When choosing a destination to visit, most people focus on natural beauty, infrastructure, entertainment, activities, and, of course, tourist attractions. But one thing tops them all: personal safety. Feeling safe allows travelers to get into the experience freely.

Making sure your trip is safe can be all the difference between an amazing adventure and an avoidable disaster. Safety isn’t just about avoiding crime; it’s everything from healthcare to public transportation to the overall political stability of the destination. Luckily, Europe remains the safest region in the world. So, by keeping all these factors into consideration, here’s our list of the top ten safest countries in Europe to travel.

The Top 10 Safest Countries in Europe

While the whole continent is generally safe, some countries stand out as super safe for visitors according to the latest safety ratings. The Global Peace Index (GPI) and other safety reports have listed the following as Europe’s safest countries for travel:
 

The GPI score ranges from 1 (most safe) to 5 (least safe). Iceland is ranked the most safe country overall and coincidently, most of the countries listed are from the Schengen area.
 

Iceland: The Safest Country in Europe and the World

If you want to visit one of the safest countries in Europe, look no further than Iceland. Iceland has been the safest country since 2008. It has a GPI score of 1.124 .

Whether hiking glaciers, hot springs, or chasing the Northern Lights, Iceland’s safety and hospitality will make your trip unforgettable. The weather is quite chilly here year-round, so remember to dress in layers while enjoying this beautiful, safe destination. The country otherwise provides a safe experience for outdoor activities.

Some cities to visit are Akureyri, the Capital of the North, and Húsavík, famous for whale watching. Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa with warm, mineral-rich water perfect for relaxation. For nature lovers, Thingvellir National Park is where you can walk between tectonic plates.

Icelandic people are friendly and laid-back. They show great emphasis on respecting nature. You’ll often find people greeting everyone around with a smile and a simple “halló” and, many times, casually chatting about the weather.

English is spoken widely, so U.S. travelers can get by easily. However, the emergency number is the same as that of the European Union, which is 112. This gets you Icelandic police, medical services, fire department, and rescue teams. Iceland's healthcare system is great, and emergency services are quick and effective.
 

Ireland: A Welcoming Country with a Rich History

Ireland is a warm and welcoming country that opens its arms to travelers. Despite its complicated history, Ireland is a safe and prosperous country with a high standard of living and low crime. Ireland’s history is a story of triumphs and tragedies, from ancient Celtic tribes to Viking raids and English rule. Today, the country celebrates its heritage while embracing modernity and diversity.
 

Dublin, the capital, is a must-see for its historic sites like Trinity College and the lively Temple Bar area. Cork, the second city, is more laid back with charming streets and the famous English Market. For history buffs, Galway on the west coast is famous for its festivals and traditional music. Some other safe tourist attractions to consider are:

• Cliffs of Moher: Stunning coastal views with sea cliffs on the west coast, attracting approximately 1.5 million visitors each year

• Blarney Castle : Famous for the Blarney Stone, which bestows the "gift of gab" or eloquence upon those who kiss it

• Ring of Kerry: A scenic 179-kilometer drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry and charming villages

• Giant's Causeway (Clochán an Aifir): Unique basalt columns on the northern coast
   

Irish people are friendly and known for their sense of humor. Expect to be greeted with a smile, and don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a conversation in pubs or cafes.

Petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen in tourist areas, but violent crime is rare. Public transportation in Ireland, including buses and trains, is generally safe and reliable.

Austria: Safe Cities and Idyllic Alpine Towns

Austria is another great destination in Europe if safety is your main priority while traveling. The country is politically stable and has a low crime rate and a high standard of living. The Austrian Parliament maintains openness to international visitors. With a strong sense of community and social cohesion, you’ll feel welcome and safe.

Vienna, Austria's capital, is one of the safest cities in Europe. With its rich cultural heritage, the city has beautiful palaces, museums and parks. Just watch your belongings in crowded areas and you’ll be fine. Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace and Innsbruck, the gateway to the Alps, are just as safe, with stunning views and history in a peaceful setting. Some other safe attractions are Schönbrunn Palace , the historic center of Salzburg, and the alpine town of Hallstatt.

If you want to try some Austrian specialties, there are a few must-try dishes.

• Wiener Schnitzel, a bread coated fried veal or pork cutlet, is a classic.

• Apfelstrudel, a sweet pastry filled with apples, cinnamon and raisins, is another famous dish here.

• Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake from Vienna is perfect for dessert lovers.

In both urban and rural areas, Austria has good public services and transportation. Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers : police 133 and European emergency number 112.

Switzerland: A Leader in Safety and Security

Switzerland also ranks highly as one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers. The Swiss Federal Council works hard to maintain low crime rates, political stability, and high standard of living.

