Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Old Town has the medieval architecture and museums that bring people to Edinburgh. Visit during the day when there's police presence and crowds. Watch for pickpockets in busy areas. Plan to spend evenings in better-lit neighborhoods.
The Old Town runs along the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace. During the day it's packed with tourists, street performers, and people eating lunch. You'll see police around the major sites regularly. The medieval architecture is the main draw - narrow wynds and closes branch off into hidden courtyards and viewpoints. Timing matters here. After 9pm the tourists clear out and the narrow medieval streets empty quickly, especially in winter when it's dark by 4pm. Pickpocketing is the main issue during busy times on the Royal Mile and around the Castle - keep your bag in front of you in crowds and watch your phone. The area works best as a daytime destination. For evenings, head to New Town, Stockbridge, or West End where streets stay lit and people stay out later.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Excellent"Great history and museums, but I left before dark like locals suggested"
"Felt fine during the day with police around, but streets empty out fast at night"
"The architecture is worth seeing, just eat dinner somewhere else"
"Watch your bag - pickpockets work the crowds on the Royal Mile"
"Beautiful in daylight, but it gets dark and empty quickly"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Leith has some of Edinburgh's best restaurants along The Shore waterfront. Visit for lunch or early dinner and take the tram. Don't stay overnight - higher crime rates than other areas.
West End and Haymarket have good transport links from the train station, low crime rates, and a residential feel while staying close to central Edinburgh. More locals than tourists.
New Town has Georgian architecture, upscale dining, and good safety day and night. More expensive than other areas but streets stay lit and active late.
Help other women stay safe in Old Town
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.