Traveling to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but safety should always be a top concern. Some nations are safer than others due to factors like political stability, low crime rates, and quality emergency services. If you’re planning a trip abroad in 2025, consider visiting one of the world’s safest countries.
What are the top 10 safest countries in the world?
1. Iceland
Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most peaceful and safest countries. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean just south of the Arctic Circle, Iceland has a tiny population of just 360,000 people. Violent crime is extremely rare, thanks to the homogenous and egalitarian society as well as strong social welfare programs. Iceland also has no standing army, reflecting its neutral foreign policy. Natural disasters like volcanic eruptions do pose some risks for travelers, but Reykjavik and other populated areas have highly effective emergency plans in place.
Low crime rates
Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Violent crime is almost unheard of, even in the capital city of Reykjavik. Theft and non-violent crimes are also very uncommon compared to other developed nations. Most Icelanders feel safe walking alone at night. Police officers do not even carry firearms in their day-to-day duties.
Strong emergency response
Despite the risks from volcanoes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters, Iceland has top-notch emergency services to respond to any crisis quickly and efficiently. Their preparedness ensures travelers remain as safe as possible.
2. Denmark
Denmark is a Scandinavian nation popular with tourists thanks to its beautiful coasts, fascinating history and culture, and hygge lifestyle. Denmark has low levels of crime and violence, along with high feelings of personal security according to surveys. Advanced telecommunications and infrastructure provide access to emergency services throughout the country. Denmark also ranks near the top globally for disaster preparedness.
Low violent crime
Aggravated assaults and homicides are rare in Denmark. Police statistics show crime rates in Denmark have dropped over the past decade. Violent crimes tend to be limited to gang activity in major cities like Copenhagen rather than random acts. Most Danish citizens report never encountering crime in their daily life.
High-quality healthcare
Denmark has a comprehensive universal healthcare system that is generally considered one of the best in the world. Emergency care is free for all citizens and visitors alike. Ambulance services are timely and equipped with trained paramedics. The overall high quality of care makes surviving accidents or health incidents much more likely.
3. Norway
Norway rivals its Scandinavian neighbors for safety, coming in third on the Global Peace Index. The Nordic country is politically stable with little conflict and violence. Standard of living is high, and strong public institutions are trusted by citizens to provide security, healthcare, and emergency response. Natural disasters are rare, but Norway’s resilience is improving.
Low violent crime rate
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Norway has one of the lowest murder rates, with just .51 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants. Domestic violence rates are higher relative to other crimes but still low by global standards. Most Norwegians feel safe in their homes and communities.
Trusted institutions
Norway is characterized by high levels of trust between citizens as well as trust in government, media, and other institutions. This social cohesion creates a stable society less prone to unrest or conflict. Norwegians believe police and healthcare systems work effectively to keep them safe.
4. Canada
Canada is often stereotyped as a friendly, welcoming country – and those attributes extend to safety as well. While crime does occur, violent incidents are relatively infrequent. Canada’s cities tend to have more issues with property crime rather than violent offenses. Natural disasters vary by region, but infrastructure and emergency response make them manageable. Overall, Canada provides a secure environment for residents and visitors.
Low violent crime rates
Canada’s violent crime rate is about one-third that of the United States based on government statistics. Canadian police reported just 1,732 homicides total between 2017-2018 compared to over 17,000 in the US. Violent crimes like armed robbery and aggravated assault are declining long-term, although incidents do still occur in major metro areas.
High-quality emergency services
Canada has well-funded emergency response systems, especially in more populated provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. The 911 system quickly dispatches police, firefighters and EMTs with ambulances. Major cities have trauma centers to treat injuries. Wilderness areas rely on park rangers and search/rescue teams to aid lost or injured hikers and campers.
