Is Netherlands Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

The Netherlands generally is very safe with a well-functioning police force and emergency services. Dutch people are open-minded, respect diversity, and crime rates are low. However, like any place, it's advisable to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded touristic areas and late at night. Always follow local alerts and advisories to avoid potential risks.

Safety rating

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How safe is Netherlands?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

The Netherlands is known for high safety standards, even during night hours. Bigger cities have well-lit streets, offering a sense of security to its inhabitants and visitors. However, as in any place, caution should still be exercised. Stay in populated areas, avoid poorly-lit streets and always be aware of your surroundings. Do not engage in risky behaviors and steer clear of potentially dangerous situations. Make use of public transportation where possible, as they are generally secure and reliable. Allow friends or family to know your whereabouts whenever you plan to be out during late hours.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

In general, the Netherlands' public transportation system is considered highly safe, especially in comparison to global standards. This includes well-connected and frequently running buses, trains, and trams, as well as cycling paths. There is an efficient network of ferries in cities like Amsterdam. While petty theft can be seen in crowded areas, measures like use of surveillance cameras, patrols, and lighting provide safety. It is advisable to stay alert, especially in larger cities and at night, and always keep your belongings within your sight. Keep the local emergency number (112) handy, although it's unlikely you'll need to use it.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

In general, the Netherlands is known for its respectful and open-minded people. Street harassment is not commonly reported, and it is considered one of the safer countries for solo female travelers. Instances of harassment can occur, as they can anywhere in the world, but these are not prevalent, and women often feel comfortable navigating cities and towns on their own both during the day and night. Authorities and residents have a low tolerance for harassment, and there are usually strict measures in place to handle such situations. Nevertheless, exercising general vigilance is recommended.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Netherlands generally holds a reputation for being a safe country with low levels of petty crime. However, popular touristic cities such as Amsterdam can see occasional instances of pickpocketing and bike theft. Always be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Is Netherlands worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 162 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5

Amsterdam, Family travel

With my sister in Ams🫶 A vibrant city, and we stayed in a really nice home (the stairs were WILD but it’s really how houses are built there). I strongly recommend visiting Ams and trying local food as much as possible (local markets have some really good stands)😋

Posted: June 25, 2025
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The Hague, Family travel

Safety depends on the neighborhood. I loved food courts, especially the one near De Pier where you can enjoy panoramic views. I recommend visiting Scheveningen area and Peace Palace in the city center. I loved drinking coffee near the canals and in the Koekamp park where you can find animals like deers and squirrels.

Posted: June 13, 2025Experienced: June, 2023
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Amsterdam, Solo travel

I felt safe during the day but after it got dark it was a bit tricky since it's a really popular city among tourists. I definitely would recommend trying traditional surinamese restaurant Warung Spang Makandra.

Posted: June 6, 2025
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Romane

Romane

France

Amsterdam, Solo travel

I lived in Amsterdam for 9 month, near the centraal station (10min walk) as I was an au pair, and I had the best time of my life. Amsterdam was such a great city and even the Netherlands as the whole country are amazing. I felt mostly safe even at night, if I felt uneasy sometimes, it was bc of tourists rather than locals. Dutch may seem distant and even rude, but they are actually kindhearted. I got to visit almost all of the city, and I hadn't been disappointed at all!! Still come there about every three months bc i miss the place too much. Great experience overall!

Posted: May 29, 2025Experienced: September, 2023
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Lea

Lea

Germany

Utrecht, Solo travel

I visited Utrecht several times already. Alone, with friends, with my dog and without my dog. I have a small dog and she is easily stressed when too much is going on. Around the central station it's busy. But the mall there is amazing! You can shop there like a queen! 🛍️ You can also see the "parking garage" for the bicycles when you go there! Definitely worth a visit. 🚲 I am vegan so I sometimes have trouble finding something to eat, but Utrecht did great with food. Hot Pot at "Momofugu" can be vegan and it tastes amazing. Also when you are in the area of Utrecht you may take a walk there. A few shops, train and bus station close by too! In another area you can see the canals! Feels like Amsterdam but less busy! The "Vegetalian" is a restaurant I can recommend too! They offer vegan, gluten free and more! 🍕 Overall I would say that with and without people around me I felt safe. The parking garage and parking in general is expensive, still less than Amsterdam tho!! Few areas I would avoid, if its night time, but at day time? I wouldn't have a problem going anywhere in Utrecht!

Posted: May 19, 2025
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Tyrra

Tyrra

France

The Hague, Solo travel

Hiii, I went to the Hague in the Netherlands. I went to see a friend who told me the Hague wasn't that safe... I felt okay and didn't have any problems. The beach there is nice, you can surf sometimes:)

Posted: May 19, 2025Experienced: March, 2025
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Is Netherlands safe for women?

Safety index

4.5 /5

Based on 438 local experiences

Crime index

1.8 /5

Based on 438 local experiences

Tuba

Tuba

Amsterdam

I had a horrible experience someone tried to steal my bag in the middle of the day in a very crowded and cental district. I hold my bag tight and saved it after I shocked people stopped and thief ran away. It was a bad experience to have.

Posted: July 4, 2025
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Amsterdam

Amsterdam North is pretty safe but don’t step on cycling path Life night its really colorfuland that’s why everywhere is Polices so not much things to worrying about Couse of the selling some stuff is legal maybe dong go to public parks after Midnight and stay in the city

Posted: July 2, 2025
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Safety in Netherlands