In this article by worldly we talk about safety in EuropeHow safe is Europe in 2025 and 2026? According to the latest Global Peace Index (GPI) Europe remains the most peaceful region in the world, although differences between countries continue to grow. While destinations such as Iceland, Portugal, Slovenia en Switzerland While other countries consolidate their position at the top, they slide down due to political unrest, migration issues or rising crime.
In this article we discuss the safest and most dangerous countries in Europe based on the most recent figures from the Institute for Economics & Peace (GPI 2025 / 2026)We explain how the ranking is compiled, why "peaceful" doesn't automatically mean a country is safe to travel to, and which trends are important for travelers who want to explore Europe in the near future.
The focus is on countries and regions relevant to travelers: from stable northern states and popular holiday destinations to areas where caution is still advised, such as parts of Eastern Europe or the Balkans. This provides an honest, up-to-date picture of the security situation in Europe – based on reliable data and enriched with context for those traveling, photographing, or writing about the continent.
About the Global Peace Index (GPI)
De Global Peace Index (GPI) is an annual global ranking that measures the level of peace and security in 163 countries. The index is compiled by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP) and is considered one of the most widely used indicators of stability and social peace worldwide. The GPI looks not only at crime or war, but also at a wide range of indicators that together provide a picture of the overall peace in a country. These indicators are divided into three main categories:
- Safety and social stability – Think of crime rates, terrorism, political unrest, trust in the police and the number of prisoners per capita.
- Domestic and international conflicts – The presence or absence of armed conflicts, civil wars and tensions with neighbouring countries.
- militarization – The defense budget, the number of military personnel per capita, and the presence of international troops.
The lower the score, the more peaceful a country is. A low score therefore means a high ranking.
The full Global Peace Index 2025 report you can view or download via
👉 visionofhumanity.org/global-peace-index
Also read: Which are the safest and most dangerous countries in Central America?
Also read: Which are the safest and most dangerous countries in Africa?
Top 10 safest countries in Europe (GPI 2025/2026)
Europe will remain the most peaceful region in the world in 2025 and 2026. Differences between countries are small, but remarkably consistent: the same destinations have topped the list for years. The Global Peace Index shows that Northern and Western Europe, in particular, score highly for stability, trust in government, and social security.
While Europe remains the most peaceful region in the world, the IEP also sees increasing political polarization in countries like Poland, Hungary, and Romania. This trend reflects a broader shift: social stability and trust in institutions are under pressure in several European countries, which translates into small but noticeable drops in the rankings.
Below are the ten safest countries in Europe according to the Global Peace Index 2025/2026.
1. Iceland | GPI score: 1.12
Iceland Iceland is and remains the safest country in the world. There is virtually no crime, the police don't carry weapons, and conflict is rare. Icelanders trust each other, live close to nature, and hold strong to their sense of community.
For travelers, this means ultimate freedom: you can camp in the wild without any worries, take photos late at night or just go rugged landscapes and along volcanoes driving. The combination of tranquility, safety, and unspoiled nature makes Iceland unique.
Noteworthy detail: Iceland is the only country in the world that actually prosecuted its bankers after the 2008 financial crisis. Several top executives ended up behind bars – something that seemed unthinkable elsewhere. After the crisis, the country learned from the mistakes of the past. New laws were intended to prevent power and decision-making from being dominated by a small, male elite. Since then, it has been legally established that at least 40% of all management positions in both politics and business held by women.
Many Icelanders see precisely that as the key to their country's success and stability over the past fifteen years. In 2016, documentary filmmaker Michael Moore Iceland and spoke with influential women about these changes. The short documentary Women of Iceland (seen below, approximately 15 minutes) offers an inspiring look at how equality and transparency have permanently strengthened society.
2. Denmark | GPI score: 1.31
Denmark is once again in the top three of safest countries. Society is egalitarian, crime rates are low, and trust in the police and government is high. Cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus are clean, well-organized, and easily accessible by bike or public transport. Even in the bustling city center, you'll feel comfortable at any time of day. The Danes are helpful, tolerant, and accustomed to tourists – which contributes to the country's relaxed atmosphere.
3. Ireland | GPI score: 1.32
Ireland has been steadily climbing the rankings in recent years and is now considered one of the safest countries in Western Europe. The atmosphere is friendly, people greet each other on the street, and help is never far away.
Crime is rare, even in larger cities like Dublin and Cork. The Irish value community spirit, which you'll immediately notice as a traveler. Whether you're driving through the green hills or enjoying a pint in a village pub, you'll feel welcome everywhere.
