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10 Safest Cities to Travel as a Woman Over 50

By Sandra Roussy May 21, 2023 Travel

Are you looking for your next travel destination? Are you looking to discover a new city? Do you travel solo and are concerned about your safety while traveling?

Some cities are considered safer for solo women travelers, especially senior women.

  1. Tokyo, Japan – Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and one of the world’s most populous cities. It is known for its vibrant culture, cutting-edge technology, and stunning architecture.
  2. Copenhagen, Denmark – Copenhagen is the capital city of Denmark and is known for its picturesque canals, colorful architecture, and world-class dining scene. It is a city with a rich history and a modern, progressive outlook.
  3. Helsinki, Finland – Helsinki is the capital city of Finland and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural history, and stunning natural landscapes. It is a vibrant and modern city that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
  4. Vancouver, Canada – Vancouver is a coastal city in western Canada known for its stunning natural beauty, cultural diversity, and thriving arts and dining scene. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to urban exploration.
  5. Taipei, Taiwan – Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan, a vibrant and modern city that blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology. It is known for its lively night markets, stunning temples, and world-class museums.
  6. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Dubrovnik is a historic city on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, known for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore Croatia’s stunning natural landscapes and soak up the country’s unique Mediterranean culture.
  7. Munich, Germany – Munich is a city in southern Germany known for its beautiful architecture and interesting cultural heritage. It is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience Germany’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
  8. Honolulu, USA – Honolulu is a city located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, known for its stunning beaches and world-class dining scene. It is a popular destination for visitors looking to soak up the sun, surf, and experience the unique culture of Hawaii.
  9. Stockholm, Sweden – Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene. It is a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
  10. Adelaide, Australia – Adelaide is a city located in South Australia known for its beautiful architecture, world-class wine regions, and stunning natural landscapes. It’s a cosmopolitan city that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

How to Decide Which Cities Are the Safest

There are different ways to verify the safety of a destination. These cities were chosen based on a combination of the following factors.

Safety Statistics

Look at crime rates and safety ratings for each city, including data from government sources and reputable organizations such as the World Health Organization and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Also, it’s a good idea to check the official travel advisories of the US Department of State, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and the Canadian Government’s travel advisory website for recent travel advisories in the country where the city is located.

Women-Friendly Infrastructure

Consider factors such as access to public transportation, well-lit streets, and the availability of women-only accommodations and services. For example, countries like Japan and Mexico have women-only carriages in their public transport system.

Cultural Attitudes Towards Women

Take into account the local culture and attitudes towards women, including gender equality, women’s rights, and laws that protect women against discrimination and violence. The UN Women website is a good resource to consult for international women’s issues.

Recommendations from Fellow Travelers

Consult popular travel websites and forums such as TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet to see which destinations are recommended and considered safe by other women travelers.

Safest Cities for Women Travelers

So, what cities came up on top? This is a short list of some of the cities that checked many of the safety safeguards, like low crime rates and gender equality.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is the capital and largest city of Japan, located on the eastern coast of the island of Honshu. It is a vibrant and bustling city that combines modernity with ancient traditions, making it a unique and exciting destination for travelers.

Tokyo is known for being one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. The city has one of the most extensive and efficient transportation systems in the world, with a network of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around, including women-only assigned carriages.

Tokyo has a rich and diverse culture, with ancient temples and shrines coexisting with modern skyscrapers, shopping districts, and entertainment centers. The city is also famous for its food, including sushi, ramen, and other traditional Japanese dishes.

It is a popular destination for tourists of all ages, with attractions such as the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and the famous Shibuya crossing.

Visit the Go Tokyo website.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital and largest city of Denmark, located on the eastern coast of the island of Zealand. With a population of approximately 800,000 people, it is the most populous city in Denmark.

Copenhagen is known for being a very safe city, with low crime rates and a high standard of living. It’s a city that values culture, with a thriving arts and music scene, numerous museums and galleries, and rich history.

