FAB 10 day Scotland Itinerary - 5 PERFECT Options from a Local!
Here’s 5 FAB options for a 10 day Scotland itinerary that will take you through bustling cities as well as scenic landscapes. This itinerary covers the most iconic spots in 10 days in Scotland!
If you’ve ever wanted to explore Scotland, this 10 day Scotland itinerary will help you make the most of your visit.
Scotland has much to offer, from the historic cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the scenic Highlands.
I’ve created the best Scotland itinerary to help you plan your Scottish adventure, splitting the 10 days in Scotland into five days in the cities (perfect if you are visiting Scotland for the first time) and five days in the Highlands.
Trust me, you’re going to love this adventure in Scotland!
PLANNING THE BEST ITINERARY SCOTLAND | THE ESSENTIALS
Top tours in Scotland:
- Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
- From Glasgow: Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond Tour with Cruise
- Isle of Skye Full-Day Trip
Places to stay in Scotland:
- Edinburgh: Radisson Blu Hotel
- Glasgow: Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa
- Isle of Skye: The Skye Inn
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10 day Scotland itinerary
Before we dive into the details, this Scotland 10 day itinerary is designed to give you the best of both worlds in Scotland. You can follow this 10 day Scotland itinerary by train or take a 10 day Scotland road trip.
Here’s a short outline of what to see in Scotland in 10 days-
- Days 1-2: Edinburg
- Day 3: Edinburgh to Glasgow
- Day 4:Day trip to Stirling and Loch Lomond
- Day 5: Glasgow to Inverness
- Day 6: Day trip to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
- Day 7: Inverness to the Isle of Skye
- Day 8: Isle of Skye
- Day 9: Isle of Skye to Fort William
- Day 10: Fort William to Edinburgh via Glencoe
Please note that the travel time to and from Scotland isn’t included in this Scotland 10 day itinerary
Best time to spend 10 days in Scotland
The best time to spend 10 days in Scotland is late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September).
Late spring in Scotland offers mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and longer daylight hours with fewer crowds. Early autumn in Scotland provides beautiful fall colours and a quieter experience, with cooler temperatures and reduced tourist numbers.
Summer in Scotland (July to August) offers warm weather and long days but can be crowded and expensive.
Winter in Scotland (December to February) is colder and darker but offers fewer tourists and festive events.
Choose based on your weather preference and desired level of activity and crowd.

10 days in Scotland
Days 1 to 5 of 10 days in Scotland for first-timers
Days 1 and 2 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Edinburgh
Your journey begins in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. After arriving and checking into your hotel, start your 10 day Scotland itinerary.
Here’s what you can do in Edinburgh for two days out of your 10 day itinerary Scotland.
- Take this guided tour of the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock. The castle offers stunning city views and a deep dive into Scotland’s royal history.
- Stroll along the Royal Mile, the historic heart of Edinburgh, lined with shops, cafes, and landmarks.
In the evening, head to Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful park in the city centre. If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of peace after a busy day, this is the perfect spot. - On day 2, visit Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
- From there, if you’re up for it, hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view is worth it—I remember feeling on top of the world up there.
- After the hike, take some time to explore the National Museum of Scotland. It’s one of my favourite museums because it’s so varied—you can learn everything from dinosaurs to Scottish culture.
- End your day in the Grassmarket area, known for its lively atmosphere and many bars and restaurants. For dinner, I’d recommend finding a cosy pub nearby to enjoy some traditional Scottish fare—maybe haggis if you’re feeling adventurous!
Where to stay in Edinburgh?
You can book a stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel. It is centrally located with modern amenities, perfect for exploring Edinburgh’s main attractions.


Day 3 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Glasgow
In the morning, you can easily hop on a train to Glasgow. The journey is about an hour long, allowing you plenty of time to explore once you arrive.
- Start with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
- You’ll find the Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery with a fascinating history behind the cathedral. It’s a bit eerie but in a beautiful way
- In the afternoon, head to the West End, where you can visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It’s one of the most famous museums in Scotland, and it’s free! The West End is also great, with many quirky shops, cafes, and restaurants. I always find something unique here—a piece of art or a delicious pastry.
Where to stay in Glasgow?
You can spend the night in Glasgow at the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa or return to Edinburgh.

