Montreal, Canada
The historic tourist district with cobblestone streets and high-end dining. Very safe with heavy police presence. Everything is expensive. Good for first-time visitors who prioritize safety over budget.
Old Montreal is the historic district with cobblestone streets and 17th-century buildings along the Old Port waterfront. It's where tourists go, so expect higher prices but also good security, lighting, and crowds even late in summer. Tourist police patrol and the upscale hotels have private security. Restaurant staff speak English fluently, used to solo diners. Cafes like Crew and Structure have the laptop crowd. The architecture looks good but everything costs more - coffee here is double what you'd pay in Plateau. Cobblestones are annoying with luggage or heels. Winter is quieter but main places stay open. Summer nights stay busy until midnight with street performers. After 10pm in winter it empties out more.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
ExcellentHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
ExcellentPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Excellent"Very safe, lots of tourists and security everywhere"
"Beautiful for walking around but expensive for everything"
"Easy to navigate and everyone speaks English"
"Felt safe even walking alone late at night in summer"
"Tourist prices but worth it for the atmosphere and safety"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
The creative neighborhood with famous bagel shops, bookstores, and cafes. Less touristy than Plateau, more residential. Low crime rates, safe walking around. Good if you want local culture rather than tourist spots.
Family-oriented residential area with green alleyways and strong community. Low crime, safe. Cheaper than tourist areas, more authentic. Less English but visitors are welcome. Good for seeing regular neighborhood life.
Quiet residential area in the west end, 20 minutes from downtown. Very safe, low crime, more English-speaking than other areas. Cafes and restaurants on Monkland Avenue but not much nightlife. Good for a peaceful base.
Help other women stay safe in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.