Is Marseille Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Marseille, being the second-largest city in France, is mostly safe for solo female travelers. Like many large cities, there is a mix of safe areas and areas better to avoid, especially at night. During the daytime, you needn't have much concern as long as you follow basic safety guidelines such as staying alert and keeping your valuables secure. However, it is recommended to avoid isolated areas and be cautious at night, particularly around the Old Port and the train station, which can be a bit dodgy. On the whole, the citizens are friendly and helpful, and public transportation is reliable.

Safety rating

3.2 /5

Based on 16 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3 /5

Based on 28 experiences from local women

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How safe is Marseille?

Safety at night:Moderate

Marseille has loveable, lively neighborhoods, but like any major city, it has its share of areas that pose a potential safety risk, especially at night. While walking alone, it's important to stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid deserted streets or areas known for crime. Most of the main tourist areas are fairly safe, and local police are visible. Like any urban setting, caution and awareness of one’s surroundings are key.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Marseille, is generally safe, reliable, and well-maintained for travelers. The city has a good network of buses, trams, and metros that are commonly used by locals and tourists alike. During the day the frequency of travel options is also accommodating, however, like anywhere you would still need to exercise common sense and personal safety, especially at night or at less crowded stations. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can still be a concern, as is common in many major cities. Overall, Marseille's public transportation safety is more or less comparable to other major European cities.

Street harassment:Low

In Marseille, you can expect the typical urban environment. Occasional stares and passive remarks may be commonplace but most locals are respectful and keep to themselves. It's always important to stay alert and aware, as in any large city. Unwanted attention can occur from time to time, but it's generally not an oppressive environment for solo female travelers.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Marseille does have its share of petty crime such as pick pocketing and bag snatching, often in crowded or touristy areas. However, taking typical travel safety precautions such as keeping the valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings can significantly lower the risk.

Is Marseille worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 16 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.2/5

Food

3.9/5

Budget-friendly

3.1/5

Couple travel

I heard a lot how dangerous is Marseille, but we stayed in the downtown, so I guess it’s nothing dangerous about it The people were nice, much nicer than in Paris, there was some free concert on the street A lot of sightseeing places are completely free

Posted: April 11, 2025

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Solo travel

It was honestly a beautiful city; I really loved the beach and the people are super friendly. To stay safe in this city, you should especially avoid going out alone at night and choose the neighborhood where you'll stay during your visit. You can find all types of cuisine possible to meet everyone's needs. There are many affordable transportation options, making it easy to get around the city.

Posted: April 2, 2025

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Group travel

Marseille was fun. We all heard it's super unsafe but didn't really feel like it. Of course I only stayed intramuros. Even at night walking with a friend felt okay. Always be careful but I'd say it's all good.

Posted: March 12, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Sydney

United Kingdom

Solo travel

Marseille is a gorgeous place near hiking in the mountains, nightlife in the city, and beautiful beaches. Truly one of my favourite cities in the world! I felt very safe— even did a bit of hitchhiking around in the Calanques. Went cave diving and spent most of my time by the sea.

Posted: March 11, 2025

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Laureline

France

Solo travel

Marseille is the biggest city in south France. It allows you to go check a lot other places in south of France by train/buses. You can also enjoy the sea and typical food there. Some neighbor (in North) and quite not safe for solo female so please stay in the center ! And not to close to the train station. Enjoy !

Posted: February 4, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Group travel

Marseille is a cute city for a daytrip. I was with seven other peolpe, is was a friendgroupt vacation. That‘s why I always felt safe. There are some creepy little streets though, but overall if you stay in the touristy spots, you shouldn‘t have to worry. My favourite thing as a vegan were the many gelato stands with parfaits, it was so yummy. They often had slush ices, too, which was great.

Posted: January 9, 2025

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Is Marseille safe for women?

Safety index

3 /5

Based on 28 local experiences

Crime index

2.9 /5

Based on 28 local experiences

Marseille is famous for not being safe, but for me, it's kind of like in a lot of big cities in Europe : it's safe until you know where not to go at a certain time of the day. If you stay in the famous areas, and not alone, it's ok (Vieux Port, Cours Julien..) Still, i recommend not to walk around for a long time by night alone ! And to always look after tour belongings ! But it's pretty calm in the day ☺️

Posted: July 16, 2025

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The town is definitely safe. Obviously there are some places where there are badly intentioned people but in general walking as a woman is safe. The public transports are safe, people are usually very nice and would help you if you feel unsafe

Posted: July 9, 2025

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