Planning your next adventure but concerned about safety? You’re not alone. With rising global uncertainties, choosing low-crime travel destinations has become more critical than ever. This guide highlights the world’s safest countries based on crime statistics, infrastructure quality, and traveler reviews.

 

Travel safety goes beyond low crime rates. Secure countries for tourists combine reliable emergency services, excellent healthcare, stable political environments, and tourist-friendly infrastructure. Whether you’re a solo explorer or traveling with family, these safe travel destinations offer peace of mind without sacrificing adventure.

1. Iceland

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Iceland has topped global travel safety rankings for over a decade, earning its reputation as one of the world’s most peaceful nations. The Nordic island boasts virtually zero violent crime and exceptional emergency response systems. Iceland’s small population creates a tight-knit society where traveling safely becomes second nature.

 

Reykjavik feels remarkably safe even after midnight, without worry of violent crimes or petty theft. Additionally, Icelandic culture emphasizes community trust, creating welcoming environments for tourists. Whether exploring the Blue Lagoon or chasing Northern Lights, Iceland provides unparalleled peace of mind as one of the safest countries to visit.

 

Safety highlights:

  • Lowest murder rate globally
  • Excellent search and rescue services
  • English widely spoken 
  • Free emergency healthcare for tourists

2. Switzerland

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Switzerland combines stunning mountain scenery with rock-solid safety standards, making it one of the safest countries for tourists. The country maintains one of Europe’s lowest crime rates while offering world-class infrastructure connecting urban centers with remote Alpine villages.

 

Swiss cities like Zurich consistently rank among the world’s most livable destinations, with efficient policing and comprehensive public safety measures. The famous public transport system operates with clockwork precision, ensuring safe travel everywhere. Whether skiing in world-renowned resorts or exploring medieval towns, Switzerland provides a secure environment among the safest places to travel.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Highly trained police force
  • Spotless public facilities 
  • Reliable mountain rescue services
  • Multilingual emergency support

3. Finland

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Finland offers urban sophistication and wilderness adventure, consistently ranking among low-crime travel destinations. Helsinki is one of Europe’s safest capitals, while vast forests provide secure outdoor experiences. Finland’s education system produces exceptionally law-abiding citizens who maintain their peaceful reputation.

 

The Finnish approach emphasizes prevention and community responsibility, creating environments where even remote areas feel completely safe for solo travelers. Women regularly travel alone throughout Finland without safety concerns. Whether experiencing the midnight sun or Northern Lights, Finland provides secure bases for Nordic adventures among the safest places to travel.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Women can travel alone safely anywhere
  • Excellent winter emergency preparedness
  • Free Wi-Fi in public spaces
  • 24/7 multilingual tourist helplines

4. Singapore

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Singapore sets the gold standard for urban safety in Asia, transforming into one of the world’s most secure countries for tourists. The city-state’s strict laws and efficient enforcement create an incredibly safe environment. Singapore’s strategic location and stable government have attracted massive infrastructure investments, benefiting tourists.

 

Clean streets and efficient policing make Singapore feel almost crime-free, with sophisticated surveillance systems maintaining order. The government heavily invests in tourist safety infrastructure, including well-lit public spaces and multilingual assistance programs. Whether exploring Marina Bay or sampling hawker centers, Singapore provides seamless experiences among the safest travel spots.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Extremely low petty crime rates
  • Safe public transport 24/7
  • English is one of the official languages
  • World-class medical facilities

5. Japan

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Japan’s emphasis on social harmony creates unique travel experiences, making it one of the safest countries to visit. Lost wallets regularly get returned with cash intact, and violent crime against tourists is virtually nonexistent. Japan’s deeply ingrained cultural values of respect and honesty extend to every tourist interaction.