Day 4 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Day trip to Stirling and Loch Lomond from Glasgow
On the fourth day of this 10 days Scotland itinerary, take this day trip from Glasgow to Stirling, about an hour’s drive away. Here’s what you can do in Stirling –
- Stirling Castle is a must-see, with its rich history and incredible views of the surrounding countryside.
- After visiting the castle, go to the Wallace Monument, a tower commemorating Sir William Wallace, one of Scotland’s greatest heroes. I’ve always found Wallace’s stories inspiring, and the monument is pretty impressive.
- In the afternoon, drive to Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater loch. You can take a boat tour to enjoy the scenery or take a short hike in the nearby hills. There’s nothing quite like the tranquillity of Loch Lomond—I always leave feeling refreshed.
You can either return to Glasgow or spend the evening there. If you do not plan on staying in Glasgow, you can also opt for this day trip to Stirling Castle, Highland Lochs, and Whisky Tour from Edinburgh.

Day 5 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Glasgow to Inverness
Start your fifth day of your 10 days in Scotland with a drive to Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands. It’s a longer drive, about 3.5 hours, but the scenery is beautiful.
You should stop in Pitlochry, a charming town known for its whisky distilleries and scenic views. I once did a whisky tasting here, and it was such a fun way to break up the journey.
Once you reach Inverness, take some time to explore the city.
Visit Inverness Castle, which overlooks the River Ness, and enjoy a peaceful walk along the river. In the evening, relax and enjoy a nice dinner at Encore Restaurant. Inverness has a friendly, welcoming vibe—I always feel at home here.

Days 6 to 10 of 10 day Scotland itinerary
Days 6 to 10 – Exploring the Highlands
Day 6 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Day trip to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle from Inverness
No 10 day trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to Loch Ness, a 30-minute drive from Inverness. You can book this guided tour to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle.
- Start your day with a boat tour on the loch—who knows, you might just catch a glimpse of Nessie, the famous Loch Ness Monster!
- After the boat tour, head to Urquhart Castle, which offers stunning views of the loch and a fascinating history. I love imagining life when the castle was still in use.
- In the afternoon, take your time exploring the area around the loch. The scenery is truly stunning, and you’ll find plenty of spots to take in the natural beauty.
Where to stay in Inverness?
In the evening, return to Inverness for dinner and a good night’s rest at the Kingsmills Hotel.


Day 7 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Inverness to the Isle of Skye
On day 7 of your 10 days in Scotland itinerary, drive from Inverness to the Isle of Skye, with a stop at Eilean Donan Castle on the way.
This castle is one of the most photographed in Scotland, and it’s easy to see why—it’s located on a small island where three lochs meet, creating a picture-perfect scene. I’ve visited a few times, and it never gets old.
Once you arrive on Skye, head to Portree, the island’s main town. Spend the afternoon exploring the town and visiting the Old Man of Storr, a famous rock formation that offers incredible views.
If you love dramatic landscapes like I do, you’ll be blown away by Skye.
You will be spending two nights at the Isle of Skye. If you do not wish to stay, you can opt for this Isle of Skye Full-Day Trip.
Where to stay at the Isle of Skye?
In the evening, settle into your accommodation at The Skye Inn and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day 8 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Isle of Skye
Skye is known for its dramatic landscapes, and Day 8 of your ten days in Scotland is all about exploring them.
- Start with a visit to the Quiraing, a landslip on the northernmost point of the Trotternish Ridge. The views here are out of this world, and there are plenty of hiking trails if you’re up for it.
- Next, visit the Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear blue pools and waterfalls near Glenbrittle. They’re a bit of a walk from the car park but worth it.
The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Skye’s natural beauty, perhaps with a visit to the remote Talisker Bay or driving around the island’s winding roads.
You can explore alone or book this Best of Isle of Skye Full-Day Tour.

