Is Ottawa safe for solo female travelers?

Ottawa's capital, is generally considered highly safe for solo female travelers. As a country known for its peace and friendliness, Canada has low crime rates. This includes Ottawa, where safety standards are relentlessly maintained. The people are generally respectful and open-minded which contributes to a sense of security. Public transportation is dependable at most hours and the city is geared towards pedestrian movement, making it easy to navigate. Nonetheless, like any other city, it is always recommended to remain cautious, especially during night hours. But overall, Ottawa offers a comforting and secure environment for solo female travelers.

Safety rating

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How safe is Ottawa for female travelers?

Solo travel

I feel safe here Fun to visit the parliament and all the museums Public transportation takes you everywhere and is reliable Food is good and service is excellent The tap water is really good no aftertaste

Posted: January 1, 2025Experienced: January, 2025
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How safe is Ottawa for women?

Local safety index

4.1 /5

Based on 24 local experiences

Local crime index

1.8 /5

Based on 24 local experiences

Ottawa is still relatively safe, but in recent years there’s been an increase in homelessness, especially downtown. Most areas are fine for walking during the day, but at night it’s better to stay in well-lit, busier streets and be aware of your surroundings

Posted: August 14, 2025
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Maya

Maya

In general it is a very safe city especially compared to other places. There are of course certain areas that I wouldn't recommend after dark but if you are in a group or out during the day, it is a very safe place to travel.

Posted: May 14, 2025
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I live in the downtown area on the more sketchy side. Walking at night you should be vigilant as always but I never feel threatened. I have had men approach me to hit on me but it’s never been menacing or anything I haven’t encountered in other cities.

Posted: April 21, 2025
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Ottawa is a fair safe location! There’s more homeless people in the past years but nothing to be concerned about more then the normal pro cautions. I walk home tipsy with little worries :) it’s a great city with others to do!

Posted: April 11, 2025
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Ottawa is safe. There's a marginal amount of crime but I generally worry about my safety. Breaking and entering and mugging or pick pocketing is unheard and public transport is safe. Walking at night alone is also safe.

Posted: March 14, 2025
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Safety in Canada