Traveling allows us to experience diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cuisines, but it’s important to prioritize safety when venturing into unfamiliar territories. While adventure and discovery are at the heart of travel, feeling secure is essential for a truly enjoyable journey. This article takes a look at some of the safest destinations to consider for your travels in 2024, helping you plan a worry-free trip abroad.
The Netherlands
This small northern mainland European country is well known for its picturesque canals, legalized marijuana, and vibrant ‘red light district.’ With such activities ‘out in the open,’ they can be easily controlled, allowing the police to concentrate on more dangerous crimes. So you can enjoy a pleasant bike ride past waterways and historical sites without concern.
United Kingdom
UST claims, “With beautiful countryside and cities with low murder and theft rates, the United Kingdom is a safe bet for travelers.” With efficient public transport, a strong police presence, and public healthcare, your visit will be worry-free. Plus, with English as the national language, you’ll have no trouble communicating if you do need help!
Portugal
Lying to the west of Spain, Portugal has sunny shores, great surfing beaches, delicious seafood, and plenty of history. It also has a great safety rating—whether you’re exploring secure, well-ordered cities with low crime rates or going off the beaten track to more peaceful rural locations, you’re sure to feel safe.
Denmark
The Danish concept of “hygge” means feeling content due to being comfortable, cozy, and safe, says Denmark.dk. With high social stability, a competent police force, and low crime rates, you can explore Copenhagen’s quaint, bike-friendly streets and enjoy delicious buttery Danish pastries without worrying about anything except your waistline!
Iceland
Iceland’s natural beauty is a significant draw for many adventurous travelers longing to see waterfalls and geothermal wonders like geysers, hot springs, and dormant volcanoes. But it also has a relatively small, peaceful population living in social and political harmony, meaning crime rates are relatively low.
Australia
While it may be famous for some potentially dangerous critters (snakes, spiders, and sharks!), Oz is actually very safe for travelers and a top choice for many. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported 377 homicides nationwide in 2022—over half the number that occurred in the U.S. state of Chicago alone during the same period!
New Zealand
With a relatively low population living among its rugged, breathtaking landscape, New Zealand is well known for both safety and outdoor adventures like climbing, kayaking, and hiking. The crime rate is impressively low, even in cities like Wellington and Aukland, meaning you can indulge your Lord of the Rings obsession in relative safety!
Japan
Japanese people are known for their strict discipline, politeness, and hard-working nature, so it’s not surprising that Japan is safe and efficient, with excellent public transport and low rates of crime. There is plenty to explore, too, like futuristic cities, ancient temples, mountainous landscapes, and delicious seafood. Authentic sushi, anyone?
France
Faraway Worlds says France is still a safe destination despite not ranking as highly as some of its European neighbors. The country is renowned for fantastic art, indulgent cuisine, and impressive history, so you can enjoy crusty baguettes, creamy cheeses, and world-class wines in relative safety, especially if you stick to tourist spots and rural areas.
Spain
Like France, Spain is a large country by European standards and offers a diverse choice of places to visit, from beautiful landscapes and beaches to vibrant cities and historical sites. Although urban areas can be plagued by pickpockets and petty thieves, violent crime rates are low.
Canada
Most people are away that Canada is an excellent choice for a vacation, especially when it comes to safety and views. GB News states, “Canada is a very safe holiday destination due to its low crime rates, which have been decreasing steadily over the past few decades.” It also ranks highly for excellent healthcare and competent emergency services.
Switzerland
This wealthy European country nestled among Italy, Austria, France, and Germany boasts pristine Alpine scenery, but that’s not the only good reason to visit. According to TravelSafe, it has exceptionally safe transport systems and is considered low risk for violent crime, natural disasters, terrorism, and theft.
Norway
Travel Ladies reports that this cold Scandinavian country is remarkably safe, even for women traveling alone, due to its particularly low rates of crime. Violence and street harassment are rare, mainly because the Norwegian police force is capable and respected. So you can take in the scenic fjords, Northern Lights, and snowy villages in perfect safety.
Ireland
The Emerald Isle offers travelers friendly local charm, a rich and exciting history, and stunning green landscapes. It also boasts impressive safety! Go To Ireland reveals that Ireland was declared the 3rd safest country in the world in 2023—having low rates of crime, violence, and corruption—making it an excellent choice for travelers.