Is Dublin Safe? BEST Safety Tips for Travelers in 2025
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Traveling or moving abroad to a new country always poses risks. When wondering if Dublin is safe as a tourist or expat, you have to take into consideration the inherent risk of traveling anywhere. However, as a solo female traveler and expat living in Dublin, Ireland I always felt incredibly safe traveling on public transportation, in taxis, and walking around the cities both during the day and at night.
The safety of a country is partially based on your perception and biases from what you are used to, in addition to your own actions and diligence as well as the unique situations each person finds themselves in. When reading this article, keep in mind that safety for each person is different, and use your own best judgment for your particular situation.
Jump to…
• Is Ireland Safe?
• Is Ireland More or Less Safe than the United States?
• Rate of Crime Statistics in Ireland
• Do You Need Insurance to Visit Ireland?
• So, Is Dublin Safe? Are There Any Threats of Danger?
• Is Dublin Safe to Walk in at Night?
• Are Taxis and Ubers Safe to Take in Dublin?
• Is Public Transportation Safe in Dublin? Driving in Dublin?
• Is Dublin Safe to Live In for Expats?
• Are There Bad Areas to Avoid in Dublin?
• Is Dublin Safe for Students?
• Is Dublin Safe for Solo Female Travelers? LGBTQ Community?
• Tips for Staying Safe in Dublin, Ireland
Is Ireland Safe? (From a Solo Female Expat)
The Republic of Ireland as a whole is a very safe country. However, that is taking into account a mix of the cities and the countryside villages. You will of course run into more crime and safety concerns in the bigger cities than if you are exclusively out in nature or in the smaller cities of Ireland.
According to the 2021 Global Peace Index, (and this article that Condé Nast Traveller just posted) Ireland is ranked as the 8th most peaceful country. Like most countries, overall the more affluent areas in Ireland have fewer personal and safety crimes, and the less wealthy areas see more crime.
Though the 2022 statistics are still under review, as of now it appears that most crime and safety (i.e. theft, homicide, robbery, use of drugs, and use of weaponry) have DROPPED in Ireland since the previous year. The only major increase has been related to fraud and deception.
NOTE: Unless otherwise stated, all statistics I reference come from the most recently released statistics from Ireland’s Central Statistics Office.
Is Ireland More or Less Safe than the United States?
Having lived in both the U.S. and Ireland, I have personally felt much safer in Dublin than in Los Angeles or other large U.S. cities. Though the more rural areas of both countries feel very similar safety-wise.
According to NationMaster, the United States has 146 times more crime (as a whole) than Ireland and the U.S. has 241 times more violent crime than Ireland.
Additionally, on the Global Peace Index, the U.S. is ranked far lower at 122.
Unfortunately, gun violence is a real threat in the U.S. that most people living there are very aware of on a frequent basis. While living in Dublin, I didn’t have to worry about gun violence or mass shootings nearly as often as I would while living in America.
Rate of Crime Statistic in Ireland
In Ireland, 10% of people aged 18 or over said they were a victim of a violent or non-violent theft (or attempted theft), an assault, or fraud (Central Statistics Office). In comparison to many countries, this percentage is fairly low.
Discrimination Safety Statistics in Ireland
The rate of personal crime was marginally higher among males (10%) than females (9%), and considerably higher among persons aged 18-29 (14%) than persons in older age groups (5% of persons aged 60 or above) (Central Statistics Office). The younger age group is more likely out at pubs or drinking more heavily at night, which can more often lead to unsafe circumstances.
People from very affluent areas (14%) reported being victims of personal crime more than people in more disadvantaged areas (Central Statistics Office). As a whole, affluent areas in Ireland are safer, but there is more theft and personal crime in affluent homes.
Only 7% of all crimes were believed to be based on discrimination. 4% of victims believed the crime was motivated by race, religion, or ethnicity, 3% stated that they felt the crime was motivated by gender, and 2% said they felt that age was a motivating factor in the crime (Central Statistics Office).
Do You Need Insurance to Visit Ireland?
You are NOT required to show proof of insurance when visiting Ireland, but it is highly recommended. Any time you travel you should always have insurance to cover you in case of an emergency.
I use and recommend SafetyWing for medical and travel insurance. It is affordable, reliable, and flexible insurance that is specifically designed for digital nomads who will be traveling long-term, though it mostly covers emergency situations which is perfect for short-term travelers as well.
