Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi's main tourist area with intense street energy, constant activity, and good street food. Chaotic and crowded but well-lit and busy enough to feel safe. Best for first-timers who want to be in the center of things, though bag snatching is common.
This is Hanoi's tourist center - 36 ancient streets packed with motorbikes, street food vendors, and shops spilling onto sidewalks. The energy is intense but it feels safe even late because there are always people around. Ta Hien Beer Street comes alive after 5 PM with locals and travelers on tiny plastic stools drinking bia hoi for 20,000 VND ($0.85). The weekend night market (Friday-Sunday, 6 PM-midnight) turns the streets into a pedestrian zone with vendors, performers, and food stalls. Most restaurant staff speak enough English to get by. Main issues are crossing the chaotic streets and bag snatchers on motorbikes - walk on the inside of sidewalks and keep bags close. It's overwhelming at first, but the constant activity actually makes it safer. First-time visitors usually stay here since it's central and has the most going on.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Good"Felt safe walking back late because streets are always busy"
"Overwhelming at first with the traffic but you get used to it"
"Lots of women eating alone at cafes, totally normal"
"Watch your bag constantly - saw attempted snatchings"
"Best street food in the city, vendors are friendly"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
The expat neighborhood around West Lake with cafes set up for remote work and a residential feel. Safe and comfortable but far from tourist sites and more expensive than central Hanoi. Good for digital nomads or people who want a quieter base.
Quieter colonial district with wide boulevards, upscale cafes, and better lighting than the Old Quarter. More expensive and less authentically Vietnamese, but walkable and calm. Good if you want a peaceful base near the main sights.
Government district with major historical sites like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature. Very safe with constant police but quiet at night with few dining or nightlife options. Better as a day trip than a place to stay.
Help other women stay safe in Old Quarter
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.