Best First Solo Destinations for Women Over 60
- suebraybon
- Nov 18, 2025
- 4 min read
Travelling solo for the first time—especially later in life—is one of the most empowering experiences you can give yourself. Whether you’re craving culture, gardens, gentle adventure, or simply the joy of moving at your own pace, there are plenty of beginner solo travel destinations perfect for women over 60. These places are safe, easy to navigate, rich in history, and full of friendly locals who welcome travellers warmly.
To help with planning, I’ve added day tour and walking tour links on my website, making it easier to research and book your activities in advance.
Here are some of the best solo holidays to consider for your first international trip.
1. London, England – The Easiest Solo Starter City
London remains one of the world’s most reliable safe travel destinations for women, and I can personally vouch for how simple it is to navigate—I’ve now visited three times, and each visit has been effortless. With an excellent Tube network, frequent buses, and English-speaking locals, it’s ideal for first-time solo travellers.
London is brimming with iconic attractions—Buckingham Palace, Kensington Gardens, Westminster Abbey—and endless free museums. Make time for day trips to Kew Gardens, Windsor, or the spectacular Hampton Court Palace.
And wherever you go, research the must-see spots and book at least one walking tour. They’re one of the easiest ways for solo travellers to learn the city layout and meet others.
If you prefer a blend of independence and structure, small-group tours are fantastic options.
2. The Gardens & Villages of England
If you adore scenic countryside and peaceful landscapes, English gardens are heaven for solo travellers. The Cotswolds, with its charming villages and gentle walking trails, is picture-perfect and very safe.
For deeper immersion, look for English garden tours that visit spectacular estates such as Sissinghurst, Hidcote, and even the Chelsea Flower Show.
3. Exploring the English Countryside by Car
If you're comfortable driving, hiring a car is a wonderful way to explore the English countryside at your own pace. I took a train to Exeter, hired a car, and spent a week exploring South West England, including a beautiful couple of days in St Ives. It was relaxing, scenic, and gave me the freedom to stop in villages, coastal lookouts, and historic sites whenever I liked.
If you’re nervous about driving overseas, airports are an ideal place to pick up and return your car—they offer wide roads, clear signage, and far less city traffic to navigate.
4. France – Wine Regions, Culture & Slow Travel
France offers a beautiful mix of elegance and ease. The wine regions—Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, and the Loire Valley—are ideal for Europe trips women often choose as their first solo adventure. Safe towns, scenic drives, and great train routes make France very beginner-friendly.
I’m excited to share that I’ve booked a France wine region tour for 2026 with Backroads Touring, with a few days in Paris beforehand and a week on the French Riviera afterwards. It’s a lovely blend of culture, countryside, and seaside relaxation.
Remember: always research must-do attractions and walking tours—France has some excellent themed tours that bring the history and food culture to life.
5. Ireland – Friendly, Scenic & Soul-Nourishing
Ireland’s warm hospitality makes it a dream destination for women travelling solo. It’s safe, English-speaking, gentle to navigate, and filled with breathtaking scenery.
Explore Dublin, enjoy live music in cosy pubs, and bask in the natural beauty of Killarney, Galway, and the coastal cliffs. For your first solo trip, Ireland offers comfort with just enough adventure.
6. Scotland – Castles, History & Dramatic Landscapes
Scotland blends rugged landscapes with rich heritage. Edinburgh is a brilliant starting point—compact, easy to walk, and full of historical treasures. It’s also the gateway to day trips through the Highlands, Stirling, and Loch Lomond.
Garden lovers and history enthusiasts will find many specialist tours that explore Scotland’s estates, castles, and dramatic scenery.
7. Italy – Culture, Food & Easy City Strolls
Italy is consistently one of the best solo holidays for women over 60. The combination of walkable cities, outstanding food, and effortless train travel makes it wonderfully beginner-friendly.
Try Florence for art and gentle city strolling, Venice for canal-side wandering, or Rome for iconic landmarks. For slower travel, Tuscany and the lakes district offer tranquility, great food, and postcard-perfect scenery.
8. Asia for Beginners – Singapore & Japan
If you'd like to dip your toes into Asia, Singapore and Japan are excellent starter destinations.
Singapore is incredibly safe, clean, and English-friendly—with beautiful gardens, great food, and an easy transport system.
Japan offers calm, respectful interactions, exceptional public transport, and friendly locals. Begin with cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka to keep navigation simple.
Final Thoughts
Your first solo adventure should feel empowering, enjoyable, and manageable. Whether you begin with a simple Melbourne getaway, explore London’s landmarks, wander through English villages, or immerse yourself in the wine regions of France, each destination offers a safe and enriching experience perfect for beginner solo travellers.
Don’t forget: research must-do attractions and book walking tours. They build confidence, connect you with others, and help you get the most out of every destination. And if you need ideas, I’ve included handy day tour and walking tour links on my website to make planning even easier.
If you're ready for more destination inspiration and practical solo travel tips, browse the latest travel blogs on my website.
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