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Ultimate Places across the Globe for Female Travel

Girls’ trips are undoubtedly one of life’s simple pleasures, but we all know that there’s nothing less simple than travel plans making it out of the group chat and actually materializing. That’s why we’ve made it easy for you with our Female Travel Index. 

Come with us as we present the best countries for female travel in 2023. Whether you’re embarking on an annual girls’ trip, a bachelorette celebration, or a solo adventure, our research aims to provide a well-equipped guide for women seeking safe and enjoyable travel destinations. 

By analyzing six key factors—safety, treatment towards women, travel and tourism development, restaurants per capita, hotels per capita, and the average price of a bottle of wine—we have examined 190 countries, revealing the top 25. So, sit back, grab a cuppa (or a pina colada), and let’s uncover the top destinations to find your perfect getaway!

Top 10 Destinations for Female Travel

Ultimate Places Across the Globe for Female Travel 2023

1. Iceland

Svartifoss Waterfall Iceland
Blue Lagoon Iceland

Prepare to be mesmerized by Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to volcanic wonders. Known for its commitment to gender equality, Iceland offers female travelers a safe and inclusive environment. Explore Reykjavik’s vibrant cultural scene, soak in geothermal spas, and chase the mystical Northern Lights for an unforgettable adventure.

 

Iceland’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 1st

Total Index Points: 55.5

2. Portugal

Algarve
Lisbon Portugal

Portugal beckons with its warm Mediterranean climate, charming coastal towns, and rich history. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the stunning beaches of the Algarve, this country offers a delightful mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure. Indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, wander through ancient castles, and unwind with a glass of Port wine.

 

Portugal’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 2

Total Points: 55.1

3. Slovenia

Lake Bled Slovenia
Ljubljana Slovenia

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Slovenia is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. Explore the enchanting Lake Bled, hike through Triglav National Park, and wander the charming streets of Ljubljana, the capital city. Slovenian hospitality, picturesque landscapes, and a burgeoning food and wine scene make it a perfect destination for female travelers.

 

Slovenia’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 3

Total Points: 55.0

4. Austria

Vienna
Austrian Alps

Immerse yourself in the imperial charm of Austria, where classical music, stunning architecture, and Alpine landscapes collide. Stroll through Vienna’s romantic streets, marvel at Salzburg’s grandeur, and embrace outdoor adventures in the Alps. Austria’s rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality create an inviting atmosphere for female travelers.

 

Austria’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 4

Total Points: 53.6

5. Finland

Finland
Northern Lights Finland

Known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, Finland offers a unique blend of nature, tranquillity, and modern design. Experience the magic of Lapland, witness the captivating Northern Lights, and rejuvenate in a traditional Finnish sauna. With its commitment to gender equality and a strong emphasis on safety, Finland is an ideal destination for female travelers seeking serenity and adventure.

 

Finland’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 5

Total Points: 53.3

6. Spain

Barcelona
Seville

Spain entices with its vibrant energy, sunny beaches, and rich history. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the romantic alleys of Seville, this country is a feast for the senses. Savour delectable tapas, immerse yourself in flamenco culture, and explore architectural wonders like the Sagrada Familia. Spain’s warm hospitality and diverse landscapes make it a top choice for female travelers.

 

Spain’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 6

Total Points: 52.8

7. Denmark

Little Mermaid Statue Denmark
Copenhagen Denmark

Discover the Danish concept of “hygge” in Denmark, where coziness, contentment, and a laid-back atmosphere prevail. Explore the colorful streets of Copenhagen, indulge in Danish pastries, and bike along the picturesque canals. Denmark’s commitment to gender equality, safe cities, and a high standard of living create a welcoming environment for female travelers.

 

Denmark’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 7

Total Points: 52.4 

8. Estonia

Estonia
St. Catherine's Passage, Tallinn, Estonia

Step into a fairytale in Estonia, where medieval architecture meets modern innovation. Explore the enchanting Tallinn Old Town, wander through lush forests, and unwind on pristine Baltic beaches. Estonia’s tech-savvy culture, warm hospitality, and emphasis on gender equality make it a captivating destination for female travelers.

 

Estonia’s rank for each factor: 

9. Netherlands

Tulip field Netherlands
Amsterdam Netherlands

With its iconic windmills, tulip fields, and picturesque canals, the Netherlands offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of Amsterdam, cycle through charming villages, and discover world-class museums. The Netherlands’ progressive values, safe cities, and diverse landscapes make it a destination that offers numerous advantages to women on their travels.