4. Portugal | GPI score: 1.34
Portugal has been a fixture in the top five safest countries in Europe for years.
The country has a low crime rate, a stable political situation and a population known for its hospitality. From the narrow streets of Lisbon From the Algarve cliffs to the coast, you can move freely without worry. Solo travelers and families will quickly feel at home here thanks to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
5. Austria | GPI score: 1.38
Austria Austria combines the best of both worlds: the order and cleanliness of Switzerland with the warmth of southern Germany. The country scores highly for political stability and social security, and you'll feel safe in both cities and mountain villages. For nature lovers, winter sports enthusiasts, and families, Austria is a destination where everything is well-organized – from public transport to emergency assistance.
6. Slovenia | GPI score: 1.39
Slovenia is a small, safe, and exceptionally friendly country in the heart of Europe. The atmosphere is relaxed, the infrastructure excellent, and crime is virtually nonexistent. During our travels, we noticed how carefree it is to travel here – from Ljubljana to the Lake Bled and the mountainous region TriglavSlovenia is also one of the cleanest and most organized countries in the Balkans.
7. Switzerland | GPI score: 1.40
Switzerland For years, the country has consistently scored high on the Global Peace Index thanks to its political neutrality, low crime rates, and reliable infrastructure. Everything is well-organized here: public transport, healthcare, and even mountain rescue. For travelers, this means a great sense of peace and trust, whether you're taking the train through the Alps or strolling through picturesque towns like Lucerne, Bern, or Interlaken.
8. Czech Republic | GPI score: 1.41
Czech Republic Prague is one of the safest countries in Central Europe. Prague attracts millions of visitors, yet remains remarkably peaceful and well-organized. Outside the capital, you'll discover charming villages, castles, and wine regions where the atmosphere is friendly and crime is low. The locals are down-to-earth and helpful, which contributes to the feeling of safety travelers experience here.
9. Finland | GPI score: 1.43
Finland combines one of the highest standards of living in the world with a strong sense of equality and trust. Finns live close to nature and respect each other and their environment. Even in the dark winter months, traveling through Finland feels safe and manageable. The infrastructure is reliable, and in the vast countryside, you can camp freely without worrying about disturbances or theft.
10. Croatia | GPI score: 1.47
Croatia rounds out the top ten and is one of the most notable climbers in Europe. Since joining the European Union and the Schengen Area, the security situation has improved significantly. The tourist infrastructure is modern, the people are friendly, and crime is low. Cities like Dubrovnik en Sibenik feel lively but organised, and inland you will still find the peace and authenticity that makes the country so special.
And what about the Netherlands?
Where is The Netherlands In 2025, will it be in the ranking of the safest countries in Europe? Although we often experience our country as down-to-earth and stable, the figures from the Global Peace Index 2025 A more nuanced picture. The Netherlands remains among the safest countries in the world, but remains just outside the European top ten.
In the global rankings, the Netherlands will be in the top 10 in 2025 21st place immediately GPI score of 1.46. This means we are doing slightly better than last year, but it is not enough to re-enter the European top 10. Within the continent, the Netherlands takes the lead. 12st place in, right behind Germany. The differences with our neighboring countries are small:
- Germany (#11, GPI 1.44)
- The Netherlands (#12, GPI 1.46)
- Hungary (#13, GPI 1.49)
- Belgium (#14, GPI 1.51)
- Norway (#15, GPI 1.53)
The relative positions shift slightly each year, but the group remains remarkably stable. The Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Norway, and Sweden regularly change places in this middle group, although Sweden has clearly fallen in recent years due to rising tensions surrounding immigration and urban crime.
For the Netherlands the organized crime The main reason we don't rank higher is that the period of liquidations and drug trafficking in recent years has not done our image any good.
However, progress has been made: the conviction of Ridouan Taghi and the dismantling of several criminal networks have contributed to more peace and confidence. On the other hand, the number of petty thefts, burglaries and street robberies light again, especially in the Randstad. However, the Netherlands still scores excellently on social stability, equal rights and confidence in the rule of law – indicators that firmly anchor our place in Europe's top 15.
In short: the Netherlands is and remains a safe country to live and travel in, but there is still work to be done to get back into the top 10.
Top 10 most dangerous countries in Europe (GPI 2025/2026)
Although Europe remains the most peaceful region in the world, there are also countries where the situation is less stable. In the Global Peace Index 2025/2026 Countries in Eastern and Southeastern Europe are particularly at the bottom of the list. The causes range from internal political tensions and economic instability to border conflicts and the aftermath of war. For travelers, this doesn't always mean these countries are dangerous to visit, but it does mean caution is advised.