5. Switzerland
Switzerland is renowned for its natural beauty, Alpine regions, banking sector and neutral political stances. Switzerland also prides itself on security and stability. The country has a low crime rate thanks to economic prosperity, strict gun control laws, and a high functioning government/police force. Emergency services are timely and well-prepared. Hazards are predominantly natural disasters like avalanches or flash flooding.
Low interpersonal violence
Switzerland’s comprehensive welfare system and cultural homogeneity help reduce violence between citizens. Switzerland has one of Europe’s lower homicide rates, with domestic violence a greater concern than murder. Most Swiss report feeling safe walking alone at night. Non-violent crime is more common, especially in urban areas.
Strong emergency preparedness
Switzerland prioritizes emergency preparedness and resilience. Response teams rapidly deploy in case of disasters like avalanches, mudslides, or terrorist attacks. Infrastructure like roads, communications, and healthcare recover quickly following incidents. Swiss safety regulations and building codes also help minimize damage from natural disasters.
6. Ireland
While cities like Dublin have moderate crime rates, Ireland as a whole is quite safe thanks to its hospitable culture and politically stable environment. Crime statistics have trended downward over the past decade as well. Ireland’s biggest risks are natural hazards like extreme weather. Emergency services are generally quick and robust. Travelers should take normal urban precautions in Dublin but otherwise feel secure.
Low homicide rate
Ireland’s homicide rate has declined to around 1 per 100,000 annually, putting it on par with neighboring UK. Violent assaults are becoming less common as well, especially in rural communities. Intimate partner and gang violence persist in urban centers. Otherwise, random violent acts are infrequent. Most citizens feel safe in public spaces.
Resilient emergency response
Ireland has invested in shoring up emergency response capabilities for both man-made and natural disasters. Multi-agency cooperation has improved to get police, fire, and medical personnel to scenes quickly. Communications infrastructure can withstand weather incidents. While some remote areas have longer response times, cities have strong systems.
7. New Zealand
New Zealand ranks high on livability surveys thanks to its stable government, healthcare, and low crime rates. Violent crime is significantly below rates in Australia, Europe and the Americas. Emergency response is robust as well, though natural disasters like earthquakes and storms remain a risk. Overall New Zealand provides a safe environment for locals and travelers alike.
Low violent crime rate
According to police data, New Zealand’s homicide rate declined to a 40-year low of 0.99 per 100,000 people in 2021. Non-violent crimes like theft and burglary occur more often, especially in cities. New Zealanders perceive very low levels of corruption among police and other public institutions as well.
Resilient emergency services
New Zealand has worked to improve emergency management and disaster preparedness, though risks remain from earthquakes and flooding. Communications infrastructure has been hardened to continue functioning during crises. First responders like police, firefighters and paramedics receive regular training to keep response times low, even in major disasters.
8. Austria
Austria enjoys political order, economic prosperity, and rule of law – all factors that contribute to public safety. While petty crimes do occur in Vienna and other cities, violent offenses are infrequent. Natural disasters pose some of the biggest risks, but Austria has effective emergency response systems in place. Visitors should take normal precautions against pickpockets or scams. Otherwise, Austria provides a secure environment for travelers.
Low rates of violence
According to Numbeo’s 2022 Crime Index, Austria has low rates of assault, robbery, and gun violence compared to other European nations. Feelings of security are high, with most citizens able to walk safely in cities at night. Domestic abuse remains an issue, however homicides are rare outside of intimate partner violence.
Strong emergency response
Austria has well-developed emergency services, search/rescue, and healthcare systems to respond quickly during crises like terrorist attacks, transportation incidents or natural disasters. Vienna and other major cities are particularly well-equipped, though rural areas may have longer response times. Overall, travelers can feel confident in Austria’s ability to provide rapid emergency care.
9. Slovenia
Slovenia is one of central Europe’s safest countries, thanks to its small population of just 2 million, political stability as part of the EU, and lack of terrorist threats. Crime rates are moderate but declining over time. Natural disasters pose some of the largest risks, but Slovenia has invested in protecting infrastructure and emergency response. Travelers should take basic urban precautions, but violent crime is unlikely.