The city is a leader in sustainable living and is often ranked as one of the greenest cities in the world. Copenhagen has a strong focus on environmental sustainability, with a bike-friendly infrastructure and a goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2025.

The city has a diverse range of architectural styles, from medieval to modern, and is famous for its colorful buildings, canals, and historic landmarks.

Denmark is known for being a country that values gender equality, with policies and laws in place to ensure that women are treated fairly in all aspects of life, including work, education, and public spaces.

Copenhagen is a safe, vibrant, and sustainable city that offers a rich cultural experience.

Check out the Visit Copenhagen website.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is the capital and largest city (650,000 people) of Finland and is located on the southern coast of the country, overlooking the Gulf of Finland.

Helsinki is considered a very safe city, with low crime rates and high living standards. It is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world.

The city has a rich culture, with a range of museums, galleries, and cultural events taking place throughout the year. Helsinki is a city that values its natural surroundings, with many parks and green spaces throughout the city, as well as access to the nearby archipelago and forests.

Helsinki is considered a safe, cultured, and green city that offers a range of attractions and experiences for travelers. It is a great destination for those who enjoy nature, culture, and food, as well as those interested in innovation and education.

Visit the My Helsinki website for more information.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver is a coastal city located in British Columbia, Canada.

It has a population of approximately 675,000 people, making it the third-largest city in Canada.

Vancouver is considered a relatively safe city, with low crime rates in most areas. The city is known for its natural beauty, with access to snow-capped mountains, forests, and beaches. The city has a diverse and multicultural population, and also a wide range of museums, galleries, and cultural events.

Vancouver is committed to sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including a bike-friendly infrastructure.

Vancouver is an eclectic and lively city that offers a range of attractions and experiences for visitors. It is a great destination for those who enjoy nature, culture, and outdoor activities.

Visit the Destination Vancouver website.

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan and is a vibrant, safe, and cultural destination for visitors. It has a population of approximately 2.7 million people and is known for its low crime rates and high standards of living.

Visitors can experience the lively atmosphere of night markets, where they can sample a range of local cuisine. Taipei is also surrounded by mountains and has many parks and green spaces within the city, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Taipei also has a rich history, with historic landmarks and temples throughout the city, including the famous Longshan Temple.

Like the other cities on this list, Taipei has a low crime rate and a high standard of living, making it safe for senior women.

Visit the Taipei Travel website.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a charming coastal city located in southern Croatia on the Adriatic Sea. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is a popular tourist destination due to its interesting history, stunning architecture, and picturesque surroundings. The city has a population of approximately 42,000 people and is surrounded by medieval walls, which have been well-preserved over time.

Visitors can take a stroll along the historic streets of Dubrovnik and explore the city’s numerous attractions, including the Rector’s Palace, the Church of St. Blaise, and the Dubrovnik Cathedral. Dubrovnik is also known for its beaches, crystal clear waters, and nearby islands, which are easily accessible by ferry.

Dubrovnik is a safe and charming city that offers a unique and memorable experience for senior women.

Read about Dubrovnik on the Lonely Planet website.

Munich, Germany

Munich, Germany

Munich is the capital city of the German state of Bavaria and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany. The city is known for its deep history, captivating architecture, and dynamic culture. It has a population of approximately 1.5 million people and is located in the southern part of Germany.

Munich has a well-maintained public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains, which makes it easy for visitors to get around the city safely.

Munich has a low crime rate and is generally regarded as a safe place to visit. Women can feel comfortable exploring the city on their own. The city also has a strong police presence, which helps to maintain safety and security throughout the city.

Munich is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the famous Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche, and the Nymphenburg Palace. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful parks and gardens throughout the city, including the English Garden, which is one of the largest urban parks in the world.

Visit the official website for the city of Munich.

Honolulu, USA

Honolulu, USA

Honolulu is the capital city of the state of Hawaii, located on the island of Oahu. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, stunning natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Honolulu has a population of approximately 350,000 people and is the largest city in Hawaii.

