Is Santiago de Compostela Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Santiago de Compostela is widely known for being a safe city. The crime rate is relatively low and security is good around the city's main attractions. However, as with any destination, it is always recommended to stay vigilant, especially during nights in less crowded areas or while using public transportation. People are generally friendly and helpful to tourists, so if you respect local customs and remain aware of your surroundings, your trip should be quite secure.

Safety rating

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Santiago de Compostela?

Safety at night:Safe

Santiago de Compostela is generally regarded as a safe city with a low crime rate. It's commonplace to see people, including females, walking alone at night. However, like any other city, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in less crowded or poorly lit areas.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Santiago de Compostela is generally safe and reliable. The city's buses regularly run through major routes, and taxis are readily available. However, like any busy place, it's advisable to always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. The locals are helpful and most will be able to communicate in English. Despite this, learning a few basic Spanish phrases could come in handy.

Street harassment:Very low

Santiago de Compostela is generally safe and respectful towards women. Street harassment is relatively low in this city, making it comfortable and secure for solo female travelers. As a preparation, learning some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful to navigate through situations. But like any other destinations, remember to always stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Petty crimes:Low

Santiago de Compostela generally offers a safe environment for travel. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are relatively low. Always exercise general precautions such as securing your belongings and avoiding isolated areas, particularly at night. The city is filled with people on the way to the camino, ensuring you're rarely alone. But, as always, staying alert to your surroundings is key.

Is Santiago de Compostela worth visiting?

Solo travel

Most recent solo travel was the camino de Santiago that ended in Santiago. Walked from Sarria. Never did I feel unsafe at any point, even though I was a little concerned before the trip, as I'd never solo travelled in Spain before.

Posted: July 7, 2024Experienced: April, 2024

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Family travel

My dad and I visited Santiago de Compostela as our final destination on our Camino walk. The city is very similar in architecture to Edinburgh. You’ll find plenty of pilgrims who have just finished the Camino walk also in the city. Overall, I felt the experience in Santiago was great with the food options, things to do, and reasonably affordable accommodation. Very safe overall too!

Posted: June 4, 2024

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Is Santiago de Compostela safe for women?

Angi

Santiago de Compostela is a very small city, the capital of Galicia (Autonomous Community in northwest Spain). I was born and have been living here for almost my whole life. You can walk alone even in the dark and people are usually very friendly. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice!

Posted: June 27, 2024

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Meet locals in Santiago de Compostela

Carme

About Me

Hi!!! My name is Carme, i am a Spanish psychology student, currently working on my masters on social intervention. I moved to Santiago 4 years ago to study but I’m from a city called Vigo, still in Spain but close to Portugal. I can speak Spanish, Galician and English well, and I’m learning Portuguese and Italian at the moment. I would love to meet other girls that like to travel and show Galician culture to them as well as practicing languages <3