Brussels, Belgium
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Brussels.
Bohemian area with cheaper bars, alternative culture, and budget options. Requires more street awareness - Parvis area is generally okay, near Midi station less so. Better for people used to grittier urban environments.
Saint-Gilles is the bohemian area with young internationals, artists, and students. Rents are lower, vibe is alternative. The Parvis de Saint-Gilles area has tons of bars - supposedly the highest concentration per square kilometer in Brussels. Nightlife is cheaper and less touristy. During the day there are art galleries, quirky cafes, vintage shops, and traditional bars like Brasserie Verschueren. Working-class Belgian character mixed with hipster spots. Safety is trickier than Ixelles or the European Quarter. Around Parvis and main streets it feels fine when places are open and people are around. Streets near Brussels Midi station and Place Bethleem get sketchy at night. Catcalling is more common here than in upscale areas. You'll likely get some uncomfortable attention, especially after dark in quieter spots. The area has gotten better over the years and violent crime isn't that common, but you need more street awareness. Stay on main streets and busy areas near Parvis, don't walk empty side streets late at night. Do that and you can enjoy the alternative scene at half the cost of Ixelles.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
HighPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
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"Fun nightlife and cheap bars but definitely got catcalled more here"
"Stick to Parvis area and you'll be fine, but avoid side streets at night"
"More authentic than Ixelles but you pay for it with less safety"
"Great during the day, more careful at night"
"If you're used to urban environments you'll love it, otherwise choose Ixelles"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Brussels' central square and main tourist zone. Good for sightseeing but high pickpocket and scam risk. Lots of police so violent crime is rare, but watch your stuff constantly. Visit for a few hours, don't stay here.
Good mix of safety, cafe culture, dining variety, and actual Belgian character. More expensive than average but balances security with authenticity better than other areas.
Brussels' safest area with heavy security from EU institutions, international crowd, and widespread English. More expensive and less Belgian in character than other neighborhoods.
Help other women stay safe in Saint-Gilles
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.