Traveling solo as a woman can be an incredibly empowering and enriching experience. Whether seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or personal growth, the world is full of destinations that are both affordable and welcoming to solo female travelers. In this blog post, we've compiled a list of the top 10 budget-friendly cities across the continents that offer a perfect blend of safety, affordability, and a wealth of activities to enjoy.
1- Asia: Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Travelers often praise Chiang Mai for its warmth and hospitality. The city is known for being particularly accommodating to solo female travelers, with many resources and communities geared towards making your stay comfortable and enjoyable. It's easy to meet other travelers and locals alike, which enhances the experience of exploring this beautiful city.Affordability
Chiang Mai is incredibly budget-friendly with affordable accommodation, street food, and transportation.Daily Budget: $30-$40 (includes accommodation, food, and local transport)
Accommodation
Hostels and guesthouses are abundant and very affordable, with many offering female-only dorms.Budget Hostels: $5-$10 per night
Mid-Range Hotels: $20-$40 per night
Mid-Range Hotels: $20-$40 per night
Flights
Flights to Thailand are reasonably priced, especially from major hubs in Asia.Average Flight Cost: $400-$700 (round trip from major cities in Asia)
- Participate in a Thai cooking class. ($20-$30)
- Visit the famous Night Bazaar for shopping and food (Free to explore, budget $10-$20 for shopping)
Safety
Chiang Mai is known for being safe, welcoming, and tourist-friendly.Things to Do
- Explore ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang (Free and/or $2 entrance fees)- Participate in a Thai cooking class. ($20-$30)
- Visit the famous Night Bazaar for shopping and food (Free to explore, budget $10-$20 for shopping)
2- Europe: Budapest, Hungary
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Visitors frequently commend Budapest for its welcoming environment and diverse range of attractions. Solo female travelers appreciate the city's safe atmosphere and the ease of navigating its public transportation system. The affordability of Budapest allows for an enriching travel experience without breaking the bank, making it a top choice for budget-conscious explorers.Affordability
Budapest offers excellent value for money, from its accommodations to dining options.Daily budget: $50-$70
Budget Hostel (Wombat's City Hostel): $15-$30 per night.Accommodation
Many budget hostels and boutique hotels are available, with some offering female-only options.Mid-Range Hostel (Avenue Hostel): $30-$60 per night
Average Flight Cost: $100-$200 (within Europe)
- Walk along the Danube River and explore Buda Castle.
Flights
Budget airlines frequently offer low-cost flights to Budapest.Average Flight Cost: $100-$200 (within Europe)
Safety
Budapest is considered one of the safer cities in Europe for solo travelers.Activities
- Soak in the thermal baths like Széchenyi or Gellért. $10-$20- Walk along the Danube River and explore Buda Castle.
- Walking tours: Free (tips recommended $10-$15)
- Discover the vibrant nightlife in the ruin bars. $3-$5 per drink.
- Discover the vibrant nightlife in the ruin bars. $3-$5 per drink.
3- Africa: Cape Town, South Africa
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Travelers often highlight Cape Town's stunning landscapes and diverse activities. Solo female travelers find the city both exciting and accommodating, especially when sticking to well-traveled areas. The variety of experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural tours, ensures that there's something for everyone in this captivating city.Affordability
Cape Town offers a range of affordable experiences and accommodations.
Daily Budget: $40-$70
Accommodation
Hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb options are available at various price points.
Budget Hostels: (Villa Viva Cape Town): $15-$30 per night.
Flights
Though flights can be pricey, booking in advance can lead to great deals.
Average Flight Cost: $600-$900 (round trip from major cities in the US or Europe)
Safety
While Cape Town has areas to avoid, many parts are safe for tourists, especially the well-trodden paths.
Activities
- Explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront: Free to explore
- Visit Robben Island and learn about its history: $25-$30
4- North America: Mexico City, Mexico
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Affordability
Mexico City is known for its affordable food, lodging, and activities.
Daily Budget: $40-$60.
Daily Budget: $40-$60.
Accommodation
There are
many budget hostels, boutique hotels, and Airbnb options.
Budget Hostels: (Hostel Home): $10-$15 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels: (Hotel Castropol): $25-$45 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels: (Hotel Castropol): $25-$45 per night.
Flights
Average Flight Cost: $300-$500 (round trip from major US cities).
Safety
While some
areas should be avoided, central and tourist areas are generally safe.
Things to Do
- Teotihuacan pyramids tour: $30-$50
- Explore the Frida Kahlo Museum: $10
- Zócalo: Free to explore
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Roma and Condesa neighborhoods.
5- South America: Medellin, Colombia
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Travelers frequently note the warmth and friendliness of the people in Medellín. Solo female travelers often feel welcomed and safe in the city's popular areas. The efficient public transportation system and the city's emphasis on innovation and development have made it a favorite among those looking to explore Colombia's rich culture and history.Affordability
Medellín is very budget-friendly, offering cheap food, transport, and accommodation.Daily Budget: $30-$50
Accommodation
Budget Hostels(Los Patios Hostal Boutique): $8-$15 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels (Elemont Hotel): $20-$40 per night.
Flights
Average Flight Cost: $400-$700 (round trip from the US)
Safety
The city
has significantly improved its safety and is now a popular destination for solo
travelers.
Activities
- Visit the Botero Plaza and Museo de Antioquia: $5-$7
- Parque Arví tour: Free to explore, guided tours $10-$20
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in El Poblado.
