Is Europe safe for a young woman to travel alone?

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You might think so, I couldn't possibly comment

You'll be fine in most places, but as with anywhere, be sensible. Don't go walking down unlit streets after dark, don't accept drinks from strangers, don't leave your own drink alone. 

If you speak European languages other than English, this can be helpful, but isn't necessary as everyone who works in tourism in all European countries speaks some English. Honestly, you won't need a guide. But you should invest in updated travel guide books for the countries you're visiting and peruse them before you go, and find out about day trips to places outside of the main cities you'll be staying in.

And one last thing: Europe is not a country. You won't get much help unless you specify what countries you intend visiting. This is important, as climates vary, and customs vary. Both Ireland and Greece are European countries and EU member states, but are very different from each other in terms of food, culture, customs, and in particular weather and climate. 

That depends a lot on you and how you approach the trip. Lots of women do travel alone successfully, but if you engage in risky behaviors like hanging our in bars/clubs it can be more dangerous. You're generally safer with a traveling companion.

I wouldn't necessarily go to Albania by myself. But there are plenty of European nations where you'd probably be fine as long as you practice basic self awareness. 

There's much less violent crime in Europe than in the U.S. I've been all over Europe- often alone on business, sometimes with female friends. I've never felt threatened or in any danger. There are ways to protect your things from pickpocketing- a non-violent but fairly common crime. You can get a neckpouch for your credit cards and money, use the safe in the hotel for your passport, use a cross-body bag. As is true anywhere, it's better not to get drunk in bars and go home with strangers. Otherwise, you'll be fine. Now, i sometimes book excursions within a city with a guide. That way, you often get to go places you wouldn't know of by yourself, and you get to meet the other people on the tour.

Hello. it is safer to engage a female tour guide.

Avoid going out in Europe after 10 pm.

Depends where you're going, but generally most of Europe is entirely safe for solo travellers (or at least, as safe as anywhere; use basic common sense, like not maybe walking alone at 3am)

It depends on what you want.  If a tour guide offers everything you want, then go with them - it may work out more expensive.

If you can make your own itinerary and it work out cheaper, go with that. 

If you don't feel safe where you live, then you won't feel safe anywhere.

I am older than you and have visited various cities in Europe without any problems.  I plan carefully - staying as close to the centre as possible, researching the area and generally keeping to the tourist areas.  I have never had any problems.