 

Tokyo’s complex train system represents one of the world’s safest networks, with helpful station staff assisting foreign travelers. Rural areas are equally safe, with traditional ryokans offering authentic experiences without compromising security. Whether exploring Kyoto temples or Tokyo districts, Japan provides secure environments among safe travel destinations.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Lost property is almost always returned
  • Natural disaster preparedness systems
  • Helpful, honest locals
  • Safe solo travel for women

6. New Zealand

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New Zealand proves adventure and safety aren’t mutually exclusive, offering thrilling outdoor activities within comprehensive safety frameworks. The country maintains low crime rates while hosting millions seeking bungee jumping, skydiving, and extreme hiking, making it one of the safest places to travel for thrill-seekers.

 

Kiwis take exceptional pride in helping tourists stay safe, and adventure operators adhere to strict, audited safety standards. Emergency services cover even remote hiking trails, with specialized helicopter rescue teams. Whether exploring Fiordland or experiencing Maori culture, New Zealand provides adventure opportunities among low-crime travel destinations.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Regulated adventure tourism industry
  • Comprehensive trail maintenance
  • Excellent search and rescue services
  • Friendly, helpful locals

7. Canada

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Canada combines low crime rates with exceptional healthcare and genuinely friendly locals, making it one of the safest places to travel for families. The country excels at keeping families safe while exploring vast wilderness areas thanks to well-established safety protocols and Canada’s stable political environment.

 

Canadian cities consistently rank among the world’s most livable destinations, with efficient public services and low violent crime rates. The universal healthcare system provides peace of mind, ensuring medical emergencies receive prompt attention. Whether exploring Banff or experiencing Quebec’s culture, Canada is among the safest countries to visit.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Universal healthcare covers emergencies
  • Well-maintained national parks
  • Bilingual emergency services
  • Low violent crime rates

8. Australia

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Australia offers incredible diversity with strong safety standards spanning metropolitan centers to remote Outback destinations, establishing it among the safest countries for tourists. Major cities maintain low crime rates while providing world-class urban experiences through comprehensive tourism safety regulations.

 

Sydney and Melbourne provide urban experiences that are as safe as any global city, with efficient transportation and professional emergency services. Australia’s unique challenges have led to sophisticated safety protocols helping tourists navigate potential risks. Whether exploring the Great Barrier Reef or Uluru, Australia provides secure environments among safe travel destinations.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Strong tourism safety regulations
  • Excellent beach safety programs
  • Comprehensive travel insurance options
  • English-speaking population

9. Norway

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Norway combines breathtaking natural beauty with exceptional safety standards, making it one of Europe’s safest countries to visit. Substantial oil revenues have funded excellent infrastructure and emergency services covering even Arctic regions. Norway’s democratic traditions create stable conditions with one of the world’s lowest crime rates.

 

Norwegian cities feel remarkably safe at all hours, with well-maintained public spaces and efficient transportation. Outdoor activities benefit from comprehensive safety regulations and professional rescue services. Whether cruising fjords or experiencing midnight sun, Norway tops the travel safety rankings.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Extremely low crime rates
  • Excellent mountain rescue services
  • High English proficiency
  • Comprehensive weather warning systems

10. Portugal

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Portugal offers excellent value and outstanding safety credentials, establishing it among the safest countries to visit. The country has one of Europe’s lowest crime rates at significantly lower costs than neighboring nations, creating exceptional value for travelers.

 

Lisbon and Porto provide charming experiences without safety concerns, featuring well-preserved districts and welcoming communities. The Algarve coast maintains excellent beach safety standards with professional services. Whether exploring colorful neighborhoods or relaxing on golden beaches, Portugal provides affordable European experiences among the safest places to travel.

 

Safety highlights: 

  • Very low violent crime rates
  • Affordable, quality healthcare
  • Safe public transportation
  • Excellent coastal safety programs

Takeaway

When planning your next vacation, it’s important to consider not only the beauty and attractions of a destination but also its safety. From the remote landscapes of Iceland to the bustling streets of Singapore, these secure countries for tourists offer a combination of low crime rates, reliable infrastructure, and a welcoming environment. 

 

By choosing one of these safest countries to visit, you can rest assured knowing that your safety is a priority. For even more stress-free travel, sign up for OneAir to find exclusive deals on flights and accommodations.

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