 

Netherlands’ rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 9

Total Points: 51.3 

10. Croatia

Dubrovnik Croatia
Pakleni Islands Croatia

Prepare for a Mediterranean escape in Croatia, where ancient walled cities, idyllic islands, and crystal-clear waters await. Explore the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik, sail along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, and indulge in delectable seafood. Croatia’s warm hospitality, breathtaking scenery, and commitment to safety make it a perfect destination for female travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

 

Croatia’s rank for each factor:

 

Country Rank: 10

Total Points: 50.3

Ultimate Places Across the Globe for Female Travel 2023

The Factors Measured

Safety:

It’s no secret that most women value safety as the top priority when choosing a destination, with 69% of US women having claimed safety was their main reason for not travelling alone. It’s important to feel like you can explore new places without constantly worrying about your well-being or looking over your shoulder. 

That’s why it’s great to know that there is an abundance of countries that take traveler security seriously. These countries have implemented measures to create a safe environment from well-maintained infrastructure to efficient emergency services. By prioritising your safety, these destinations allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy your journey with peace of mind.

Using Numbeo’s Safety Index we revealed which countries are the safest. 

UAE takes the crown with Croatia following closely after with only one point less in 5th place.

Top 10 scoring countries for safety:

Country Score  Points 
United Arab Emirates 84.9 17
Japan 76.9 16.75
Switzerland 76.4 16.5
Slovenia 75.8 16.25
Croatia 75.4 16
Iceland 75.1 15.5
Estonia 74.9 15.5
Georgia 74.1 15.25
China 73.7 15
Denmark 73.4 14.75

Treatment towards Women:

Traveling to a destination that respects and values women is an empowering and fulfilling experience. It’s important to choose places that value gender equality and celebrate the contributions of women. And let’s be honest – we deserve countries fit for the queens we are.  

So, for this factor, we looked at the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security Index, which gives each country an overall score measured on lots of different factors from discriminatory norms, parliamentary representation, and violence. 

Scandinavia dominated the lineup with Finland, Iceland, and Denmark at the top 3 leading the way in creating inclusive and empowering environments. From progressive social attitudes to equal opportunities, these destinations go the extra mile to make us feel respected, safe, and celebrated. 

Here we were able to identify which countries treat women the best. 

Top 10 scoring countries for Treatment of Women:

Country Score  Points 
Finland 90.9 17
Iceland 90.7 16.75
Denmark 90.3 16.5
Luxembourg 89.9 16.25
Switzerland 89.8 16
Sweden 89.5 15.75
Austria 89.1 15.5
United Kingdom 88.8 15.25
Netherlands 88.5 15
Germany 88 14.75

Travel and Tourism Development:

So you’ve checked off the safety and know how you’re going to be treated when you arrive. Now it’s time to find out what will be on offer and how developed the tourist scene is in your potential destination. 

From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, they boast a wide array of attractions that cater to different interests. Additionally, the warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere of these countries will make you feel right at home, creating unforgettable memories throughout your journey.

We looked at World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development 2021 which measures the sustainable and resilient development of the travel and tourism sector in each country. 

Here we were able to identify which countries are developing the best for tourists. 

Spain, the US, and Japan were crowned top 3, however, 6 out of the top 10 are our neighbors in Europe.

Top 10 scoring countries for Travel & Tourism Development:

Country Score  Points 
Spain 5.2 8.5
United States 5.2 8.375
Japan 5.2 8.25
Switzerland 5.1 8.125
Germany 5.1 8
France 5.1 7.875
United Kingdom 5.0 7.75
Singapore 5.0 7.625
Australia 5.0 7.5
Austria 4.9 7.375

Restaurants and Hotels per Capita:

Food and sleep are the staples to most holidays. Especially on a girl’s trip you want to be sure that there’s lots of options to explore the local cuisine and a comfortable place to recharge for the day/night ahead. 

From trendy eateries to local treasures or whether you prefer luxurious resorts, charming boutique hotels, or budget-friendly accommodations, these destinations have got you covered. 

Our research used TripAdvisor to reveal the country with the most restaurants per capita, and booking.com to reveal the most hotels per capita. 

For restaurants, the top three were Malta, Iceland and Singapore. 

For hotels, Croatia took the crown followed by Iceland and Greece. 

