Solo travel can feel intimidating—especially if you’re used to traveling with a partner or group of friends. But it can also be incredibly liberating. No waiting on others. No debates over dinner plans. No need to utter the words, “I’m fine with whatever you want.” Traveling solo means crafting your own itinerary—and that’s a gift when you want to explore a place at your own pace.
Emmy-winning TV host and travel expert Darley Newman is a longtime advocate of solo journeys. Having explored more than 40 countries for her PBS and streaming series Travels with Darley, one of her most empowering discoveries isn’t just about where you go—it’s about going alone.
“For women, solo travel can be incredibly transformative... You gain confidence, global perspectives, worldliness and a stronger sense of self.”
-Darley Newman
Whether you're eyeing a trip across the globe or planning a solo weekend closer to home, Newman shares her favorite destinations that feel safe, soul-stirring and easy to navigate—plus the powerful moments she’s had while exploring them solo. From horse whispering in Santa Fe to temple cooking in South Korea, each one offers something unique for the independent traveler.
Related: The Southern Destination Everyone Should Visit Once, According to Darley Newman
What Every Woman Gains From Traveling Solo
Riding the ponies at Congress Park CarouselCourtesy of Darley Newman
According to Newman, solo travel allows you to become more independent and self-aware. “I’ve definitely stepped out of my comfort zone a lot in my life and on my travels,” she says. “I believe I’m a more accepting, empathetic and creative individual because of these experiences.”
She recalls a solo drive through North Dakota as a particularly liberating adventure. “By saying yes to a few invitations, I ended up seeing a hockey game in Grand Forks and dining at Harry’s Steakhouse. I’m actually going back this summer because of that solo trip!”
7 Inspiring Destinations Every Woman Should Visit Solo, According to Darley Newman
1. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Exploring the Santa Fe Indian MarketCourtesy of Darley Newman
A city that keeps calling Newman back, Santa Fe tops her list for solo travelers. “It’s a great all-around travel spot, and as a solo female traveler, I can mix wellness, food and art,” she says. Over the years, she’s returned to Santa Fe many times, drawn by its transformative experiences. One highlight was the EQUUS Experience, where she connected with horses through mindfulness-based groundwork. Just over an hour away at Ghost Ranch, she met cowboy David Manzanares, who grew up alongside Georgia O’Keeffe and offered a deeply personal perspective on the iconic artist. “It’s rich, unexpected moments like these that keep me coming back,” she shares.
www.iheart.com/podcast/53-travels-with-darley-123513653/episode/santa-fe-indian-market-a-guide-257906063/
While you're there, she recommends visiting:
Ten Thousand Waves for a tranquil spa escape.Santa Fe Indian Market and International Folk Art Market to connect with the creative local community. You can listen to Darley’s Santa Fe Indian Market podcast here:Canyon Road, a famous half-mile stretch with more than 100 galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. "Look for artist Patricia Marin, who started painting in her 60s and shares an inspiring entrepreneurial story if you want to connect while viewing art," shares Newman.Ghost Ranch, for cowboy lore and stories of Georgia O’Keeffe from locals who knew her.The EQUUS Experience, where you commune with horses to gain powerful insights. "It surprised me how much I was able to connect with the horses and, in turn, learn more about myself. I highly recommend it."2. Charleston, South Carolina
Darley wandering Rainbow Row in CharlestonCourtesy of Darley Newman
Looking for Southern charm and walkability? Charleston delivers big time. "For travelers who don’t want to drive, you can definitely walk around and have a car-free vacation, she says. "There’s so much history at places like the Charleston City Market, Rainbow Row and the many historic homes you can explore all on foot.”
She recommends staying in a boutique hotel like:
Wentworth Mansion, a 21-room historic property with luxe European vibes, original Tiffany stained glass and evening wine and hors d’oeuvres included with your stay.Kings Courtyard Inn, a more affordable—yet central—option set in an 1853 building with courtyard views, complimentary breakfast and easy access to King Street.Hotel Bennett, a splurge-worthy gem overlooking Marion Square with a rooftop pool and Instagram-famous pink champagne lounge, Camellias.3. Florence, Italy
Views over the Cathedral of Santa Maria del FioreGetty Images
This Renaissance city is close to Darley’s heart. “I studied abroad here and returned for a friend’s wedding. Renting an apartment near the Duomo made me feel like a local," she says.
For solo women travelers, Florence offers the perfect balance of safety, soul and stimulation, with countless opportunities to explore at your own pace or linger in a piazza with gelato and a good book. "There are plenty of museums, restaurants, churches, cafes and art galleries where you can eat well, learn and grow."
Darley recommends:
Countless art museums and galleries like the Galleria degli Uffizi and the Accademia Gallery for masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo and da Vinci.Sampling world-class Italian cuisine. A must is Mercato Centrale, a bustling two-level food hall where you can sample everything from truffle pasta to fresh burrata.Take a walking tour to witness the inspiring history and architecture around every corner. Looking to get out of the city? Day trip to nearby Tuscan towns like Siena, Lucca or San Gimignano.Related: 7 Things You Should Do in Florence at Least Once, According to Celeb Travel Experts
4. Reykjavik, Iceland
The capital city of Reykjavik, with snow-capped peaks in the backgroundTim Graham/Getty Images
“Iceland is a great destination to go it alone, but also one where there are plenty of activities and adventures you can book if you want to meet other travelers and locals, too," she explains.
