Is Kyiv Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kyiv, as a capital, consists of both safe and less safe areas. Be cautious especially during evening hours. However, the central parts are generally secure for tourists. People are friendly, but language can be a barrier. Always be sure to avoid politically charged gatherings and demonstrations for your safety. Public transportation is generally safe, but be cautious of your belongings to avoid pickpocketing. As with any city, it's essential to stay vigilant and follow your instincts. Always be sure to check the current country's situation before your departure. Like any other city, use common sense and follow basic safety advice.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.1 /5

Based on 38 experiences from local women

Kyiv is currently ranked #4 safest place in Ukraine for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Kyiv?

Safety at night:Moderate

Kyiv, generally possesses a moderate level of safety during night hours. While most central areas are well-lit and patrolled, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in the non-touristic and less crowded areas. Not all locals might speak English, which could add another layer of challenge if assistance is needed. Avoid flashing valuable items and try to blend in with the locals. As always, use your intuition when navigating the city alone at night.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Kyiv, including the metro, buses, and trams, is generally reliable and safe. The metro system is quick and efficient, and buses and trams are widespread throughout the city. The city also has a booming rideshare industry for added convenience. While incidents are rare, it's important to be mindful of your possessions at all times, particularly during peak hours.

Street harassment:Low

In Kyiv, you will often find the city quite respectful towards women. Street harassment is sporadic rather than a daily occurrence, and it generally doesn't escalate beyond unwelcome remarks. While it's essential to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings, many solo women travelers report feeling safe in the city. However, it's always important to stay within well-populated and well-lit areas, especially during the evenings or nights.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Kyiv, like any other bustling city, is no stranger to petty crimes. While serious crimes are comparatively less, the instances of pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and mobile thefts can be common, especially in crowded and touristy areas such as the Independence Square and the Khreschatyk street. It's also not uncommon to come across street scams targeted at unsuspecting tourists. Although local authorities are making continuous efforts to curb such activities, as a solo female traveler, practicing basic security measures like not displaying valuable items, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas at night could go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable voyage.

Is Kyiv worth visiting?

Solo travel

Did I feel safe? Mostly yes, but with caution. Air raid alerts happen, and you need to stay updated. People go on with life, but the war is still real. I felt safe during the day in central areas, especially with locals around. Things to do / skip: Do: – Walk around Podil, Andriyivskyy Descent, and Mariinsky Park – Visit St. Sophia’s Cathedral and Kyiv Pechersk Lavra – Check out local bookshops and cozy cafés – Try a banya (Ukrainian sauna) for a unique experience Skip: – Expensive tourist traps (some souvenir shops and “photo spots” near Maidan) – Overpriced tours that don’t offer local insight Food / restaurants: – Milk Bar — perfect brunch and desserts – Puzata Hata — budget-friendly Ukrainian classics – Hum:Hum — great hummus spot in Podil – Veterano Pizza — owned by war vets, with a mission – Also: get syrnyky and varenyky at any good local cafe Budget: I spent around $25–35/day comfortably (including food, transport, and entrance tickets). Cafés were affordable. Street food & bakeries were cheap and tasty. Accommodation: I stayed in a cozy apartment in Podil (Airbnb). Safe, quiet, and well-located. You can also find nice hostels or hotels in the city center. Getting around: Very easy! The metro is fast, cheap, and clean (and it doubles as a bomb shelter). Uber/Bolt are cheap and safe. Locals were helpful when I needed directions. Itinerary (4 days): Day 1: City center walk – Maidan, Khreshchatyk, and Saint Sophia Day 2: Podil exploration + Dnipro river views + sunset from Volodymyrska Hill Day 3: Pechersk Lavra, WWII Museum, and Motherland Monument Day 4: Coffee, street art, shopping, and relaxing in a park

Posted: June 8, 2025

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Is Kyiv safe for women?

Safety index

3.1 /5

Based on 38 local experiences

Crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 38 local experiences

Elizabeth

If you are listening to the city's administration's recommendations and warnings during the air raid alerts - you will be safe most of the times. Seek shelter, do not take the war danger lightly. In terms of overall safety - the crime level is not high, it's mostly safe to walk around (just remember be home during the curfew - from 12 pm to 5 am). The public transport is OK, metro is very convenient.

Posted: June 4, 2025

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Dasha

Kyiv is quite safe, especially during the day. But it does depend on your location. There are different districts, and the central ones could be considered the safest, as there is the biggest amount of people there. But in the centre you do need to be careful of pickpocketers and scammers, so beware and don't take anything from anyone on the street, unless you want to pay for it (especially in Khreshchatyk). I wouldn't recommend visiting any other district, as a tourist can get lost very easily there. And they are less safe for anyone who doesn't live there. But overall I don't think it is that dangerous, you just need to be cautious like anywhere in the world.

Posted: June 1, 2025

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