Day 9 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Isle of Skye to Fort William
In the morning, drive to Fort William, stopping at the Glenfinnan Viaduct ( 1.5 hour drive from Skye) along the way. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll recognise the viaduct as the one the Hogwarts Express crosses. It’s still a beautiful spot worth visiting, even if you’re not.
Once in Fort William, spend the afternoon exploring the town and the surrounding area.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike in Glen Nevis or even climb Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. I’ve done it once, and it’s a challenge, but the views from the top are unbeatable.
Where to stay in the Highlands?
Enjoy your last night in the Highlands by spending a night at The Garrison.
Day 10 of your 10 day Scotland itinerary
Fort William to Edinburgh via Glencoe
On the final day of your 10 days in Scotland , drive through the stunning Glencoe Valley, known for its dramatic scenery and rich history.
Stop at the Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn more about the area’s past, and take a short hike to appreciate the landscape’s beauty fully.
Glencoe is one of those places that feels like a painting comes to life—I always spend a bit of extra time here.
In the afternoon, continue your drive back to Edinburgh, which will take about 3 hours.
Once you arrive, take some time to reflect on your journey, maybe with one last stroll around the city or a visit to a favourite spot before you head home.

Other options for your Scotland road trip itineraries
Classic Scotland Road Trip: 7 Days
- Day 1: Edinburgh to Stirling
- Day 2: Stirling to Loch Lomond
- Day 3: Loch Lomond to Glencoe
- Day 4: Glencoe to Fort William
- Day 5: Fort William to the Isle of Skye
- Day 6: Isle of Skye Exploration
- Day 7: Isle of Skye to Edinburgh
North Coast 500 (NC500): 7 Days
- Day 1: Inverness to Ullapool
- Day 2: Ullapool to Durness
- Day 3: Durness to Thurso
- Day 4: Thurso to Orkney Islands
- Day 5: Orkney Islands Exploration
- Day 6: Orkney Islands to Inverness
- Day 7: Inverness to Edinburgh
The Ultimate 10 day road trip Scotland Highlands
- Day 1: Edinburgh to Pitlochry
- Day 2: Pitlochry to Aviemore
- Day 3: Aviemore to Inverness
- Day 4: Inverness to Loch Ness
- Day 5: Loch Ness to Fort William
- Day 6: Fort William to the Isle of Skye
- Day 7: Isle of Skye Exploration
- Day 8: Isle of Skye Exploration
- Day 9: Isle of Skye to Oban
- Day 10: Oban to Edinburgh

Spending 10 days in Scotland is truly an experience I’ll never forget, and I hope this 10 day Scotland itinerary helps you make the most of your adventure.
I fondly remember my 10 day Scotland tour—the thrill of spotting a distant castle, the quiet serenity of Loch Ness, and the warm, welcoming people I met along the way.

FAQ – 10 Day Scotland Itinerary
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How many days are enough for Scotland?
For a well-rounded experience, 7 to 10 days are ideal for exploring Scotland. This allows you to comfortably visit key cities, landmarks, and the Highlands.
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How much money do I need for 10 days in Scotland?
For 10 days, budget around £1,500 to £2,500 per person, including accommodation, meals, and activities, depending on your travel style.
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What is the cheapest month to go to Scotland?
The cheapest months to visit Scotland are typically January and February, when flights and accommodations are more affordable, though the weather can be cold and unpredictable.
-
Can you travel to Scotland without a car?
While having a car provides the most flexibility, you can travel in Scotland using trains, buses, and guided tours, especially in urban areas and popular tourist destinations.

