Madrid, Spain
Salamanca is where Madrid's money lives - designer shopping on Serrano street and restaurants that charge accordingly. You'll pay tourist prices but get serious security in return. Very safe to walk around anytime, though you'll feel underdressed if you show up in backpacker gear.
Serrano street is where Madrid's wealthy shop - think Chanel and Prada with prices to match. The side streets have these beautiful old buildings with actual doormen who know everyone in the neighborhood, which creates a natural security system. You'll see well-dressed older women walking small dogs and business people having long lunches. Police patrol regularly, but honestly the biggest safety concern is your wallet getting lighter. The restaurants charge €25-30 for lunch menus that cost €12 elsewhere, but the quality matches the price. It feels very European and sophisticated - definitely a place to dress up a bit.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
ExcellentHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
ExcellentPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Definitely the safest area I walked around in Madrid"
"Expensive but worth it if you want to feel completely secure"
"Saw lots of other women out alone, especially shopping"
"Police everywhere and the streets are super well-lit"
"Way pricier than other neighborhoods but zero safety concerns"
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Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Residential area next to Retiro Park with easy access to all the major museums. Much quieter than central Madrid - more families than party crowds. Perfect if you want peaceful mornings in the park and culture nearby.
Authentic residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets and local cafes. Connected to the center but feels genuinely Spanish - families, corner bars, reasonable prices. The restaurant scene on Calle Ponzano is worth exploring.
Chueca is Madrid's gay district with a really welcoming vibe for everyone. The plaza fills up with people having drinks, and the restaurants are solid. One of the safer neighborhoods for walking around at night, with good foot traffic and a strong community feel.
Help other women stay safe in Salamanca
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.