How safe is travelling on European rail networks for solo travellers?
How safe is travelling on European rail networks for solo travellers, including overnight trains? Obviously, the usual precautions of being more mindful of belongings when travelling solo need to be kept in mind. I'd also reckon that Western and Northern Europe would be relatively safer, but this is just an assumption.
What I'm specifically looking for is information or a resource that logs crime statistics for thefts, muggings, et al that happen on trains - across Europe, if possible but country-specific guides would also be useful. If this is not available, anecdotal or otherwise security information on any stretches of European rail networks to be careful about would also be helpful.
Best Answer
Statistics could provide a overview, but you can use common sense here.
Imagine you are a criminal.
How likely are you committing a crime in a location where (with very few exceptions) help is always in vicinity, you are always outnumbered (if you have no followers like e.g. football ultras), escape is difficult (no, you cannot jump at high speeds so emergency breaks are the only option, alarming everyone on the train) and there is no place to hide ?
Not very much.
If you look at the crimes happening in trains, they are really rare. What is happening are personal crimes when the train is nearly deserted, assaults/vandalism/gang crime if there are many aggressors (granted, could happen with football ultras) and else opportunity crimes like theft.
So, train rides are one of the safest modes of transportation in most countries, especially in Europe.
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Is it safe to solo travel in Europe?
Europe is a fabulous destination for the first-time solo traveller. What is this? It's relatively safe, easy to travel around and offers a vast choice of cultures and cuisine. Thanks to the European Union, many countries share a common currency and there are no borders to navigate, making country-hopping a breeze.Is traveling by train safe in Europe?
Providing you take all the usual common sense precautions, European rail travel is generally safe, but it pays to be vigilant at major stations, especially at night, and keep an eye out for your bags, stowing away all valuables.Is Solo Interrailing safe?
Absolutely! Travelling by train is one of the safest ways to explore Europe. An Interrail Pass gives you access to an extensive network of railway companies with some of the best connections, maintenance systems and safety measures in the world.Are night trains safe in Europe?
Night trains in Europe are just as safe as their daily counterparts. If you're in a shared compartment and want to ensure your valuables are safe, keep them within reach and out of sight while you sleep.Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in Europe | How to travel by Train 101
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Answer 2
I've never looked up the statistics, but I spent this summer traveling Europe on a rail pass and took some overnight trains too. They are completely safe, with the exception of theft. Not that you'd get hurt, but you could lose your valuables.
Keep your valuables in a safe place. I saw someone's bag get stolen because he left it on the rack above his seat - not a good idea. Other than theft, they are entirely safe.
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