Europe’s safest countries offer culture, charm… and a sense of calm. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, Europe remains home to the most peaceful nations on Earth. For many travelers, safety is the most important factor when planning a new adventure abroad, which is one reason why our European trips are so popular.
Published by the Institute for Economics and Peace, the Index ranks countries based on societal safety, conflict levels, and militarization. Europe continues to lead the world in terms of peace, making it a top choice for safe and stress-free travel.
We looked into the data of the Global Peace Index (GPI), along with the Human Development Index, Safety Perception Index, Global Passport Index, Women, Peace & Security Index, and the World Happiness Report to offer our findings on which nations are the safest* countries in Europe to visit this year, and where in Europe is ideal for solo female travelers.
*The information from these sources is indicative of a general level of safety, based on factors including crime rate, political stability and human rights legislation. This is no guarantee of personal security. You should always do your own research before planning a trip abroad, and make a decision based on your findings.
Safest countries in Europe to visit this year
According to the Global Peace Index 2024, seven of the world’s 10 safest countries are in Europe. Low crime rates, minimal civil unrest, and strong infrastructure make these European nations ideal for your next vacation.
Iceland
GPI Rank: #1 globally
Why it’s safe: Virtually no crime, strong societal trust, and no military force. Consistently ranked #1 for 16 years.
Iceland tops the Global Peace Index for the 16th year in a row, thanks to its near-zero crime rate, lack of a military, and strong social trust. When you visit the island nation you’ll feel a sense of peace and calm as you explore the surreal landscapes. From soaking in the waters at the Blue Lagoon, to chasing waterfalls along the Golden Circle, to exploring the streets of Reykjavík, Iceland is wild and welcoming with low risk, high reward adventure.
READ NEXT: 12 important travel safety tips everyone should know
Ireland
GPI Rank: #2 globally
Why it’s safe: Low crime rates, political stability, and strong community values.
Coming in behind Iceland as the top safest country in the world is Ireland, with peaceful cities, friendly locals, and a relaxed pace of life. According to the Global Passport Index, the Irish have great international relations with the equal third most powerful passport in the world too. Join a Trafalgar tour to Ireland and enjoy the charm of Dublin’s historic pubs, the dramatic beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, and the lush verdant landscapes of the Irish countryside – all with complete peace of mind. That’s what we all want from a vacation, right?
READ NEXT: The world’s safest countries for solo female travel
Austria
GPI Rank: #3 globally
Why it’s safe: Low levels of violent crime, political neutrality, and excellent public safety infrastructure.
The only drama you’ll find in Austria is on stage. Between its alpine peaks and Baroque palaces, Austria presents a calm nation with one of the highest safety ratings in Europe. In the capital, Vienna, do as the locals do: lean into the strong coffee culture and catch a classical concert or live opera. Life here is about the simple pleasures.
Switzerland
GPI Rank: #6 globally
Why it’s safe: Exceptional public safety, low crime rates, and a tradition of neutrality.
Switzerland’s peaceful reputation is no accident. This neutral nation has a long history of avoiding sides and has strong governance and a commitment to safety. Whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets of historic cities like Bern, or enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Geneva or the many mountains, Switzerland is a peaceful dream. Plus, Switzerland is the top country in the UN’s Human Development Index.
Portugal
GPI Rank: #7 globally
Why it’s safe: Low violent crime, political stability, and a relaxed, welcoming culture.
Portugal will teach you how to truly relax. If the national sport wasn’t football (soccer) it would be some sort of contest on how to enjoy life. The laidback locals know what matters – time off spent enjoying company in the sunshine with an icy beverage. Sitting at the south-west edge of Europe, Portugal is a peaceful escape with golden beaches, vineyard-covered hills, and colorful cities like Lisbon and Porto. Slow down and soak it in.
READ NEXT: Forget the rumours: 6 countries that are safer to visit than you think
Denmark
GPI Rank: #8 globally
Why it’s safe: Extremely low crime, high trust in law enforcement, and strong social equality.
