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Despite the occasional horror story you may read in the papers, most people travel abroad without issues. Yet, 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 look at the top 12 most peaceful countries in 2026, as determined by the Global Peace Index (GPI). This index is based on 23 indicators of peacefulness, including conflicts, crime rates, safety and security, and political stability across 161 countries around the globe.
According to the GPI, Europe is considered the most peaceful region worldwide, home to eight 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 that have positive relationships with their citizens.
We hope this article will offer some insight into the safest countries in the world when planning your next break. And, to plan a trip, check out our holiday itinerary helper or explore thousands of holiday deals using the button below.
1. Iceland
With around four people per square kilometre, the tiny Nordic nation of Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates worldwide, and has been ranked the safest country in the world since the index started.
Violent crime here is so rare that 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 natural hazards, such as volcanic eruptions.
Iceland has also been ranked the third-happiest country in the world this year, and this homogeneous 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, Reykjavík.
2. New Zealand
For lovers of the great outdoors, it’s tricky 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 rare due to strict gun laws and strong community policing, making it one of the safest countries in the world.
New Zealand is easy 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.
3. Switzerland
Switzerland is listed as the world’s third-safest country, the 13th-happiest, and is also one of the wealthiest, with a high quality of life and a low crime rate. Switzerland’s long-standing neutrality is key to keeping the country safe.
The Swiss canton of Zug (pictured) is one of the country’s safest regions. 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 a train ride through the mountains and glaciers of the soaring Alps. The journey takes passengers through flower-filled valleys and mirror-like lakes to picturesque resorts.
4. Slovenia
With the snow-capped Alps, emerald-green rivers and lakes, and half 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 the 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.
5. Ireland
Ireland jumped from the 11th to the third-safest country in 2022, and it now sits in fifth place in 2026. 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.
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 outside during a sudden rainstorm or in areas without 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.
6. Austria
This landlocked country in the heart of Europe is very safe to visit.
Serious violent crimes are rare, and it’s generally considered safe to walk in Austria’s grand capital of Vienna after dark. Plus, visitors can access the country’s high standard of healthcare with a Global Health Insurance or European Health Insurance Card.
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, once the heart of the Habsburg Empire.
7. Portugal
Coming in as the seventh-safest country, Portugal consistently ranks among the best countries for retirement (third-highest in 2026).
Unlike Iceland and New Zealand, Portugal’s police are armed, but an increased police presence has led to lower crime rates.
Portugal is known for its diverse natural scenery and mild climate – from the golden beaches and glistening waters of sun-drenched Algarve to the traditional black stone houses of inland villages 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. Singapore
The island of Singapore is the second-safest city in the world according to the Safe Cities Index, ranking first for infrastructure 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.
9. Finland
Icy, enigmatic Finland held its position as the world’s happiest country for eight years running in 2025, and so far this year, it remains in top place. With low crime rates, a strong democracy, and high levels of public trust in its institutions, it’s easy to see why.
Finland is the third most sparsely populated country in Europe, so if you’re one for long, snow-dusted hikes, you can go for miles without seeing a soul – excluding the odd moose or reindeer, of course.
History lovers might also like to explore the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built back in the mid-18th Century and spans six separate islands.
And, if you’re visiting in October, you can explore the Helsinki Baltic Herring Market. Held since 1743, it mixes Finland’s oldest traditions with iconic street food like Kuuma Koira (a Finnish-style hot dog).
10. Japan
Japan has been within the top 15 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 world’s safest city.
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 Tokyo food tour.
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.
11. Denmark
Denmark is not only one of the safest countries to visit, but it’s also the second-happiest on the planet.
Some key reasons for this include its high regard for equality and a strong sense of common responsibility for social welfare. For example, everyone has access to high-quality healthcare – even visitors.
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 a 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 levels of trust and honesty among its people. Why not stroll through the colourful houses of the iconic Nyhavn harbour, or check out its fabulous Nordic food scene while you’re here?
12. Malaysia
Malaysia has been named the 12th safest country in 2026, and once you get to know it, it’s easy to see why. It’s a stable democracy with excellent transport links, and good healthcare in its major cities, making it a solid choice if you’re after somewhere new to explore without the worry.
For something coastal, head to the beaches of Langkawi to relax on powder-white sands, or join a snorkelling tour to explore its diverse underwater world. If you’re more drawn to culture and food, the bustling cities of Penang and Kuala Lumpur are fantastic places to experience local life through national dishes like nasi lemak (rice cooked in coconut milk) and laksa (spicy noodle soup).
Chinese New Year is also a remarkable experience in Malaysia, thanks to its rich multicultural identity. If you time your visit for the Year of the Fire Goat in 2027, you can watch celebrations unfold in temples as old as 1,200 years old, enjoy traditional lion dances, and take part in the festivities happening across multiple cities.
Final thoughts…
Safety can mean different things to different people – from the likelihood of civil unrest or terrorism to whether you can drink tap water or wear jewellery in public.
To get the latest travel advice news and tips, you can visit the foreign travel advice section on the government’s website. If you’re looking for information on 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 our travel section. Or you can find holiday deals using the button 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 valuables safe, and follow any local advice.
Are you tempted by any of the safest countries in the world? Do you have any safety tips to share? We’d be interested to hear from you in the comments below.
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