Top 10 scoring countries for Restaurants Per Capita:

Country Score Points 
Malta 0.0039 8.5
Iceland 0.0017 8.375
Singapore 0.0017 8.25
Luxembourg 0.001 8.125
Cyprus 0.0009 8
Estonia 0.00083 7.875
Latvia 0.00055 7.75
Denmark 0.00053 7.625
Qatar 0.00053 7.5
Portugal 0.00048 7.375

 

Top 10 scoring countries for Hotels Per Capita:

Country Score  Points 
Croatia 0.0042 8.5
Iceland 0.0026 8.375
Greece 0.0021 8.25
Georgia 0.0019 8.125
Italy 0.0014 8
Malta 0.0013 7.875
Slovenia 0.0013 7.75
Latvia 0.0012 7.625
Estonia 0.0011 7.5
Portugal 0.0010 7.375

Average Price of a Bottle of Wine

Last but not least, the main event for a girl’s trip, free flowing Rosé. 

The average price of a bottle of wine in these destinations for the most part is more than affordable, allowing you to savor the local wines and enjoy moments of relaxation. Whether you’re enjoying a glass at a charming café or pairing it with a delicious meal, the affordable prices ensure that you can fully appreciate the wine culture of these countries.

We used Numbeo to reveal the average price of a bottle of wine in each country, revealing which is the cheapest. 

Wine connoisseurs in Argentina claimed the top spot with an average of €2.80 a bottle, followed by South Africa and Portugal at €3.88 and €4.00. 

Top 10 scoring countries for the average price of a bottle of wine:

Country Score  Points 
Argentina €2.80 8.5
South Africa €3.88 8.375
Portugal €4.00 8.25
Nigeria €4.02 8.125
Hungary €4.06 8
North Macedonia €4.06 7.875
Spain €5.00 7.75
Germany €5.00 7.625
Romania €5.04 7.5
Bulgaria €5.11 7.375

Top 10 countries by continent – Asia

Asia, a continent teeming with vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled experiences, is calling your name. Whether you seek bustling metropolises, tranquil beaches, or ancient wonders, there is truly something from everyone in Asia. 

Using the six factors from above, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 countries in Asia that offer unforgettable adventures for female travelers. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of this captivating continent and have a look at what countries made the top spot.

 

Country Overall Score  Overall Points 
United Arab Emirates 45.3 17
Japan 44.6 19
Singapore 43.6 23
China 28.5 39
Thailand 28.3 42
Azerbaijan 28.1 43
Philippines 23.9 46
Kazakhstan 23.3 47
Sri Lanka 21.8 48
Malaysia 20.4 50

Top 7 countries by continent – South America

Just like Asia, the continent of South America is a popular travel hotspot. With its diverse cultures, vibrant traditions, and the genuine warmth of its people, this spirited region offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences for female travelers. 

We’ve curated a list of the top 7 countries that will ignite your sense of adventure and leave you in awe. From the majestic peaks of the Andes to the rhythm of samba in the streets, South America might be the one for your next girl’s trip. 

Country Overall Score  Overall Points 
Chile 28.4 42
Uruguay 28.4 42
Argentina 26.4 47
Ecuador 20.4 52
Colombia 20.3 54
Brazil 16.8 62
Peru 16.5 63

So there you have it! Everything you need to know to get the holiday plans past the doomed groupchat talk. 

The Ultimate Places across the Globe for Female Travel in 2023 offer a diverse range of destinations that cater to the needs and preferences of women seeking safe and enjoyable travel experiences. From the ethereal landscapes of Iceland to the charming coastal towns of Portugal, and from the hidden gem of Slovenia to the imperial charm of Austria, these countries provide a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

These countries have been ranked based on key factors such as safety, treatment towards women, travel and tourism development, availability of restaurants and hotels, and the average price of a bottle of wine. With their high scores and favourable rankings, these destinations promise unforgettable journeys filled with exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion.

So, whether you’re planning an annual girls’ trip, a bachelorette celebration, or a solo adventure, let this guide be your companion in finding the ultimate destinations for female travel. 

Pack your bags, embark on a new adventure, and create lifelong memories in these incredible places across the globe. Happy travels!

Methodology 

To compile the global female travel index, we first collated a list of all of the most popular travel destination by continent and population, and then analysed each on the below factors:

Safety index – Numbeo

Overall Treatment of Women Index –  GIWPS

Travel & Tourism Development Index – World Economic Forum 

Restaurants Per Capita – TripAdvisor 

Hotels Per Capita – Booking.com 

Average price of a bottle of wine – Numbeo 

Each of the countries (that had data reported against them) were then ranked against each other for each metric, we then added the scores together to get a total score, before ranking the destinations based on this overall, final score. 

As this index focuses on female travel we thought it is important that “Safety” and “Overall Treatment of Women” metrics represent 50% of the final score (25%), thus the remaining metrics collectively contributing 50%.