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.
She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.
She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.
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Cross-Border Travel - Key Legal Differences Between Canada and the USA (2025)
As someone who loves to travel and explore new places, I’ve realised that crossing borders isn’t just about packing a suitcase and grabbing your passport. When you’re visiting a different country, even one as seemingly similar as Canada and the USA, there are some key legal differences that you should be aware of. Understanding these differences can make your trip smoother, more enjoyable, and less stressful.
Here’s what you need to know about the legal ins and outs of travelling between these two great nations.
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1. Entry Requirements
Let’s start with the basics—getting into the country. Canada and the USA have specific entry requirements, varying depending on your nationality.
You’ll need a valid passport for Canada, but that’s not all. Depending on where you’re from, you might need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you don’t need a visa, but you do need to carry proof of citizenship, like a passport or a NEXUS card. If you’re coming from a country that requires a visa, make sure to apply well in advance, as these can take some time to process.
In the USA, things are different. All visitors need a valid passport, and if you’re from a visa-exempt country (like many European nations), you’ll need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before you go. The ESTA is valid for two years and allows you to enter the USA for up to 90 days at a time. If you’re from a country requiring a visa, ensure you have that sorted before you leave.
One thing to remember: Canada and the USA are strict about who they let in. You might run into trouble at the border if you have a criminal record, even something minor. It’s always a good idea to check the specific entry requirements for your situation before you travel.

2. Alcohol and Tobacco
When travelling between Canada and the USA, knowing the regulations on what you can carry is crucial to avoid any fines or penalties. Both countries have strict but fairly standard rules regarding alcohol and tobacco.
In Canada, you can bring in limited quantities of alcohol and tobacco duty-free. Specifically, you can bring up to 1.5 litres of wine, 1.14 litres of liquor, or 24 cans (355 ml each) of beer. For tobacco, the limit is generally 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 200 grams of manufactured tobacco.
These quantities are meant for personal use and should be within the limits unless you are prepared to pay duties and taxes.
The USA has similar restrictions. Travellers can bring in 1 litre of alcohol duty-free, but the exact amount may vary depending on your entering state. Tobacco allowances include 200 cigarettes or 100 cigars. It’s always best to check the specific allowances before you travel and declare any amounts that exceed these limits to avoid penalties.

3. Cannabis Restrictions
Cannabis is one of those topics where the legal landscape can be a bit tricky, especially when you’re crossing borders. In Canada, cannabis is legal for both recreational and medicinal use across the country.
You can buy it from licensed retailers, and there are clear rules about how much you can possess and where you can consume it – Seltzers are quite a common way to unwind amongst many. But—and this is a big but—you cannot take cannabis across the border. Even if you bought it legally in Canada, bringing it into the USA or any other country is illegal.
In the USA, cannabis laws are a lot more complicated. While it’s legal for recreational use in some states (like California and Colorado) and for medicinal use in others, it’s still illegal at the federal level. This means that even if you travel from one state to another, you could still get in trouble for transporting it across state lines.
If you’re caught with cannabis at a federal checkpoint (like an airport or border crossing), you could face serious legal consequences.
So, the takeaway here is simple: don’t travel with cannabis. Enjoy it where it’s legal, but leave it behind when crossing the border.

4. Currency Differences
One of the first things you’ll notice when travelling between Canada and the USA is the currency difference.
In Canada, you’ll be using the Canadian dollar (CAD), different from the US dollar (USD) used in the USA. This might seem obvious, but it’s important to remember when crossing the border, especially if you’re planning to use cash.
Luckily, both countries are very credit-card friendly, so you won’t have much trouble paying for things, whether you’re in Toronto or Seattle. Most places also accept debit cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a bit of local currency if you find yourself in a situation where cards aren’t accepted.
One tip: if you’re using your credit card, be aware of foreign transaction fees. Some cards charge 2-3% extra on purchases outside your home country. If you’re planning to do a lot of shopping or dining out, consider getting a card that doesn’t charge these fees.

