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Utrecht

Is Utrecht Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Utrecht boasts a high level of safety for solo female travelers. The crime rate is generally low, and both the locals and the authorities are usually helpful and friendly. Public transportation is reliable and is considered safe even in the late hours while the city is also well-lit during the night. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to follow standard safety precautions, like not leaving your belongings unattended and avoiding less crowded areas late at night.

Safety rating

3.9 /5

Based on 3 travel experiences

4.6 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.4 /5

Based on 6 local experiences

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How safe is Utrecht?

Safety at night:Safe

Utrecht is generally safe, even at night. The city has excellent street lighting and surveillance systems. However, like any city, it's important to remain vigilant, especially in quieter areas or parks. Always try to stay in well-lit, populated areas and be mindful of your surroundings. Keep personal belongings close and avoid unnecessary displays of valuable items. While instances of violent crime are relatively low, occasional pick-pocketing could occur especially in busy nightlife districts or on public transportation.

Public transportation:Safe

Utrecht's public transportation system, consisting of trams, trains, and buses, are known for being clean and efficient. Timetables are often reliable, and even late-night services are provided. Though generally safe, crowded times and areas might expose travelers to petty theft or pickpockets. Safety measures and active surveillance are in place but travelers are still suggested to be cautious of their belongings.

Street harassment:Low

Utrecht generally has a safe and respectful environment. Like most places, it isn't entirely free of street harassment, but such instances are relatively rare. Most locals are polite and keep to themselves, and local authorities are efficient. Nonetheless, caution is always advised, especially while traveling during night times or in secluded areas. Always remember that it's alright to seek help if you feel unsafe.

Petty crimes:Low

Utrecht, like many Dutch cities, maintains a generally low level of petty crime. As a solo female traveller, you should be cautious but it wouldn't be a major concern. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded spots or public transportation, and bicycle theft is quite common. It's advisable to be alert of your belongings and use sturdy locks for your bicycle.

Tap water:Very safe

Tap water in Utrecht is considered extremely safe to drink. It undergoes rigorous purification and regular monitoring systems, ensuring it meets the high standards for drinking water. It is not just safe, but also of good taste and environment-friendly compared to bottled water.

Is Utrecht safe to travel?

3.9 /5

Based on 3 experiences

Solo travel experience

Utrecht is the kind of place Amsterdam would be if there weren't so many tourists - beautiful canals and harbor cellars, a vibrant nightlife, and Miffy's house. I felt very safe there when I went out in the city alone.

Posted: July 16, 2023

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Is Utrecht safe for women?

Safety rating

4.4 /5

Based on 6 experiences

Crime rates rating

1 /5

Based on 6 experiences

Utrecht is as safe as any other city of similar size (375.000 inhabitants)! There are not many places where I felt safer than here. Walking or biking alone at night shouldn't be a problem in well-lit populated areas, but general precautions are always a good idea (like sharing live location with a friend). There have been incidents a few times (every few years or so), mostly in some specific outskirts of town (that most people wouldn't travel to anyway), but they have always been isolated cases that stop happening when that specific perpetrator is caught. But especially the city center feels really safe!

Posted: May 18, 2024

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Very safe and calm city, lots of students and internationals which makes it very open and friendly. There’s lots of nice cafes and restaurants all around, the city comes to life when the sun is out and people are always spending time outdoors!

Posted: April 25, 2024

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Is Utrecht safe right now?

Before your visit to Utrecht, it's essential to check travel advisories for Netherlands, 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 to exercise increased caution in the Netherlands due to terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 26, 2023

🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution while in the Netherlands, due to potential terrorism threats. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 6, 2024

🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian government advises exercising normal safety precautions in the Netherlands. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 9, 2024

Is Utrecht worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.5 /5

based on 3 experiences

Tessa (24)

Germany

Group travel experience

We had gone to a card tournament with our group of friends, so we didn't have any other activities. There was a shopping mall in the center. There was a lot of food selection there. So, as an allergic person, it was possible for me to find some dishes. There are some gluten-free options available like, for example, at Vapiano.

Posted: May 16, 2024Experienced: December, 2023

Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 3/5

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Annalise (27)

Belgium

Solo travel experience

Felt good! Only problem I had was a date that stood me up... Luckily it's a vibrant city. Small, but fun! I spent a lot of time in the central mall near the station, honestly not a bad decision. They have great food hubs!

Posted: February 27, 2024Experienced: January, 2024

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5

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Meet locals in Utrecht

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

Lisa

About Me

Hela! I’m Lisa, visiting Malaysia. My mum lives in Singapore together with my dad and little sister. I live in the Netherlands. Love dancing, allround and recently started latin social dance.

Speaking

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Johanna

About Me

Expat living in the Netherlands looking to meet new friends to do yoga, cooking and wine tasting, going out or just enjoying the sun together.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Utrecht

Stay with local women in Utrecht 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.

Roos

Utrecht

Can host for:

1 day

About me

Hi! I am a (mostly) solo traveller looking for an authentic experience in any country I visit. Big fan of the outdoors but enjoy sleepy surfer towns and nightlife just as much. Favorite kitchen: Mexican.