If safety is your top priority for traveling, we have good news: the safest countries of 2024 have been crowned. We’re here to give you the scoop—from what makes the top ten the top ten to a few honorable mentions that didn’t make the cut. These are not only some of the safest countries to travel to but also some of the best countries to travel to. Period. So, if you’re ready to start your 2024 travels, here’s where and how you can safely explore the world worry-free.
Table of Contents
- Top 10 Safest Countries to Visit + Honorable Mentions
- Travel Tips to Stay Safe Anywhere in the World
- Embark on a Journey to the Safest Countries in the World with Next Vacay
Top 10 Safest Countries to Visit + Honorable Mentions
Whether you’re new to solo traveling, looking for your next family getaway, or a seasoned traveler just looking to take it easy, here are the top 10 safest countries to travel to, plus a few honorable mentions for where to plan your next vacay.
1. Canada
Oh, Canada, the land of maple leaves and the Rockies. Canada’s genial nature has earned it the title spot among the safest countries in the world to travel to. Ranked high for its cold weather, vast expanses, and low population density, Canada also sees relatively little in the way of violent crime. Adventure begins in the cities, where visitors get a taste of Canada’s rich cultural heritage and delicious foods. But its true treasures lie in the great outdoors. From the towering mountains and ocean panoramas of Cape Breton Island to the serene lakes and snowcapped peaks of Banff National Park, Canada’s safety is rivaled only by its beauty.
2. Switzerland
Look up the word safety in the dictionary, and you’ll likely find a picture of Switzerland beside it. Switzerland and security have gone hand in hand for centuries—ex-Swiss Armed Forces even guard the Pope! Lucky for you, you won’t need any personal guards when traversing Switzerland’s quaint villages and placid lakes. The country’s low crime rates make it a beautiful place to wander worry-free, from the fairytale-like streets of Gruyères (yes, like the cheese) to the adventure-filled resort town of Interlaken.
3. Norway
Claiming mesmerizing views of the Northern Lights and a spot among the top three safest countries to visit is Norway. Visitors strike gold here, with incredible marvels to explore and little in the way of crime to stress over. Oslo stands out as the country’s safest city, but that shouldn’t deter intrepid travelers from heading out of the capital to explore Norway’s beauty up close. From the gorgeous coasts of the south to the fjord-filled west and beyond, Norway bursts with unspoiled beauty. Whether you’re driving along the picturesque Atlantic Road or trekking up rocky hills to take in stunning fjord views, there’s always something magical waiting around the corner.
4. Ireland
If anyone will put you at ease on your travels, it’s the affable Irish. The Emerald Isle rounds out the top three most peaceful countries on the Global Peace Index. Those who travel here aren’t exactly surprised. The laidback locals offer charm and hospitality in equal measure. Thus, Ireland’s low rate of violent crime feels par for the course. Visitors delight in the camaraderie of Ireland’s pubs, the charm of its old castles, and the sweeping views of the Celtic country’s natural landscapes. For travel outside of Dublin, pop down to Wicklow, the Garden of Ireland, to enjoy rolling mountains and pristine beaches. In contrast, west to County Clare promises stunning views of the dramatic Cliffs of Moher.
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands ranks fifth on the list of safest countries in the world to travel to. It also claims fifth among the top safest cities in the world, thanks to Amsterdam. The colorful capital of the Netherlands is well-loved for being open and safe to all travelers, including women, LGBTQ+ travelers, and people of color. This warm and welcoming attitude extends outside of Amsterdam as well. This means travelers can explore the beauty of the Netherlands in full, from the stunning floral landscape of the Keukenhof Gardens to the charming canals and thatched-roofs of Giethoorn, the Venice of the Netherlands.
6. United Kingdom
Making the leap from #14, the United Kingdom nabs the sixth spot for the safest countries in the world to travel to. Crime fell a whopping 15% in England and Wales in 2022, with theft and murder rates both dropping. So whether you’re a big city traveler looking to roam the streets of cultural juggernauts like Edinburgh and Belfast or a nature lover hoping to experience the breathtaking views of the Lake District or the Giant’s Causeway, you can roam the isles of the United Kingdom with peace of mind.
7. Portugal
Portugal’s warm atmosphere and sunny coasts aren’t the only reasons people feel at home from the minute they step off the plane. For seven years, Portugal has ranked among the top ten of the safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. It’s also one of the friendliest, too. So it’s little surprise people take full advantage of the welcoming aura to visit Portugal in droves. For wine lovers, there’s the Douro Valley; for the romantics, there’s charming Sintra; and for those who want a Hawaii-like getaway in Europe, there’s the Azores—truly something for everyone.