1. Ukraine | GPI score: 3.14
The war in Ukraine The country still largely determines the rankings. Since the Russian invasion in 2022, the country has consistently fallen on the Global Peace Index. The ongoing fighting, destroyed infrastructure, and millions of refugees have resulted in an exceptionally high score for conflict and insecurity. Travelers have clear advice: only go to Ukraine if strictly necessaryTourism has largely ground to a halt, and the country continues to face major humanitarian challenges.
Also read: Goodbye Ukraine, be well
2. Russia | GPI score: 3.02
Russia Russia is one of the least peaceful countries in the world. Its involvement in the war in Ukraine, the lack of press freedom, and severe internal repression have further worsened the country's position. The situation is also complex for foreign travelers. Sanctions, travel restrictions, and political tensions make visiting Russia difficult, while the security risk for tourists has increased significantly. While the country has much to offer culturally, it is currently neither a safe nor practical destination.
3. Turkey | GPI score: 2.81
Turkey remains a unique situation. The country lies partly in Europe and partly in Asia, and this geographical tension is also reflected in the GPI score. Internal conflicts, pressure on press freedom, and unstable relations with neighboring countries play a role. However, this doesn't mean Turkey as a whole is unsafe. Popular coastal regions like Antalya, Cappadocia, and the Aegean coast remain safe and well-organized, but the southeast of the country—bordering Syria—still faces significant security risks.
4. Serbia | GPI score: 2.29
Serbia The country has been ranked near the bottom of the European rankings for years, primarily due to political tensions in the Balkans and the ongoing conflict surrounding Kosovo. While daily life in cities like Belgrade feels safe, relations with neighboring countries remain tense. Travelers generally don't notice this, but political demonstrations and protests can sometimes flare up suddenly.
5. Bosnia and Herzegovina | GPI score: 2.23
Bosnia and Herzegovina The country has made significant progress since the war of the 1990s, but it still struggles with political divisions, slow reconstruction, and unresolved minefields. In practice, it's generally safe for tourists, especially in cities like Sarajevo and Mostar. The people are hospitable and accustomed to visitors. I personally toured this beautiful country again in 2025 and never felt unsafe.
But the country remains vulnerable to ethnic tensions. Common sense is important for travelers: avoid demonstrations, don't stray from the beaten path (landmines are still a serious threat here), and inform yourself about the current situation beforehand.
6. Kosovo | GPI score: 2.21
Kosovo is still a young state and therefore regularly experiences diplomatic and political unrest. Relations with Serbia remain sensitive, and this is sometimes noticeable at the border.
From a tourist perspective, Kosovo is surprisingly accessible and safe, especially in cities like Pristina and Prizren. The locals are friendly, prices are low, and the atmosphere is relaxed, although stability remains a concern.
7. Armenia | GPI score: 2.19
Armenia is geographically located partly in Europe and partly in Asia. The country has experienced tensions with neighboring Azerbaijan for years, particularly around the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
While most areas are safe to visit, incidents at the border can suddenly flare up. The capital, Yerevan, is vibrant and safe, but it's wise to follow current travel advisories.
8. Montenegro | GPI score: 2.12
Montenegro is a small but politically troubled country in the Balkans. Tensions between ethnic groups and the growing influence of foreign powers are weighing on its score.
Despite this, Montenegro remains popular with travelers. The Adriatic coastline is breathtakingly beautiful and generally safe. Inland, it's quiet, but be vigilant during demonstrations or election periods.
9. North Macedonia | GPI score: 2.09
North Macedonia is largely stable, but the political situation remains fragile. Tensions with neighboring countries over identity, language, and history frequently arise. This has little direct impact on travelers: the scenery is stunning, the people are hospitable, and crime is rare. The low score is primarily due to political divisions, not a lack of safety for tourists.
10. Greece | GPI score: 2.05
Greece surprises some with its relatively low ranking. This score is primarily due to the economic aftermath of the debt crisis and the resulting social tensions. In practice, Greece is safe and easy to navigate. Police presence is visible, and crime remains low, especially outside the major cities. Those who behave respectfully and avoid crowded demonstrations in Athens or Thessaloniki can travel carefree through one of Southern Europe's most beautiful countries.
Consulted sources:
- visionofhumanity.org
- Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025 (pdf)
- Institute for Economics and Peace (ELM)
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Various other studies, news items and reports.
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