Despite the occasional horror story you may read in the papers, most people travel abroad without any issues. However, some countries are still safer than others – so it’s important to do your research and keep up to date with the latest travel advice news.
With this in mind, we’ve taken a closer look at the top 12 most peaceful countries in the world in 2023, as determined by the Global Peace Index (GPI). This index is based on 23 indicators of peacefulness, including country conflicts, crime rates, safety and security, and political stability in 163 countries around the globe.
According to the GPI, Europe is considered the most peaceful region in the world – home to seven of the top 10 most peaceful countries.
The safest countries in the world have a few things in common: high levels of wealth, social welfare, healthcare, infrastructure, and education. They also have effective criminal justice systems and stable governments, who have positive relationships with their citizens.
We hope that this article will offer some insight on the safest countries in the world when planning your next break. And, if you’re ready to book a trip, why not browse exciting holiday deals from our travel partners?
1. Iceland
With only 3.64 people per square kilometre, the tiny Nordic nation of Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world – and has been ranked the safest country in the world since the index started.
Violent crime here is such a rarity that the police only carry batons and pepper spray, and the country itself has strict gun laws and no army. Plus, Iceland has early warning systems in place to protect visitors and citizens from any natural hazards, such as volcanic eruptions.
Iceland was also ranked the third happiest place in the world in 2023, and this homogenous nation enjoys a high standard of living, equality, and religious freedom.
With volcanoes, glaciers, whales, waterfalls – and the ethereal Northern Lights in winter, Iceland is a bucket-list destination. You can enjoy puffin-watching, soak in geothermal pools, and dine on freshly-caught fish among the pretty-painted wooden houses of Iceland’s compact capital Reykjavik.
2. Denmark
Denmark is not only the second safest country to visit, but is also the second happiest country on the planet.
Some key reasons for this include the fact that equality is held in such high regard, and there’s a strong sense of common responsibility for social welfare. For example, everyone has access to high-quality healthcare – even visitors, should they need it.
Denmark is one of the few countries where people report feeling safe at any time of the day or night. And, there’s almost no risk of natural disaster.
This scenic coastal nation has charming towns, national parks, and fascinating geological formations, such as the white cliffs of Møn.
Its laid-back, cosmopolitan capital, Copenhagen, was ranked the eighth safest city in the world this year because of its low crime rates and high level of trust and honesty among people. Why not take in the palaces, stroll through the colourful houses of the iconic Nyhavn harbour, or check out its fabulous Nordic food scene while you’re here?
3. Ireland
Ireland jumped from the 11th to 3rd most peaceful place in 2022, and it remained in third position in 2023. Crime is quite low outside a few city neighbourhoods, and Irish people are known for their friendly disposition, love of music, and, of course, Guinness.
In fact, the Emerald Isle’s landscape of breathtaking cliffs and winding country roads may pose a greater safety risk than its people. So, it’s important to pay attention to local travel advice – particularly if you find yourself caught outside during a sudden rainstorm or in areas without phone reception.
The west of Ireland is perhaps the most scenic, with quaint towns and villages hugging the coast. It’s also home to one of its most famous sights – the Cliffs of Moher.
4. New Zealand
For lovers of the great outdoors, it’s difficult to beat New Zealand‘s magnificent, magical landscapes.
In the North Island, you can visit vineyards and sample New Zealand’s world-renowned wine, enjoy white-sand beaches, and take boat trips in the Bay of Islands. You can also experience geysers, mud pools, and Rotorua’s mineral lakes.
The South Island is home to glaciers, lakes, and snow-covered mountains. You can spot dolphins and whale watch off the coast, go hiking in Mount Cook National Park, or cruise in the silence of the spectacular Milford Sound fjord.
With a small population, New Zealand has a low crime rate. Violent crime is particularly rare due to strict gun laws and a strong focus on community policing – making it one of the safest countries in the world.
New Zealand is an easy country to travel around, with good roads, compact cities, and an open-minded, welcoming population. There are also no deadly animals, and the potential for natural hazards – like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions – is well-monitored.
5. Austria
This landlocked country in the heart of Europe is very safe to visit.
Serious crimes in Austria are almost non-existent, and there have been no major acts of terrorism in recent years. It’s considered safe to walk in the grand capital Vienna after dark, and visitors can also access the country’s high standard of healthcare if they need to.
Over half of the country is covered by the Austrian alps, which can be visited on awe-inspiring trips by mountain railway, and are known for winter sports.
Austria is also home to castles and palaces, such as the wonderful Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, which was once the heart of the Habsburg empire.
6. Singapore
The island of Singapore is the second safest city in the world according to the Safe Cities Index; ranking first for both infrastructure security and personal security.
A melting pot of cultures and religions, Singapore also has one of the lowest global crime rates. This is partly due to the strict penalties imposed for even small transgressions, such as littering, smoking, and drinking in public places.
Underneath Singapore’s modern skyline are parks, gardens, nature reserves, historic neighbourhoods, and museums, as well as Hawker Centres where you can sample delicious and inexpensive local dishes. A great public transport system also makes it safe and easy for visitors to get around.
