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

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How safe is Utrecht?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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

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

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

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

4.5 /5

Based on 26 local experiences

Crime index

1.5 /5

Based on 26 local experiences

Laura

Laura

Utrecht is a very safe city. They also call it the small Amsterdam. You have beautiful canals like in Amsterdam, but its not as touristic and busy. The crime rate is not high and overall its a safe site for woman, even at night.

Posted: December 16, 2024
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It’s safe. Just don’t go walking in the forest at night. The Netherlands is small so there are people everywhere so that also feel safe. But if you go to places where people drink it can feel not nice but that’s my personal feelings

Posted: September 28, 2024
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Meet locals in Utrecht

Camila

Camila

About Me

I'm Camila, a Colombian living in the Netherlands for almost a decade. I love to meet new people and get to discover new cultures and new things in general. I'm very curious. I also love traveling:). I'm a very chill and flexible person unless I'm hungry :)... I'm a foodie and I enjoy outdoor sports.

Speaking

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Arianne

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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Stay with locals in Utrecht

Camila

Camila

Utrecht

Can host for:

1 day

About me

I'm Camila, a Colombian living in the Netherlands for almost a decade. I love to meet new people and get to discover new cultures and new things in general. I'm very curious. I also love traveling:). I'm a very chill and flexible person unless I'm hungry :)... I'm a foodie and I enjoy outdoor sports.

Speaking

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Jessica

Jessica

Utrecht

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I'm Jess, I'm a part-time entrepreneur in Communication, and I'm living in Utrecht for over 10 years now. Always open for a meet-up or activity!

Speaking

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Safety in Netherlands