Is Milan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Milan is generally safe for solo female travelers. It's a bustling, cosmopolitan city with an efficient public transportation system. Street crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in tourist-heavy locations or on public transportation, but violent crime is relatively rare. As a female traveler, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone late at night in less crowded areas, and being aware of your surroundings at all times.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Safe

Milan, being one of the global capitals of fashion and design, is generally safe at night, even for solo female travelers. The city is bustling and vibrant at all hours, with well-lit streets and many people around, even relatively late. Important areas like the city center and shopping districts are quite populated and patrolled by police. However, as with any place, some neighborhoods may be less safe than others and it's always important to remain vigilant, especially when walking alone. Public transportation typically runs late in the night and taxis are readily available.

Public transportation:Very safe

Public transportation in Milan, is generally highly reliable and safe. Buses, trams, and Metropolitana (subway) are mainly operated by Azienda Trasporti Milanesi and they tend to be punctual and well-maintained. There might occasionally be pickpockets in crowded places, but by being cautious with your belongings, you can mitigate this risk. Trams and buses often have special spots reserved for women at night for added safety. The city's commitment to safety and convenience make traveling by public transport in Milan a very viable option.

Street harassment:Low

During your solo travel in Milan, you may experience an occasional catcalling or staring in some specific areas, but it is not prevalent throughout the city. Local people are generally respectful and maintain a decent behavior towards solo women travelers. Be aware that it can happen but it's not a constant issue.

Petty crimes:Moderate

While Milan is generally safe, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams can occasionally occur, especially in crowded places such as public transportation and tourist sites. However, these crimes can be minimized by maintaining constant vigilance over personal belongings, avoiding ostentatious display of valuables, and practicing awareness of your surroundings.

Tap water:Very safe

Tap water in Milan is thoroughly clean and safe for drinking. The city has an incredibly good water filtration system making the tap water not only safe but also tasty. Refilling your water bottle from the tap or drinking from public water fountains is a normal practice among locals and visitors alike.

Is Milan safe to travel?

4.3 /5

Based on 24 experiences

Solo travel experience

Milan was my first solo journey, I didn't speak Italian, and I had never been to Italy before. I often got lost, but always found a place to eat. I felt very safe in this city and would recommend it to any woman wanting to explore and eat amazing food. The city gave me a lot of confidence and reminded me that I could face this world alone.

Posted: January 18, 2024
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Solo travel experience

I stayed in Milan for 3 days alone in November and I really enjoyed it there. I walked or took the subway everywhere and felt safe all the time. However, I did not go out at night, so I am not sure how safe it is there after dark, but other than that, I would recommend this place. Beautiful architecture and a lot to see.

Posted: December 3, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I spent 2 days in Milan and felt really safe. The city is very vibrant, even at night. It's really easy to get around using public transportation. I had a hotel near the central station and I never used a taxi. It was truly a wonderful time.

Posted: October 20, 2023
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Solo travel experience

My first solo trip was to Milan and I absolutely loved it. I spent there 3 days, one day I went on a trip to Lake Como, and the next to Turin. I felt safe and didn't have any problems. Language was not a problem, I mainly communicated in English and understood Italian.

Posted: October 17, 2023
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Andreea

Andreea

Romania

Solo travel experience

As a gelato lover I want to recommend you this place in Milan: Viel🍦So delish! 🥰 Maybe you are a gelato lover too, haha! Of course the city itself was a vibe and as a solo traveler I felt safe and mesmerized by the architecture, art in general, green spaces, kind and curious people. 😁 #bellaitalia

Posted: October 5, 2023
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Gülis

Gülis

Turkey

Solo travel experience

I think it was a good city to solo travel to, my host was very nice and she took me to hidden spots around the city. There were some sketchy guys sometimes but overall it was a safe experience, and the city that time of the year was amazing.

Posted: July 24, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I went on a solo trip to Milan, Italy, and it was amazing! It was my first time travelling alone, I didn't speak the language nor did I know Italy well, but I had a great time there. I often got lost, but I always managed to find a place to eat, which was amusing. I felt really safe in the city and I would certainly recommend it to all women who want to explore and enjoy delicious food. This journey gave me a lot of confidence and reminded me that I am a strong woman who can handle anything on her own!

Posted: July 1, 2023
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Solo travel experience

This was my second time in Milan and i was somewhat dissappointed. Since i had been once before i had already seen all the touristy sites and felt like the city didnt have that much more to offer (however i was on a tight budget so i didnt go out to eat and stuff, which would probably be very fun). But a nice city overall! Felt very safe all the time☀️

Posted: June 30, 2023
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Family travel experience

I didn't feel safe in Milan, my sister and I had several experiences with men following us, shouting something, and generally being really scary. I was also surrounded by a group of people who looked homeless at the subway station when I was buying a train ticket, and one of them snatched my money. I would not go back there again.