8. Denmark
The second most peaceful country in the world, Denmark boasts some of the happiest citizens and safest travelers. Women, LGBTQ+, people of color—all are welcome in Denmark. The low levels of crime in Danish cities make the streets safe to walk for everyone, even at night. But with how busy your days will be, from exploring old-world towns like Ribe and Faaborg to basking in the natural beauty of Møns Klint’s white chalk cliffs and the shifting sands of Råbjerg Mile, we’re not sure you’ll have much energy left for nightly jaunts.
9. Iceland
Iceland may be eighth on this list, but when it comes to peace, the country has been king since 2008. Iceland’s safety rating undoubtedly plays a major role in why it’s so beloved—it’s one of the safest countries for women to travel to and has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. But the other part is most definitely Iceland’s natural wonders. From glaciers and ice caves to geysers and hot springs, Iceland delights with its stunning natural landscapes. Plan your trip at the right time, and you can even enjoy the Northern Lights in winter or the Midnight Sun in the summertime.
10. Australia
Australia rounds out the top 10 safest countries to visit in the world. The charming accents aren’t the only thing putting travelers at ease when visiting the land Down Under. The country’s low crime rates definitely played a hand in the ranking. In 2022, the homicide rate of the entire country was less than that of the city of New York. But Australia also boasts another top ten spot that makes it appealing to travelers; it was ranked number four among the best countries in the world. With gems like the breathtaking peaks of Bright in Victoria, the spectacular landscapes of Bruny Island, and the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Daintree Rainforest, it’s not hard to see how it earned that ranking.
11. Honorable Mentions
The top ten safest countries to visit are a great starting point for new travelers, families, and solo travelers. Still, it’s not an exhaustive list by any means. And though it does include some incredible destinations, we thought we would highlight a few additional countries outside of Western Europe that make for a safe, fun, and enriching trip out of the country.
Japan: Low crime rates and a culture that values respect and orderliness make Japan an enticing option for those looking to explore rich traditions alongside cutting-edge innovation.
Slovenia: This Eastern European country doesn’t get as much love as its Western counterparts. Still, it promises jaw-dropping vistas, diverse adventures, and not nearly so many crowds—on top of being one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
New Zealand: With more sheep than people, New Zealand’s low crime rate is hardly surprising. Still, it is convenient, making it easy for travelers to roam the countryside solo with few concerns outside of potentially overstuffing their itineraries.
Brazil: With high safety ratings for women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+, Brazil catapulted into the top 15 safest countries in the world for 2024, opening up the floor to colorful festivals and sunny coasts in one of South America’s most vibrant countries.
Travel Tips to Stay Safe Anywhere in the World
Just because they’re the safest countries in the world doesn’t mean you can’t take precautions. Staying safe while traveling doesn’t just mean traveling to the safest countries but taking steps to ensure you’re safe no matter where you travel. So, along with choosing your destination carefully, here are four tips to stay safe anywhere in the world, no matter where you’re traveling or who you’re traveling with.
1. Get to Know Your Destination
Just like you wouldn’t go on a trip with someone you know nothing about, it makes sense to get to know your destination before you go wheels up. So, do your research. Read travel reviews, check out the safest places to stay and what, if any, areas there are to avoid. In case of an emergency, learn the numbers for the local police and emergency services. You can also make the smart step of enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to record your trip with the closest US consulate or embassy.
2. Secure Important Documents & Make Copies
Some travelers have nightmares about losing their travel documents, for good reason. So to avoid those nightmares becoming reality, take the steps to secure your important documents beforehand. Always keep them close—in your personal item, preferably, or in a secure pocket of your bag or clothes. In addition to the original, make copies to put in your personal item, carry-on, checked bag, hotel room, etc., so you always have a copy close on hand.
3. Stay Connected and Informed
Natural disasters and human catastrophes can affect a region’s safety with little to no notice. Stay up-to-date with what’s going on at your destination by checking the local news and the State Department’s website for travel advisories and keep your family and friends updated by sharing your itinerary and scheduling regular check-ins.
4. Trust Your Instincts
Intuition is everything, especially when you’re traveling. While you might not always consciously recognize why certain situations are making you uncomfortable, your subconscious is likely picking up on small, unnoticed things in the background that present red flags. So treat that small, niggling voice in the back of your head as the voice of reason. It may just keep you safe.
Embark on a Journey to the Safest Countries in the World with Next Vacay
Equipped with a list of the safest countries to travel to, and tried-and-true tips to stay safe, the world is now your oyster. Start traveling it with Next Vacay.
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