6- Asia: Hanoi, Vietnam
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Visitors often laud Hanoi for its vibrant street life and delicious cuisine. Solo female travelers appreciate the city's safe environment and the hospitality of its residents. The abundance of cultural sites and the ease of meeting other travelers contribute to making Hanoi a top choice for those exploring Southeast Asia.
Affordability
Hanoi is very budget-friendly, with cheap food, transport, and accommodation.
Daily Budget: $20-$30
A variety of hostels and budget hotels are available.
Budget Hostels: (Hanoi Old Quarter View): $5-$10 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels: (La Storia Ruby Hotel): $20-$30 per night.
Daily Budget: $20-$30
Accommodation
Budget Hostels: (Hanoi Old Quarter View): $5-$10 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels: (La Storia Ruby Hotel): $20-$30 per night.
Flights
Several airlines offer affordable flights to Hanoi.
Average Flight Cost: $400-$700 (round trip from major Asian cities)
Average Flight Cost: $400-$700 (round trip from major Asian cities)
Safety
Hanoi is generally very safe for solo travelers. Use common sense and avoid poorly lit areas at night.Activities
- Explore the Temple of Literature: $1-$2.
- Take a Halong Bay tour: $40-$70.
- Wander around the Old Quarter and enjoy the street food.
7- Europe: Lisbon, Portugal
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Travelers often praise Lisbon for its friendly locals and safe environment. Solo female travelers find the city easy to navigate and rich in cultural experiences. The vibrant nightlife, coupled with numerous historical and scenic attractions, makes Lisbon a highly recommended destination for those exploring Europe.
Affordability
Lisbon is very affordable, with reasonably priced food, transportation, and accommodation.
Daily Budget: $50-$70 Accommodation
A variety of hostels and budget hotels are available.
Budget Hostels: (Yes Lisbon Hostel): $15-$25 per night. Mid-Range Hotels: (Lisbon Destination Hostel): $40-$60 per night.
Flights
Several airlines offer affordable flights to Lisbon.
Average Flight Cost: $100-$200 (within Europe)
- Visit Belém Tower: $6.
- Explore the Jerónimos Monastery: $10.
- Enjoy an evening of Fado music: $20-$30.
- Stroll through the Alfama district.
Average Flight Cost: $100-$200 (within Europe)
Safety
Lisbon is very safe for solo travelers, with a low crime rate in tourist areas.Activities
- Explore the Jerónimos Monastery: $10.
- Enjoy an evening of Fado music: $20-$30.
- Stroll through the Alfama district.
8- Africa: Marrakech, Morocco
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Visitors often remark on the sensory overload that Marrakech provides, from the sights and sounds of the souks to the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Solo female travelers appreciate the city's unique charm and the variety of experiences it offers. Being mindful of local customs and staying in reputable accommodations can enhance the safety and enjoyment of the trip.Affordability
Marrakech is very budget-friendly, with affordable food, transport, and accommodation.Daily Budget: $40-$60
Accommodation
Budget Hostels: (Riad Hostel JAD ZIAD): $10-$20 per night.
Mid-Range Riads: (Maison Ka): $30-$50 per night.
Flights
Average Flight Cost: $100-$200 (within Europe)
Safety
Generally safe in tourist areas. Be cautious about scams and avoid poorly lit areas at night.Things to Do
- Visit Majorelle Garden: $7-$10.
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan hammam: $20-$40.
- Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains.
9- North America: Guatemala City, Guatemala
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Travelers often highlight the cultural depth and friendly locals of Guatemala City. Solo female travelers find the city to be engaging and full of interesting activities. While it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, the city's vibrant atmosphere and affordable experiences make it a worthwhile destination.Affordability
Guatemala City is very budget-friendly, with cheap food, transport, and accommodation.Daily Budget: $30-$50
Accommodation
Budget Hostels: (Tequila Sunrise Hostel): $10-$15 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels: (Mariana's Petit Hotel): $20-$40 per night.
Flights
Average Flight Cost: $300-$500 (round trip from major US cities)
Safety
Stick to well-known areas and avoid less-traveled neighborhoods. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night.Things to Do
- Explore the Metropolitan Cathedral: Free.
- Take day trips to Antigua: $20-$40.
- Wander through the bustling markets.
10- South America: Quito, Ecuador
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Visitors frequently commend Quito for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Solo female travelers feel welcomed and safe in the city's tourist areas. The ease of access to both cultural and natural attractions ensures that there's always something new to explore in this enchanting Ecuadorian capital.Affordability
Quito is very budget-friendly, with cheap food, transport, and accommodation.Daily Budget: $30-$50
Accommodation
Budget Hostels: (Community HostelCommunity Hostel): $8-$15 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels: (Dakani Hotel Boutique): $20-$40 per night.
Flights
Average Flight Cost: $400-$700 (round trip from major cities in the Americas)
Safety
Quito is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. Use standard precautions and avoid isolated areas after dark.Activities
- Visit the Mitad del Mundo monument: $5-$10.
- Take a tour of Cotopaxi National Park: $40-$60.
- Enjoy the vibrant local markets.
In a nutshell, exploring the world as a solo female traveler can be both safe and affordable with the right planning. These ten cities offer a range of experiences from rich cultural histories to breathtaking natural landscapes, all while being budget-friendly. Remember to research accommodation options and flight prices ahead of time for the best deals, and always take standard safety precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Safe travels and happy exploring!