5. Legal Drinking Age
If you plan to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or hit up local bars during your trip, you’ll want to be aware of the legal drinking age, which isn’t the same in both countries.
In Canada, the legal drinking age depends on the province. In most provinces, like Ontario and British Columbia, the legal drinking age is 19. However, in Quebec, Manitoba, and Alberta, you can legally drink at 18. So, if you’re crossing from the USA, where the legal drinking age is uniformly 21, it might come as a surprise that you can legally enjoy a drink at a younger age in parts of Canada.
On the flip side, if you’re a younger traveller heading from Canada to the USA, be prepared to wait until you’re 21 before you can legally drink. The USA is strict about this law, and bars and restaurants are diligent about checking IDs, so don’t expect to get away with underage drinking.
6. Health Insurance
Ensuring you have adequate health insurance is a key aspect of travel preparation. The healthcare systems in Canada and the USA differ, and having the right insurance can provide you with a sense of security and protection during your journey.
In Canada, healthcare is publicly funded, meaning residents don’t typically pay out-of-pocket for most medical services. However, if you’re visiting Canada from the USA or another country, you won’t be covered by the Canadian healthcare system.
If you get sick or injured, you could be on the hook for the total cost of your medical care, which can be pretty expensive. That’s why it’s essential to have travel health insurance covering you while you’re in Canada.
In the USA, healthcare is primarily privately funded and can be extremely costly. Even a minor visit to the doctor or a trip to the emergency room can result in hefty bills. If you’re visiting the USA from Canada or another country, ensure you have comprehensive travel health insurance covering any medical expenses you might incur. It’s also a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered and what isn’t before you leave home.
7. Transportation and Driving
If you’re planning to drive during your trip, whether it’s a road trip across the border or just getting around town, you’ll want to be aware of the driving laws in each country.
In Canada, speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour, so you’ll need to adjust your thinking if you’re used to miles per hour. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in most provinces is 0.08%, but some provinces have lower limits, especially for new drivers.
In the USA, speed limits are posted in miles per hour, and the legal BAC limit is 0.08% in most states. However, some states have lower limits for commercial drivers or younger drivers. It’s also worth noting that traffic laws can vary significantly from state to state, so it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the rules in the state you’re visiting.

So, whether you’re heading north or south of the border, remember these tips and enjoy your travels!

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.
She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.
She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.
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Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. These do not cost you extra to use, but will help provide Continent Hop with a small commission if/when you purchase through them, to recover some of the costs of running this website and providing free content to help you plan your travel. I appreciate your support!
How to Relax While On Vacation and Plan Your Next Trip (2025)
Traveling is an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with unexpected pockets of downtime.
Whether you are waiting for a flight, on a long train journey, or simply taking a break from sightseeing, knowing how to best use your downtime can enhance your travel experience and leave you feeling more fulfilled.
Here are some effective ways to plan and utilize your downtime while traveling.
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1. Plan Ahead
Before embarking on your journey, anticipate where and when you might have some downtime. Look at your travel itinerary and identify periods where you will likely be waiting or resting.
Planning ahead allows you to pack appropriately, bringing along books, podcasts, or hobbies that you can enjoy during these moments. Pre-download entertainment and work materials so you are not reliant on Wi-Fi or mobile data.
2. Read and Listen
Downtime is perfect for indulging in various forms of entertainment. Whether you prefer reading, watching, listening, or playing, there is something for everyone.
Bring along a book or e-reader to catch up on your favourite novels, or download movies and TV shows to watch offline. Listening to audiobooks, music, or podcasts can also provide enjoyable and enriching experiences.
If you’re into gaming, portable gaming devices or mobile games at an online casino can be a fun way to pass the time.
If you game on holiday, it is a good idea to try titles with short reward times – you don’t want to be slogging through an open-world game where you have to put in a lot of hours between the exciting parts.
By diversifying your entertainment options, you can ensure that your downtime is always enjoyable and never boring.
3. Document Your Journey
Use your downtime to document your travel experiences. This can be through journaling, blogging, or vlogging. Reflecting on your journey can be a therapeutic and rewarding activity.
Write about the places you have visited, the people you have met, and the experiences you have had. Not only does this serve as a great way to remember your trip, but it can also be shared with friends and family.

