Is Netherlands Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

The Netherlands generally is very safe with a well-functioning police force and emergency services. Dutch people are open-minded, respect diversity, and crime rates are low. However, like any place, it's advisable to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded touristic areas and late at night. Always follow local alerts and advisories to avoid potential risks.

Safety rating

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How safe is Netherlands?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

The Netherlands is known for high safety standards, even during night hours. Bigger cities have well-lit streets, offering a sense of security to its inhabitants and visitors. However, as in any place, caution should still be exercised. Stay in populated areas, avoid poorly-lit streets and always be aware of your surroundings. Do not engage in risky behaviors and steer clear of potentially dangerous situations. Make use of public transportation where possible, as they are generally secure and reliable. Allow friends or family to know your whereabouts whenever you plan to be out during late hours.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

In general, the Netherlands' public transportation system is considered highly safe, especially in comparison to global standards. This includes well-connected and frequently running buses, trains, and trams, as well as cycling paths. There is an efficient network of ferries in cities like Amsterdam. While petty theft can be seen in crowded areas, measures like use of surveillance cameras, patrols, and lighting provide safety. It is advisable to stay alert, especially in larger cities and at night, and always keep your belongings within your sight. Keep the local emergency number (112) handy, although it's unlikely you'll need to use it.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

In general, the Netherlands is known for its respectful and open-minded people. Street harassment is not commonly reported, and it is considered one of the safer countries for solo female travelers. Instances of harassment can occur, as they can anywhere in the world, but these are not prevalent, and women often feel comfortable navigating cities and towns on their own both during the day and night. Authorities and residents have a low tolerance for harassment, and there are usually strict measures in place to handle such situations. Nevertheless, exercising general vigilance is recommended.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Netherlands generally holds a reputation for being a safe country with low levels of petty crime. However, popular touristic cities such as Amsterdam can see occasional instances of pickpocketing and bike theft. Always be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Is Netherlands worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 158 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5
Lea

Lea

Germany

Utrecht, Solo travel

I visited Utrecht several times already. Alone, with friends, with my dog and without my dog. I have a small dog and she is easily stressed when too much is going on. Around the central station it's busy. But the mall there is amazing! You can shop there like a queen! πŸ›οΈ You can also see the "parking garage" for the bicycles when you go there! Definitely worth a visit. 🚲 I am vegan so I sometimes have trouble finding something to eat, but Utrecht did great with food. Hot Pot at "Momofugu" can be vegan and it tastes amazing. Also when you are in the area of Utrecht you may take a walk there. A few shops, train and bus station close by too! In another area you can see the canals! Feels like Amsterdam but less busy! The "Vegetalian" is a restaurant I can recommend too! They offer vegan, gluten free and more! πŸ• Overall I would say that with and without people around me I felt safe. The parking garage and parking in general is expensive, still less than Amsterdam tho!! Few areas I would avoid, if its night time, but at day time? I wouldn't have a problem going anywhere in Utrecht!

Posted: May 19, 2025
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Tyrra

Tyrra

France

The Hague, Solo travel

Hiii, I went to the Hague in the Netherlands. I went to see a friend who told me the Hague wasn't that safe... I felt okay and didn't have any problems. The beach there is nice, you can surf sometimes:)

Posted: May 19, 2025Experienced: March, 2025
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Amsterdam, Couple travel

Very safe, felt okay to walk home at night even as two women. The food and activities were quite expensive, so we made use of the many supermarkets and free/cheap activities such as bike riding, picnicing, walking around the canals The night life is great but do your research- there are plenty of tourist traps

Posted: May 15, 2025
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Netherlands, Solo travel

I felt pretty safe in Amsterdam and I stayed at a low budget hostel, so that's a big plus. I visited the city, the museums and the parks. It's a big city so i walked a lot. The food was very tasty. A little expensive, tho, for my bugdet, but i can understand it. Overall, it's a fabulous city, with a unique vibe and extremely open people

Posted: May 13, 2025
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Keira

Keira

United Kingdom

Amsterdam, Group travel

We felt very safe. There is very minimal catcalling, I was quite surprised by that. Men don't bother you at all, in fact they're quite respectful. The red light district museum is so interesting, definitely recommend that. The cruises look good but we weren't able to attend as we got lost. There is so much to see, I'd recommend hiring a bike as its the main form of transport, otherwise it's a LOT of walking.

Posted: May 13, 2025Experienced: March, 2025
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Is Netherlands safe for women?

Safety index

4.5 /5

Based on 408 local experiences

Crime index

1.8 /5

Based on 408 local experiences

Heeze-Leende

Hy village is so safe, I can leave my front door open and no one will come in β€” in fact, someone might even close it for me. It’s peaceful, quiet, and the kind of place where people still greet each other in the street.

Posted: May 28, 2025
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Safety in Netherlands