Switzerland is a safe and welcoming place for visitors from all over the world. Basel, Bern and Zurich are the safest cities, with efficient emergency services and low rates of violent crime. You can walk around these cities with confidence and enjoy the stunning architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant cafe culture.

Outside of the cities, Switzerland’s alpine towns give a glimpse into traditional Swiss life. Charming villages like Zermatt, nestled beneath the Matterhorn, offer a safe and quiet setting for travelers. Interlaken is a base for adventure sports enthusiasts with secure access to hiking trails and ski resorts. Lucerne, with its lake and mountain views, is a peaceful place to visit.
 

The country has a great public transport system with trains, buses, and trams all well maintained and with high safety standards. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), for example, is known for its punctuality, cleanliness and safety. It provides reliable connections between cities. When in Switzerland, be aware of local customs and emergency numbers. The Swiss are efficient and punctual, so respect the culture and get there on time for appointments and events. English is spoken widely, so US travelers can communicate and get around easily.

Portugal: An Affordable and Safe Destination

According to the Global Peace Index 2024, Portugal holds its position as the 7th most peaceful country in the world. Lisbon, the capital, has a mix of history, architecture and coastal views, with good safety measures for visitors. Porto, famous for its wine and riverside views, is equally safe.

In these popular tourist destinations like Lisbon and Porto, be aware of petty crime like pickpocketing. But, overall safety perception is high, many travelers feel safe walking alone during the day and even at night. The islands of Madeira and Azores have very low crime rates, so low that there’s not much to report.

Overall, the country has high social cohesion and sense of community. Low unemployment and good governance create a peaceful environment. The Portuguese Criminal Code has the necessary laws to address issues like drug trafficking, human trafficking and money laundering. The Portuguese law enforcement agencies, the Public Safety Police (PSP) and the National Republican Guard (GNR) focus on proactive crime prevention and patrol the areas frequently.

Denmark: A Safe Haven with a High Quality of Life

According to the HelloSafe Travel Safety Index , Denmark scores around 20. The country has a well-functioning welfare system that contributes to social stability and is a tourist magnet. Crime statistics show that Denmark has a low overall crime rate and violent crime is very rare. According to the latest numbers, the murder rate is 0.8 per 100,000 people . The Danish police are proactive in maintaining public safety and the country has a strong legal framework to combat crime.

The capital city, Copenhagen, is a major tourist hubspot and is a safe destination for all kinds of travelers. It is a vibrant city known for its historic sites, clean streets, and friendly locals. It’s easy to explore by bike or public transport, both of which are safe and widely used. Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, also offers a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful parks and a rich cultural scene. Other safe tourist attractions include the historic district of Nyhavn. Danish people are friendly and polite, and it’s common to greet with a smile or a simple “hej.”

While Danish pastries are famous worldwide, tourists can confidently try other local delicacies as restaurants, supermarkets and even street vendors. Indulge in some popular dishes like Smørrebrød, an open-faced sandwich often topped with herring, shrimp, or roast beef. Frikadeller (Danish meatballs) is another popular dish, served with potatoes and gravy.
 

Slovenia: Europe’s Hidden Gem for Safe Travel

Slovenia is a fantastic travel destination in Europe and is safe and welcoming. With a conviction rate of 2.8 per 1,000 inhabitants Slovenia is in the top 10 safest countries in the world. The police clearance rate for crimes is 83.7% , which means effective law enforcement.

Ljubljana, the capital, is a lovely and safe city with nice streets, lively markets and friendly people. Destinations like Lake Bled and the Julian Alps offer great views and outdoor activities in a safe environment.

A simple hello like “dober dan” (good day) is appreciated but locals usually speak English. By taking normal precautions tourists can feel safe here. While violent crime is rare in Slovenia, petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching can happen, especially in tourist areas. If hiking or climbing in the Slovenian mountains, share your itinerary, get detailed info on the activity, get travel insurance and stay on marked trails. Weather can change fast, even in summer.
 

Czech Republic: A Safe and Stable Country with a Rich History

The Czech Republic is considered a very safe destination in Europe and is one of the safest countries in the world. According to the Global Peace Index , it’s 12th in position in terms of safety. There’s very little violent crime, and the political scenario is stable too.

Petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas like Old Town in Prague and on public transportation. Always keep your belongings safe and be alert of your surroundings, especially in busy places.

Prague attracts millions of visitors each year and is famous for its beautiful architecture and medieval charm. Whether you’re visiting Prague Castle, walking across Charles Bridge or having a coffee in Old Town Square, you’ll feel welcome and safe. Brno is the second largest city and offers a more quiet but equally safe experience with beautiful parks and historical sites.