It is also considered a safe place for women to travel to, with a relatively low crime rate and a welcoming local community.

Honolulu is a beautiful and safe city with a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Honolulu is Waikiki Beach, a beautiful stretch of golden sand that attracts millions of visitors each year. The beach is surrounded by a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient and comfortable place to stay for visitors.

Honolulu is also home to a range of cultural attractions, including the Bishop Museum, which houses a range of exhibits and artifacts related to Hawaiian culture and history. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the island, such as the stunning Manoa Falls or the Diamond Head crater, which offer incredible views of the city and the ocean.

Honolulu is generally regarded as a safe city for women to travel to. The city has a relatively low crime rate and a strong police presence, which helps to maintain safety and security throughout the city. The local community is also known for its welcoming and friendly nature, making it a comfortable and enjoyable place for women to travel to.

Visit the Go Hawaii website.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden and is situated on the eastern coast of the country. It is often referred to as the “Venice of the North” due to the many waterways and islands that make up the city.

It is a lively and cosmopolitan city with a deep cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. It is also considered a safe place for women to travel to, with a low crime rate and a welcoming culture.

Stockholm has a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy, including world-class museums, historic landmarks, and beautiful natural scenery. Travelers to Stockholm can also explore the historic Gamla Stan, or Old Town, which is home to the Royal Palace and a range of medieval buildings and narrow cobblestone streets.

Stockholm is also known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, which offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustling streets. Tourists can enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top of the Kaknästornet tower or take a boat tour of the city’s waterways to explore the many islands that make up Stockholm.

Check out the Visit Stockholm website.

Adelaide, Australia

Adelaide, Australia

Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia and is known for its beautiful beaches, world-class wineries, and vibrant cultural scene. It is a safe and welcoming city for women to travel to, with a low crime rate and friendly people.

Adelaide is a compact and easy-to-navigate city, making it an ideal destination for women who want to explore on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can explore the city’s many historic landmarks and cultural attractions, including the beautiful Adelaide Botanic Garden, the National Wine Centre, and the Art Gallery of South Australia. The city is also home to a range of beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Adelaide Parklands and the Adelaide Hills.

The city is considered safe for women to travel to because it has a low crime rate, and its public transportation system is safe and easy to use.

Visit the Australia Tourism website.

It’s important to note that while these cities have been recognized as safe for women travelers, no place is entirely without risk, and it’s always necessary to exercise caution and common sense when traveling.

Read HOW TO MAKE TRAVELLING SOLO A JOYOUS EXPERIENCE.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been to any of these cities? What was your experience like? Are you planning on visiting one of these cities? Do you have any other cities to recommend? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Cindy Boatman

I’m in Kyoto, Japan right now and it is safe and a wonderful travel destination! Will be in Tokyo next week.

Gerry

You used the word “stunning” 13+ times in the article. Invest in a thesaurus please.

Linda

I have been to Copenhagen a number of times and like the song says it really is wonderful and feels very safe (crime is said to be low there). Public transport is easy to navigate and the Danes are very friendly and trilingual (Danish / German / English). I can also recommend a trip to Roskilde to see the Cathedral where the Danish Royal Family are interred. There are also lovely walks there and a Viking boatyard. It’s less than an hour from central Copenhagen by train.

I’ve just spent a week in Milan which is lovely and also felt safe.

Most places in Switzerland are safe too – 5 years ago we lived opposite the corner of a red light zone in our city yet we never felt unsafe as it was regularly patrolled by local police.

Barcelona and Madrid are both beautiful but you have to be streetwise (I would not recommend lone women go to the narrow side streets off La Rambla in Barcelona).

I lived in London for 20 years but don’t feel it’s for me now, very overcrowded and a lot of street crime (my advice is don’t wear expensive watches or jewellery and keep your phone well hidden. Be careful on the underground if you have to use it late at night).

My elder sister is a solo traveller, she books walking holidays and tours with companies who specialise in this and makes many new friends along the way.

The Author

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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