Denmark has a way of making you feel welcome, with its clean cities and friendly locals who will help you navigate the city. The capital Copenhagan is safe – especially for women and solo travelers – with thoughtfully designed transportation and infrastructure. In fact, Denmark topped the global Women, Peace & Security Index, followed by Switzerland. Your travel safety is almost guaranteed, and the quality of life is top – especially if you embrace a daily cinnamon bun.
Slovenia
GPI Rank: #9 globally
Why it’s safe: Low crime, strong environmental protections, and a stable, well-governed society.
Alpine beauty meets the relaxed Mediterranean in Slovenia, a small country that’s both safe and scenic. In Ljubljana, the capital, it’s peaceful wandering the quiet riverbanks, where locals reported 91% felt super safe walking alone, according to the Safety Perception Index. Plus, despite it’s small size, there’s a huge variety in landscapes to explore from sleepy inland villages to rocky beaches by the Adriatic Sea.
READ NEXT: 12 essential female travel tips for staying safe after dark
Czech Republic
GPI Rank: #12 globally
Why it’s safe: Low violent crime rates, efficient public services, and a high level of personal security.
Falling just outside the top 10, according to the Global Peace Index 2024, teh Czech Republic (or Czechia) offers a sense of safety and storybook charm. In the cpaitaly city, Prague, travelers can wander beneath Gothic spires, cross the Charles Bridge at sunset, and hop on a tram without ever second-guessing your safety. Beyond the capital, medieval towns, castles, and forest trails await.
Trafalgar tour: Best of the Danube River Cruise
Finland
GPI Rank: #13 globally
Why it’s safe: Exceptionally low crime, godo law and order, high living standard, and one of the world’s most transparent governments.
Finland has built a nation that is clean and efficient where locals trust both their neighbors and their institutions. The result is a country with a high living standard, great public services (including healthcare and education), and a high happiness rating. In fact Finland, was named the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year in the 2025 World Happiness Report. It’s Nordic neighbors – Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden – also ranked highly. No one wants to meet grumpy locals on vacation, so relax knowing life is good as you see the Northern Lights in Lapland, a seaside sauna town or the buzz of Helsinki.
Hungary
GPI Rank: #14 globally
Why it’s safe: Low violent crime, improving infrastructure, and a strong emphasis on public safety.
Hungary is a European country that surprises. It’s ranked among the top 10 safest countries in Europe to visit this year, and has a surprisingly rich cultural heritage to share. In Budapest find grand boulevards and thermal baths with that charming old-world elegance. Then beyond the capital find medieval towns and tourist attractions that don’t compromise on personal safety.
What are the safest countries in Europe for solo female travelers?
Some of the best options for solo female travelers in Europe include Iceland, Finland, Ireland, Denmark, and Switzerland – all ranked in the top 10 of the Global Peace Index. But better yet, these European nations make up the top five countries in the global Women Peace and Security Index. Norway, Austria, Netherlands and Ireland also rank highly on the list.
These countries have low crime rates, high levels of gender equality, and reliable public transportation – this makes them ideal for solo female travellers. Cities like Reykjavík, Copenhagen, and Helsinki are especially known for being welcoming, walkable, and easy to navigate alone.
For total peace of mind, many solo female travellers choose to join a Trafalgar tour knowing they have everything taken care of.
READ NEXT: Female Travel Directors share essential safety tips for women
How do I stay safe while traveling in Europe?
Staying safe in Europe is largely about common sense and preparation. Even in the safest countries you need to be street smart and responsible for yourself. Stick to well-lit areas, keep valuables secure, and be aware of pickpocket hotspots in crowded tourist zones.
Use official transport and trusted accommodation providers. Learn some basic local phrases, carry a copy of important documents, and stay informed about local customs or advisories. Most importantly, trust your instincts – if something feels off, remove yourself from the situation calmly and confidently.
READ NEXT: Why you shouldn’t put off a solo travel adventure – Real Word
You can travel confidently to the safest countries in Europe with Trafalgar. Leave a comment with where you want to go in 2025 or 2026 with us….