Is Stockholm Safe? A Tourist's Guide to Safety and Security

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is renowned for its picturesque archipelago, cutting-edge design, and rich history. Visitors flock to iconic landmarks such as Gamla Stan (Old Town), a medieval district filled with narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant buildings, and historic sites like the Royal Palace. The city experiences its highest influx of tourists during the summer, particularly from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and festivals abound. Whether visiting during the bustling summer or quieter months, keeping personal belongings safe is a priority, and Qeepl, a worldwide luggage storage provider, offers convenient and secure storage solutions while you explore the city.

Is Stockholm Safe to Travel to Right Now?

As of 2024, Stockholm remains a generally safe city for tourists. However, like any major European capital, it has areas where petty crimes can occur. According to Numbeo, Stockholm has a Crime Index of 46.25 and a Safety Index of 53.75. While this reflects a moderate level of safety, tourists should be aware of common issues such as pickpocketing in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Despite these concerns, violent crimes are rare, and visitors can enjoy the city’s attractions without significant fear. For the latest updates and statistics, you can check Numbeo.

Is Stockholm Safe to Visit Alone?

Yes, Stockholm is safe for solo travelers. The city is well-organized, and its public spaces are clean and patrolled regularly, which adds to a general feeling of safety. Solo travelers can explore the city by foot or via public transport with minimal concern for their personal security. Even in the evening, the central areas remain lively and relatively safe for individuals traveling alone. As always, it’s advised to exercise general caution, especially in less populated areas after dark, but overall, Stockholm is a friendly and secure place for those traveling independently.

Is Stockholm Safe to Visit for Women?

For women travelers, Stockholm is considered quite safe. According to data from Travelladies, the violence rate in the city is 13.1%, which is low by global standards. Additionally, Sweden as a country ranks high on various safety and equality indices, and the city itself is designed with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, well-lit streets, and efficient public transport. Women can confidently explore Stockholm alone, although, as in any large city, it is wise to avoid isolated areas at night and stay vigilant in unfamiliar surroundings.

Common Crimes and Scams That Tourists Should Be Aware Of

While Stockholm is generally a safe destination, tourists should remain cautious of common petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams, particularly in crowded areas such as Sergels Torg, Central Station, and popular tourist attractions like the Vasa Museum. Pickpockets may target busy shopping streets, public transport stations, and areas with many visitors, such as Drottninggatan.

Another issue to be aware of is overcharging in some restaurants or bars, especially in tourist-heavy zones. Always review the bill carefully and ensure prices are clear before ordering. Some street vendors or unofficial tour guides may also attempt to scam tourists by offering overpriced goods or services, so it’s best to stick with reputable providers.

Is Stockholm’s Public Transportation Safe?

Stockholm’s public transportation network, which includes buses, trams, ferries, and the Tunnelbana (subway), is safe and efficient for tourists. The city’s public transit is widely regarded as secure, clean, and reliable. However, as with any major city, petty theft such as pickpocketing can happen, especially during rush hours when public transport is crowded. Tourists should keep an eye on their bags and personal belongings, particularly in busy stations like T-Centralen.

A few tips for public transport safety include always buying tickets through official channels to avoid scams and avoiding empty subway carriages late at night, though even at night, the risk of serious incidents is low. Stockholm’s transport system also provides excellent accessibility for people with disabilities, making it safe for everyone to use.

The Safest Neighbourhoods

Östermalm

Östermalm is one of Stockholm’s most upscale and safest neighborhoods. This elegant district is known for its high-end shopping, fine dining, and proximity to cultural attractions such as the Swedish History Museum and the Royal Dramatic Theatre. The area is affluent and well-patrolled, making it a secure place to stay or visit. Tourists will find luxury hotels and boutique stores here, all in a serene environment.

Norrmalm

Located in the heart of Stockholm, Norrmalm is a bustling district filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites like Kulturhuset. Norrmalm is popular with tourists because it encompasses Sergels Torg and Drottninggatan, the city’s main shopping street. Despite the hustle and bustle, the area is considered very safe, with frequent police presence and well-maintained streets.

Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, is one of the city’s most visited and well-preserved areas. Known for its medieval architecture and narrow streets, it is both a tourist hotspot and a safe area. Police patrols are frequent here due to the high number of visitors, and the area is filled with restaurants, shops, and historic landmarks like Storkyrkan (Stockholm Cathedral). While pickpocketing can occur due to the dense crowds, overall safety in this neighborhood is high.

What Areas of Stockholm Should Be Avoided?

Rinkeby

Rinkeby, located in the outskirts of Stockholm, is known for its higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city. This district has a reputation for occasional gang-related violence and social issues. While tourists don’t usually have a reason to visit Rinkeby, it’s best to avoid this area, particularly at night, if it’s not necessary for your itinerary.

Husby

Husby is another suburb that experiences higher crime levels than the city center. While it’s mostly a residential neighborhood, incidents of vandalism, theft, and occasional violence make it a place tourists might want to avoid. Visitors are advised to stick to the more central and tourist-friendly districts of Stockholm.

Tensta

Like Rinkeby and Husby, Tensta is a suburban neighborhood that has faced socioeconomic challenges, resulting in higher crime rates than in other parts of Stockholm. While it is not generally dangerous for residents, it does not have many tourist attractions, and it is advisable for visitors to avoid it, particularly at night.

Important Emergency Numbers in Stockholm

In case of any emergency while in Stockholm, having access to key emergency contacts can be crucial. Here are three essential emergency numbers to keep in mind:

• 112 – The general emergency number for police, fire services, and medical emergencies across Sweden.
• 114 14 – A non-emergency number to contact the police for reporting thefts or other minor incidents.
• 1177 – A medical advice hotline for tourists who may need non-emergency health advice or services.

For a comprehensive list of emergency numbers worldwide, visit ATM Fee Saver.