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

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How safe is Bilbao?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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.
Tap water:

Tap water:Very safe

In Bilbao, tap water is generally safe to drink and meets all the international safety standards. You will often see locals filling up their water bottles straight from the tap. Some may find it has a different taste due to mineral composition, but it is perfectly safe for consumption.

Is Bilbao safe to travel?

Group travel experience

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?

This city is very safe. Of course there are some neighborhoods where is better not to go at night, Sna Francisco and Cortes streets, but during the day and in the rest of Bilbao is very safe. It feels very safe walking in the city.

Posted: March 14, 2024
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Is Bilbao safe right now?

Before your visit to Bilbao, it's essential to check travel advisories for Spain, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises exercising increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 26, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Spain due to the potential threat of terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 6, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in Spain. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 18, 2024

Meet locals in Bilbao

Meet local women in Bilbao who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Maite

Maite

About Me

Hey It's Maite from Spain! I love visiting different places, taking pics, enjoying with locals abd meeting new people! I'm delighted meeting buddies a discovering new places, contact me!! IG @maitehuici

Speaking

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Julene

Julene

About Me

These last two years I have been trying to travel as much as I could, I would love to meet new people on my next solo trip to thailand-malaysia and Bali 😊 from the 24th of may to 19th of june. Instagram: @juulwalpole

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Bilbao

Stay with local women in Bilbao who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Nerea

Nerea

Bilbao

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Nerea. 30 yo Doctor Open minded Need to do new thing all the time :)

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Safety in Spain