Posted: June 18, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I was recently in Milan for a few days. I was in the city center and at the main train station and both places were safe. It is wise to be aware, but I never felt unsafe there. The basilica there is nice, I also recommend visiting the roof. Although I think the catacombs were small and unimpressive. I went on a day trip to Como and it was beautiful there.

Posted: May 19, 2023
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Is Milan safe for women?

Safety rating

2.4 /5

Based on 5 reviews the women safety index in Milan is 2.4/5. On average women living in Milan raises relatively high concerns about women's safety.

Crime rates rating

1.8 /5

Based on 5 reviews the crime rate index in Milan is 1.8/5. On average women living in Milan raises relatively low concerns about crime and violence against women.

Rating summary

Safety walking alone after dark:

2.4/5
Unsafe

Safety using public transport:

2.8/5
Moderate

Worries of being sexually harassed:

2.2/5
A Bit Worried

Worries of being sexually assaulted or raped:

2/5
A Bit Worried

Worries of being physically attacked:

2.2/5
A Bit Worried

Worries of home broken and things stolen:

1.5/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being mugged or robbed:

2/5
A Bit Worried

Worries of being kidnapped or murdered:

1/5
Not at all worried
Divina

Divina

Central Milan is very easy to navigate and to feel safe in. The public transport is consistent and convenient. At night the main streets are mostly always busy, so you never feel alone or endangered.

Posted: April 15, 2024
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It depends from the zone and the time. I usually don’t come home alone at night, but I don’t like the neighbours I live. So I think it’s really related to where you, but generally I don’t feel safe at night. During the day I’ve never had problems and I feel pretty much safe

Posted: April 5, 2024
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It’s relatively safe as long as you stay away from certain neighborhoods at night. And I’d say the threat is not being raped or sexually assaulted but rather getting robbed. So I’d suggest being more careful with valuables/keeping your backpack in front of you in public transport

Posted: March 16, 2024
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Milan is one of the least safe cities in Italy. Girls aged 18/20 and even 50 feel compelled to pay €30 for a taxi to avoid walking alone home (1 km). Going out to dance in the evening is absolutely unthinkable without male companionship due to the fear of being touched, grabbed, or even assaulted.

Posted: February 22, 2024
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Bennie

Bennie

Milan is a safe city, regular precautions are just fine. I’m used to walk alone at night in the city center or drive, park and feel safe. Same applies to public transport. But as any other place, better not be too flashy.

Posted: February 20, 2024
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Is Milan safe right now?

Before your visit to Milan, it's essential to check travel advisories for Italy, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises exercising increased caution due to terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 26, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian government advises taking normal security precautions in Italy. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 12, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises exercising normal safety precautions in Italy. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 24, 2024

Is Milan worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 24 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3.2/5

Solo travel experience

Great place for solo travelling if you love walking around, sightseeing, shopping and great food! There are female-only hostels available in the central of the city - very close to all must-see places.

Posted: November 24, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I didn't like Milan. It's really a boring city, besides the cathedral there is nothing to do there, unless you like fashion and spending money.

Posted: July 12, 2023
Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Milan

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

Aidana

About Me

Heyy! I'm a first-year master's student based in Milan. Ds student, gym girlie and an ielts tutor, ig @aydonaryder

Speaking

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Ioana

Ioana

About Me

Hello ladies, my name is Ioana and I am a product developer and entrepreneur. Copenhagen, it has been my home for the past 9 years, I am engaged here but I have to travel to Milano for a some period. I love meeting people, I love food, cultures, music and life in general. I am a creative person with a true passion for philosophical discussions.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Milan

Stay with local women in Milan 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.
Daniela

Daniela

Milan

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hello! I’m a latina living in Europe :) I love to travel and meet new people. I love love to share a cup of coffee or go hiking with an interesting person! 🤭

Speaking

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Victoria

Victoria

Milan

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I’ll go with the short story: I’m from Milan, I live in Rome, I’ve been a producer organising commercials, music video, films, series and photo shoots for years now I’ve decided to stop organising other people’s art and start valuing my own vision, I started shooting in analogic and now it’s what I love and what I am.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Milan

Connect with upcoming visitors to Milan who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Elina

Elina

About Me

A solo mama by choice living in Stockholm, Sweden, who loves to discover the world with my 2 year old son. Upcoming trip to Italy for 3 weeks in May 2024. Any advice on playground is always appreciated! 😅

Speaking

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Dana

Dana

About Me

I am a student in Venice. Been living here for four months. Want to start traveling more and meeting new people. I love nature, museums, clubbing, groovy music.

Speaking

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Safety in Italy