Paris, France
Barbès-Rochechouart offers a multicultural market experience during daytime hours but is not recommended for solo female travelers due to its reputation for street crime and drug activity. The area's transformation after dark makes it particularly unsuitable for evening activities or accommodation.
Barbès-Rochechouart has multicultural markets on Wednesday and Saturday mornings that bring families and legitimate shoppers, but drug dealing happens openly around the metro station even during daytime. Solo female travelers report frequent street harassment, especially after the markets close at 2pm when loitering increases around metro entrances. The area feels more intimidating than other Paris neighborhoods with aggressive street vendors and people who may follow solo women. Police presence is limited and often ineffective. If you visit for the markets, go in the morning when families are around and leave by early afternoon. Avoid the area entirely in the evening.
Daytime Safety
ModerateNight Walking Safety
PoorHarassment Risk
HighPublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
HighPolice Visibility
ModerateEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
PoorSolo Dining
ModerateDrug Activity
HighHomelessness Visibility
HighGetting By in English
Moderate"Interesting multicultural experience during daytime market hours"
"Significant discomfort reported due to street crime reputation"
"30% of tourists felt unsafe after dark"
"Not recommended for solo female travelers"
"Markets disappear after sunset making area unsafe"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
The Gare du Nord area serves as a necessary transit point for solo female travelers but is not recommended for exploration or accommodation. The combination of high crime rates, transient population, and social challenges makes it one of Paris's least safe areas, particularly after dark.
Pigalle offers solo female travelers a glimpse into Paris's historic entertainment district, but requires heightened caution due to its red-light district nature. While some areas have gentrified and tourist attractions like Moulin Rouge are moderately safe, the neighborhood is not ideal for solo female accommodation or late-night activities.
Châtelet-Les Halles serves as an important daytime transit and shopping hub for solo female travelers, offering convenience and safety during busy hours. However, the area's transformation after dark makes it unsuitable for evening activities or accommodation, requiring travelers to plan their visits accordingly.
Help other women stay safe in Barbès-Rochechouart
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.