Is Bilbao Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bilbao is generally a very safe city for solo female travelers. Criminal activities are relatively low, and the locals are friendly and helpful. It is important, however, to always prioritize personal safety. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Safety rating

3.9 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.1 /5

Based on 7 experiences from local women

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How safe is Bilbao?

Safety at night:Safe

Bilbao is generally known for being safe, even at night. As in any city, there are areas to be avoided and it's always wise to stay cautious, especially if you are alone. The locals are friendly and the police presence is quite visible. Public transportation is widely available and runs late, limiting the time you'll need to be on foot. But be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas such as markets and public transport, as pickpocketing could occur.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Bilbao is generally safe. It is quite efficient, reliable, and used by a lot of locals and tourists alike. Buses, tram, and metro lines cover the entire city and its outskirts. Pay attention to your belongings, especially in crowded buses or metros, as pickpocketing can sometimes occur. However, violent incidents are quite rare. It is also safe to travel at night, although it always sensible to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Street harassment:Low

Bilbao celebrates a culture of respect and courtesy. While instances of street harassment are never completely absent, they are relatively infrequent in Bilbao. As with any city, it is always important to stay aware of your surroundings and act confidently. But generally, solo female travelers can feel quite comfortable walking around Bilbao.

Petty crimes:Low

Bilbao generally has a reputation as a safe city for women travelers. Petty crime is not a major issue, though it's important to remain vigilant. Pickpocketing or bag-snatching can occur particularly in crowded areas and on public transport, but is not rampant. As always, it's crucial to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid flaunting high-value items in public.

Is Bilbao worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.9/5

Food

3.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Solo travel

I have to say, Bilbao is amazing, both for its people and the food. The cost here is affordable, and the people are very friendly. This is not a commercial city, so l recommend planning for three days and two nights if you want somewhere to chill for solo travel. Definitely recommend it!

Posted: May 24, 2024

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Group travel

I went to Bilbao this summer with my friends and it was a wonderful experience! I’d recommend you to go during the last week of august, because you will be able to enjoy the local festivity. I felt safe, especially in the more central neighborhoods.

Posted: March 1, 2024

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Is Bilbao safe for women?

Safety index

4.1 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Crime index

1 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

In most areas Bilbao is super safe. I travel alone as a girl and Bilbao is safe both day and night. There is one neighbourhood that is a bit more unsafe though and that are the streets around San Francisco. So I wouldn’t go there alone, especially at night. If google maps takes you there, take another way.

Posted: September 1, 2025

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