Safest places to visit in 2026

John Hillman

John Hillman

For those who prefer their holidays without the jeopardy of uncertainty, picking a safe destination is paramount to having a good time. You may not come back with the wildest anecdotes, but you're perfectly content to let the thrill-seekers chase those adventures instead. Best of luck to them!

Reykjavík, one of Europe's most unusual city breaks
Reykjavík, one of Europe's most unusual city breaks © jeremyreds - Fotolia.com

However, there's no doubt that the world can feel a little unpredictable these days, and destinations that offer travellers stability, low crime rates and reliable healthcare look more appealing than ever.

For this reason, we've collated data from around the world to provide you with a definitive list of the safest countries and places to visit in 2026.

Safe and family-friendly Morro Jable, Fuerteventura
Safe and family-friendly Morro Jable, Fuerteventura © Mapics - Adobe Stock Image

The world's safest destinations at a glance

  • Europe dominates global safety rankings, claiming seven of the world's 10 safest countries
  • Iceland has been the world's most peaceful nation for 17 years in a row
  • Closer to home, Ireland comes in a respectable second place, praised for its welcoming culture and strong quality of life
  • New Zealand is the safest country outside Europe, climbing two places to third on our list in 2025
  • Abu Dhabi is the safest city in the world
  • Shanghai is the safest city in Asia

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Please note: rankings are taken from the Global Peace Index 2025. For context, the scores range from 1.095 for Iceland to 3.441 for Russia across the complete list of 163 countries.

The top 10 safest countries to visit in 2026

  1. Iceland
  2. Ireland
  3. New Zealand
  4. Austria
  5. Switzerland
  6. Singapore
  7. Portugal
  8. Denmark
  9. Slovenia
  10. Finland
Praia de Albandeira Beach, Algarve, Portugal
Praia de Albandeira Beach, Algarve, Portugal © Claus Thoemmes - Wikimedia CC BY-SA 3.0

1. Iceland

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.095

For the seventeenth consecutive year, Iceland holds its title as the world's most peaceful country.

Evaluated across societal safety, ongoing conflict and militarisation, the GPI places Iceland in a league of its own when it comes to stability and personal security.

Crime in Iceland is exceptionally low and violent offences are rare. Incredibly, the whole country records an average of just 1.5 homicides per year, compared with 19,252 in the US and 570 in the UK.

Hit the road to explore Iceland beyond its capital -
Hit the road to explore Iceland beyond its capital - © Romuald KL - Adobe Stock Image

Everyday incidents like theft or vandalism are well below 15%, while 88% of travellers rate the country as "safe" to visit. This is reflected in daily life, where even the smallest towns feel open and welcoming, and locals maintain an easy trust in one another.

Iceland also ranks first on both the Human Development Index and the Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index, with strong social infrastructure, excellent education and an enviable quality of life.

Equality and inclusion are key pillars of Icelandic society. It consistently leads global rankings for LGBTQ rights, offering full marriage and adoption equality, and has some of the world's most progressive social policies.

Part of Iceland's success comes from its extraordinary culture of preparedness. The Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR) operates with 10,000 trained volunteers across 99 units nationwide, ready to respond to emergencies at any hour, from volcanic eruptions to remote hiking incidents.

While natural hazards, particularly volcanic activity, remain Iceland's main safety consideration, the country's robust emergency response systems, modern infrastructure, and deep sense of community make it one of the safest destinations on earth.

Whether you're exploring Reykjavík's colourful streets or hiking across vast lava fields, you'll be doing it with full peace of mind.

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2. Ireland

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.260

Just behind Iceland sits Ireland, ranked second in the Global Peace Index 2025 for its stability, low conflict levels and societal safety.

For travellers, that equates to a country where everyday life feels calm, welcoming and well-ordered. These qualities make Ireland a top destination for both short breaks and long stays.

What sets Ireland apart isn't just its peacefulness, but how naturally that sense of safety fits into the daily rhythm of life.

Locals are famously friendly (on the whole), public spaces feel open and secure, and crime rates, including violent crime, are among the lowest in Europe.

Public transport and licensed taxis are considered reliable and safe, though travellers are still advised to keep an eye on their belongings in busy city areas.

Exploring the Cliffs of Moher by kayak
Exploring the Cliffs of Moher by kayak © Gareth McCormack - courtesy of Tourism Ireland

Ireland also performs well on broader measures of well-being. It ranks sixth in the world for quality of life on the Human Development Index (adjusted for inequality).

Ireland also stands out for its excellent healthcare, education and living standards. Its military neutrality (Ireland isn't part of NATO) and largely unarmed police force (the Garda Síochána) reinforce its reputation as a peaceful and balanced society.

