Is Gelsenkirchen Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Gelsenkirchen is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. The crime rate is comparatively low and locals are known to be helpful and respectful. Like any city, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in less populated areas. Public transportation is reliable and safe but always have a backup plan in case services aren't available late at night. Understanding a bit of German can be helpful but most locals speak English to some extent. In case of emergency, keep the local emergency numbers and location of your country’s embassy or consulate.

Safety rating

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Gelsenkirchen?

Safety at night:Moderate

Gelsenkirchen, typically maintains a relatively safe environment. However, just like in any other city, some areas may not be as well lit or populated at night. While crime rates are generally low, and many local people feel comfortable walking alone after dark, if you are a solo female traveler unfamiliar with the city, it is recommended to stay in well-lit, busy areas and to avoid walking alone late at night whenever possible. Keep a vigilant attitude, avoid displaying valuable items, and use trusted taxi services or public transportation if needed. Utilise common travel safety precautions.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Gelsenkirchen is generally safe. Like in many German cities, you can rely on trams, buses, and trains for travel. This system is punctual and the stations are well-lit and clean. However, remember to always be vigilant, especially during nighttime, and to keep your belongings close to you to prevent petty theft.

Street harassment:Low

Generally speaking, Gelsenkirchen, like many other cities in Germany, is quite safe for solo female travellers. Street harassment incidents are relatively uncommon although, as with any place, they can still occur. Many residents are respectful and mind their own business. It's advisable to maintain your personal safety precautions just as you would in any other city.

Petty crimes:Low

Gelsenkirchen, as other parts of Germany, is generally safe. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse snatching are not common but can happen, especially in crowded places. Regardless, it's always advisable to take standard precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings and not leaving them unattended.

Is Gelsenkirchen worth visiting?

Family travel

I visited Gelsenkirchen with my family to see my cousins. It’s a city I usually visit every two years. I haven’t stayed in a foreign place there, but from what I’ve heard, it’s a safe city. Also, if you’re Turkish, I’d like to mention that there are many Turks, so you won’t have any communication problems.

Posted: February 10, 2025

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Is Gelsenkirchen safe for women?

My opinion is honesty really mixed, I live close to the main train station and the city center, train station is always kinda sketchy, but then again people use it a lot without something happening. But I always take my car anyways, it's been a couple years since I used public transport. During the day everything does feel safe, at night the vibe is kinda sketchy but nothings happened yet. I worry a little about someone breaking into my home but that's more because I live on the first floor and therefore easy access. I have had some men trying to talk to me, but they did back off after saying no. Not really worried about mugging specifically, I just kinda feel like that's not something that really happens here. Overall I do feel pretty safe, but I'm just not out a lot where I have to walk much at night.

Posted: May 29, 2025

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I would say that Gelsenkirchen is quite safe as long as you don't hang around certain neighborhoods, especially in the evening/night. I indicated it this way because I just generally have the fear that such things can happen.

Posted: January 12, 2025

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