Is Madrid Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Madrid, as a popular European capital, has a strong safety infrastructure with a visible police presence in major tourist areas. Local people are generally friendly and willing to assist travelers. However, like any bustling city, it is advised to stay alert, especially in crowded areas or at night due to potential pickpocketing. Always be aware of your belongings and avoid isolated areas late at night. But, overall, Madrid is relatively safe for solo female travelers.

Safety rating

4.4 /5

Based on 51 experiences from female travelers

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.2 /5

Based on 79 experiences from local women

Madrid is currently ranked #27 safest place in Spain for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Madrid?

Safety at night:Safe

Madrid is considered a secure city for solo female travelers. The city's main areas and public transportation services are generally safe at night. However, like any other bustling city, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas and keep personal belongings secure. Local authorities are usually vigilant and responsive. As in most places, pickpocketing can be a concern, hence prudence is necessary.

Public transportation:Safe

Madrid's public transportation system is generally safe, modern, and efficient. Requests for help are usually met with friendly assistance and it's perfectly fine to use at all hours. It includes the metro, buses, and taxis. However, like any big city, it's advised to stay alert for pickpockets especially in crowded areas or during peak hours.

Street harassment:Low

While Madrid, like any large city, is not completely free from street harassment, many solo female travelers find it generally safe in terms of day-to-day interactions. There might be occasional catcalling or unsolicited attention, particularly in crowded and tourist-frequented areas, but most women report feeling comfortable walking around the city both during the day and at night. That said, it's important to stay vigilant, aware of your surroundings, and follow the same precautions you would in any major city.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Madrid’s vibrant capital, has a moderate level of petty crime. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from unattended vehicles or hotel rooms are the most common crimes. The city's bustling tourist spots and public transportation are especially targeted. Therefore, always remain vigilant, secure your belongings, and avoid flaunting valuable items in public.

Is Madrid worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 51 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.4/5

Safety

4.4/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.2/5

Solo travel

I stayed for 4 nights. The city center was always very safe and I was able to visit places both in daytime and night time. There were homeless people around but they didn’t harass. I joined a walking tour and almost got pickpocketed but the guide noticed and warned me. All good besides that

Posted: June 7, 2025

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Solo travel

Madrid is a city where I felt very safe all the time, even as a solo female traveler. there is also a lot of activity to do, lot of museums to visit and it’s possible to visit them for free on certain day which can be useful if you are on a budget. Lots of parcs and rest area in the city as well:)

Posted: May 30, 2025

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Leslie

United States

Solo travel

I was alone in Madrid for 5 days in February of 2023. Overall, I had a great experience there because I felt safe walking alone at night since there was police presence throughout the city, it was clean, and it felt like a calm atmosphere in general. It became my favorite city in Europe because of how safe it felt, everything was walking distance, and it was such a beautiful place. I also felt like I didn’t spend much or it wasn’t super pricey. The only thing I would change about my trip is to choose a better hostel since the one I stayed in was nasty and felt unsafe. I would definitely go back again though!

Posted: May 29, 2025Experienced: February, 2023

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Family travel

For me was a little bit unsafe and dirty, my brother has to pay way too much for asma medication that was not fair but it's ok love to see the city but I don't recommend to go as well you have some family there

Posted: May 25, 2025

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Solo travel

Honestly I just love Spain I spent a whole week in Madrid and it felt like it was the best time of my life even though the weather wasn't perfect. I felt safe people are nice and there are a lot of activities that you can do. Especially during night time you don't feel alone because everyone is partying so I really recommend going there.

Posted: May 1, 2025Experienced: March, 2025

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Lena

Austria

Group travel

I loved Madrid! It's got a beautiful city center and so so good food! I loved the breakfast places! Just wander around and go with the flow! There are are also great rooftop bars. :) I never felt unsafe so no worries if you wanna visit the city by yourself!

Posted: May 1, 2025Experienced: April, 2023

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Is Madrid safe for women?

Safety index

4.2 /5

Based on 79 local experiences

Crime index

2 /5

Based on 79 local experiences

Celia

I haven't had any problems in my 22 years living here. I live in a good neighbourhood, "Barrio Salamanca" so the only crime you could face here is someone stealing your wallet or phone if you are careless like in any part of the world.

Posted: June 19, 2025

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rebecca

Madrid is very very safe! There can be some pickpockets around but that’s about it. Police is always going around on cars, scooters. The public transport is very frequented even by night which makes it feel very safe. I wouldn’t worry about being a solo female traveler

Posted: June 14, 2025

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