Safety tips: Dresden, EU travel this spring/summer/fall : how safe for 21 year old American girl?

I think I'd be more concerned with keeping her safe from mass shooters and serial killers in the USA, or keeping her safe while driving, the single most dangerous activity in The States.

I would have the same opinion; on the whole, and probably even more so in Dresden (not one of the largest German or European cities); she will be much safer there than any many small, medium or large U.S. cities. Though Dresden is known as being more politically conservative, so depending on her leanings and genetic / cultural background, that might be a concern.

And just BTW, at 21, she's been an adult for three years. Yes, it's ok to be a nervous mom, but be glad she in a safer part of the world.

The best way to stay safe is not to worry, pay good attention in the traffic, and enjoy what's on offer. This might sound flippant, but no European pays attention to potential terrorist dangers for the sound reason the chances to get involved are less than minimal.

"... perhaps there might even be extra security around so that Angela Merkel doesn't have to worry about the repercussions..."

There is an Edit button available.

Ha ha. Thanks for all your responses. All very good points. Spends a lot of time in NYC and we have a son living there. I am also well aware that the number of wackos with guns in the United States is more of a concern and that we might be shot in a grocery store parking lot for a perceived wrong look. I am absolutely encouraging her to go. I appreciate your feedback.

See also:

https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/trip-planning/tips-for-solo-women-travelers

http://blog.ricksteves.com/blog/dont-be-terrorized/

P.S. Technology means that she can be in touch with you much more easily then in, say, the 90's, when my parents were lucky to get a phone call from Europe once a month.

The usual recommendation is to stay away from political demonstrations, although political violence in Germany is uncommon. Just to be safe, though, she may want to avoid a rally by the anti-Islamist group PEGIDA, which originated in Dresden. The Kurdistan Worker's Party (PKK) sometimes holds rallies in various German cities, and these rallies have been attacked by Turkish nationalists and Salafists.

I would not deny your daughter the joy of attending a German festival!

The most important tip for a young woman in Germany is the same for any country- at night, stay in groups, and don't drink to excess.

Thanks again and to Tom for the details about the rallies in Dresden. I have been aware of the rallies in the past there, and it's helpful to be aware of these groups' names.

Mrs B., smiling. I wasn't referring to NYC for concern about "wackos" and their arms. It's probably safer than ever with its security awareness.

Any tips on good neighborhoods for short term apartment shares in Dresden? She will be spending a lot of time in the area surrounding the Semperoper theatre.

I agree with Sam about the dangers. I spent two months in Europe when I was 20-21. It has forever changed my life. She will be fine. It is easy to keep in touch with today's technology, which should help with your anxiety. She will have fun.

Any tips on good neighborhoods for short term apartment shares in
Dresden? She will be spending a lot of time in the area surrounding
the Semperoper theatre.

That's the heart of the city... where no one lives. After the destruction of the old town people moved to the suburbs, which weren't affected by the firestorm. Neustadt, on the other side of the river, is a young and hip 19th century quarter, and Wachwitz and Loschwitz, former wine villages full of villas and (beer) gardens around the Blue Wonder bridge, are posh and very "Old Europe".