Bruges, Belgium
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Bruges.
Residential neighborhood with locals, good cafes, and lower prices than the center. Quiet after 10pm but close enough to walk back from busier areas.
Just north of the city center, Sint-Gillis is where locals and young professionals actually live. It's a 15-minute walk from the Markt but feels separate from the tourist scene. Cafes have locals on laptops, canals are less crowded, and restaurants cost less than in the center. The neighborhood quiets down after 10pm when people go home, but you can walk to busier areas easily. Less English spoken here than the tourist center, though cafe and restaurant staff usually know enough. It's residential with good lighting and regular police presence. A good option if you want to see how locals live without being far from attractions.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
ExcellentHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
ExcellentPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
Very HighHomelessness Visibility
Very HighGetting By in English
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"Good mix of local life and safety, liked staying here"
"Safe walking at night, quiet residential feel"
"Cafes felt more authentic than the center"
"Easy walk to sights, nice escape from crowds"
"Less English but people were helpful"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Residential area with local dining and nightlife on Langestraat. Lower prices and fewer tourists, but 15-20 minute walk from center.
Quiet residential area around Minnewater Park. Close to center but peaceful, with limited nightlife. Good for relaxation.
The main tourist area with major attractions, plenty of English speakers, and active streets day and night. Prices are high but location is convenient and well-lit.
Help other women stay safe in Sint-Gillis Quarter (St. Gilles)
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.