4. Learn Something New
Traveling presents a unique opportunity to learn new skills. Use your downtime to take an online course or learn a new language, especially if it is relevant to the country you are visiting.
Language apps like Duolingo or Babbel can be both fun and useful. Additionally, many online platforms offer short courses on various topics, from photography to cooking. Learning something new can make your downtime productive and enjoyable.
5. Stay Active
Physical activity can be a great way to use your downtime. Many airports and train stations have walking paths, and some even offer yoga rooms.
If you are staying at a hotel, check if they have a gym or swimming pool. Going for a walk or doing a quick workout can help you stay energized and healthy during your travels.
6. Connect with Others
Use your downtime to connect with fellow travellers or locals. Engaging in conversations can lead to fascinating insights and new friendships.
If you are in a public space, such as a café or lounge, strike up a conversation with someone nearby. Social media and travel forums are also excellent ways to connect with others who might have valuable tips or be traveling to the same destinations.
7. Relax and Reflect
Sometimes, the best way to use downtime is to simply relax. Traveling can be exhausting, and taking some time to rest and recharge is crucial. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and meditate or practice deep breathing.
Reflect on your journey, appreciate the experiences you have had, and give yourself a moment of peace.
8. Plan Your Next Move
Use your downtime to plan the next steps of your trip. Research the places you will be visiting, look for recommendations on things to do, or make reservations for restaurants and tours. Having a well-thought-out plan can make the rest of your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Downtime while traveling does not have to be wasted time. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can turn these moments into opportunities for enrichment, relaxation, and connection.
Whether you choose to read, learn, stay active, or simply relax, making the most of your downtime can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.
She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.
She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.
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Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. These do not cost you extra to use, but will help provide Continent Hop with a small commission if/when you purchase through them, to recover some of the costs of running this website and providing free content to help you plan your travel. I appreciate your support!
Is Mexico City Safe for Solo Female Travellers? (2025)
Mexico due to its proximity to the US and Canada, is always a popular travel destination. Hence the question – is Mexico city safe for solo female travellers is asked often. Here’s areas to avoid, best tips for solo travel and how to have the best time when visiting!
For many Americans, their perceptions of Mexico City and Mexico as a whole is shaped by Hollywood, certain popular TV shows, and American news shows. So, lots of people associate Mexico City with slums full of clumsily built, drug-ridden, and unsanitary shacks.
Mexico City does have slums, of course – and is worth adding to your itinerary in addition to places like Cancun; just like any other large city nowadays.
However, it’s also a bustling modern metropolis with a gorgeous city centre, lots of historical sights, a lovely night scene, and very modern infrastructure. And, just like any other large modern metropolis, some parts of Mexico City are safe for solo female travellers, and others – not so much.
Knowing which is which and how to stay safe at all times is key for solo female travellers, so let’s go over things in a bit more detail below.
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Is Mexico City safe?
Mexico City isn’t just surprisingly safer than what most American TV shows and movies would show you. It is, in fact, even safer than what you’d expect when comparing Mexico City to other large metropolises.
For example, Mexico City has a significantly lower murder rate than many US cities.
On the other hand, however, such statistics should be taken with a grain of salt as they depend on exactly how crimes are categorized, and many are of the opinion that there are too many disappearances and unsolved deaths in Mexico City that should be counted as murders.
So, is Mexico City “safe?” Not really – the city does have its risks and ill-intended people, just like any other place on Earth.
However, is Mexico City more unsafe than other large cities around the globe?
With the exception of some notoriously safe European capitals – no, Mexico City isn’t notably more unsafe than most other modern large cities, and it’s even statistically safer than lots of others.

