Is Utrecht Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Utrecht boasts a high level of safety for solo female travelers. The crime rate is generally low, and both the locals and the authorities are usually helpful and friendly. Public transportation is reliable and is considered safe even in the late hours while the city is also well-lit during the night. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to follow standard safety precautions, like not leaving your belongings unattended and avoiding less crowded areas late at night.

Safety rating

4 /5

Based on 4 experiences from female travelers

4.6 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.6 /5

Based on 43 experiences from local women

Utrecht is currently ranked #98 safest place in Netherlands for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Utrecht?

Safety at night:Safe

Utrecht is generally safe, even at night. The city has excellent street lighting and surveillance systems. However, like any city, it's important to remain vigilant, especially in quieter areas or parks. Always try to stay in well-lit, populated areas and be mindful of your surroundings. Keep personal belongings close and avoid unnecessary displays of valuable items. While instances of violent crime are relatively low, occasional pick-pocketing could occur especially in busy nightlife districts or on public transportation.

Public transportation:Safe

Utrecht's public transportation system, consisting of trams, trains, and buses, are known for being clean and efficient. Timetables are often reliable, and even late-night services are provided. Though generally safe, crowded times and areas might expose travelers to petty theft or pickpockets. Safety measures and active surveillance are in place but travelers are still suggested to be cautious of their belongings.

Street harassment:Low

Utrecht generally has a safe and respectful environment. Like most places, it isn't entirely free of street harassment, but such instances are relatively rare. Most locals are polite and keep to themselves, and local authorities are efficient. Nonetheless, caution is always advised, especially while traveling during night times or in secluded areas. Always remember that it's alright to seek help if you feel unsafe.

Petty crimes:Low

Utrecht, like many Dutch cities, maintains a generally low level of petty crime. As a solo female traveller, you should be cautious but it wouldn't be a major concern. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded spots or public transportation, and bicycle theft is quite common. It's advisable to be alert of your belongings and use sturdy locks for your bicycle.

Is Utrecht worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.7 /5

based on 4 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.4/5

Safety

4/5

Food

3.4/5

Budget-friendly

3/5

Barrett

United States

Solo travel

I came into Utrecht after two days in Amsterdam. I really enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the bigger city but it was hard to feel like I belonged somewhere- as soon as I got into Utrecht- the smaller scale of the buildings and vibrancy of all the little cafes and stores drew me in. Although I am nearly 50, I joined in with a group of locals in their 20s for drinks and later we went dancing which was so much fun as it had been years since I’d done so. Everyone was warm and inviting. No bad vibes entire stay

Posted: July 19, 2024

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Tessa

Germany

Group travel

We had gone to a card tournament with our group of friends, so we didn't have any other activities. There was a shopping mall in the center. There was a lot of food selection there. So, as an allergic person, it was possible for me to find some dishes. There are some gluten-free options available like, for example, at Vapiano.

Posted: May 16, 2024Experienced: December, 2023

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Annalise

Belgium

Solo travel

Felt good! Only problem I had was a date that stood me up... Luckily it's a vibrant city. Small, but fun! I spent a lot of time in the central mall near the station, honestly not a bad decision. They have great food hubs!

Posted: February 27, 2024Experienced: January, 2024

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Solo travel

Utrecht is the kind of place Amsterdam would be if there weren't so many tourists - beautiful canals and harbor cellars, a vibrant nightlife, and Miffy's house. I felt very safe there when I went out in the city alone.

Posted: July 16, 2023

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Is Utrecht safe for women?

Safety index

4.6 /5

Based on 43 local experiences

Crime index

1.5 /5

Based on 43 local experiences

Extremely safe especially city centre and high traffic areas. Be more careful crossing parks or isolated areas by night, especially on foot. Public transport or biking will be the safest and cheapest options. Taxis and Ubers are also perfectly safe. Look out for fat bikes and motorcycles

Posted: April 1, 2025

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Jansje

Utrecht is a safe city, especially in the city center. Sexual harassment and inappropriate comments can happen but bigger clubs have people assigned to create safe environments or you can go to the personal and tell them when you are feeling unsafe. I feel safe going home at night by myself and do this often, but of course I will always be aware of my surroundings and I make sure I am always conscious. I’ve been lucky not to have experienced bad things, but that does not mean it cannot or does not happen.

Posted: March 16, 2025

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Meet locals in Utrecht

Arianne

About Me

I just started to do my own '12Stedentocht' - a walking tour through all the (capitals of the) provinces in The Netherlands on a small budget, and I am looking for likeminded people and places to stay. Creative, independent, joyful, open. I value freedom, joy, kindness. Walking, wandering, wondering, pondering. Being. City, nature, offgrid, on/off the road. Books. Thinking. About thinking (etc). Camping. Open Fire. Storm. Sun. Snow. Art, photography, indie music, arthouse movies. Single at Heart. Know thyself. Serious. Silliness 🙃 [ Ik ben net aan mijn eigen '12Stedentocht' begonnen, een wandeling door/langs alle (hoofdsteden van de) Nederlandse provinciën. Ik werk onderweg, maar altijd net genoeg om rond te komen - er is nog zo veel meer te doen en te zien! Leuk om gelijkgestemde mensen te ontmoeten en helemaal fijn om bij ze te kunnen overnachten ]

Speaking

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Amelie

About Me

Hey, my name is Amelie, I'm 22 years old and a 4th year nursing student in Utrecht. I love meeting new people and traveling the world!

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Utrecht

Amelie

Utrecht

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hey, my name is Amelie, I'm 22 years old and a 4th year nursing student in Utrecht. I love meeting new people and traveling the world!

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Utrecht

Xiyao

About Me

I would like to make friends so that I can know persons from all over the world. Good memories will last forever. The kindness shown to me cannot be fully repaid. I am always deeply appreciative of it. And to honor this great heart, I will pay it forward by sharing kindness with whomever I meet.