Safest Countries In The World: Safest Place In The World To Travel To

Safety concerns are one of the most important things for travelling, especially in times of turbulence. You won’t have to worry about such things when you visit the safest countries in the world. A wonderful trip is fully enjoyed when you don’t have to take a look over your shoulder every now and then for fear of mugging or terrorism.

Unsurprisingly, the United States is not on the list. Most places featured here are in the European continent. Thanks to political stability, excellent healthcare, low populations, and not-so-high crime rates, you will have no major concerns about travelling to Europe.

But that doesn’t mean that Asia and other regions don’t have secure places for tourists. Overall, planning is important if you want to travel worry-free. To find a safe and breathtaking destination for your next trip, scroll down to learn more!

Tips: Some countries like the US and the UK have issued travel advisories for foreign travel. Please consult them before departing on any overseas trip.

Top Safest Countries In The World

1. Iceland

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For more than a decade, this small population country has been consistently taking the top spot on the Global Peace Index. If you wonder where is the safest place to live in the world, Iceland is likely the best candidate. Therefore, rest assured you can explore the picturesque landscapes or chase after the Northern Lights generally harm-free.

Rather, it’s the weather and nature that you have to worry about when visiting the land of Fire and Ice. Always check the local news as the weather is unpredictable. Floods, earthquakes, storms, and eruptions happen. It’s not that bad but it’s a good idea to be well-prepared.

Pay attention to the warning signs when you explore the great outdoors. You don’t want to risk harming yourself or others for that one shot of the cliff or waterfalls. Going off the beaten path is not advisable here. Stick to fences and marked paths for your own safety.

Fun fact: Some believe Iceland is the safest place to be if there’s a nuclear war. As the North Atlantic Ocean separates this Nordic land from the rest of the world, some people say that nuclear missiles will have a hard time reaching this land (likely to be detected before impact).

2. Switzerland

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For a sovereign state, the crime and violence rate is significantly lower than in other parts of the world. Even in the middle of the night, travellers can feel safe walking the street. The Alpine nation is the country with the Highest Human Freedom Indexes (2021).

Neutrality is a part of Switzerland’s identity, so the nation actively tries to stay out of wars and conflict. It is truly one of the safest places in the world! Furthermore, the strong economy and high quality of life make Switzerland a highly liveable nation. 

Known for its mountains, resorts, and lakes, the Playground of Europe is a wonderful place to make unforgettable memories with your close and beloved ones. Anyone will have a time of their life experiencing all the foods, scenery, flora and fauna of Switzerland.

The natural beauty of this beautiful country is worth exploring but beware of alpine hazards such as avalanches. You should never go anywhere alone, always know the emergency numbers beforehand, and monitor the weather news closely.

3. New Zealand

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When the question of what is the safest country in the world pops up, New Zealand would likely be one of the most prominent answers. The country is also well known for its democratic government. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index 2021, New Zealand was the world's second most democratic country.

Boasting a diverse range of natural beauty, it’s no wonder the land of Kiwis is chosen to be the setting for the Lord of the Rings trilogy and its prequel the Hobbit. However, there are many active volcanoes and earthquakes around this part of the world. Be sure to read and follow the Wellington Region Emergency Management Office’s guidelines for safety in case of earthquakes and other emergencies.

Most New Zealanders are extremely friendly and sociable. Nonetheless, don’t accept drinks from strangers and leave your drinks unattended either. Similarly, don’t hitchhike or accept rides from people you don’t know easily.

4. Denmark

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Along with Finland and Iceland, Denmark is known as one of the happiest countries in the world. There’s no shortage of ways to get happy in the Scandinavian nation. The Danish concept of “hygge” lifestyle has now become a worldwide phenomenon.

Public transport is generally of a very high standard. Travelling by bike is perhaps the most wonderful way to explore Scandinavia's smallest kingdom. There are many cycling infrastructures such as designated bike lanes and highways all over the place.