Her top things to do in Reykjavik:
Horseback riding with Íshestar to explore the countryside, have an active adventure and, of course, experience the unique way that the Icelandic horses move.Snowmobiling on glaciers for a high-octane experience.Local spas and gyms in Reykjavik are a great way to connect with residents in a relaxing environment.5. Seoul, South Korea
Baekyangsa TempleVisit Korea
If you're craving a solo trip that’s both energizing and deeply grounding, Seoul offers an ideal mix of tradition, innovation, and introspection, according to Newman. "There are plenty of ways to mingle with locals that are unique."
For something truly out-of-the-ordinary, she recommends experiencing a templestay. “You can actually stay at Baekyangsa Temple, featured in Chef’s Table, and take a cooking class with Buddhist nun and renowned chef Jeong Kwan,” she shares. The peaceful mountain setting, paired with mindfulness practices and vegetarian temple cuisine, offers a powerful reset for the soul.
Beyond the templestay, Newman recommends:
Themed cafés, which are everywhere in Seoul, range from cat and flower cafés to traditional Korean tea houses.Strolling Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can explore traditional Korean houses nestled among narrow lanes and artisan shops. Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest markets in Korea, where you can try dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) or watch fresh mayak kimbap being rolled in front of you. It’s a great place to eat adventurously on your own.A visit to a jjimjilbang (Korean bathhouse) for a relaxing solo escape and glimpse into everyday Korean wellness culture.6. Québec City, Québec
Admiring Parc des Chutes-de-la-Chaudière
Courtesy of Darley Newman
View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article“Québec City is another great one to visit as a solo woman traveler," says Newman. "It's super walkable, historic, beautiful and fun, plus, you can get a taste of Europe without leaving North America." Another bonus? This Canadian province is accessible from most major U.S. cities, and a quick 2.5-hour flight (or less) from Chicago, New York, Philadelphia and Boston.
Her top recommendations while there:
Cicerone walking tours to get oriented.A stay at Hotel Monastère des Augustines, where you can do yoga and unplug in a peaceful, affordable setting.For those who want some outdoor adventures, you can travel just 15 minutes outside of the city to experience awe-inspiring waterfalls—like Chaudière Falls Park—over 200 hiking trails, 13 wildlife reserves, a plethora of farms and more. Or, see the city from high above the treetops on a suspended bicycle with VéloVolant.7. Saratoga, New York
Unique hats abound at HatsationalCourtesy of Darley Newman
"Saratoga, New York, is a wonderful place to travel solo, especially if you want to combine history with active pursuits and support women-owned businesses along the way," shares Newman. Although many might already be familiar with the Upstate New York destination thanks to the Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest horse racing tracks in the country, fewer might be aware that it's a hot springs hot spot, boasting more than 20 naturally carbonated mineral springs, each with a bounty of healing benefits.
Newman’s highlights include:
Saratoga Arms, a historic women-owned inn within walking distance of restaurants, shops and attractions.Hatsational, a boutique featuring handmade hats and accessories.Caffe Lena, a legendary folk music venue led by women, where you might catch a set from Cassandra Kubinski.Saratoga National Historical Park and the Schuyler House, which offers a tie-in to Hamilton's history.Roosevelt Baths & Spa for a relaxing soak, or a self-guided walking tour inside Saratoga Spa State Park.Unlike couples trips and group getaways, traveling solo means being the only one dealing with logistics, navigation and real-time decisions. Safety concerns can be a huge factor when you're in a new destination without someone else to lean on, so Darley emphasizes preparedness and awareness:
Research your destination thoroughly. This means mapping out how you'll get around and what places you'll visit, as well as any areas you may want to avoid (i.e., remote parts of Egypt or Morocco without a guide, rural pockets of India and even the 18th, 19th or 20th arrondissements of Paris late at night).Let someone know your itinerary—and keep them updated. Send friends and family members pins of your locations and check in along the way.Always trust your gut: “If something or someone doesn’t feel right, move along," she warns.Related: 'I've Been Solo Adventuring For 3 Decades—This Is the One Destination I Recommend to Everyone'
Best Solo Travel Experiences to Book
Want to break the ice and experience a new place like a local? Newman recommends food tours. “You often visit restaurants that you may not have had on your radar, and because you’re in a small group setting, you meet other travelers," she says. "Plus, you can pick the brain of your tour guide for other things to experience on your trip—it’s a win all around!"
She’s had memorable food tours in cities like:
Dubai: Check out GetYourGuide, female-owned Frying Pan Adventures and Secret Food Tours.Tokyo: Try Ninja Food Tours with female guides like Yuka and Andrea, who are experienced in the food and restaurant industry, or Shun Tours for food crawls designed by the founder, Tokyo Foodie Sarah.Pasadena: Reach out to Melting Pot Food Tours, founded by sisters Diane and Lisa Scalia, to sample Pasadena's independent, family-run restaurants that have been in business for decades.Darley’s must-haves:
XE App for real-time currency exchangeAirline and hotel apps for ease and check-insDigital backups of all your travel infoNervous About Your First Solo Trip? Start Small
Newman’s advice: “Do your research and go. If you’re nervous, start with a shorter trip closer to home to test the waters. Solo travel isn’t for everyone, but it can be transformative.”
Ready to go it alone? Whether you're drawn to the desert stillness of Santa Fe or the bustling streets of Seoul, these destinations prove that the world opens up in beautiful, surprising ways when you explore it solo.
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