For an idea of how much insurance will cost you while living abroad, use the tool below. Or, to purchase insurance directly from SafetyWing, CLICK HERE.
Is Dublin, Ireland Safe?
As far as big cities and European capitals go, YES Dublin, Ireland is very safe for tourists and expats. It is still a big city, so there will still be crime, but the crime you may experience in Dublin is mostly petty theft. The rate of crime is higher in Dublin than anywhere else in Ireland, so exercise more caution while you are in the city over the rest of the country, but there is not much need to fear for your safety.
Is Dublin Safe for Travel in 2022-2023?
Yes! Dulin is safe to travel in right now. In fact, Condé Nast Traveller just named Ireland the number 8th safest country in the WORLD.
Dublin is a popular tourist destination for a variety of reasons: its rich history, its vibrant culture, and its friendly people. However, some travelers may be concerned about safety, particularly in light of the recent increase in terrorist activity in Europe.
While it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling, Dublin is generally a safe city. The Irish government has made security a top priority in recent years, and there is a heavy police presence in the city center.
In addition, most hotels and businesses have security measures in place to protect guests and customers. With a little planning and common sense, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Dublin.
Is Dublin a Dangerous City at All?
No, Dublin is not a dangerous city. There are no real natural threats such as dangerous animals or natural disasters and weather. There is not much danger in Dublin from people either, other than petty crime. I never felt like I was in danger while living in and exploring Dublin!
Is There a Risk of Terrorism in Dublin?
Dublin is one of the safest cities in the world, and there has not been a threat of terrorism in recent years. The Irish government has been very successful in combating terrorist activity, and there has not been a serious incident in over a decade.
Dublin is a welcoming and safe city for visitors, and there is no need to be concerned about terrorism. However, as with any major city, it is always advisable to take basic precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables unsecured in public places.
Is There Any Risk of Natural Disaster in Dublin, Ireland?
Dublin is very safe from natural disasters. The country is not located in an area prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, or other catastrophic weather events. As a result, Dublin tourists and residents can rest assured that they are unlikely to experience any type of natural disaster.
However, it is still important to be prepared for emergencies, as no place is completely safe from all risks. Therefore, Dubliners should familiarize themselves with the city’s emergency procedures and have a plan in place in case of any unforeseen event.
There may be some threat of flooding, though very minimal and Ireland is well prepared for heavy rain. While I lived in Dublin, there was one hurricane that minimally threatened Ireland. Dublin was not in an area that was really of concern, though schools and some businesses did still shut down just in case. All we got in Dublin was rain and some serious wind that delayed flights for a few hours. Dublin responded very quickly and efficiently, even though the threat of actual disaster was very low.
Rate of Crime Statistic in Dublin
The Dublin region had the highest reported rate of victimization (13%) for personal crime, compared to victimization rates of between 8% and 10% for personal crime in the rest of Ireland (Central Statistics Office).
However, over two-thirds (68%) of persons aged 18 and over said that they felt the Gardaí (the Irish police) were “very effective” (17%) or “quite effective” (51%) at tackling crime in their local area.
Is Dublin Safe to Walk in?
While it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling to any new place, Dublin is generally a safe city for tourists to walk in, at any time of day or night. The crime rate is low and most visitors feel comfortable walking around during daylight hours.
Of course, as with any large city, there are areas that are best avoided at night, but overall Dublin is a safe place to explore on foot. Just use your common sense and you’ll have a great time.
Is It Safe in Dublin at Night?
Tips for Walking in Dublin at Night
I found Dublin relatively safe to walk around in at night. Now, as a young female, I always tried to stick to a group and not walk around Dublin at night by myself. There were plenty of times, especially in the winter when the sun set early, that it would be dark by the time I walked home from class and I never had any troubles.
75% of people aged 18 and over said they felt “very safe” or “fairly safe” walking around Dublin at night. This feeling of safety was considerably lower for females (64%) than for males (87%) (Central Statistics Office).
The biggest thing to worry about at night in Dublin is drunk and homeless people, drunk people being more of the issue. There were a handful of times I encountered some interesting characters while trying to get home, as you will in every big city. Stay in well-lit areas that have some other people around and this is almost never a major issue.
Are Taxis and Ubers Safe to Take in Dublin?