It's a country where safety feels effortless. Whether you're walking home from a pub in Galway, catching a late train from Dublin or hiking along the Wild Atlantic Way, the combination of trust and community makes Ireland one of the world's most reassuring travel destinations.

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3. New Zealand

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.282

New Zealand offers a different kind of peace; the wide-open, easy-going kind that comes with big skies, honest governance and an outdoor lifestyle deeply tied to nature.

Ranked third in the Global Peace Index 2025, New Zealand has climbed two places since last year, reflecting continued political stability, low corruption and a strong sense of social trust.

Crime rates are impressively low, with serious violent crime a rarity. The Corruption Perceptions Index places New Zealand among the cleanest governments in the world, scoring 83 out of 100 and ranking fourth globally in 2024.

Summer in Milford Sound on New Zealand's South Island
Summer in Milford Sound on New Zealand's South Island © A. Karnholz - Adobe Stock Image

These high standards of conduct carry through to daily life. The New Zealand Police operate under a principle known as 'policing by consent'. Officers are generally unarmed, relying instead on community cooperation and mutual respect. It speaks volumes about how deeply safety and trust are embedded in Kiwi culture.

Getting around is just as straightforward. Roads are well maintained, the driving conditions are consistent and even remote routes through the South Island's mountains or the North Island's coastlines feel safe and well-connected.

It's the kind of place where you can rent a car, set off on a long drive and not worry much beyond which scenic detour to take next.

For many travellers, the combination of order and freedom makes New Zealand stand out as a travel destination. It's a place where you can explore confidently, knowing that everything behind the scenes is working exactly as it should.

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4. Austria

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.294

Cradled in the heart of Europe, Austria sets the standard for calm, well-ordered living. Ranked within the top five most peaceful countries in the Global Peace Index 2025, it's one of the safest destinations on earth.

Austria's overall risk level is rated 'low' by Travel Safe - Abroad, with minimal crime rates and an infrastructure that's one of the most reliable in Europe. The country's murder rate sits at around 0.61 per 100,000 people, which is one of the lowest in the world.

Its fondness for security can be traced back to its post-WWII constitutional policy of perpetual neutrality, which keeps it clear of military alliances and external conflicts.

Salzburg's historic skyline
Salzburg's historic skyline © JFL Photography - Adobe Stock Image

The result is a stable, quietly confident nation where safety is simply part of the social fabric. What's equally impressive is how satisfied Austrians are with their institutions.

According to the OECD's "Government at a Glance 2023" report, 81% of citizens are happy with their healthcare system, 76% with the judiciary and 75% with education. These are all above OECD averages.

For travellers, the combination of safety, stability and high living standards creates a sense of ease that's hard to match.

Whether you're strolling through Vienna's elegant streets or hiking in the Tyrolean Alps, Austria offers the rare assurance that you're in safe hands wherever you go.

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5. Switzerland

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.294

It's probably no surprise to find Switzerland among the world's most peaceful nations in the Global Peace Index 2025. The country's reputation for precision and reliability extends far beyond its watches and trains.

Known globally for its political neutrality, Switzerland benefits from low violent crime, strong governance and minimal involvement in international conflicts.

According to the OECD's "Government at a Glance 2023", 92% of people in Switzerland are satisfied with their healthcare system, compared to an OECD average of 67%. A similarly high satisfaction level of 84% is reported for both the education and the judiciary.

Old town of Basel, Switzerland with the twin towers of Basel Cathedral
Old town of Basel, Switzerland with the twin towers of Basel Cathedral © Balakate - Fotolia.com

The OECD Health at a Glance 2023 report adds that 94% of residents are happy with the quality and availability of healthcare, making Switzerland one of the world's most trusted public service providers.

Institutional integrity is another cornerstone of Switzerland. The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index from Transparency International gives Switzerland a score of 81 out of 100, ranking it fifth globally for low corruption.

All this translates into a feeling that's hard to quantify but easy to sense; everything simply works. From spotless public transport to impeccably safe streets and scenic alpine towns, Switzerland offers beauty with efficiency, and makes visitors feel secure from the moment they arrive.

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6. Singapore

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.357

In the Global Peace Index 2025, Singapore ranks as the safest country in Asia and sixth in the world. This is an impressive achievement for one of the planet's most densely populated nations.

The city-state's stability comes from a blend of meticulous governance, low crime and a strong social contract built on mutual respect and trust. The numbers speak for themselves.

Early morning in the Central Business District of Singapore
Early morning in the Central Business District of Singapore © Anekoho - Fotolia.com

Gallup ranks Singapore second globally for law and order, while a government survey by the Ministry of Home Affairs found that 97% of residents feel safe and secure in their daily lives.

