Is Hanoi Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Hanoi is generally safe for solo female travelers. The residents are often friendly and willing to help, and crime rates are relatively low. Still, it's important to stay vigilant, especially at night, and keep an eye on your belongings at all times as petty theft can occur. Public transportation is reliable but can get crowded, which may lead to unwanted attention. Always be clear and firm with taxi drivers to avoid overcharging issues. Overall, most travelers have a positive and safe experience in Hanoi.

Safety rating

4.2 /5

Based on 12 experiences from female travelers

4 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.8 /5

Based on 10 experiences from local women

Hanoi is currently ranked #16 safest place in Vietnam for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.2 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Hanoi?

Safety at night:Safe

As a solo female traveler, Hanoi offers a generally safe environment during nighttime. People are often seen out late and there's a vibrant night market and street food scene. However, like any big city, one should maintain awareness of their surroundings and avoid dark or deserted areas. Some occasional instances of petty crimes like bag snatching may happen, so keep your belongings secure when walking around. Walking alone at night in populated, well-lit areas tends to be okay, but it's always smart to use caution and common sense.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Hanoi, is generally safe. There is a noticeable police presence in major areas, which deters most major crimes. However, one should still be cautious of their belongings due to occasional reports of pick-pocketing. Buses are the most common form of public transportation and are typically crowded. As an alternative, Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available, reliable and safe. While traveling after dark, it's safer to use a taxi or Grab rather than the local buses. Always follow basic safety precautions such as not showing off expensive items, being aware of your surroundings, and keeping firm hold on your personal belongings.

Street harassment:Low

Street harassment in Hanoi, is relatively low compared to many other cities around the world. The general Vietnamese culture is one of respect. Any perceived rudeness is usually due to cultural differences or misunderstandings. But of course, occasional catcalling or relentless vendors can sometimes be an issue. Still, it's not common to encounter overly aggressive or endangering behavior. Always take personal safety measures that you would take while traveling to any other city in the world.

Petty crimes:Low

Hanoi is relatively safe when it comes to petty crimes. Pickpocketing and purse snatching incidents are not unheard of, particularly in crowded markets and tourist areas. However, if you practice vigilance and common-sense precautions such as not displaying flashy jewelry or electronics in public, you can significantly reduce the chances of becoming a target.

Is Hanoi worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 12 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

4.2/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.2/5

Sparrow

China

Group travel

Great food and even better people! My friends and I visited Hanoi, Vietnam for approximately a week a few months ago, and the experience still sticks with me. The attractions were amazing and we got to experience the local culture. Overall, a very vibrant and aesthetically rich region.

Posted: May 19, 2025

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Solo travel

I felt very safe in Hanoi apart from maybe in traffic. Main way to get around is on a moto so be prepared for that. If u travel during winter remember it can be quite cold. I always wore a sweatshirt and a jacket. Food is great! I felt super safe! Sometimes Google Maps works poorly. Over all amazing!

Posted: May 6, 2025

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Hina

Japan

Solo travel

I felt the mixture of Asian and European style in their architecture and food. Also, the Hanoi old quarter is full of beautiful trees which made me so happy and relaxed! Everything is cheap there so you don’t need to care too much about your budget while staying there!

Posted: September 21, 2024

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Solo travel

Hanoi is chaotic and bustling, especially in the old quarter. Don't let this deter you, as the Old Quarter is really the only place you should be staying in on your trip to Hanoi. There is coffee shops and food there, the best.

Posted: August 16, 2024Experienced: July, 2024

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Maxine

Australia

Solo travel

I totally recommend visiting Hanoi. The old town was very nice to walk around in and the history at the old jail was very interesting. I only had one comment by someone about my appearance and then someone crack onto me after a tour. You could avoid the tour and just catch the local buses. Super cheap! From Hanoi you can visit SAPA or Cat Ba Island with a local bus or ferry. There is also the waterpuppet show that is a must visit in the area. I would go back to Hanoi.

Posted: July 10, 2024Experienced: August, 2023

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Solo travel

The best city ever! I just love how it was both kinda choatic and very authentic. Just walking around the city was an adventure, crossing the streets from all the motorbikes, and walking by the lake, and riding grab motorbikes. I had the best absolute time there. I felt extremely safe as well.

Posted: June 28, 2024Experienced: December, 2023

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Is Hanoi safe for women?

Safety index

3.8 /5

Based on 10 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 10 local experiences

I used to go very late at night, but nothing had happened. Despite sometimes there was news about catcalling at night, but I have never experienced that. But for safety reason, I prefer to dress more covered and not show too much skin

Posted: April 29, 2025

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Hanoi felt surprisingly safe and welcoming—people were friendly, and even late at night, I never felt uneasy walking around the Old Quarter. While the traffic is wild and takes a minute to get used to, the city has a relaxed vibe overall. Just keep an eye on your belongings and use Grab for taxis to avoid scams. Great food, rich culture, and a place I’d definitely go back to.

Posted: April 12, 2025

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