. Here are a few spots to check out:

QUINCE

Begin your weekend escape with a sunset cocktail at the QUINCE rooftop bar. With perfect views of the famous Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, this is a spot that you can’t miss!

Bovine

Bovine Brasserie is a luxury dining experience that is not to be missed! Located right in the center, this is the perfect way to jumpstart your weekend away! I highly recommend the tomato salad, with fresh buffalo mozzarella, peaches, and basil, as well as the grilled octopus over a bed of hummus.

El Camaroncito

If there is one restaurant that you shouldn’t miss while in San Miguel de Allende, it is this one! You’ll recognize El Camaroncito by the long line of local waiting for a table. Come early and place your order, two different sizes of the same classic shrimp ceviche. The sauce is super mild, but you’ll find tons of spices on the table to add more flavor.

Baja Fish Taquito

It can be a bit difficult to find good, affordable restaurants in San Miguel de Allende. This one checks all of the boxes for cheap and delicious tacos. The shrimp are definitely the way to go, washed down with some fresh juice or a beer.

girl in mexico city at sunset

Mexico City

Mexico City is a destination that is seeping with culture, has tons to see and do, and quite possibly offers some of the best food in the world. Whether you have 1 day or 1 month to explore Mexico City, you won’t run out of places to explore and enjoy. 

Traveling to Mexico City alone is a decision that might raise some eyebrows, but that does not mean that it’s ridiculous or impossible to visit as a solo female traveler. While all of my trips to Mexico City have been with a friend or family, I met tons of other solo female travelers who were traveling to Mexico City alone with no issues. 

That being said, it is super important to use your common sense if you’re traveling to Mexico City during a Mexico solo travel trip. I recommend staying in a hostel, which is one of the best ways to make friends when traveling solo. There is always safety in numbers, especially if you plan on enjoying Mexico City’s incredible nightlife. Of course, if there is only one thing that you do in Mexico City, make sure you’re enjoying all of the city’s best street food. 

Where to Stay in CDMX

Let me start by saying that I absolutely love Mexico City. There is no denying the fact that there is a higher rate of both violent and non-violent crime in the city, however in the more touristy neighborhoods, the most common crime is theft. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to consider for your solo trip to Mexico City:

Getting around Mexico City

When it comes to getting around the city, especially at night, I recommend using a ride sharing app like Uber, rather than a taxi. Ubers are incredibly cheap in CDMX, and offer the additional safety features of tracking your ride and driver rates. Plus, you can share your rides with your friends or family back at home, so they are notified any time you start and end a new ride. 

How to Meet People in Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler

As a I’ve mentioned a few times throughout this article, staying at a hostel is one of the best ways to make friends when traveling in Mexico alone. It is also one of the most affordable ways to travel. However, I totally understand that not everybody loves the idea of sharing a bedroom with a bunch of strangers. If you’re looking for the social atmosphere, without the shared dorm, most hostels also offer private rooms. These tend to be similarly priced as a guesthouse or AirBnb, but will offer the social atmosphere that accompanies a hostel. 

If even private rooms aren’t your thing, there are still plenty of other ways to make friends when traveling alone in Mexico. I recommend booking local tours to meet fellow travelers. These can range from cultural walking tours or street food tours, to more adventurous hiking or activity-based trips. 

What next?

Planning a trip to Mexico? Here are some articles to check out:

Interested in solo travel? Check out these articles:

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