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 5 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.7/5

Safety

4/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5
Lea

Lea

Germany

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! 🛍️ 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! 🍕 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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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 49 local experiences

Crime index

1.6 /5

Based on 49 local experiences

Anna

Anna

I've lived in Utrecht for many years. Generally speaking I've felt safe there. Public transport very late at night attracts people who are heavily under the influence, so make sure you sit around other people with good vibes. The level of sexual harassment is similar to other big cities. Nothing crazy or something to particularly afraid of, but it does exist.

Posted: June 4, 2025
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Laura

Laura

I mostly walk everywhere, also in the middle of the night. It is a very pleasant city. There are some homeless people, as in most big cities, but besides daling for money they leave you alone. I would recommend visiting Utrecht as a solo female traveler

Posted: June 3, 2025
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Safety in Netherlands