Yes, taxis are generally safe to take in Dublin and quite plentiful around the city of Dublin. Taxi scams are prevalent in major cities around the world, and it does happen rarely in Dublin. Keep in mind that private cars for hire are not allowed in Ireland, so you will be calling a taxi if you use the Uber app.
Using a rideshare app can be a good idea because your ride is tracked. Or, have your hotel call your taxi so you know it is coming from a reputable source. Always pay attention to markings and the inside of your taxi and use your best judgment on safety.
Is Public Transportation Safe in Dublin?
Public transportation is also fairly safe and reliable to use, especially from Dublin city centre. I would avoid taking public transportation or being at the train station later in the night when possible and opt for a taxi over public transportation and walking when it is very late at night.
Beyond the odd (but harmless) character, I never had any issues or concerns with Dublin public transportation. Especially if there are a few other passengers on board, you are not likely to run into any problems.
Is Dublin Safe to Drive In?
Yes, it’s safe to drive in Dublin, but public transportation is often more reliable and efficient. Walking is also a great way to get around the city, and it’s often the best option when exploring everything Dublin has to offer.
I don’t recommend renting a car or driving in Dublin if you don’t have to. The roads are crowded and parking can be a nightmare and expensive. Everything in Dublin is close enough that taking either public transportation, walking between sites, or taking a taxi is generally quicker and more affordable.
As a traveler to Dublin, driving can be a bit dangerous if you aren’t familiar with driving on the left side of the road or with a stick-shift car. Additionally, the different rules of the road can be confusing and cause you to be a bit more distracted with driving.
While drivers in Dublin are generally courteous and follow the rules of the road, pedestrians should exercise caution when crossing streets and be aware of their surroundings at all times. With a little planning and common sense, visitors to Dublin can safely enjoy all that the city has to offer.
As a whole, I always say don’t rent a car if you are just staying in Dublin or going between the major cities. Only rent a car if you are exploring the countryside and have time to become familiar with the Irish roads!
Prefer to drive your own car rather than risk a taxi or public transportation?
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Is Dublin Safe for Foreigners and to Live In as Expats?
Again, I never had any safety concerns while living in Dublin as an expat and found it a very safe city to live in. As far as European countries go, Ireland as a whole feels extremely safe, and Irish people and incredibly friendly. However, if you are concerned about the safety as an expat in Dublin, there are so many wonderful cities across Ireland to look into instead.
Households in the Dublin region were the most likely to be victims of household crime over other parts of Ireland, with 6% of Dublin households saying they had suffered a burglary or theft. 5% of Dublin households were victims of burglary and 3% were victims of vandalism (Central Statistics Office). A very low percentage for a large city.
Are There Bad Areas to Avoid in Dublin?
Every major city will have bad areas where crime happens more frequently, often in the less affluent neighborhoods. As is true anywhere, be extra cautious anywhere crowded or considered “touristy” (i.e. Temple Bar, Grafton Street, etc.) because there is a higher likelihood of pickpockets and petty crime and theft.
I found that just north of the river and the farther west you go from the city center has more areas that feel unsafe. Though nothing ever happened to me even here.
Ireland’s most crime-ridden district is around the Pearse Street Garda station in Dublin’s south side inner city. However, it’s good to keep in mind that this is probably due to the high concentration of university students and drinking that likely occurs on and around the campus where some students live and thus creates a higher crime rate. I never felt unsafe on Pearse Street, but you might want to avoid it if you can and exercise higher caution in this part of Dublin.
Tallaght & Blanchardstown (right below Tallaght) are also known to be less safe. However, this is more of a concern for expats looking at the best neighborhoods to live in as opposed to tourists, as both areas are outside of the Dublin city center.
What Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Dublin?
Dublin City Center (near all the popular tourist areas such as Dublin Castle and Trinity College) is a very safe part of Dublin for both tourists and those living in the city. Portobello and Smithfield are some of the best places and very safe parts of Dublin. Portobello, in particular, is a good place to stay, as it’s close to the city center but it’s also becoming very trendy with the bars, clubs, and restaurants in the area.
Is Dublin Safe for Students?
According to World Scholars Hub, Ireland is the #7 safest country to study abroad in 2022, with low crime rates.
I was a student while I lived in Dublin and had the most amazing time! The people were friendly, so I quickly made friends to explore the city with. Campus (Trinity College Dublin) always felt very safe as it was constantly crowded with students, scholars, and even tourists. The main streets are always well lit and I had no problems getting home to my student accommodation from campus at any time of the day.
