Is Brussels Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Brussels is generally safe for solo female travelers. It is known for its high standard of living and wide, well-lit streets, creating a secure environment. Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas and the city's public transport, so it is advised to keep a close watch on your belongings. Sexual harassment is not commonly reported but it's always better to avoid walking alone in less crowded areas late at night. As long as you stay aware of your surroundings and practice some safety precautions as you would anywhere else, you should find Brussels a safe and welcoming city to travel alone.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

Brussels, is generally safe but caution should still be exercised. It is well-lit and policed in most areas, especially in populated places and tourist spots. However, some neighborhoods can be less secure and it's not advised to walk alone late at night. Public transportation such as taxis and rideshares are readily available if you prefer not to walk. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Brussels is generally considered safe. Trams, buses, and metros are well-maintained and have a regular schedule. However, like any big city, it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially during non-peak hours. Most stations and vehicles have surveillance cameras for added security. It's advised to avoid less crowded areas at night. Keep your belongings secure and maintain a watchful eye for pickpockets as they can be active in crowded places. Despite these minor concerns, thousands of people safely use the public transport in Brussels every day.

Street harassment:Moderate

In Brussels, you may encounter some level of street harassment. This usually comes in the form of catcalling or unsolicited comments. However, as is the case anywhere, the degree of harassment can quite vary depending on the area and time. Areas like the Grand Place and the European Quarter are often more crowded with tourists and thus feel safer. It is generally suggested to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, particularly when travelling alone at night or in less crowded places. Respectable and law-abiding citizens far outnumber those who might seek to harass or intimidate.

Petty crimes:Low

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a relatively safe city. The concern for petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and theft from vehicles should not be completely disregarded but is lower compared to other major European cities. The risk increases in some touristy areas and on public transport. However, by taking simple precautions, like keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding showing off expensive items, you can avoid most petty crimes.

Tap water:Very safe

The tap water in Brussels, is generally considered highly safe for consumption. The water quality is regularly tested, adhering to strict European Union standards. Therefore, drinking tap water is a common practice among locals and tourists alike. However, it's important to note that the hardness level of the water (which involves its mineral content) can vary by region. This doesn't affect its safety, but it may alter the taste slightly. You can confidently stay hydrated with Brussels' tap water throughout your travels.

Is Brussels safe to travel?

4.3 /5

Based on 19 experiences

Solo travel experience

I had a great trip to Brussels, but as a solo traveler you should be extremely careful about your safety. I found the area around the train station in particular to be very unsafe. I would recommend taking a cab here immediately.

Posted: April 1, 2024
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Group travel experience

Brussels felt like I’m in a movie. The Grand Palace in the night was enchanting. You could grab you drinks and accompany street singers. I felt safe. People are nice and helpful. It’s a bit expensive. Overall you should visit Brussels.

Posted: March 3, 2024
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Marta

Marta (19)

Belgium

Family travel experience

1) centre is enough safe, But it wasn't very comfortable outside of it. 2) It was a very cheap trip, I spent the night at a friend's house, so I spent about 60 euros on museums and cafes, as well as some transport 3) The city is very beautiful, but there are always a lot of people on the main square and it is difficult to see it, I highly recommend coming before 10 or 11 in the morning

Posted: January 12, 2024Experienced: September, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I loved Brussels. A short train ride was enough to get to Ghent, Bruges and Ostend. I felt very safe there. I chose this place for Christmas and I was not disappointed. Many places were open on Christmas. Fantastic art museum. A little cheese shop that was to die for. My hotel was near the main station.

Posted: September 18, 2023
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sara

sara (28)

Austria

Solo travel experience

I went on a short trip to Brussel to visit my friend I spent there 4 nights. I had the best time, friendliest people and it was so easy to get around and I practiced my French although they speak another dialect but they were really nice and patient with me . Food was cheap and best thrifting experience 😍 They have shops where you by clothes and accessories by the kilo, so you basically weigh the stuff you want and you pay the bare minimum I got soooo many stuff for under 30€ I haven't tried many Belgian meals but the brunch meals are a must as well as the sweets ofc we had Belgian waffles which were funnily shaped as vaginas and penises 😂😂 It's really safe we were two girls roaming around brussels late at night and gladly we didn't encounter any problems with anyone. So an overall perfect experience 👌

Posted: June 19, 2023Experienced: December, 2022
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Solo travel experience

I was only there for 2 days, but I went around everywhere and felt quite safe. The only place that seemed a bit suspicious to me was the bus station late at night, because unfortunately there were a lot of homeless people there.

Posted: April 23, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I recently traveled alone to Brussels and it was fantastic! I felt really safe, the hostel was great, and there were many things to do! What's more, I love Belgian waffles and Belgian chocolate. I participated in a walking tour that was brilliant, it showed me all the most important landmarks and gave great recommendations on where to eat etc.

Posted: December 14, 2022
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Solo travel experience

To do: - Visit the Grand Place - Explore Atomium - Take advantage of a free guided walk - Take a picture with Manneken Pis - Visit Galeries Royales - Admire the view from Mont Des Arts Food: Try Belgian waffles, fries and chocolate. Safety: The city is completely safe. Recommendations: Brussels is beautiful, with excellent food and drinks, but a bit boring.

