Is Gothenburg Safe For Solo Female Travellers?

 

If you’re a female solo traveller seeking a safe, vibrant, and culturally rich destination for solo travel, Gothenburg, Sweden, ticks all the boxes. With a flourishing music and arts scene, top-notch museums, and breathtaking natural beauty, this delightful coastal city promises a fulfilling solo journey! A little while ago, I decided to book a spontaneous solo trip to Gothenburg from London, and I did not regret it one bit. As a seasoned travel gal, I’ve visited plenty of cities across the world, but there was something special about Gothenburg that captured my heart from the very start. The short answer to the question of is Gothenburg safe for solo female travellers is a resounding yes. But let’s explore what makes this underrated city so great (and safe!). 

I arrived on a Friday afternoon and was immediately struck by how friendly everyone is, and how safe I felt. Swedish people generally speak really good English, so it was easy to get around and ask for help if needed. But, that’s just the tip of the (gothen) berg. 

Gothenburgs Low Crime Rate

Safety is one of the top top priorities in Gothenburg, as it is throughout most of Sweden. With an extremely low crime rate and a culture that values equality and respect, it’s easy to feel secure and comfortable exploring the city as a solo female traveller. However, as with any destination girls, it’s important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings. 

Sweden Is A Progressive Country

Another reason why Gothenburg is a safe destination for solo female travellers is that Sweden is generally a progressive nation with a welcoming culture. Sweden is known for being one of the most gender-equal countries in the world, and Gothenburg local echo this by treating women with respect. Fortunately, instances of harassment are rare and you can confidently explore the city. Nonetheless, always be mindful of your surroundings and exercise cauton when walking alone at night. 

Great Public Transport 

Living in London, you start to have a warped sense of public transportation (expecting every city to have the same level of efficiency is definitely a problem). However, I was pleasantly surprised Gothenburg has such a well-connected and efficient public transportation system. The tram and bus system makes it super easy to get around, and there is a detailed network of bike paths that’s perfect for exploring the city’s cool neighborhoods and coastal areas. Plus, walking is always an option in Gothenburg, thanks to the city’s pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways. As usual I walked (see: yomped) everywhere, and didn’t once feel unsafe on the streets. 

Accomodation Options 

When it comes to finding accom in Gothenburg, there’s a huge variety of options available to suit all different budgets and preferences. As a solo traveller, you’ll probably want to consider staying in a hostel, where you can meet other people and take advantage of all the planned activities. Many hostels in Gothenburg also offer female-only dorms or sections, which can provide an added sense of security and privacy. The best place to find a hostel is Hostel World, which I’ve used loads of times ove the years to find safe and high-rated hostels. Another option for solo female travelers in Gothenburg is to stay in a hotel or book an apartment through Vrbo, which will be more expensive but will add a sprinkle of luxury to your trip. 

Find things to do in Gothenburg 🇸🇪👇

Things To Do In Gothenburg 

Gothenburg has a fab arts and music scene that is sure to keep you solo female travellers busy for the entire time! There’s world-renowned museums like the Gothenburg Museum of Art and the Maritime Museum, as well as tonnes of galleries and performance spaces, Gothenburg is an absolute haven for culture enthusiasts.

There’s plenty for the nature-lovers too. Gothenburg has no shortage of INSANE outdoor experiences. The archipelago off the coast of Gothenburg is an absolute must-see, with a huge amount of little islands to discover. Think lush views and fun activities. And if you’re looking for a quiet spot to unwind and enjoy the fresh Swedish air, you’ll find plenty of beautiful parks and green spaces throughout the city. One of my personal favorites is the Slottsskogen Park, where the locals come to hang and see the free animal exhibits.

So if you’re a solo female traveller looking for a safe, welcoming, and exciting destination, then Gothenburg is definitely the city for you. With its low crime rate, efficient public transportation, and friendly culture, this coastal oasis offers everything you need for a worry-free solo adventure. Looking for other things to do in Gothenburg? You can check out my ultimate 48-hour itinerary here. 

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