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Planning my first solo trip to Europe - safety concerns

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Plamen_25
Joined:
12.12.2020
Posts: 2459
Topic Starter
02.02.2025 23:25
I'm finally taking the plunge and booking my first solo trip to Europe later this year, but I'm feeling a bit nervous about safety as a woman traveling alone. I've been looking at lists for the safest cities, but it's hard to tell which ones are actually friendly for solo travelers versus just having low crime rates. Does anyone have personal experience or recommendations for cities where you felt comfortable walking around at night or navigating public transit? I'd love to hear your thoughts on places that feel welcoming rather than just safe on paper.
19 replies in this topic
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Nadiya_D
Joined:
02.08.2022
Posts: 2252
27.02.2025 03:05
Copenhagen is honestly the gold standard for this. I went there solo last year and never felt uneasy once, even walking back to my hostel after midnight.
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gost_nedelq
Joined:
20.12.2020
Posts: 1214
02.03.2025 05:00
In reply to a previous post
Totally agree with the Copenhagen suggestion. It's incredibly safe and the locals are super helpful if you look lost.
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Kras_T
Joined:
02.08.2021
Posts: 557
23.03.2025 05:50
Avoid big tourist traps like central Paris or Rome if you're worried about pickpockets. They aren't 'dangerous' per se, but they are stressful for a first-timer.
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chicho_savet
Joined:
16.04.2024
Posts: 2131
17.04.2025 17:21
In reply to a previous post
I second that. I had a much better experience in smaller cities like Utrecht or Ghent compared to the major capitals.
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damian_varna
Joined:
08.07.2023
Posts: 1376
09.05.2025 23:43
Don't overthink it too much! Just keep your wits about you, use a crossbody bag, and trust your gut. If a neighborhood feels off, just leave.
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Kras_T
Joined:
11.02.2023
Posts: 2088
16.06.2025 17:03
In reply to a previous post
This is the best advice. Trusting your gut is more important than any safety list you find online.
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radek_sofia
Joined:
14.12.2020
Posts: 819
28.06.2025 22:40
I’d highly recommend Vienna. It’s very well-lit, the public transport is amazing, and it’s very easy to navigate alone.
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chicho_savet
Joined:
24.06.2023
Posts: 1890
07.07.2025 16:04
In reply to a previous post
Vienna is great, but don't ignore the Nordic countries! Helsinki is probably the safest feeling place I've ever visited.
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NeZnamNoPisha
Joined:
29.01.2023
Posts: 1611
09.07.2025 22:01
I did a solo trip to Lisbon last summer and found it really welcoming. Just be careful in the Alfama district at night since the alleys can get pretty deserted.
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Ameli_Z
Joined:
04.04.2022
Posts: 2114
12.07.2025 18:24
In reply to a previous post
Thanks for the tip about Lisbon! I was actually looking at going there, so that's good to keep in mind.
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ChernaKotka
Joined:
01.10.2023
Posts: 1368
28.08.2025 01:25
Try to book accommodation that's centrally located near transit hubs. It saves you from walking long distances alone late at night.
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Selekcioner
Joined:
14.01.2024
Posts: 2185
17.09.2025 23:00
In reply to a previous post
Exactly. Being close to a metro station makes a huge difference in how safe you feel coming home after dinner.
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seba_bg
Joined:
29.12.2022
Posts: 1421
09.10.2025 12:50
Have you considered joining a walking tour on your first day? It's a great way to get your bearings and meet other travelers.
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grigor_b
Joined:
12.06.2023
Posts: 1044
10.10.2025 16:00
In reply to a previous post
I love that idea. It definitely takes the pressure off navigating a new city on your own.
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ChernaKotka
Joined:
18.12.2024
Posts: 2490
16.10.2025 15:35
Just remember that 'safe' is subjective. What feels fine to one person might feel sketchy to another. Stick to well-populated areas.
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NqkoiNesh
Joined:
07.05.2025
Posts: 655
10.11.2025 16:41
I had a great time in Munich. It feels very orderly and respectful, and I felt comfortable taking the U-Bahn late at night.
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Goshko_Bolo
Joined:
11.08.2024
Posts: 1763
15.01.2026 11:50
In reply to a previous post
Munich is definitely a solid pick. It's very low-key compared to other big cities.
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ZlatnaRuka
Joined:
20.05.2024
Posts: 63
12.02.2026 10:37
Don't let the fear stop you! Solo travel in Europe is a life-changing experience. You'll be fine as long as you're prepared.
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Oli_L
Joined:
17.03.2022
Posts: 2161
13.02.2026 06:39
In reply to a previous post
Everyone gets nervous before their first solo trip, it's totally normal. You're going to have an amazing time!

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