10 of the Safest Countries to Visit
Last Updated on January 20, 2025
Some travelers still have qualms about traveling to certain places. That’s understandable as you want to make sure you not only enjoy your trip but also come home safe and sound. Based on this report from NBC, here’s a list of the safest countries in the world to visit. The factors weighing into these rankings are the number of natural disasters, as well as the prevalence of social unrest, terrorism, and crime.
Table of Contents
1. The Dutch ABC Islands
The Caribbean Islands as a whole have a reputation that can be shaky at times. In some of the neighboring countries, there have been times of violent crimes and political unrest, but many of the other islands in the group are doing well in terms of security and stability.
The ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao) exemplify this phenomenon and are some of the safest vacation destinations in the world. Crime rates on the ABC Islands are comparatively low when looking at the region as a whole. There is no political unrest (as far as we know) and they lie far from the usual hurricane route. They get a top vote for a heavenly combination of security, scenery, and serenity.
How to: You can book a flight into any of the three islands – Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), Flamingo International Airport (BON), or Hato International Airport (CUR).
2. New Zealand
Known to many as the land of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings, New Zealand is one of the safest places in the world. It could be due to its size and population, or maybe its isolated distance from the rest of the world that the country is generally peaceful, calm and stable.
With organized cities and tranquil rural settings, New Zealand definitely makes for an excellent security hub for travelers. Even the biggest city Auckland feels like a small town. It is highly developed and provides all of the comforts of home to curious travelers. In addition to its safe environment, the country is home to stunning mountain landscapes, myriad adventure activities, and thousands of sheep.
How to: If you’re traveling on your own, you can fly into major international airports at Auckland or Christchurch. You can also do as we did and explore New Zealand on a tour with G Adventures.
3. Ireland
Ireland boasts fascinating seaside views, large rock formations, and ruins from civilizations past. Historically, the Irish have gotten a bad reputation for being fighters, drinkers, and the early mafia. However, travelers should overlook this gruff persona when considering Ireland as a travel destination, as it is one of the safest and most naturally beautiful countries in the region.
The Emerald Isle was just voted by the WHO as the least violent country in Europe, so travelers can feel safe and free from riots, political unrest, and violence within its shores.
How to: Book your flight into Dublin Airport, which gives easy access to the rest of the country. There are various areas to explore in this region, and you can plan your itinerary via bus.
4. Cyprus
People often overlook Cyprus, the small island-country in the Mediterranean, but this little country packs a punch in terms of things to do and see. Cyprus is another place that has historically had a notorious reputation jeopardizing the safety of travelers and inhabitants.
This reputation has since been debunked. With its booming economy and Orthodox churches at the center of its culture, Cyprus has evolved into a haven for travelers. This Eurasian island located in the East Mediterranean packs both the laid-back beachfront lifestyle and a low cost of living into one treasure trove, set on a backdrop of stunning blue seas and impressive rock formations.
How to: You can fly into Cyprus’ largest airport, Larnaca International Airport. This is the country’s largest international airport, and can be accessed via public bus.
5. Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the richest countries in the world – divided into three main linguistic and cultural regions. Famed for the Alps, chocolate and high standard of living, Switzerland is often on the dream list of those chasing after the high life.
It is also well-known for having peaceful foreign policy and overall happy inhabitants. Consequently, this is one of the safest countries in the world to visit. Whether you’re here for a Switzerland road trip or you’re in search of a new home, the security will definitely make you feel at ease.
How to: Switzerland’s largest airport is Zurich International Airport, however this country is centrally located within Europe and can also be accessed by international train or bus lines from various cities across Europe.
6. Singapore
My hometown Singapore makes a clean and safe destination thanks to its extremely low crime rate and stringent law. Its track record is impeccable since the ruling of first Prime Minister. This makes visiting Singapore with kids so easy and fun, especially with the whole range of kid-friendly attractions like Gardens by the Bay.
Singapore is a place worth visiting not just for its safety but also its myriad of mixed ethnics and traditional heritage. It is a very culturally-rich country with a lively culinary scene and a sophisticated, metropolitan vibe. With such diversity, there is so much to explore and learn in the economic hub of Asia.
How to: Singapore’s Changi International Airport is arguably one of the nicest airports in the world, and welcomes thousands of flights each day. Getting around Singapore is fairly easy with the city’s extensive metro system, which extends from the airport to the main downtown areas.
