Is San Sebastian Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

San Sebastian is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. Police presence is noticeable and most areas are well-lit, even at night. Public transportation is reliable and safe. However, like any other location, it is still recommended to take precautions, especially during late hours. Always be aware of your surroundings, use common sense, and avoid poorly lit and deserted areas whenever possible. Theft from pickpockets, a common issue in many tourist destinations, can sometimes occur, so keeping your belongings secure is crucial.

Safety rating

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.2 /5

Based on 8 experiences from local women

San Sebastian is currently ranked #11 safest place in Spain for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.5 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is San Sebastian?

Safety at night:Safe

San Sebastian is generally quite safe at night. The city is well-lit, and people, including solo female travelers, frequently walk alone without incident. Criminal activities are relatively low, particularly violent crime. It's always important, however, to stay on guard and follow basic safety precautions, such as staying in populated areas and avoiding dark, isolated spots.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation, including buses and trains in San Sebastian, is generally safe and reliable. Some precautions such as avoiding late-night travel and always being aware of your belongings are advisable. Instances of pickpocketing or petty crime do occur, but they are not widespread. As a solo female traveler, you should feel relatively secure, however, it is always important to remain alert to your surroundings.

Street harassment:Low

San Sebastian is generally a safe and respectful city with most locals being welcoming and courteous. Instances of street harassment are infrequent, though like anywhere, can occur occasionally. A culture of respect for personal space predominates, however, precaution should always be taken, especially during evening hours in less populated areas.

Petty crimes:Low

San Sebastian is a relatively safe city with petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching being the most common. These types of incidents are primarily in crowded tourist areas and on public transport. However, the overall frequency is quite low. As always, it's essential to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Is San Sebastian worth visiting?

Hanaë

France

Family travel

Very good and sunny ! It’s very helpful for mental health! I was with my family and we visited all the city and it was so good. I think it’s better when you are adult because you are more free etc !🥰

Posted: March 31, 2024

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Solo travel

Had a great time there. Amazing place to have some hiking tours over the day and some food in the old town in the evenig. Ocean is perfect for a cool swim after a exhausting day. Definitely coming back one day. Can really recommend to have some of the best cheescake here.

Posted: May 8, 2023Experienced: April, 2023

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Is San Sebastian safe for women?

Safety index

4.2 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Crime index

1.4 /5

Based on 8 local experiences

Laida

Overall, it's very safe. It's fairly small, so violent crimes are rare and even more so in city centre areas. It's always a good idea to keep your belongings in sight, on your lap if you sit at a bar or terrace, zip or clasp your bag shut or, if you're carrying a tote bag, keep the important items under a jumper/cardigan/whatever. Keep an eye out when going out at night in the old town, especially in crowded areas. Muggings are rare but sneaky pickpockets are everywhere. Cat-calling is more common at night but rare during the day, so are cases of rape by strangers. However, when walking back home at night, never let your guard down completely, do not wear headphones, keep a brisk walk, your hands on your keys and let someone know you're on your way. If you can have someone walk with you, much better. Public transport is safe at any time and there are night-time buses to most neighbourhoods and nearby towns from the city centre for those who want to enjoy the nightlife.

Posted: September 28, 2025

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