Is Dublin Safe for Solo Travelers?
Safety for solo travelers is a question that is often asked by those considering a trip to the Irish capital. The answer is yes, Dublin is safe for solo travelers.
Of course, as with any city, there are certain areas that are best avoided late at night time, but overall Dublin is a friendly and welcoming place. In addition, the city is well-equipped with security cameras and other safety features, so you can rest assured that you’ll be safe during your stay. So if you’re thinking about visiting Dublin, don’t let concerns about safety stop you from enjoying all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Is Dublin Safe for Female Travelers?
As a solo female traveler myself, I can confidently recommend Dublin as one of the safer cities for female travelers. Ireland is one of the safest countries for solo female travelers and is actually ranked as the 3rd safest in the world according to this Women’s Danger Index.
As always, we know to stay extra aware when traveling alone as women, and Dublin is no exception. As far as large cities go, this is one you could do by yourself and stay safe.
Is Dublin Safe for the LGBTQ+ Community?
Dublin has a very strong LGBTQ community. Ireland was actually the first country to legalize gay marriage by popular vote, and they are very proud of it! There are LGBTQ bars and clubs around town that create a safe space for everyone to express themselves.
My best friend when I lived in Dublin was strongly involved in the LGBTQ+ community in Dublin and was constantly attending club meetings at the university (Trinity College) as well as around town. So, there are certainly plenty of ways to get involved in LGBTQ+ communities and events around Dublin.
One of Ireland’s oldest and biggest gay bars is The George, right in the middle of Dublin’s city center. It’s a fantastic club that hosts drag nights, karaoke, dancing, and more.
Dublin Safety and COVID-19
At the moment, over 80% of Ireland is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Since a big spike in cases in January 2022, cases have been far lower and staying relatively low. However, information on the pandemic changes quickly, and I recommend you stay up to date with the CDC recommendations and health information from the government of Ireland directly.
Tips for Staying Safe in Dublin, Ireland
- Stay in a group whenever possible
- Don’t walk alone at night
- Have your phone out and open when riding in a taxi in case you feel unsafe
- Stay on the well-lit main streets at night
- Carry pepper spray at night
- Have a general idea of the city and where you are at all times (stay aware of your surroundings)
- Don’t flash large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry/items
- Wear a cross-body (or under the clothes) purse
- Keep your phone in your purse or front pocket instead of your back pocket
- Take a taxi home from the pubs/clubs instead of walking
Are There Any Issues with Food Safety in Dublin?
No, there are no issues with food safety in Dublin. Dublin is a great place to find excellent restaurants and delicious meals! The food is fresh, the restaurants are plentiful, and the people serving are friendly. I have never had any issues with food safety in Dublin. I would definitely recommend it as a place to eat!
Is It Safe to Drink the Water in Dublin?
When traveling to a new country, it’s always important to ask if it’s safe to drink the water. The water in Dublin IS safe to drink and there have been no problems with the quality of the water supply in recent years. There are occasional boil-water notices that are issued as a precautionary measure, but these are usually lifted within a day or two. So, if you’re wondering is it safe to drink the water in Ireland? The answer is yes!
Is Dublin or London Safer?
I personally felt safer in Dublin, partially because the city is smaller so I knew the areas to avoid better. Dublin is marginally safer than London according to statistics as well.
The level of crime in Dublin is rated as “moderate” (57.40) whereas in London it is rated as “high” (62.58) (Numbeo). But both have fairly comparable crime levels.
While Ireland was the 8th most peaceful country in the world, the UK comes in at 33rd, which is not far in the grand scheme.
So, Is Dublin Safe?
Yes, Dublin, Ireland is a very safe city to visit and live in. Many of the tips for staying safe in Dublin are the same as you would find for any tourist or any person in a big city. Above all else, stay aware and use your common sense and best judgment to stay out of trouble and avoid any safety concerns.
Looking for resources to use for your next trip or move abroad?
CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!
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☘️FAQs About Ireland☘️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing.
>>>CLICK HERE FOR INFO
☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland?
Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Hostelworld
• Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland)
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
☘️ Where Can You Find Tours?
I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland?
I always tell my friends and family to rent a car in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking.
>>> What to know about driving in Ireland
>>> The best car rental in Ireland
🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.
