Is Belfast Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Belfast is generally a safe city to visit, especially in central and tourist areas. Like any other city, it has its problem areas, but these are not the places where tourists usually go. Keep to populated areas and stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Petty crime like pickpocketing can happen, but it's less common than in other major cities. Public transportation is reliable and safe to use, even for solo female travelers. However, avoid taking unlicensed taxis.

Safety rating

4.3 /5

Based on 7 experiences from female travelers

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.1 /5

Based on 3 experiences from local women

Belfast is currently ranked #22 safest place in United Kingdom for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.3 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Belfast?

Safety at night:Safe

Belfast, the United Kingdom, is generally a safe city to visit even for solo female travelers. Police presence is quite visible, especially in the city centre, which tends to get relatively quiet post the bustling business hours. Crime rates are lower than many major cities in the UK, and locals are friendly and helpful. However, like any other city, it does have areas that are better avoided, especially late at night. Stick to well-lit places and avoid secluded areas. Using basic safety and awareness practices should ensure a safe stay.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Belfast could be deemed as fairly reliable and safe. Services such as buses, trains, and taxis are regularly available and generally controlled by professional bodies. It is important to remain aware of your surroundings, especially during the night or in less crowded areas, but generally, passengers are able to travel free of significant concern. However, as in any metropolitan area, there can occasionally be incidents, so always prioritize personal safety and trust your instincts.

Street harassment:Low

Belfast, the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland, is generally considered safe and welcoming for solo female travelers. Street harassment incidents are relatively low compared to other major cities globally. Most of the inhabitants are respectful and it is unlikely to face severe harassment while exploring the city. However, like any destination, it's advised to be cautious, particularly during night time and in less crowded areas. Always trust your instincts and it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with your surroundings during day time.

Petty crimes:Low

Belfast is generally a safe city to travel, particularly in areas where tourists frequented. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or phone theft do occur, mainly in crowded areas and tourist spots. However, they are less likely if one stays alert and takes precautionary measures like not displaying valuable items openly. It is always advisable to keep an eye on belongings and not leave them unattended.

Is Belfast worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 7 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3/5

Anete

United Kingdom

Solo travel

I loved Belfast! It was also my first ever solo trip (yay)! I stayed in air BnB about 30min walk from the city centre and it was really quiet. After a concert, around midnight I walked to the apartment on my own and felt 100% safe. No unwanted attention whatsoever! I rented a car and went to see the Game of Thrones studio and the Giants Causeway (recommend). The city itself is beautiful to want around, and then there’s the Titanic. I’d say 3 days would be enough to see it all. I found everything reasonably priced but I also did a lot of research before I went so I did know what to expect.

Posted: March 26, 2024

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Solo travel

I loved the Titanic Museum. It was perfect for a rainy day in Belfast when I was there. It's a pity I didn't have more time in Belfast.

Posted: April 23, 2023

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Solo travel

I stayed in Belfast for 4 nights. It was completely safe, I lived with locals and everyone said the same - that it's completely safe. I even walked past all the murals, where all the gates are - everything is fine :) I also went on a day trip to Giant's Causeway, it was really nice and so beautiful!

Posted: February 25, 2023

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Solo travel

I went for a long weekend and at any time of the day I felt incredibly safe. I highly recommend a guided walk through street art.

Posted: February 25, 2023

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Solo travel

To do: - Queen's University - City Hall - Prince of York - Titanic Safety: Travels are safe. Recommendations: Belfast is really a cool city. Plenty of bars and restaurants, especially around the cathedral.

Posted: September 16, 2022

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Solo travel

To do: - Belfast Castle - Botanic Gardens - Duke of York Pub - Belfast City Hall - Bittles Bar - Titanic Building - HMS Caroline - The Big Fish sculpture - Lagan Towpath - Queens University Safety: Belfast is not dangerous, just use common sense when you see a situation that should be avoided. Recommendations: Belfast is a great city to spend the day/night.

Posted: September 9, 2022

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Solo travel

To do: - Titanic Belfast - Ulster Museum - Belfast Castle - Belfast City Hall - St. George's Market - Tourist attraction and Crumlin Road Gaol Conference Centre - Botanic Gardens - Belfast Zoo - Carrickfergus Castle Safety: Belfast is very safe. Recommendations: Belfast is a cool city with a ton of history and a lot of attractions. I recommend visiting the Titanic museum and the City Hall.

Posted: September 2, 2022

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Is Belfast safe for women?

Safety index

3.1 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Ruby

generally safe but would advise against some areas unfortunately visibly queer people will need to be a little safer. the most common experience would be slurs, but rarely assault I feel safe enough by myself but tend to stay within my queer community!

Posted: April 27, 2025

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Belfast is like anywhere it has is good and bad overall it’s pretty good city people are nice. There are crimes that happen all over Belfast it is safe enough like, I think any female would feel unsafe to walk at night anywhere nowadays .

Posted: January 26, 2025

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Meet locals in Belfast

Kat

About Me

Nice to meet you, I'm Kat, married with two beautiful daughters, Polish female living in Belfast. Northern Ireland. I love conversations, books, games, travels.

Speaking

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Ruby

About Me

Queer girl living with my partner in Belfast :) Quite shy but definitely open up eventually! Have a bunch of friends I’d be happy to introduce you to if you want to meet a variety of queer people!

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Belfast

Ruby

Belfast

Can host for:

7 days

About me

Queer girl living with my partner in Belfast :) Quite shy but definitely open up eventually! Have a bunch of friends I’d be happy to introduce you to if you want to meet a variety of queer people!

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Diana

Belfast

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello! I suck at writing stuff about myself but here goes! 😂 Born and bred in Northern Ireland but have lived in London, Miami and then California for @10 years! Back home in Ireland but have itchy feet! 😂 Yes, I’m missing travelling. Have travelled quite a bit but strangely feeling nervous about venturing solo! 🙈

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Belfast

Céline

About Me

Originally from the west coast of Canada been living in Scotland for the past 9 years. Chill, adventurous and authentic. Have done couchsurfing ,workaways and pet/house sitting in the past. Love meeting new people and experiencing their world. Down for chill drinks, art shows, local markets, vegetarian food, live music, queer events, cultural events, outdoor swimming, bike rides. Whatever random fun thing is happening. Trying to do a small trip every month this year; January -Budapest February -Dublin March- Fife Scotland April- Manchester May- Pisa & Cinq Terre June- Derry and Belfast