7. Portugal
Coming in as the seventh safest country in the world, this compact southern European country consistently ranks among the best countries for retirement (second highest in 2024).
Unlike Iceland and New Zealand, Portugal’s police are armed – but an increased police presence has led to a decline in the country’s crime rate.
Portugal is known for its diverse natural scenery and mild climate – from the golden beaches and glistening waters of the sun-drenched Algarve to the traditional black stone houses of inland villages that are surrounded by forests, lakes, and rivers.
You can listen to fado music performances in the terracotta-roofed capital, Lisbon, and stroll through the pretty streets of Porto. And, for lovers of the great outdoors, why not drive the scenic ‘Portuguese Route 66’ to Faro, or island-hop in The Azores?
8. Slovenia
With snow-capped alps, emerald-green rivers and lakes, and half of the country covered in forest, Slovenia is both scenic and safe.
Following the appointment of a democratic government in the mid-1990s, the country has focused on improving quality of life for its citizens. General crime is very low, violent crime is rare, and Slovenia has high scores on the Global Peace Index for travel security, health risks, and road safety.
This picturesque European country is a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, river rafting, kayaking, and canoeing – as well as skiing in winter.
You can take a gondola ride across Lake Bled to Bled Island where 99 stone steps lead to a tiny baroque chapel. And in summer, you can sunbathe on the sandy beaches of the Adriatic coast, which is rich in Venetian architecture.
9. Japan
Japan has been in the top 10 countries in the Global Peace Index since it began in 2009. It has a very low crime rate, minimal internal conflict (with limited access to guns), and virtually no political unrest.
According to the latest Safe Cities Index, Tokyo is the safest city in the world.
Japanese culture is fascinating, with ancient traditions rubbing shoulders with the modern world. During a trip here, you can immerse yourself in tea ceremonies and steam baths, take the bullet train to visit Kyoto’s geisha district, and enjoy a food tour of Tokyo.
Japan is also full of natural wonders, including the iconic Mount Fuji, cherry blossoms in spring, and the mountainous Joshinetsu Kogen National Park where you can watch snow monkeys bathe in hot springs.
10. Switzerland
Switzerland is listed as the tenth safest country in the world, ninth happiest country, and is also one of the wealthiest – with a high quality of life and a low crime rate. And, Switzerland’s long-standing neutrality is a key factor in keeping the country safe.
The Swiss canton of Zug (pictured) ranks as the safest region in the country. With this reassurance and the lure of Zug’s speciality cherry torte, Zuger Kirschtorte, why not plan a trip here?
Of the many reasons to visit Switzerland – such as its charming towns, unparalleled hiking, and lively cities – one of the most compelling experiences is to embark on a train ride through the mountains and glaciers of the soaring Alps. The journey takes passengers through flower-filled valleys and and mirror-like lakes to picturesque resorts.
11. Canada
This vast country is one of the planet’s most varied and beautiful. The scenic Rockies, sublime landscapes of Newfoundland, and the mountains, rivers, and forests of the Yukon are just some of the many natural highlights.
Canada has a reputation as a peacekeeping nation, with respect and tolerance for others. Crime rates are low, Canadians are friendly and helpful to visitors, and the country is generally safe to travel around.
Montreal, with its food and culture, and Vancouver, with its spectacular outdoor scenery, tend to be the first cities on the travel hit list. But, according to the latest Safe Cities Index, the cosmopolitan, historic city of Toronto is the sixth safest city in the world.
12. Czech Republic
Crime rates in the Czech Republic have decreased over the years, particularly rates of violent crime, and now even pickpocketing isn’t common. The country also has a low risk of terrorism and natural disasters, and enjoys a state-run health insurance system, which locals can access.
This central European country is best known for its capital Prague, which is one of the continent’s most fascinating historic cities.
You can wander along Prague’s cobbled streets and cross the 14th-century Charles Bridge; visit The Prague Castle, which is the third largest ancient castle in the world; and grab a local Pilsner beer in a traditional Czech pub (known as a hospoda or pivnice).
In the east of the Czech Republic, Moravia is also a great place to experience rich folk culture and soak up the beauty of the Czech countryside.
Final thoughts…
Safety can mean different things to different people – from the likelihood of civil unrest or terrorism to whether you can drink the tap water or wear jewellery in public.
To get the latest travel advice news and tips, you can visit the foreign office travel advice section on the government’s website. And if you’re looking for information about a particular destination, you could check travel forums, such as those on TripAdvisor or Lonely Planet’s Facebook Group.
For further holiday inspiration, head over to the travel section of our website. Or you can browse travel deals below.
Note: Although these are generally the safest countries in the world, as with any destination, it’s important to take the usual precautions to guard against petty theft, such as pickpocketing and ATM scams, and use common sense while travelling. Try to stay aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables safe, and follow any local advice or warnings.
Are you tempted by any of the safest countries in the world? Do you have any safety tips to share? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.