Best 5 & Safest City in Germany?

What is the Safest City in Germany? KUMMUNI’s Top 5 Picks

Germany’s reputation for safety and quality of life is widely recognized. While the overall crime rate is low, certain cities stand out for offering exceptional levels of security, making them ideal for residents, travelers, and expatriates. Here’s an in-depth look at KUMMUNI’s top five safest cities in Germany, enhanced with insights into traveler safety, security for women, and considerations for foreigners.

1. Munich: Known for its low crime rates and efficient public services, Munich consistently ranks as the safest city in Germany. It offers a secure environment, with well-policed neighborhoods and a strong sense of community.
2. Nuremberg: With its well-preserved medieval architecture, Nuremberg also boasts low crime rates, particularly in terms of violent crime, making it one of the safest cities.
3. Stuttgart: This city is known for its high standard of living and low crime rates, especially in residential areas, making it a safe choice for families.
4. Freiburg: A smaller city with a large student population, Freiburg is known for its friendly atmosphere and low crime, particularly property-related offenses.
5. Frankfurt: While a major financial hub, Frankfurt maintains a strong safety record, particularly in its well-developed, well-monitored city center.

Is Munich Safe?

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, effortlessly combines the vibrancy of a major metropolis with the tranquility of a secure, well-governed city. With a population exceeding 1.5 million, Munich maintains its reputation as Germany’s safest large city.

Traveler Safety

Munich is one of the most tourist-friendly cities in Germany. Visitors can comfortably explore famous attractions like Marienplatz, the English Garden, and Nymphenburg Palace, even at night. Public transport is safe, and taxis are reliable, with registered drivers providing a secure means of getting around. The city’s efficient emergency services add an extra layer of reassurance for travelers.

Safety for Women

Women traveling alone in Munich generally feel very safe, even in the evening. The city’s well-lit streets, frequent police patrols, and the overall sense of public order contribute to this feeling. Women can enjoy the city’s nightlife or take evening walks without undue concern, but standard precautions, such as avoiding deserted areas late at night, are still advisable.

Safety for Foreigners and Expats

Munich’s large expatriate community makes it a welcoming place for foreigners. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and international business sectors. The city’s inclusive atmosphere is supported by community events and cultural initiatives aimed at integrating newcomers. There are also resources available for expatriates, such as language courses and multicultural associations, making the transition to living in Munich smoother.

Is Nuremberg Safe?

Nuremberg, a city rich in history and architectural splendor, also stands out as one of Germany’s safest places. The city’s well-organized layout and robust public services make it a secure environment for both residents and visitors.

Traveler Safety

Nuremberg is a safe city for travelers, offering well-maintained attractions and friendly locals. The Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks, is well-monitored by security cameras. Tourist areas are safe both day and night, and public transport is reliable, with trams and buses running frequently. Pickpocketing is rare, but travelers should still be mindful of their belongings in crowded areas.

Safety for Women

Women visiting or living in Nuremberg report feeling secure, even when exploring alone. The city has a strong police presence, and public areas are well-lit and active. Women can comfortably visit local beer gardens, attend festivals, and explore cultural attractions without worry. The city also has several women’s support groups and community centers that offer resources for female residents and newcomers.

Safety for Foreigners and Expats

Nuremberg is a welcoming city for foreigners, with a growing international community and many resources for new residents. English is commonly spoken, especially in business and tourism sectors. The city’s cultural events and language programs make it easy for expats to integrate and feel at home. Additionally, Nuremberg’s history and emphasis on education provide plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion.

Is Stuttgart Safe?

Stuttgart, the thriving capital of Baden-Württemberg, is not only known for being an economic powerhouse but also for its safety and high standard of living. The presence of global corporations, such as Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, contributes to the city’s prosperity and secure environment.

Traveler Safety

Stuttgart is a great city for travelers, offering well-marked pedestrian zones and a highly organized public transport system. Visitors can feel safe exploring attractions like the Mercedes-Benz Museum, Wilhelma Zoo, and Königstraße, one of the longest shopping streets in Germany. Public transport is closely monitored, and any issues are swiftly addressed by local authorities.

Safety for Women

Women find Stuttgart to be a secure city, with a friendly atmosphere and well-patrolled public spaces. Even at night, areas like Schlossplatz and the Stuttgart Opera House remain lively and safe. The city provides women-only taxi services and other safety resources to ensure that female residents and visitors can navigate the city with confidence.

Safety for Foreigners and Expats

Stuttgart’s international workforce creates a welcoming environment for foreigners. The city has numerous expat organizations and events that help newcomers settle in. English-speaking services are readily available, and the local government offers support programs for integration. Stuttgart’s diverse population and cosmopolitan vibe make it a desirable and safe place for expats to live and work.

