Is Palermo Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Palermo is mainly safe for solo female travelers. Like any major city, it has its share of petty crime, but violent crime is uncommon. Normal precautions like staying in well-lit areas, not walking alone late at night in deserted areas, and being alert to your surroundings should keep you safe. For additional safety, always keep emergency numbers handy. Furthermore, locals are typically friendly and helpful. Just remember, as with any city, it's important to stay vigilant and aware no matter how safe the environment feels.

Safety rating

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How safe is Palermo?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Palermo, like many other cities, is reasonably safe at night. However, as a solo female traveler, it's prudent to exercise caution especially after dark. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in deserted areas or narrow streets. If you're staying in a central location, you are likely to find people around even late into the night. However, as with any other city, instances of petty theft or public harassment can occur, so watch your belongings and prioritize your comfort and security.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

The public transportation in Palermo is generally safe, even for solo female travelers. The buses, trams, and trains are reliable and frequently used by locals and tourists alike. However, like any urban area, it's always smart to stay alert to your surroundings. It can get crowded during rush hours and it's advisable to secure your belongings. Staff are usually helpful, but not all might speak English. Also remember, in Italy it's necessary to validate your ticket at the beginning of your journey to avoid fines.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

While walking through the streets of Palermo you will generally find that the locals are friendly and respectful. Most of the time, you won't face any unpleasant experiences or untoward harassment. However, Italy being a passionate and expressive country, you might get occasional attention or appreciative comments, which mainly reflect the local culture rather than direct harassment. Being aware and confident can enhance your solo travel experience in Palermo.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Palermo is fairly safe for travelers although petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur especially in the crowded areas such as markets and public transportation. Always be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings. General prudence and basic precautionary steps such as not flaunting valuable items will lower the risk significantly.

Is Palermo worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 7 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.5/5

Safety

3.7/5

Food

3.8/5

Budget-friendly

3.4/5

Solo travel

I had a great experience while visiting Palermo. I felt safe and it was so easy to get to know new people. There is also large expat community which organise regular meetings and activities

Posted: September 5, 2024Experienced: June, 2024
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Deniz

Deniz

Netherlands

Group travel

I went with a mixed friend group, and we stayed at a quite central location. Although it did get dark at night as it was not surrounded by crowded areas, both during the day and at night, I did not encounter any situation that made me feel unsafe.

Posted: July 10, 2024
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Solo travel

I went to Palermo quite a few times now, and I really recommend it. Beware of the fact that in summer it is incredibly hot, and packed with tourists. I would recommend going in April/May. People are very lively there, especially in Ballarò. It isn't the safest city, I would recommend not travelling with any jewelry, that is my personal preference. The food is amazing there and inexpensive: go to "il signor Carbognano for an amazing Ice cream with Brioche"

Posted: April 1, 2024
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Özge

Özge

Turkey

Solo travel

I spent 2 nights in Palermo and I enjoyed my time. It gave a vibe that no other city gave before. The city is a fusion of different cultures and you can see the multicultural effects in everything which I loved. I'm not so used to traveling solo, at first because of all the catcalling I was a little uncomfortable but then I tried to be in busy places and streets and felt somewhat safe.

Posted: June 9, 2023Experienced: May, 2023
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Solo travel

I loved Palermo. I stayed in a beautiful Airbnb, which was totally affordable and close to everything. On the first evening, I participated in an Airbnb tour with a woman from there and she showed me amazing things, making me feel totally comfortable. I loved Italy and Sicily.

Posted: April 26, 2023
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Solo travel

I was in Palermo for 4 days last October as a solo traveller. Not once did I feel unsafe, even in the evenings. Full of life, full of people. I loved it.

Posted: April 21, 2023
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Is Palermo safe for women?

Safety index

2.8 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Ginevra

Ginevra

Palermo is full of people that actually mind their business, the fact is what area of Palermo you are at For example, the "Vucciria" area (is an open area that in the night time is a place for Dance and have fun) is full of every kind of people, but some could be under some substances, and I can't deny that, nowadays, Males are much more likely to get angry over dumb things; the feminine experience with the guys in there is 90% of him trying to board you but generally you can move to another spot and it just finish there. This kind of thing happens even with other open-places but you're safe. If you feel into trouble pick some good-looking people or groups and try to intend your problem. The help sign with the hand could be great too (hoping they know it tho). By the way, these are very common things in every public place at night, but if you know how to manage these things then you're good!

Posted: December 29, 2024
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I think it's a safe city, but you don't have to go everywhere. I walk alone at night after work, and I never feel unsafe. There are some weirdos you might meet in the city, maybe once a year, but I think it's like that everywhere.

Posted: December 28, 2024
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Meet locals in Palermo

Ilde

Ilde

About Me

I'm Ilde 🌞 An open minded, sunny Dental doctor. Love Reading, eating, going outdoor, etc. Looking for new friends and new adventures!

Speaking

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Fatima

Fatima

About Me

Hi I'm Fatima originating from Pakistan but currently living in Italy for my education. I'm not gonna bore anyone with long paragraphs or interests lists, just I'm an easy going person open to having diversified experiences, loves nature (obviously) and can dance all night. 😅 So far I have traveled to multiple places in Italy and am excited to start my solo journey in Europe with learning different cultures and expanding knowledge, with a peak interest in engaging conversations regarding politics and social issues. (If you are open) That's it for now, later I'll see you on the other side. 😌😉

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Palermo

Ilde

Ilde

Palermo

Can host for:

7 days

About me

I'm Ilde 🌞 An open minded, sunny Dental doctor. Love Reading, eating, going outdoor, etc. Looking for new friends and new adventures!

Speaking

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Katerina

Katerina

Palermo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Im Katerina, a greek in Palermo. Im 25 years old and i love music, beers, politics and meeting new people. If you come by athens or palermo contact me to get to know eachother or if you need any help/suggestions/hosting 🙈❤️

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Palermo

Martina

Martina

About Me

I like to have walks around cities but especially in the nature, I like to party but also to enjoy chill moments to relax. I like to go camping and hiking. I love to read, make collages and other arts & crafts stuff, possibly with a glass of wine or a beer. I always end up talking about politics and social injustices. I tried to learn how to play guitar twice with no success, but I loooove music and I always look for events with live sessions. I also love to watch movies or go to concerts and theater. ACAB. Ah! Please give me all your tips on solo travelling, this is the next level I want to unblock!!!

Speaking

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Safety in Italy