Hei! 🇫🇮 As a gal who has travelled solo in the past, safety has always been a top concern. If you’re planning a trip to Helsinki, you might be wondering if the city is safe for women travelling alone. The short answer is yes, Helsinki is generally a safe destination for female solo travellers. 

When I went to Helsinki, I was amazed with how friendly and respectful the Finns are. It made my £15 return flights feel SO worth it. Here are a few reasons Helsinki is safe for female solo travellers. 

The Helsinki Sign

Helsinki has a low crime rate 

One of the reasons why Helsinki is considered safe is due to its low crime rate. According to the Global Peace Index, Finland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, and Helsinki follows this trend. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas but is generally not a major concern. However, it’s still important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation is reliable and safe 

One of the best things about Helsinki is its efficient and well-connected public transportation system. This makes it easy to navigate the city and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night. The Helsinki region also offers an excellent night bus network, providing safe and reliable transportation throughout the night.

Helsinki Tram

Finland is a progressive nation 

Another reason why Helsinki is a safe destination for solo female travellers is its progressive and egalitarian culture. Finland is consistently ranked as one of the most gender-equal countries in the world, and this attitude is reflected in the daily life of the city. Women are generally respected and treated equally in Helsinki, and harassment is not a major concern. However, it’s still important to trust your instincts and take precautions such as avoiding empty streets or dimly lit areas at night.

View from the Oodi Library, Helsinki

A range of accommodation options 

When it comes to accommodation, Helsinki offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. As a solo traveller, you may want to consider staying in a hostel, where you can meet other travelers and take advantage of communal spaces and activities. Many hostels in Helsinki also offer female-only dorms or sections, providing an added sense of security and privacy.

I stayed in the Hotel Indigo Helsinki and booked through Expedia.com to make sure my booking was secured and that I could check the safety reviews before staying. 

Helsinki Cathedral

So, if you’re a solo female traveller, rest assured that Helsinki is a fantastic and safe destination for you. With its ultra-low crime rate, excellent public transport, and forward-thinking culture, you’ll feel secure and welcomed as soon as you arrive. Of course, it’s always important to take some basic precautions and listen to your instincts, but don’t let fear stop you from exploring all that Helsinki has to offer. So grab your bags, prepare for an exhilarating solo adventure, and enjoy all the wonders of this stunning city, worry-free!

If you’re still feeling unsure about traveling solo to Helsinki, consider joining a guided tour or activity. This can be a great way to meet other travelers and locals while exploring the city with a knowledgeable guide who can offer tips and advice for staying safe. There are many tour operators that cater specifically to solo travelers, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. I’ve personally used Get Your Guide a few times before and it’s great for planned activities, and making new friends! 

Now you know how safe Helsinki is for solo female travellers – check out my ultimate 48-hour guide to Helsinki 🇫🇮