Madrid, Spain
Literary-themed neighborhood around Plaza Santa Ana with real writer quotes embedded in the sidewalks. The plaza fills up with after-work crowds at outdoor terraces. Touristy during the day but good local-tourist mix in the evenings.
The literary theme is real - walking down Calle Huertas you'll see actual quotes from Cervantes and other Spanish writers embedded in the bronze lettering on the sidewalks. Plaza Santa Ana fills up around 7 PM with Spanish office workers having after-work drinks at the outdoor terraces before heading to dinner. Several bookshops and literary-themed bars play up the writer connection. It gets touristy during the day because of the nearby museums, but evenings bring out a good mix of locals and visitors. The streets around the plaza stay busy late, which helps with safety.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
ExcellentPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Loved the literary theme - actual quotes in the sidewalks"
"Plaza Santa Ana gets really lively in the evenings"
"Good mix of tourists and locals at the bars"
"Safe area with lots of foot traffic"
"Central location made everything walkable"
Help us improve! Share your feedback or let us know what's missing.
Or email us at hello@hersafevoyage.com
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Malasaña is Madrid's hipster central with vintage shops, street art, and bars that don't empty until 3 AM. Great energy and lots of people around, but weekend nights get chaotic. Watch your stuff in the crowds but the constant foot traffic makes it feel safe.
La Latina is old Madrid with cobblestone streets and authentic tapas bars where Spanish families actually eat. Sunday's El Rastro market gets completely packed but has great atmosphere. Easy to get lost in the medieval layout, so keep your phone GPS handy.
University area with cheap student bars, budget restaurants, and Spanish students out on weeknights. Connected to central Madrid but feels authentically local and unpolished. Great for meeting locals and experiencing real Spanish student life.
Help other women stay safe in Barrio de las Letras
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.