The Safest Countries in the World to Visit in 2026 🌍

10. Ireland

Coming in at number 10, Ireland has low violent crime and a strong sense of community. While busy tourist areas require basic awareness, most travelers describe the country as relaxed and welcoming, with an ease that makes even first-time visitors feel quickly at home.

Rolling green landscapes, historic towns, and lively pubs define the Irish experience. Coastal drives, castle visits, and music filled evenings in small towns create a sense of connection that goes beyond sightseeing. Ireland feels approachable, friendly, and easy to enjoy at a comfortable pace.

9. Japan

Japan remains one of the safest countries in the world, even with its dense population. Violent crime is rare, public behavior is orderly, and cities are remarkably clean. Many travelers note how safe they feel at all hours.

Beyond safety, Japan offers striking contrasts. Ancient temples sit beside modern architecture, and traditional customs coexist with cutting edge technology. Efficient rail systems make it easy to move between regions, while food culture and seasonal traditions add depth to every visit.

8. Switzerland

Switzerland’s reputation for safety is well deserved. Public transportation is famously punctual, cities are clean, and emergency services are highly reliable. Travelers often feel confident navigating both cities and rural regions.

The country’s landscapes add another layer of appeal. Alpine lakes, mountain railways, and historic towns create postcard worthy scenes that are easy to access. Hiking paths, scenic train routes, and lakeside promenades allow visitors to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort or security.

7. United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates continues to rise in safety rankings, thanks to low crime rates and strict enforcement of public order. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for cleanliness, visible security, and modern infrastructure that makes travel straightforward.

Visitors should be mindful of cultural norms, particularly regarding dress and public behavior, but expectations are clearly communicated. Beyond luxury hotels, travelers can explore museums, waterfront promenades, desert landscapes, and architectural landmarks that highlight the country’s blend of tradition and modernity.

6. New Zealand

New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, supported by low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Locals are widely known for their friendliness, and visitors often feel comfortable asking for help or guidance along the way.

The natural scenery is a major draw. Mountains, coastlines, forests, and lakes are woven into everyday life, with well marked trails and carefully managed parks. Whether exploring small towns or vast landscapes, New Zealand feels open, accessible, and thoughtfully maintained.

5. Canada

Canada remains the safest country in North America and continues to score well globally. Cities are generally clean, friendly, and easy to navigate, with strong healthcare access and public services. While crime can be higher in certain urban areas, it remains low by international standards.

Canada’s appeal lies in its diversity. Urban centers offer culture, food, and history, while national parks and wilderness areas showcase dramatic landscapes. From coastal cities to mountain regions, the country offers space to explore without feeling overwhelmed or unsafe.

4. Iceland

Iceland remains one of the safest countries globally, even as it drops slightly in the rankings for 2026. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the country operates on a high level of social trust. Travelers often feel comfortable exploring both urban and rural areas, supported by clear signage and strong emergency services.

The landscape is what truly sets Iceland apart. Waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic terrain, and black sand beaches create an experience that feels otherworldly. While nature here can be unpredictable, tourism is carefully managed, and guided excursions make it possible to explore safely while still feeling immersed in the environment.

3. Austria

Austria ranks highly due to low crime rates and efficient public services. Cities feel orderly without being intimidating, and visitors often notice how smoothly daily life functions. Vienna in particular is frequently cited as one of the world’s most livable cities.

Outside the urban centers, Austria’s alpine landscapes add a sense of calm and grandeur. Scenic train routes connect mountain towns, while well maintained trails make nature accessible. Historic old towns, classical music venues, and café culture give Austria a timeless appeal that feels both refined and relaxed.

2. Australia

Australia continues to rank highly thanks to political stability, strong healthcare, and well managed cities. Major hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane feel clean, organized, and easy to navigate, with public transportation that makes exploring straightforward.

Australia also offers remarkable variety. Urban centers deliver excellent dining, beaches, and cultural attractions, while national parks and coastal regions invite outdoor exploration. From harbor walks to wine regions and reef excursions, the country balances adventure with a sense of order that makes travel feel manageable and secure.

1. The Netherlands

The Netherlands takes the top spot for 2026, and it is easy to see why. Cities are designed around people rather than cars, public transportation is reliable, and daily life moves at a calm, organized pace. Visitors often comment on how quickly they feel settled here, even on a first visit.

Beyond safety, the Netherlands offers a rich mix of culture and charm. Amsterdam’s museums and canal neighborhoods invite slow exploration, while cities like Utrecht and Haarlem offer a quieter, more local atmosphere. Cycling infrastructure makes getting around both safe and enjoyable, and seasonal highlights like tulip fields, cozy cafés, and vibrant markets add to the appeal year round.

How These Rankings Are Determined

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection bases its rankings on traveler surveys, the Global Peace Index, and safety data from sources such as Numbeo and GeoSure. The goal is to measure not only crime statistics, but how safe travelers actually feel while navigating a destination.

The safest countries in the world are not just places with low crime. They are destinations where infrastructure works, people feel respected, and travel feels intuitive. In 2026, these countries show that safety and meaningful travel experiences often go hand in hand.

Frequently Asked Questions: Safest Countries to Visit in 2026

What is the safest country to visit in 2026?

According to Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s 2026 rankings, The Netherlands is the safest country to visit, based on traveler surveys and global safety data.

How are the safest countries in the world ranked?

The rankings combine American traveler surveys with data from sources like the Global Peace Index, Numbeo, and GeoSure. These factors assess crime rates, political stability, healthcare access, and how safe travelers feel while navigating a destination.

Are these countries safe for solo travelers?

Yes. All countries on this list are widely considered safe for solo travelers, including women and first-time international visitors. Strong infrastructure, low violent crime, and reliable public transportation contribute to that sense of safety.

Is Europe safer for travel than other regions in 2026?

Europe dominates the top of the list, with countries like the Netherlands, Austria, Iceland, Switzerland, and Ireland ranking highly. However, destinations outside Europe—such as Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Australia, and the UAE—also perform exceptionally well.

Why isn’t the United States on the list?

The Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection report focuses on international destinations for American travelers. Separately, the United States ranks much lower on the Global Peace Index compared to many countries featured here.

Does “safe” mean there is no crime at all?

No destination is completely crime-free. These rankings reflect low violent crime, strong public services, and environments where travelers generally feel secure, especially when following basic travel precautions.

Are these destinations safe for families traveling with children?

Yes. Many countries on this list, including Canada, the Netherlands, Australia, Austria, and New Zealand, are especially popular with families due to healthcare access, walkable cities, and family-friendly infrastructure.

Can safety rankings change year to year?

Yes. Rankings can shift based on global events, political stability, natural disasters, and traveler sentiment. That’s why the list is updated annually.