Is Palermo Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Palermo is mainly safe for solo female travelers. Like any major city, it has its share of petty crime, but violent crime is uncommon. Normal precautions like staying in well-lit areas, not walking alone late at night in deserted areas, and being alert to your surroundings should keep you safe. For additional safety, always keep emergency numbers handy. Furthermore, locals are typically friendly and helpful. Just remember, as with any city, it's important to stay vigilant and aware no matter how safe the environment feels.

Safety rating

3.7 /5

Based on 3 experiences

3.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety overview

Safety at night:Moderate

Palermo, like many other cities, is reasonably safe at night. However, as a solo female traveler, it's prudent to exercise caution especially after dark. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in deserted areas or narrow streets. If you're staying in a central location, you are likely to find people around even late into the night. However, as with any other city, instances of petty theft or public harassment can occur, so watch your belongings and prioritize your comfort and security.

Public transportation: Safe

The public transportation in Palermo is generally safe, even for solo female travelers. The buses, trams, and trains are reliable and frequently used by locals and tourists alike. However, like any urban area, it's always smart to stay alert to your surroundings. It can get crowded during rush hours and it's advisable to secure your belongings. Staff are usually helpful, but not all might speak English. Also remember, in Italy it's necessary to validate your ticket at the beginning of your journey to avoid fines.

Street harassment: Low

While walking through the streets of Palermo you will generally find that the locals are friendly and respectful. Most of the time, you won't face any unpleasant experiences or untoward harassment. However, Italy being a passionate and expressive country, you might get occasional attention or appreciative comments, which mainly reflect the local culture rather than direct harassment. Being aware and confident can enhance your solo travel experience in Palermo.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Palermo is fairly safe for travelers although petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur especially in the crowded areas such as markets and public transportation. Always be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings. General prudence and basic precautionary steps such as not flaunting valuable items will lower the risk significantly.

Tap water:Safe

Drinking tap water in Palermo is generally safe. The water undergoes rigorous testing and meets both national and international water safety standards. However, due to the unique taste that can sometimes occur due to mineral content, some visitors opt to drink bottled water instead.

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Travel experiences

Overall rating

3.7 /5

based on 3 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

3.3/5

Safety

3.7/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

3/5
Özge

Özge (30)

Turkey

Solo travel experience

I spent 2 nights in Palermo and I enjoyed my time. It gave a vibe that no other city gave before. The city is a fusion of different cultures and you can see the multicultural effects in everything which I loved. I'm not so used to traveling solo, at first because of all the catcalling I was a little uncomfortable but then I tried to be in busy places and streets and felt somewhat safe.

Posted: June 9, 2023Experienced: May, 2023
Things to do: 3/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I loved Palermo. I stayed in a beautiful Airbnb that was totally affordable and near everything. The first night I did an Airbnb experience tour with a woman from there and she showed me amazing things and made me feel totally comfortable. I loved Italy and Sicily.

Posted: April 26, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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mode_comment 0

Solo travel experience

I was in Palermo for 4 days last October as a solo traveler. Not once did I feel unsafe even doing the evenings. Full of life, full of people. I loved it.

Posted: April 21, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Palermo

Josette

Josette

Speaking

About Me

Je suis Française et je vis en Italie. J'adore voyager et découvrir des endroits nouveaux, des traditions, des plats en compagnie de personnes qui partagent mes intérêts et qui sont disponibles à me guider/m'accompagner et pourqoi pas, m'héberger. Je peux accueillir une voyageuse et lui faire découvrir Les beautés de ma zone. J'aime cuisiner et m'occuper des animaux et des plantes et une de mes passions est le restyling interne.

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Ivna

Ivna

Speaking

About Me

Guitarist, Photographer, I love to go out at night to see concerts and dance. I prefer deep, meaningful conversations.

mode_comment 0
Vera

Vera

About Me

Hello. I’m going to trip to Palermo. 15.01.2024-25.01 I’m up to meet new friends! You are welcome

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Stay with locals in Palermo

Josette

Josette

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

Je suis Française et je vis en Italie. J'adore voyager et découvrir des endroits nouveaux, des traditions, des plats en compagnie de personnes qui partagent mes intérêts et qui sont disponibles à me guider/m'accompagner et pourqoi pas, m'héberger. Je peux accueillir une voyageuse et lui faire découvrir Les beautés de ma zone. J'aime cuisiner et m'occuper des animaux et des plantes et une de mes passions est le restyling interne.

mode_comment 0
Vera

Vera

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

Hello. I’m going to trip to Palermo. 15.01.2024-25.01 I’m up to meet new friends! You are welcome

mode_comment 0

Safety in Italy