Public transportation in the country is reliable and safe. But be careful with unmarked taxis as they can be scams. Instead, use Uber or ask your hotel to arrange transportation for you. Also, get to know the local customs and laws. For example, jaywalking is not allowed in Czechia, and you should cross the tram tracks only at designated points.
 

Finland: A Safe Country for Outdoor Adventure

With a very low crime rate, Finland consistently ranks among the safest countries in Europe. The Finnish people are known for their friendliness and respect for personal space.

The major cities, especially Helsinki, are very safe with low crime rates and high gender equality. Areas like the city center, Kallio and Punavuori are safe even for solo female travelers to wander around during the day or night. Other popular spots are the archipelago, the compact and nice city of Tampere and the landscapes of Lapland, where you can see the Northern Lights. Finland’s oldest city, Turku, is home to two medieval castles, Turku Castle and Turku Cathedral, both popular tourist attractions that are well-patrolled and secure.

While visiting Finland, carry versatile clothing as the weather can change fast. In winter, it can get really cold so wear thermal layers and waterproof gear. In summer, be prepared for mosquitoes especially in forested areas in Lapland and Southern and Central Finland. As a precaution, use insect repellent and wear long sleeves.

Croatia: A Safe and Welcoming Country with a Rich History

Since its independence in the 1990s, Croatia has been politically stable. Travelers can walk the streets and visit attractions without worrying about their personal safety. Croatia is great for solo travelers because of the low crime rates and safe transportation.

The country’s natural beauty is the biggest draw for tourists. With its Adriatic coastline, over 1,200 islands, historic cities and dramatic landscapes, Croatia has incredible scenery to be enjoyed safely. Zagreb, the capital, is another safe choice. It has well-lit public spaces, parks and a lively atmosphere so you can walk around during the day and even at night. Dubrovnik is often mentioned as one of the safest destinations, with its well-preserved historic walls and vibrant tourist scene. The city is small and has a lot of police, so you feel safe as a visitor.

Croatians are known for their hospitality towards tourists. A simple “Hvala” (thank you) will get you in with the locals. Travelers often comment on how friendly and approachable the locals are, so you’ll feel welcome as a visitor. Hotels, restaurants and the staff at attractions are very helpful. You can try local specialties like Peka, Crni Rižot and Burek without worrying about food safety. Seafood is especially fresh and safe to eat along the coast, where you can find dishes like grilled fish, octopus salad and seafood risotto.

Factors That Determine Safety in European Countries

When considering what makes a country safe to travel in Europe, there are several region specific factors to consider. Europe is generally a safe place but these are the factors that will determine the level of safety for travelers:

• Low Crime Rates: Many European countries, especially in the north and west, have very low crime rates. European countries with low crime rates like Iceland, Denmark and Switzerland, are among the safest in the world. Petty crime like pickpocketing can happen in bigger cities like Paris or Barcelona but violent crime is extremely rare in most of Europe.

• Good Public Services: Europe is famous for its public services, including healthcare and emergency services. Many European countries like Germany and Austria have well-established healthcare systems so tourists can get medical help immediately when needed. The Europe wide emergency number 112 also ensures a quick response across all EU member states.

• Political Stability: Western and Northern Europe, in particular, have long-standing political stability, so they are some of the safest regions to travel. Countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland have peaceful political environments with little risk of civil unrest or instability that could affect travelers.

• Efficient Public Transport and Infrastructure: European cities and countryside are well connected with safe and reliable transport networks. From high speed trains in France to efficient metro systems in cities like London and Vienna, infrastructure in Europe is well maintained so you are less likely to have an accident on the way.

• High Health and Hygiene Standards: Europe has some of the highest health and hygiene standards in the world. Clean drinking water is available in most countries and strict food safety regulations protect tourists from health risks. So you can eat and use local amenities without worrying.

So all this makes Europe one of the safest places to visit for families or solo travelers alike.

FAQs on Safest Countries in Europe

1. What’s the safest way to travel between countries in Europe?

Trains are one of the safest and easiest ways to move between countries in Europe. High speed trains connect most major cities, and it is a secure and reliable way for transportation.

2. Are European countries safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, many European countries like Finland, Denmark and Austria are very safe for solo female travelers, especially in urban and tourist areas. They also have good public services, so if you need help, you can get it easily.

3. Do I need travel insurance for safe countries in Europe?

While many European nations are safe, travel insurance is still recommended. While these countries have low crime rates and good public services, unexpected things can still happen and having insurance gives you an extra layer of protection. It can cover unexpected events like medical emergencies, lost luggage or trip cancellations and gives you extra peace of mind.

4. Is healthcare available in the safest European countries?

Switzerland, Denmark, Iceland and Austria are known for their good healthcare systems. In most of Europe, healthcare services are available to locals and tourists alike. For non-EU tourists, including those from the US, it’s wise to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses as healthcare can be expensive without coverage.

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