Violent or serious property crimes are almost unheard of, with just one incident per 100,000 people in 2023.

Even when accounting for petty offences, the total rate of 337 crimes per 100,000 is among the lowest worldwide. It demonstrates how deeply safety is ingrained in the city's culture.

Singapore also performs exceptionally well on governance and integrity. The 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index lists it among the four least corrupt countries globally and the cleanest in Asia.

Transparency and trust are in evidence everywhere, and visitors often remark on how safe and orderly things feel. It's a place where the rules are clear, public services run efficiently, and respect for the law is ingrained in daily life.

It's a destination where it's easy to relax and explore, whether you're wandering through hawker centres at midnight or catching a late train across the city. In Singapore, safety is part of what makes the city thrive.

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7. Portugal

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.371

Rising one place in the Global Peace Index 2025, Portugal now ranks seventh worldwide, confirming its reputation as one of Europe's safest and most welcoming destinations. It offers all the warmth and beauty of southern Europe without any real safety concerns.

Violent crime is impressively low and the UK government's travel advice highlights that overall crime is minimal.

Visit the Alfama district in Lisbon, Portugal
Visit the Alfama district in Lisbon, Portugal © Sergii Figurnyi - Fotolia.com

Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist spots and public transport hubs, but incidents are relatively rare compared with neighbouring countries. It's the sort of place where normal caution is enough and visitors generally feel comfortable exploring wherever they are.

Part of Portugal's appeal lies in its relaxed pace and friendly, open culture. From Lisbon's tiled backstreets to the quiet villages of the Alentejo, there's a real sense of calm driven by community, making you feel at ease.

As BHTP puts it, Portugal offers "the charm of Spain with fewer tourists", and that balance of beauty and security has helped it become one of Europe's most appealing travel destinations in 2025.

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8. Denmark

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.393

Denmark continues to rank among the world's safest countries, sitting eighth in the Global Peace Index 2025. Its slight drop from seventh place last year isn't due to any decline in Denmark's own safety, but rather because other countries improved their standings.

Denmark enjoys remarkably high levels of social trust, prosperity, and peacefulness. The country's overall risk level is rated 'low' by Travel Safe - Abroad, with minimal violent crime and a strong rule of law.

The historic 17th-century waterfront of Copenhagen
The historic 17th-century waterfront of Copenhagen © Sergii Figurnyi - Adobe Stock Image

It's common to see children travelling alone on public transport, and even babies left napping outdoors while parents enjoy a nearby coffee. It's a scene that perfectly captures how safe everyday life is here.

Parents believe that fresh air helps babies sleep better and stay healthy, so you'll often spot prams parked outside cafés or shops while parents keep a relaxed eye from inside.

It's a subtle but powerful symbol of how deeply safety and community confidence are woven into everyday Danish life.

Of course, no place is entirely without risk. Travel Safe - Abroad notes a 'medium' rating for terrorism, though such incidents are rare. For most travellers, Denmark feels calm, well-organised, and secure.

Denmark also ranks highly for personal freedom, scoring 9.04 on the Human Freedom Index, which measures civil, economic and personal liberties.

Combined with its clean cities, efficient public transport and strong social cohesion, Denmark offers a sense of safety that's built into the rhythm of everyday life.

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9. Slovenia

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.409

Slovenia may be small, but it consistently punches above its weight when it comes to safety and quality of life.

Ranked ninth globally in the Global Peace Index 2025, the country enjoys long-term political stability, low crime and an overall sense of calm that's immediately noticeable to visitors.

According to TravelSafe-Abroad, Slovenia's overall risk level is 'low', with violent crime considered rare. Petty theft, like pickpocketing or bag snatching in busy tourist areas, is the most common issue travellers might face, but this is infrequent compared to more established tourist destinations.

Out on the waters of Lake Bohinj, Slovenia
Out on the waters of Lake Bohinj, Slovenia © Janoka82 - Adobe Stock Image

The official Slovenian tourism board describes the country as "very safe," and the data backs it up: 91% of residents say they feel comfortable walking alone at night.

Slovenia also enjoys strong infrastructure and efficient public services. The World Population Review highlights its excellent performance in travel security, medical risk and road safety, while Global Citizens Solutions lists it among the world's most peaceful nations for expats and visitors alike.

This means that you can wander Ljubljana's cobbled streets, hike through the Julian Alps, or cycle around Lake Bled with an easy peace of mind.

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10. Finland

  • GPI 2025 score: 1.420

Finland rounds out the top 10 in the Global Peace Index 2025, climbing from eleventh place last year thanks to stronger scores in safety, security and low criminality.

Ranked third worldwide in the 'Societal Safety and Security' category, Finland is a model of calm efficiency, a country where order and trust go hand in hand.

