Is Bordeaux Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bordeaux is generally considered a very safe city for solo female travelers. Its low crime rate, friendly locals, and well-lit public areas make it an excellent choice. Of course, as with any location, it's important to still exercise caution especially during late night hours. However, it is well-equipped with reliable public transportation and numerous safe accommodation options. Moreover, its pedestrian-friendly layout makes navigation simple and secure.

Safety rating

4.3 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.8 /5

Based on 18 experiences from local women

Bordeaux is currently ranked #17 safest place in France for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.3 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Bordeaux?

Safety at night:Safe

Bordeaux is generally a safe city for solo female travelers walking alone at night. The city is well lit, and the public areas are usually busy with locals and tourists alike. However, like anywhere else, caution and common sense should be exercised. Stick to main streets, avoid dimly lit areas and it's always sensible to avoid walking alone in the late hours if possible. If you must go somewhere at night, taxis and public transport are usually available.

Public transportation:Safe

Bordeaux public transportation includes trams, buses and water shuttles, and is generally safe. There is good connectivity across the city and to nearby suburbs. Normal precautions like avoiding late night travels and being alert of one's belongings need to be taken. Incidents of crime are generally low but can occur occasionally. The staff on the public transportation systems are generally helpful and available for queries or help.

Street harassment:Low

Bordeaux generally has a reputation for being safe and welcoming. It offers a friendly and calm environment to its visitors. Instances of street harassment do occur but are not frequent. As in any city, caution and awareness are always advised, especially during late-night hours or in less crowded areas.

Petty crimes:Low

Bordeaux as a city tends to have relatively low levels of petty crime. However, like any other city, pickpocketing can occur, specifically in crowded, touristic areas and public transport. It's advised to be vigilant, particularly if you are carrying valuable items. Remember to always keep an eye on your bags or personal belongings, avoid flashing expensive items in public and be cautious of individuals who approach you in an overly friendly way or with a sad story, as they might be attempting to distract you. Despite these precautions, please note that many female solo travelers visit Bordeaux regularly without incident.

Is Bordeaux worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.7 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.7/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.5/5

Mandy

Hong Kong S.A.R.

Solo travel

Bordeaux is safe during the daytime, but you have to be careful at night, especially in the old town. I was followed by four men to the station after sunset, which was just a short walk to the station.

Posted: October 9, 2024

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Denise

United States

Couple travel

Gorgeous city, like Paris but less stressful. Much more laid back city. Highly recommend where we stayed: Maison la Course, small boutique hotel with daily breakfast included (served on porcelain, crystal & silver), massages in house, lovely all female staff at the time we were there. To see: Monuments & Neighborhoods to See: Palais Gallien: Ruined 3rd century amphitheater from Roman city Burdigala Place de la Victoire: walk up Rue Sainte-Catherine, (detour east to le Musée d'Aquitaine, la Grosse Cloche - 15th century, bell 1775), (detour west to Cathédrale Saint-André, Place Gambetta & Porte Dijeaux), all the way north to le Grand Theatre (detour west to Notre Dame de Bordeaux, 11th century) Old Bordeaux: (15th century buildings) Porte Cailhau, Place de la Bourse, Basilica & Spire Saint-Michel (built 14-16th centuries), Place Saint-Pierre, Place du Palais, Pont de Pierre Chartrons: Rue Notre Dame (upscale street with antique shops, pastries, cafés), Église Saint-Louis des Chartrons (1880), Boulangerie “Au Pétrin Moissagais” (1785), Musée du Vin et du Négoce Jardin Public/ Quinconces: Monument aux Girondins Bacalan: La Cité du Vin

Posted: August 21, 2024Experienced: February, 2024

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Solo travel

I loved Bordeaux, I went on a wine tour and took a train to the sea. I also went on a bicycle tour. Bordeaux is 100% pedestrian friendly and it's beautiful.

Posted: June 30, 2022

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Is Bordeaux safe for women?

Safety index

3.8 /5

Based on 18 local experiences

Crime index

1.8 /5

Based on 18 local experiences

It's a nice place to live. I never had any problem here but I don't go out very often and not on the evening. Other people tend to say it's safe excepted some places like Victoire at night but otherwise it's safe. And I'm not scared to go walk outside and run even if it's dark outside when it's not late.

Posted: December 26, 2024

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Mia

Bordeaux is quite safe in my experience as long as you stay away from certain areas I’ve lived here for 7 years and never experienced any unsafe event but heard about some I feel very safe here but have never been too reckless

Posted: December 26, 2024

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Meet locals in Bordeaux

Cléa

About Me

Hey ! My name is Cléa, I'm 21 and I study to become psychomotrician. It's my first year in Bordeaux so I don't really now it a lot but I already have places to show around. I really like to draw, I write, I like hiking, I play badminton and I'm starting running. I also enjoy watching films, series and animes. Feel free to contact me 😁

Speaking

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Marion

About Me

Hello, fellow lady travellers! I'm Marion, and I'm originally from Bordeaux but I've only moved back here a few years ago. I work in graphic design at the moment, though I'm always looking for opportunities in other creative jobs! I loveee travelling to bigger cities, and then also to more remote areas to go on hikes. Travelling alone is something I enjoy, it's not the same experience as travelling with friends and it really allows to meet lots of wonderful people, and live like a local. :)