Is Freiburg Safe?

Freiburg, located in the picturesque Black Forest region, is a city that prioritizes sustainability and safety. Its smaller size and strong community ties contribute to its reputation as one of the safest cities in Germany.

Traveler Safety

Travelers are drawn to Freiburg for its stunning natural beauty and eco-friendly initiatives. The city is exceptionally safe for tourists, who can explore attractions like the Freiburg Minster, Schlossberg, and the many surrounding hiking trails without concern. The city center is pedestrian-friendly and monitored, making it a comfortable area to navigate.

Safety for Women

Freiburg is considered very safe for women, with a high level of awareness about gender equality and public safety. The University of Freiburg offers special resources and safety measures for female students, such as well-lit pathways and emergency call stations. Women can comfortably use public transport and explore the city’s nightlife, although basic safety precautions are still recommended.

Safety for Foreigners and Expats

Freiburg’s welcoming atmosphere is particularly appealing to international students and expats. The city’s focus on sustainability and inclusivity makes it an attractive destination for foreigners. There are numerous language schools, international organizations, and expat groups that make integration easy. English is widely spoken, especially within the academic community, easing the transition for newcomers.

Is Frankfurt Safe?

Frankfurt, known as Germany’s financial capital, is a city where modern skyscrapers meet historic architecture. Despite its bustling nature, Frankfurt has invested heavily in public safety measures to maintain a secure urban environment.

Traveler Safety

Frankfurt is generally safe for travelers, especially in well-populated areas like the city center and the financial district. Tourists can visit landmarks such as the Römer, Palmengarten, and the Städel Museum without safety concerns. The city’s extensive transport network is well-regulated, and taxis are safe and reliable. However, visitors should be cautious around the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) area, where petty crime is more common.

Safety for Women

Women feel secure in Frankfurt, particularly in the more affluent and residential neighborhoods. The city offers women-only taxis and well-lit public areas to ensure safety. Female travelers can enjoy the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene with little worry, though staying alert in busier districts is advised, especially at night.

Safety for Foreigners and Expats

Frankfurt is home to a diverse and international community, making it one of the most expat-friendly cities in Germany. English is commonly spoken, and there are numerous international schools, expat groups, and cultural organizations. The city’s integration services, coupled with its modern infrastructure, make it easy for newcomers to feel safe and welcome. Expats working in the financial sector will find Frankfurt to be both a professional and secure environment.

Top 5 Least Safe Cities in Germany

While Germany is generally considered a safe country, certain cities have higher incidences of crimes affecting women, travelers, and foreigners. Factors such as hate crimes, assaults, and thefts contribute to these safety concerns. Below is an overview of five German cities where such issues are more prevalent.

1. Berlin

As Germany’s capital and largest city, Berlin attracts numerous tourists and expatriates. However, it also reports higher rates of petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in tourist-heavy areas such as Alexanderplatz and Kreuzberg. Incidents of harassment and assaults against women have been noted, particularly during large public events. The city’s diverse population has also faced challenges with hate crimes, including antisemitic and anti-Muslim incidents. 

2. Cologne

Cologne is renowned for its cultural events, notably the annual Carnival. However, during such festivities, there have been reported increases in sexual harassment and assaults against women. The New Year’s Eve incidents of 2015/2016 brought significant attention to these issues. Additionally, the city has experienced instances of xenophobic attacks, affecting both residents and visitors.

3. Hamburg

As a major port city with a vibrant nightlife, Hamburg, particularly the Reeperbahn district, has higher occurrences of crimes such as drug-related offenses and assaults. Women and tourists are advised to exercise caution in these areas, especially during late hours. The city has also reported cases of hate crimes targeting minority groups.

4. Frankfurt

Frankfurt, being a financial hub, experiences a high influx of international visitors. The central train station area is known for higher rates of drug-related activities and associated crimes, including theft and assaults. Travelers and foreigners have reported feeling unsafe in certain districts, particularly after dark.

5. Leipzig

Leipzig has seen a rise in hate crimes, including attacks on foreigners and minority groups. The city has also reported incidents of sexual harassment in crowded public spaces. While efforts are being made to improve safety, travelers and residents are advised to remain vigilant.

The table below summarizes the safety concerns in these cities:

It’s important to note that while these cities have reported higher incidences of certain crimes, many areas remain safe, and local authorities are continually working to improve safety measures. Travelers and residents are encouraged to stay informed and exercise standard precautions.