7. Seattle, USA
I know Seattle is a city – what’s it doing on this list of safest countries?! Well, the US is such a huge country that different parts of it have different criminal rates. Seattle is a tourist-friendly city, with well-equipped hostels, gorgeous scenery, and some of the best outdoor recreations in the country. A city that takes good care of its bike paths and recreational facilities deserves a nod for the world’s safest cities.
The local government is so concerned about its inhabitants that Seattle was also deemed the #1 safest city for pedestrians in the United States. In every corner there is a café, coffee shop, or pub for visitors to hang loose and unwind.
How to: Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, where you can take public transportation straight into the heart of the city. Within the city, there are many hotel options to choose from, most of which you can book online. Check out my Seattle weekend itinerary.
8. Luxembourg
The crime rate in Luxembourg is one of the lowest when compared to other European countries. Though there are a few incidences of crimes like petty theft or infrequent break-ins, it has topped the list of world’s safest cities for years and deserves a visit for the traveling perks and well-developed infrastructure.
This tiny country is home to beautiful architecture, rolling hills and easy access from many major cities in Europe.
How to: You can fly into Luxembourg’s Findel International Airport, or you can take a train or bus into Luxembourg from any of the neighboring European countries.
9. Finland
Finland has been voted by many as the safest country in the world. It has a fairly large population, but most people live in the capital city Helsinki. There is an unlimited array of fun activities to do, like outdoor exploring and overnight trips. It also works well as a jumping-point for access to the Northern Lights in the wintertime.
Often a country overlooked by most travelers, Finland definitely deserves to be in the limelight.
How to: Fly into Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport, then catch a public bus (which runs every 30 minutes) from the airport into the city center. Sometimes the bus timetables vary by season, so it’s best to check with the information desk when you arrive.
10. Japan
Ranked 35th on the Mercer stats for safest cities, Tokyo ranks top in the list of safe Asian cities to visit. Much like Seattle in its urban influence, the city has a powerful economy and commercial strength. Its population is huge, its area expansive, but it still remains a secure society.
With its unique culinary experiences, its colorful neon lights, and its crowded but energy-laden streets, Tokyo is definitely a city to see at least once in your lifetime. Traveling Japan with kids can be lots of fun, thanks to the vibrant pop culture, quirky themed cafes and neon streetscapes.
How to: Fly into Tokyo-Haneda International Airport, where you can easily catch a train into the city center. You can also fly into Tokyo’s Narita International Airport, though the journey into the city is considerably longer from there.
Were you surprised by any item of this list of safest countries to visit? Let me know your thoughts in the comments field below.
Inspired? Pin it!
The Comments
Jen Laceda
Great round up!
Nellie
Jen LacedaYes Im originally from Singapore and I can definitely guarantee it is one of the safest places in the world – there are obviously statistics to back that up, such as low crime rates. You will have to visit for yourself to find out!
GregQ
Well it all depends on what you mean by "safe". If you mean safe from earthquakes and typhoons then you might need to take Japan off the list. If you mean safe from execution then you might need to take Singapore off your list. One of my countrymen (Australian) was hung there a year or two ago.
Nellie
GregQI wouldn't think 'safe from execution' meant being in a secure and crime-free environment. Singapore is definitely a country safe from violence and natural disasters.
You're right – Japan is unfortunately not safe from natural disasters. But since this list is a roundup of destinations that are safe in terms of tourist-targeted crimes, I'll keep Japan on the list. Thanks for stopping by!
backpacking-travel
Thanks for the list! I think this should be forwarded to any overbearing parents out there. Love it how #'s 5, 6 and 7 all begin with "S"… I have heard good things about Singapore; Aside from being very conservative, I did recall someone sharing that city is ver,y very clean.
Nellie
backpacking-travellol yes, this might ease your parents' mind! Singapore is quite an interesting melting pot of conservative yet progressive people and a cosmopolitan yet down-to-earth culture.
I'm from Singapore, so obviously I'm biased towards my home country – but they're right, it's very clean! We're also known as the Garden City – there's a side to us that many don't get to see: there are plenty of green spaces, tropical forests in the heart of the city.
Jen @ApproachGuides
Wonderful list and beautiful photos. I like @backpacking-travel's idea of forwarding it on to parents, who may be concerned about where their children travel! For myself, I have found that every place is both safe and dangerous – it just depends on your timing.