Denmark is often considered among the safest places to live. Having said that, it’s not 100% crime-free. Gang violence may happen in some main immigrant enclaves, especially Copenhagen. Avoid venturing into these neighbourhoods without being well-prepared: Nørrebro, Christiania, Brønshøj, etc.

5. Austria

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What sets Austria apart from other safest countries is how even the remote places like small towns and uninhabited areas are almost harm-free at any given time. You can explore the country with ease.

Similar to anywhere else, small crimes like bag snatching and pickpocketing are also present. Bike theft is also another problem. Therefore, remember to lock your bikes to any immovable objects. Generally, scammers and thieves tend to gather around the major public transport hubs and centre parks, so be on guard around these parts.

Skiing is a popular sport. However, you should consult the Austrian Tourist Agency for weather updates and safety instructions issued by them. Take extra caution if you partake in off-piste skiing.

6. Portugal

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Portugal, one of Southwestern Europe’s safest countries with a long history, draws more than 500,000 foreigners from all over the world, regardless of hair skin, gender and age. Affordable living costs, breathtaking scenery and gracious people are just a few reasons why people are crazy about it.

As of 2022, the Global Peace Index rates Portugal sixth place in terms of global peacefulness. It is based on factors such as the state of militarisation, ongoing internal and external conflicts, political scene, etc. Overall, it’s a safe place to be for visitors!

Personal attacks and sexual assault are rare, but they can still happen. So drink responsibly and make sure your drinks aren’t spiked. The country is safe for even solo female travellers. What’s more, it’s also very LGBT-friendly, especially in the big cities.

>> May be you also like: Best Places To Travel Alone 

7. Sweden

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Being one of the richest and safest places to live in, safety issues will be of no concern when you spend your days discovering the unspoiled nature and vibrant cities and towns in Sweden. From science to arts, the country makes itself known to the world through its spectacular creations. Sweden’s citizenship is also among the best around the globe.

That being said, violent crimes and robbing, albeit rarely happen, are not unheard of. Young people, when intoxicated, may cause street fights. If you happen to run into one, keep your distance and don’t get involved. This does not negate the fact that Sweden is still very safe, but it’s not perfect.

One major problem tourists would complain about the most when visiting Sweden is taxi scams. An unfortunate and uninformed person may have to pay an absurd amount of taxi fare for a short distance. Be sure to learn the flat price, tell the driver to turn on the speedometer and cross-check with google maps. 

8. Canada 

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Compared to its neighbour to the South, the United States, Canada’s crime rate is significantly lower. It’s all thanks to effective law enforcement that burglary or assaults rarely happen. The strong presence of the police force makes the country one of the safest places to live in the world.

There are small scams like street petitions or phone scammers trying to trick you into giving them your personal information. They can be easily avoided if you are on guard. It’s best to avoid public commotion and keep your ID and valuables somewhere safe.

The weather is the bigger concern for travellers, however. Contrary to popular belief, the country isn’t freezing all year round. During the winter, the temperature can drop below -20°C (-4°F) while in the summer, it can rise to somewhere between 30°C (86°F) and 40°C (104°F).

Wildfires are another danger tourists need to be aware of. Stay away from and be aware of any active wildfires that may be on your route. Always check the weather conditions and advisories before going anywhere.

9. Czech Republic

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The Czech Republic is well-known for being one of the lowest criminal rate countries, even lower than that of Sweden and Denmark. Considered an advanced country with high living standards, the Czech Republic is a perfect place to live or travel in. Anyone travelling to this nation will have a field day exploring its rich culture.

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is the largest tourist spot. So it’s no surprise that petty theft and street crime tend to happen here. Unsuspecting tourists would likely be the potential targets for fake police officers, taxi drivers and scammers.

Nonetheless, with basic measurements, you can ward them off easily. Keep your bags and belongings close to yourself. Don’t wander into dark alleys and unlit streets. If asked to present your ID or metro ticket,