What parts of Mexico City should you avoid as a solo female traveler?
The quick and simple answer is the same as with any other large city on the planet – avoid all poorer areas in and around the city, especially those parts away from the city centre.
One area to single out, in particular, would be Iztapalapa because of its higher rates of violent crimes against women.
Such areas are a significant part of Mexico City.
How safe is Mexico City at night?
Some parts of the city are quite safe even at night, but others aren’t.
The places where you can be relatively safe alone at night include Condesa, Roma Norte, and Polanco, for example.
In general, the inner parts of the city and those sections near large tourist attractions are pretty safe even at night, as there are still a lot of people and law enforcement around.
However, in most other parts of the city, solo female travellers would do best to either stay safely indoors or hang out with groups of other people they can trust. If you can’t find a group to walk with, it’s best to get an Uber instead of walking at night.

Safety tips for solo female travelers in Mexico City
Stay in touch with your loved ones
Ideally, you should always have at least a couple of close friends or relatives who are always aware of your day-to-day plans in Mexico City, where you’ll be, at which time of day, and so on.
This way, in case of an emergency, the authorities will always have a couple of well-informed contacts to help point them in the right direction.
Don’t share too much on social media
Keeping your close friends informed of your vacation schedule should not be done publicly via social media but should be done through private messages.
This is a very common mistake nowadays, as everyone always rushes to share everything they do online. This is a bad idea, however, as it enables people with bad intentions to also track your whereabouts.
Keep your valuables safe
This safety tip is crucial for travel anywhere in the world – make sure you’re never carrying too many valuables around, never keep all your money in one place, never use ATMs in alleys, and always make sure that your belongings are kept in trustworthy places that are difficult for pickpockets and other thieves to access.

Get insurance
Emergency health insurance and personal articles insurance are must-haves when traveling, especially for solo travellers. This isn’t just a Mexico City-specific precaution, it’s just always a good idea. The costs aren’t all that great, but the extra safety and security you get are more than worth it.
US travellers should enrol in the STEP program before visiting Mexico City
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program – or STEP – offers very helpful safety tips, keeps you in contact with the local US embassy in case of emergencies, and also helps your loved ones keep in touch too. For travellers from other countries, it’s equally important to look for other similar programs.
Learn at least a bit of basic Spanish
Knowing even just a couple dozen basic Spanish phrases and words will help you a great deal while you’re in Mexico. Not only will it help you in better communicating with the locals, but it will also help you stay safe.
Having some basic understanding of Spanish will ensure that you can get directions from the locals more easily without misunderstanding them and getting lost, it helps you to not look, as too much of a tourist and an easy mark for pickpockets, and it can even help you understand people when/if they talk behind your back.
Find a safe crowd you can hang out with, especially at night
Being a solo female traveller doesn’t mean you should travel solo 24/7.
One of the best things you can do is to quickly find – maybe even beforehand online if possible – a group of other tourists or locals you can trust to hang out with. This is especially key at night, as you don’t want to wander the streets of Mexico City alone and on foot if you can help it.
Try not to look like too much of a tourist
Pickpockets and other ill-meaning people all around the world are always looking for tourists to scam, rob, or hurt.
Tourists just make for easy marks because they are less informed about the area they are in, as well as less connected with people there. So, if you look like a local as much as possible, you will be considerably safer.

Mexico City is an amazing tourist destination that everyone should visit. Not only that, but a lot of the perceptions Americans and Europeans have about this city are quite inaccurate, and Mexico City is much safer than you might have guessed.
That said, it’s still a large and multifaceted metropolis that has certain ‘less safe’ areas and ill-meaning people. So, all the basic safety tips that apply for international travel everywhere around the globe also apply for Mexico City.

Award-winning Analyst, multi-nominated digital content creator and photographer Lavina Dsouza's words capture stories about culture and tradition mainly through its food and people. She has written and contributed to publications such as The Washington Post, Lonely Planet and Matador Network, to name a few. She is the editor of UntraditionalHumans.com, a non-profit created to share inspiring stories from women of colour who break free from traditions and choose happiness.
She's also a speaker passionate about DEI and champions solo travel. She has collaborated with numerous renowned brands such as Intrepid Travel, TripAdvisor, Travel and Leisure and Adobe, to name a few.
She can be found on Twitter and Instagram.
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