According to Travel Safe - Abroad, Finland's overall risk level is 'low'. Violent crime is extremely rare, and visitors consistently describe locals as helpful, honest and respectful. Every day life runs smoothly here: public services are reliable, infrastructure is well-maintained, and even the smallest towns feel safe to walk through at night.

Helsinki Cathedral rising above the city's popular waterfront
Helsinki Cathedral rising above the city's popular waterfront © Scanrail - Fotolia.com

In 2025, Finland's capital, Helsinki, achieved something remarkable: a full year without a single traffic-related fatality.

The milestone earned it the title of the 'World's road safety capital' and highlights the success of the country's long-running Vision Zero initiative, which focuses on safer street design, reduced speed limits, and strict enforcement.

It offers a mix of order and reliability that makes it one of the safest destinations in the world.

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Top 5 safest cities to visit in 2026

If you're more of a city-break traveller than a countryside wanderer, safety can play a big part in choosing where to go next. Beyond the world's safest countries, a handful of cities stand out for their low crime rates, reliable infrastructure and strong sense of community.

Inside the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Inside the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi © Sophie James - Dreamstime.com

From compact capitals to global metropolises, these urban destinations prove that city travel can be both safe and full of character, giving you peace of mind without losing a sense of adventure.

1. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi consistently ranks at the top of global city safety lists. In 2025, it held the top spot in CEOWorld's "Safest Cities in the World" ranking, with an overall safety score of 97.73 across major metrics such as crime, infrastructure, law enforcement and public confidence.

2. Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland's quiet capital demonstrates what happens when a city reflects the broader peace of its country. Reykjavík is listed as number one in many traveller-oriented safe-city rankings; BHTP's "Safest Cities to Travel" list places it at the top spot for 2025, citing its low crime, calm public spaces and visitor confidence.

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

With its safe streets, efficient transport and famously friendly atmosphere, Copenhagen continues to set the standard for urban safety in Europe. Its stability and clean public spaces help it score near the top of multiple 2025 city safety and liveability rankings. Travellers often comment that even late evenings around key areas feel relaxed and secure.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo continues to hold its place among the safest megacities in the world. Tokyo often leads, or is near the top, benefiting from very low rates of violent crime, reliable public transport and well-maintained urban systems.

The Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, Japan
The Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, Japan © SeanPavonePhoto - Fotolia.com

5. Sydney, Australia

Backed by low crime rates and high public confidence in law enforcement, Sydney routinely scores among the top cities globally for personal safety and quality of life. The Travel Safe Abroad "10 Safest Cities in the World" list includes Sydney among its top picks, thanks to low violent crime, good policing and an overall calm urban environment.

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Honourable mentions: safest countries ranked 11 to 20

Beyond the top 10, several other nations come close in the Global Peace Index, offering travellers outstanding levels of safety, stability and quality of life.

Stunning Maligne Lake near Jasper, Canada
Stunning Maligne Lake near Jasper, Canada © Lucky-photo - Fotolia.com

Canada, ranked eleventh globally, continues to lead North America in public safety. With a homicide rate of around 2.25 per 100,000 people and one of the lowest overall crime severity indexes in the developed world. And it's not just known for security but also for a famously welcoming culture.

In Central Europe, the Czech Republic (Czechia) stands out as one of the region's most dependable destinations. Ranked twelfth, it's praised for its strong police presence, well-functioning public health system and low poverty risk.

The Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic
The Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic © Danielle Bonardelle - Fotolia.com

Prague, its capital, has even been listed among the three safest cities in the world, reinforcing the country's reputation for order and ease.

Nearby, Hungary holds fourteenth place, maintaining low conflict levels and broad social stability, while Croatia, in fifteenth place, remains a peaceful and attractive option for sun lovers.

Belgium, ranked sixteenth, upholds its position as a safe and peaceful Western European nation, and Germany, at twentieth, combines world-class infrastructure with robust law enforcement and social order.

Together, they reflect the strong security standards that continue to define much of Europe.

Beyond Europe, several other nations deserve recognition. Malaysia appears in tenth place in the 2024 index, underlining its growing reputation as one of Asia's safest destinations.

The sweeping Langkawi Sky Bridge, Malaysia
The sweeping Langkawi Sky Bridge, Malaysia © Leonid - Fotolia.com

Meanwhile, Japan, ranked seventeenth, continues to impress with its low crime rates, effective governance and deep-rooted respect for law and community.

Australia, sitting at nineteenth, reaffirms its image as a safe, developed and well-regulated nation, while the Netherlands (ranked eighteenth) remains one of Western Europe's most peaceful and orderly societies.

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John Hillman

John Hillman



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