Is Marseille Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Marseille, being the second-largest city in France, is mostly safe for solo female travelers. Like many large cities, there is a mix of safe areas and areas better to avoid, especially at night. During the daytime, you needn't have much concern as long as you follow basic safety guidelines such as staying alert and keeping your valuables secure. However, it is recommended to avoid isolated areas and be cautious at night, particularly around the Old Port and the train station, which can be a bit dodgy. On the whole, the citizens are friendly and helpful, and public transportation is reliable.

Safety rating

3.2 /5

Based on 16 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3 /5

Based on 25 experiences from local women

Make friends while traveling solo

Meet other female travelers, find travel buddies and stay with local women for free through hospitality exchange.

How safe is Marseille?

Safety at night:Moderate

Marseille has loveable, lively neighborhoods, but like any major city, it has its share of areas that pose a potential safety risk, especially at night. While walking alone, it's important to stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid deserted streets or areas known for crime. Most of the main tourist areas are fairly safe, and local police are visible. Like any urban setting, caution and awareness of one’s surroundings are key.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Marseille, is generally safe, reliable, and well-maintained for travelers. The city has a good network of buses, trams, and metros that are commonly used by locals and tourists alike. During the day the frequency of travel options is also accommodating, however, like anywhere you would still need to exercise common sense and personal safety, especially at night or at less crowded stations. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can still be a concern, as is common in many major cities. Overall, Marseille's public transportation safety is more or less comparable to other major European cities.

Street harassment:Low

In Marseille, you can expect the typical urban environment. Occasional stares and passive remarks may be commonplace but most locals are respectful and keep to themselves. It's always important to stay alert and aware, as in any large city. Unwanted attention can occur from time to time, but it's generally not an oppressive environment for solo female travelers.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Marseille does have its share of petty crime such as pick pocketing and bag snatching, often in crowded or touristy areas. However, taking typical travel safety precautions such as keeping the valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings can significantly lower the risk.

Is Marseille worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 16 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.2/5

Food

3.9/5

Budget-friendly

3.1/5

Couple travel

I heard a lot how dangerous is Marseille, but we stayed in the downtown, so I guess it’s nothing dangerous about it The people were nice, much nicer than in Paris, there was some free concert on the street A lot of sightseeing places are completely free

Posted: April 11, 2025

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Solo travel

It was honestly a beautiful city; I really loved the beach and the people are super friendly. To stay safe in this city, you should especially avoid going out alone at night and choose the neighborhood where you'll stay during your visit. You can find all types of cuisine possible to meet everyone's needs. There are many affordable transportation options, making it easy to get around the city.

Posted: April 2, 2025

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Group travel

Marseille was fun. We all heard it's super unsafe but didn't really feel like it. Of course I only stayed intramuros. Even at night walking with a friend felt okay. Always be careful but I'd say it's all good.

Posted: March 12, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Sydney

United Kingdom

Solo travel

Marseille is a gorgeous place near hiking in the mountains, nightlife in the city, and beautiful beaches. Truly one of my favourite cities in the world! I felt very safe— even did a bit of hitchhiking around in the Calanques. Went cave diving and spent most of my time by the sea.

Posted: March 11, 2025

favorite_border 2

mode_comment 0

Laureline

France

Solo travel

Marseille is the biggest city in south France. It allows you to go check a lot other places in south of France by train/buses. You can also enjoy the sea and typical food there. Some neighbor (in North) and quite not safe for solo female so please stay in the center ! And not to close to the train station. Enjoy !

Posted: February 4, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Group travel

Marseille is a cute city for a daytrip. I was with seven other peolpe, is was a friendgroupt vacation. That‘s why I always felt safe. There are some creepy little streets though, but overall if you stay in the touristy spots, you shouldn‘t have to worry. My favourite thing as a vegan were the many gelato stands with parfaits, it was so yummy. They often had slush ices, too, which was great.

Posted: January 9, 2025

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Is Marseille safe for women?

Safety index

3 /5

Based on 25 local experiences

Crime index

2.8 /5

Based on 25 local experiences

Aude

Marseille is a very diversified city with good and less good neighborhoods. I’ve arrived Marseille when I was 8 and I’m now 25 and I was never even once harassed, attacked or else. The only time I was robbed was because I wasn’t watching my belongings. I think as long as you are a bit careful, and logical, nothing will happens to you and there is nothing to be worried about. Just take care with your belongings and don’t walk alone at night in sketchy areas. I would say I feel very safe because I know my way around. Enjoy the city all you can, and don’t be too worried, some people are weird, but some are very kind.

Posted: June 6, 2025

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

It’s a beautiful city but some people are crazy and super rude here. If you come here be careful. Men act like they never saw a woman in their life before. One day I walk outside my house and I went into a gunfight by accident. Don’t go the the north of the city

Posted: May 30, 2025

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Check all reviews