Posted: September 16, 2022
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Solo travel experience

To do: - Book a chocolate making lesson - Go to Atomium - Visit the Royal Palace in Brussels - Explore Grand Place - Visit the EU headquarters - Visit the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula - See Manneken Pis - Explore Parc du Cinquantenaire Safety: I was there in August and I felt completely safe Recommendations: Brussels is beautiful, but it's a huge city with a lot of walking.

Posted: September 9, 2022
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Solo travel experience

To do: - Grand Place - Atomium - Manneken Pis - Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium - Royal Palace of Brussels - Park du Cinquantenaire - Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula - Mini-Europe - Musical Instruments Museum Safety: I felt completely safe. Recommendations: Brussels is beautiful and full of fun. The architecture is fantastic, and the chocolate and waffles are delicious.

Posted: September 2, 2022
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Is Brussels safe for women?

Safety rating

2.3 /5

Based on 3 reviews the women safety index in Brussels is 2.3/5. On average women living in Brussels raises relatively high concerns about women's safety.

Crime rates rating

1 /5

Based on 3 reviews the crime rate index in Brussels is 1/5. On average women living in Brussels raises low concerns about crime and violence against women

Rating summary

Safety walking alone after dark:

2.6/5
Moderate

Safety using public transport:

3.3/5
Moderate

Worries of being sexually harassed:

1.4/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being sexually assaulted or raped:

1.1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being physically attacked:

1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of home broken and things stolen:

1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being mugged or robbed:

1.4/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being kidnapped or murdered:

1/5
Not at all worried

I think brussels is a busy city which gives u a (false) feeling of safety. But i think as a women you always have to be aware of your surrrondings. I studied 3 years in brussels so i feel pretty safe and im used to bx

Posted: March 9, 2024
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Brussels’ safety varies per area/district. I live in Marolles area and I can say I have never had any problems with safety here. Brussels North station is a place I avoid during the evening if I’m alone however.

Posted: March 1, 2024
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IT really depends on the area you're in. Don't go near the trainstations in the south or north at night alone. But overall the city center and popular areas are quite save. If you keep somewhat alert you should be okay

Posted: February 25, 2024
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Is Brussels worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 19 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.3/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.4/5

Group travel experience

I really liked the Brussels because it’s my first trip in abroad. The atmosphere and the “weather” was perfect. We tried belgium waffles and fries, but unfortunately I didn’t like it that much. Overall there are lots of good places and souvenir shops that you can but good stuffs. So I highly recommend Brussels if you haven’t been there!

Posted: March 12, 2024
Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

Brussels surprised me. I was there and enjoyed sightseeing. There are many beautiful places, nice little shops, colorful markets, and in the evenings I remember the vibrant atmosphere and music. I had accommodation very close to the Grand Place, I also took day trips by bus to Ghent, Antwerp and Bruges. I loved the whole experience in the city.

Posted: July 28, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Brussels

Meet local women in Brussels who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Aurore/Aurora

Aurore/Aurora

About Me

Hey everyone!! My name is Aurore, but you can say Aurora if it feels more natural to you (I love how "Aurora" sounds). I'm a 23 years-old student in Brussels (I study law, in the hope of maybe working for a charity that gives legal advice to migrants). I love to travel and discover new cultures and new people! I love chill travels where I take my time for exemple to sunbathe, swim, or hike to a nice spot to picnick there. I love sports and nature! I also love to discover history and culture, even though I don't like spending all day in museums. I also like walking around in cities. I'm going to Greece (Thessaloniki) this August with my sister. But when she goes back home on the 26th, I'd like to stay a bit longer in Greece, or I'd also love to visit the neighbouring countries. I've been to a trip around Greece a long time ago, and I have an awesome memory of this trip but I want to see more of Greece! I'll be happy to try and give you tips about Belgium or countries I've been to (I say "try" because even in my own city I feel like such a tourist, I never know what bars to recommend and I get lost quickly 😂). And I'd be happy to help you practice French if you want! I'm only fluent in French and English but if you're patient with me and speak slowly we can also communicate in German or Dutch. And I intend on learning the basics of Greece before my trip. I'm vegan and would be happy if you don't mind me using your kitchen to cook a vegan meal for you, or with you :) Oh and I'm queer (not saying that to look for a date, just in case you feel more comfortable around other queer people) ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

Speaking

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Noémie

Noémie

About Me

Hi, my name is Noémie I like talking and meeting new people, but most of all I like dancing, saying anything, giving pleasure to the people I love, drawing ugly pictures in the corner of the page... And you ?

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Brussels

Stay with local women in Brussels who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Noémie

Noémie

Brussels

Can host for:

1 day

About me

Hi, my name is Noémie I like talking and meeting new people, but most of all I like dancing, saying anything, giving pleasure to the people I love, drawing ugly pictures in the corner of the page... And you ?

Speaking

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Leo

Leo

Brussels

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hello :) I am a young women how is travelling this year, before starting studies next year. I love to meet new people, make connexions.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Brussels

Connect with upcoming visitors to Brussels who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Raquel

Raquel

About Me

Hi, My name is Raquel and I'm interested in art, culture, events & social, education, backpacking, history, languages, live music, nature, photography and solo travel

Speaking

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Erin

Erin

About Me

Hi, there! I’m a 22 year old a with dream to travel the world! Last year, I got the opportunity to be abroad in South Korea and Japan. I am planning to do a graduation trip in Europe this summer! Looking to immerse myself in new culture, explore the city, find places to stay, make friends and memories!

Speaking

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Safety in Belgium