Is Victoria Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Victoria is widely known for being a safe city, even for solo female travelers. The crime rate is relatively low, and most areas are safe to walk around, even at night. However, as is the case with all cities, there are certain parts of the city that you might want to avoid late at night. Always stay alert, follow your instincts, and use common sense when it comes to your own personal safety.

Safety rating

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.6 /5

Based on 7 experiences from local women

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How safe is Victoria?

Safety at night:Safe

Victoria is generally safe, even at night. Like every city, it has some areas that may be less safe but overall, the streets are quite secure. Women can feel comfortable walking alone after dark, especially in and around the downtown area where there are many people and well-lit streets. However, remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.

Public transportation:Very safe

Victoria is known for its highly reliable and safe public transportation. The bus lines are regularly monitored and maintained, drivers are respectful and helpful, and the passengers are generally conscientious. Thus, it's consistently safe at any time of day or night.

Street harassment:Low

Victoria is generally very safe and respectful towards women. There may be the occasional minor annoyance, but outright street harassment is uncommon. As with any city, it is always important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. But rest assured the locals are usually polite and keep to themselves. In general, the atmosphere in Victoria leans more towards safety and respect.

Petty crimes:Very low

Victoria is generally deemed to be safe, with a relatively low rate of petty crime occurrences. Of course, as with any location, always be vigilant and precautious, especially in crowded areas. However, it has a strong reputation for being secure and friendly, making it an ideal spot for solo female travel.

Is Victoria worth visiting?

Steph

Canada

Solo travel

Victoria in inner harbour/government street/fisherman’s warf was fun, had a great nightlife and was extremely safe. Walking around by myself at night was not a problem, lots of people and busy touristy areas. Tons of beautiful sights to see around the harbour and great restaraunts. Take in a whale watching tour and be sure to check out butchtart gardens, they were absolutely stunning! Victoria is an expensive city, but definitely worth it. Do a day trip and head out to sombrío beach only 2 hours away for the hidden waterfall and stunning ocean scenery, or goldstream park is 20 minutes away for beautiful rainforest hikes. The downtown core is unsafe at night as there is a large homeless population with open use of drugs and alcohol. Stick to the touristy areas however and you’ll be just fine!

Posted: December 9, 2023

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Solo travel

Being from Vancouver I’m often in Victoria but I love visiting in the summer because I find there are more things to do that are budget friendly. If you stay in downtown Victoria you’ll have easy access to the parliament building, Beacon Park, Fisherman’s wharf and more. Overall Victoria is a safe city and people are friendly. Food is delicious especially the Italian restaurant Pagliacci’s cheap and big portions. Transportation isn’t as expansive as Vancouver but $5 will get you a day pass for the bus which can take you to Buchart Gardens, the butterfly museum and nearby towns. Victoria is great of your looking to do a quick day trip or spend a few days. Recommend to locals and people visiting Vancouver

Posted: June 8, 2023Experienced: July, 2022

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Is Victoria safe for women?

Safety index

3.6 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Crime index

1.7 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Kmac

The city is quite safe. As a woman, I’m aware of my surroundings and don’t take unnecessary risks. There are a couple streets in the downtown core I avoid altogether because of unhoused gatherings/open drug use.

Posted: January 4, 2025

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Saoirse

Victoria is a beautiful small city on the west coast of Canada with a laid back, "island time" feel to it. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming and crime is very low. You'll always feel safe no matter which area you're in.

Posted: October 24, 2024

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Meet locals in Victoria

Sarah

About Me

I’m 26yrs old and have lived on Vancouver Island since I was 18mo old! I love hiking, paddle boarding, yoga, and (of course) travelling! I have travelled to Germany, France, England, Mexico, Indonesia, parts of the Caribbean, and moved to Australia when I was 21! I stayed there for 6mo and now I plan to move back by the end of the year! But I love my home & this island; it has so much to offer and I take such joy in sharing/showing it with those who haven’t been before!