Whether you’re interested in traveling or ready to pack up and move countries, you should first investigate the country you plan on taking a trip to. Not all countries are safe, with violence and other dangerous crimes lurking, waiting to strike tourists and locals alike.
This list serves up 15 of the world’s safest countries – so much so that you can leave your doors unlocked and snooze without a care!
1. Iceland
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Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice” because of its dueling landscapes, Iceland is also one of the safest countries to travel to. It is the land that the Vikings settled in what is estimated to be the 9th century.
The crime rates are meager in Iceland; the police don’t carry firearms, and there is no army to write home about.
2. Switzerland
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The land of cheese and chocolate, Switzerland’s national dish is fondue – the perfect dish to enjoy while visiting this beautiful country. Switzerland is beloved for its winter sports, picturesque landscapes, and tasty food.
The defining neutrality of the country, paired with its stable economy, has established it as a safe country for locals and tourists alike.
3. Portugal
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Rich in culture, stunning architecture, and scenic coastal vistas, Portugal is one of Europe’s safest countries. The charm and appeal of Portugal have attracted tourists for years, with its modern and historic attractions intertwined in an alluring manner.
Thankfully, the crime rates in Portugal are low, so living here or booking a trip here is a 10/10 recommendation from us!
4. New Zealand
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The land of the long white cloud, or Aotearoa in Maori, New Zealand is adored for its friendly hospitality, indigenous Maori culture, and a haven for nature enthusiasts everywhere.
New Zealand is proud of its culture of honesty and integrity, which has cemented its foundation as generally a safe country to live and travel to.
5. Canada
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Coined the Great White North, Canada is the world’s second-largest country. It’s widely known for its maple syrup, moose, ice hockey, and extreme politeness with tourists and locals alike.
The winters in Canada are nothing to joke about, infamous for being hazardously frigid – though locals have adapted quickly to the cold outdoors with winter sports like snowboarding and skiing or with intriguing creations like ice wine.
The crime rates in Canada are low, and the police are trusted, making it one of the safest countries in the world.
6. Denmark
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Famous for its Viking heritage, Denmark is teeming with museums, like the National Museum of Denmark, with Viking history that has shaped the country’s foundation. The country is known as one of the happiest in the world, with a lack of crime and corruption.
The country is rated second in Europe for its environmental safety and air quality. It is also one of the safest countries in the world, with one of the lowest crime rates.
7. Japan
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Called the land of the rising sun, Japan is notorious for its anime, food such as sushi and ramen, Mount Fuji, and onsen hot springs. It is the land of samurai and ninjas and a culture of extreme humility and modesty to show respect, especially to elders.
Japan’s lack of violent crime has placed it on the list as one of the most peaceful countries in the world. Japan ranks #10 safest countries in the world by the Global Peace Index.
8. Austria
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Decorated with historic castles, palaces, and other important structures, Austria is well-known for its architectural works and jaw-dropping landscapes. The culturally-prosperous country is a famous meeting point at the center of Europe. It is home to the world’s largest ice cave in Werfen and Europe’s tallest waterfall, the Krimml Waterfalls.
Crime levels are low in Austria, with common crime concerns related to petty theft like pickpocketing rather than violence.
9. Singapore
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Interchangeably called Garden City or Lion City, Singapore is one of the world’s most densely populated locations that functions as a global financial center. The tropical climate in the country is a significant appeal to tourists, along with its world-class attractions, such as Gardens by the Bay and its city airport, which features a waterfall!
Singapore has a low crime rate that is significantly lower than others, thanks to its strict punishments for criminals.
10. Germany
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The inventors of gummy bears and Oktoberfest, Germany is especially beloved for its passion for food and drink. The country is teeming with vibrant architecture shown in its historic structures of palaces, castles, and cathedrals decorating its lands. Fun fact – it is home to the world’s largest cathedral, Cologne Cathedral.
The overall crime rate in Germany is appealingly low, with the most common concern being petty theft.
11. Sweden
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Geographically located in the region known as Scandinavia, Sweden is the originator of the famous brands Volvo and Ikea. One of the largest countries in Europe, more than half the country is covered in forest, totaling up to the equivalent of the United Kingdom! Swedish culture thrives on the great outdoors and a love for nature, many of whom enjoy spending free time outside.
The crime rate in Sweden is appealingly low, having one of the lowest homicide rates in the world.
12. Netherlands
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Sometimes called Holland, the Netherlands is famous for its scenic landscapes with giant windmills and floral fields. The country is the world’s largest flower exporter, the founder of Heineken, the world’s second-largest beer company, and its native people, the Dutch, are the world’s tallest people.
The Netherlands is ranked #16 on the world’s safest countries list. The law is strictly enforced in the Netherlands with a strong system to support people in need and prevent crime.
13. Ireland
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Called the Emerald Island, Ireland is a country full of lush vegetation and impeccable scenery of natural beauty. Well-known for its Irish pubs, coffee, whiskey, and Saint Patrick’s Day, Ireland is full of culture, arts, history, and entertainment. The Irish are famous for their hospitality and knowing how to have a good time.
Ireland is an overall safe country with low crime rates. Violent crime is uncommon in Ireland, with the main crime concern being petty theft in crowded areas like big cities.
14. Finland
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Named the land of a thousand lakes, Finland has nearly 200,000 lakes decorating its lands lush with vegetation, notoriously called the land of Santa Claus. The country is known for its many feats, such as being the Happiest Country in the World, having the cleanest air, and the world’s best education system.
Crime rates in Finland are rare, as expected of the happiest country in the world.
15. Croatia
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The land of a thousand islands, Croatia is widely known for its scenic beaches, crystal clear waters, and long stretches of scenic coastline. The tourism industry is booming in Croatia thanks to its awe-inspiring destinations used as a filming location for the Game of Thrones HBO series.
Croatia is a safe country to stay or travel to, boasting a level 1 travel advisory level. It was also ranked #15 by the Global Peace Index in 2022 of the world’s safest countries.
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