Nellie
Jen @ApproachGuidesI totally agree with you Jen – this post was written by a guest blogger, I personally believe there is not a big line of difference between safe and dangerous. There are obviously places that are not wise to thread but mostly it's up to our own discretion. While travelling through Central America and Tanzania recently, we'd heard so many horror stories of fellow travelers getting robbed at gun point or kidnapped and thrown off a moving vehicle, but we still left without any bad experience and felt relatively safe. We might have been lucky, but such things depend on how one behaves in a foreign country.
Trisha Miller
Great list Nellie – makes me want to pack my bags again! Something to fit everyone's travel style and budget. :)
cattello
what about naples? just kidding. new zealand is surely the safest places we have been but as second most safe place to visit, for our personal experience, we would include malaysia, people were so respectful unlike thailand where many tried to rip us off at the first occasions and had to kept my bag under vigilant eyes at all times, maybe it was only our impression…
marta
what about naples? just kidding. new zealand is surely the safest places we have been but as second most safe place to visit, for our personal experience, we would include malaysia, people were so respectful unlike thailand where many tried to rip us off at the first occasions and had to kept my bag under vigilant eyes at all times, maybe it was only our impression…
Anil
I've walked up and down Seattle when I was there and never felt I was in a seedy part of town, which most cities around the world have. Great place to walk around, even though there are fare-free bases in some zones close to the city center.
Expat Heather
Now how about 10 of the Most Dangerous Places to Visit? : )It's interesting, while my husband would go for countries on this list, I tend to look to the US Travel Warning List for inspiration.
admin
Expat HeatherThat’s a good idea Heather, right I shall write a post on that. I’m quite similar in that sense, I like the thrill of going through harsh conditions and experiencing something out of the normal – dangerous places excite me!
Wynn
Of course Singapore is on the list.
Thailand breeze
I also love delicious clam chowder soup served in a crispy bread bowl in Seattle!
Juno
Wow. All great places! Safe and awesome too. Cyprus seems very nice! I’ve never thought USA is safe place to travel. :) thanks for great list!
Charlotte
Fantastic, though I am sure you have missed many ; I cannot believe that the safe haves are in such short supply. Please tell me this is not true! What about all those beautiful island in the south pacific. What about Victoria, Sydney, Adelaide in Australia. I would have thought at least Tasmania would have made the list.
admin
CharlotteThank you so much for dropping by Charlotte! Yes I probably missed out so many places in the world – I’d definitely like to visit the islands in the South Pacific – oh and Fiji, the French Polynesia and so many more. A guest blogger wrote this piece, a great list isn’t it!
Roberto Ricolli
I have visited most of these countries. I really liked Singapore and Cyprus and have to admit they are in the top 10. Great places to visit. BTW, didi you know that Cyprus has 56 Blue Star Beaches (Cleanest Beaches) !!
Andrea
Ulster = Northern Ireland (UK), not Ireland and the Emerald Isle comprises two countries. Politics aside, I love NI and would recommend it as a travel destination to anyone.
Tasha
I am 13 and i have lived in Belfast and am now living in Singapore. I think that, as much as i loved Northern Ireland, that Ulster should definitely not be in the top 3. I moved to Belfast when i was ten, even at that age i had witnessed horrible things and was never surprised when my school or train was canceled because of bomb scares. I remember i was once chased on my way to school by a couple of rowdy drunken men. I find Singapore so much safer. Besides that i found this very helpful with my geography homework.
p.s. Be careful when you are stating weather Ulster is in Northern Ireland or Ireland. It can make people angry.
Joe Mann
I think there should be canada in this list its a very safe country and why should there be singapore in this list! f**kn ASIAN
deviantman
If you ask me, the safest destinations are the following :-
1) Denmark
2) Norway
3) Switzerland
4) Singapore
5) Finland
New Zealand cant be in the list due to frequent earthquakes and plagues that has becoming quite frequent. US is still a highly volatile and dangerous place to visit due to many threats from many countries and also with surging threats of natural disasters eg Katrina, Sandy, el-nino and others.
@DWJustTravel
Wonderful list. However, wherever you travel, do edge on the side of caution and don't act in such a way that you wouldn't at home. Be sensible and you will be safe and enjoy your trip.
Radu
Not USA. Don’t carry valuables with you or go outside hotel , not in a after war countries seen so much crime … I felt more unsafe in there then if I had to use my bike on a safari park.