Low rates of violent crime
According to the OSAC 2021 Crime & Safety Report, Slovenia’s violent crime rate remains low, especially homicide and gun violence. Non-violent crimes like theft and robbery occur more often in urban areas and tourist locations. Slovenians largely trust law enforcement as professional and non-corrupt.
Strong emergency response capacity
Slovenia has well-developed emergency response systems, communications networks, and public safety agencies. Mountainous areas rely on established search/rescue services for lost or injured hikers and skiers. Floods, earthquakes and other natural disasters do occur but rarely cause fatalities thanks to preparedness and infrastructure resilience.
10. Japan
Japan is globally renowned for safety and stability. The country has exceptionally low crime rates thanks to cultural homogeneity, social cohesion, strict policing and gun control. Japan is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons but has invested billions in earthquake-proofing infrastructure and emergency response. Travelers may face risks from disasters but violent crime is extremely unlikely.
Low interpersonal violence
Japan has some of the lowest rates of homicide, gun violence, sexual assault and robbery in the world according to UN data. Law enforcement benefits from low corruption, community cooperation and surveillance technology. Non-violent crimes like pickpocketing or scams do occur in busy urban areas, however.
Disaster preparedness
Japan experiences high rates of natural disasters, but losses of life and property damage are mitigated by preparedness and resilient infrastructure. Earthquake-proof and flood-resistant buildings shield citizens along with early warning systems. Well-organized emergency response mobilizes quickly. Backup energy systems prevent extended disruptions. These systems have saved thousands of lives during major earthquakes and tsunamis.
Other highly-ranked countries for safety
While the top 10 countries stand out for safety, many other destinations also provide secure environments for visitors. Singapore, Vietnam, Portugal, Czech Republic, Sweden, and Australia all rank highly on various safety indexes.
Within Europe, northern and western countries tend to be very safe, including Finland, Germany, France, and Belgium. Chile, Uruguay, and Costa Rica have lower crime in Latin America. In Asia, South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan are among the safest options.
These countries offer the benefits of being socially and politically stable, economically prosperous, and having well-funded emergency response systems. Travelers should still take typical precautions, but violent crime is generally rare.
Safety tips for travel
While many regions are safer overall, tourists should always exercise common sense and caution. Some tips for staying secure during your travels include:
- Research the country’s crime rates and any advisories before visiting
- Avoid flashing expensive jewelry, cameras or cash openly in public
- Only take registered taxis or ride-shares at night instead of walking
- Don’t accept food or drinks from strangers. Beware of scams.
- Stay alert and avoid poorly lit areas with few other people around
- Carry a small amount of cash for purchases and hide the rest securely
- Back up important documents and information online in case of device theft
- Leave valuables locked up at home or your hotel rather than carrying them
- Check if your lodgings have safety boxes for passports, electronics and other items
- Purchase travel insurance with emergency medical coverage appropriate for your destination
- Carry any prescription medication in original packaging along with a note from your doctor
While no destination is 100% crime-free, following these tips will help you avoid becoming a target of theft or violence. Staying in well-touristed areas is generally quite safe. With proper precautions, you can relax and enjoy even adventurous destinations.
Conclusion
Picking safe travel destinations is an important part of trip planning. The countries listed here offer low crime rates, political stability, reliable emergency response and infrastructure designed to withstand natural disasters. Iceland, Denmark, Norway and other northern European nations provide very secure environments for visitors. English-speaking countries like Canada, New Zealand and Ireland are also ideal for safety-conscious travelers.
With proper precautions like being aware of your surroundings and securing valuables, even less developed nations can be visited safely as well. No matter your destination, following sensible safety measures will allow you to focus on creating memorable experiences rather than worrying about becoming a victim. Do your research, trust your instincts, and choose safer accommodations and activities.