The Safest Countries to Visit in 2025: Your Guide to Peaceful Travel

Planning your next holiday? Safety is likely high on your list of priorities. Whether you're dreaming of city breaks or coastal escapes, knowing which destinations offer the most secure environments can help you travel with confidence. This becomes especially important when considering travel insurance, as the level of safety in your chosen destination can impact everything from your policy options to your overall peace of mind.

The Global Peace Index 2025, compiled by the Institute for Economics & Peace, ranks 163 countries based on their levels of peacefulness, providing travellers with data-driven insights into the world's safest destinations. The index evaluates countries across three key areas: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and degree of militarisation.

Let's explore some of the safest countries you can visit this year, what makes them so secure, and why comprehensive travel insurance remains important regardless of where you choose to go.

Iceland: The World's Most Peaceful Destination

Iceland has held the title of the world's most peaceful country since 2008, making it an exceptional choice for safety-conscious travellers. This Nordic island nation boasts dramatic landscapes of glaciers, geysers, and volcanic terrain, all wrapped in an atmosphere of remarkable security.

What makes Iceland so safe? The country benefits from low crime rates, political stability, and minimal military involvement in conflicts. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the tight-knit community culture means residents look out for one another. For tourists, this translates to the freedom to explore Reykjavík's colourful streets at night, venture into remote countryside locations, and experience natural wonders without security concerns.

The country's approach to governance emphasises equality and transparency, contributing to its peaceful society. Iceland also maintains strong social welfare systems and has one of the world's lowest incarceration rates, reflecting both the rarity of serious crime and progressive justice approaches.

Ireland: Europe's Beacon of Safety

Ireland ranks as the second most peaceful country in the world on the 2025 Global Peace Index, making it the safest destination in Europe for travellers. This is welcome news for Irish residents and international visitors alike.

What sets Ireland apart in terms of safety? We have a low levels of firearms ownership, a low violent crime rate, low incarceration rate, few violent demonstrations, and minimal political instability. These factors combine to create an environment where both locals and tourists can move about freely with minimal security concerns.

For travellers exploring Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, wandering through Dublin's historic streets, or venturing into rural villages, the country's peaceful atmosphere is immediately noticeable. The friendly, welcoming nature of Irish culture adds an extra layer of comfort for visitors.

Ireland's strong legal framework, stable democratic institutions, and effective policing contribute to its high safety standards. The country's investment in community relations and conflict resolution has paid dividends in creating a society where serious violent crime is rare.

New Zealand: Pacific Paradise of Peace

New Zealand ranks third globally on the peace index, offering spectacular natural beauty alongside exceptional safety standards. From the fjords of Milford Sound to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, this island nation provides adventure without compromising security.

New Zealand's safety credentials stem from its geographic isolation, stable political system, and strong rule of law. The country has low levels of corruption, well-functioning democratic institutions, and a population that values community cohesion. Crime rates remain low compared to global averages, and violent incidents affecting tourists are rare.

For outdoor enthusiasts, New Zealand's safety extends to well-maintained walking tracks, regulated adventure activities, and responsive emergency services. The country's small population and strong civic culture mean that visitors often experience the same welcoming environment enjoyed by locals.

Austria: Alpine Safety Standards

Austria ranks fourth on the Global Peace Index, bringing Alpine charm together with Central European stability. Vienna consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities, whilst the country's mountain regions offer secure environments for winter sports and summer hiking.

Austria's safety profile benefits from its neutral status in international conflicts, robust economy, and comprehensive social systems. The country maintains low crime rates across urban and rural areas, with particularly strong performance in protecting residents and visitors from violent crime.

The Austrian approach to public safety includes visible but non-intrusive policing, strict gun control measures, and effective integration of diverse communities. These factors create an environment where travellers can explore magnificent architecture, world-class museums, and stunning mountain landscapes with confidence.

Switzerland: Precision Safety

Switzerland ties with Austria for fourth place on the peace index, reflecting its long tradition of neutrality and stability. The Swiss commitment to order and security extends from its efficient public transport to its pristine cities and mountain resorts.

Switzerland's safety credentials are built on centuries of political neutrality, strong democratic traditions, and prosperous economic conditions. The country has extremely low crime rates, particularly for violent offences, and maintains a high degree of social cohesion despite its linguistic and cultural diversity.

For travellers, Switzerland offers secure urban environments in cities like Zurich and Geneva, alongside safe access to spectacular Alpine regions. The country's investment in infrastructure, emergency services, and public safety systems ensures visitors can focus on enjoying their experience rather than worrying about security.

Other Notable Safe Destinations

The peace index highlights several other countries that offer excellent safety standards for travellers:

Singapore ranks sixth globally, combining Asian efficiency with strict law enforcement to create one of the world's most secure urban environments. The city-state's comprehensive security measures, low corruption, and orderly society make it an ideal destination for first-time visitors to Asia.

Portugal ranks seventh on the index, offering Mediterranean charm with Western European safety standards. The country's affordable living costs, welcoming culture, and low crime rates have made it increasingly popular with both tourists and expatriates.

Denmark ranks eighth, bringing Scandinavian social cohesion and progressive values to create a secure environment. Copenhagen's bike-friendly streets and relaxed atmosphere reflect a society where trust and safety are deeply embedded.

The Safest Cities in Europe

When considering the safest cities in Europe, the peace index data points to capitals and major centres in the highest-ranking countries. Vienna, Copenhagen, Dublin, Helsinki, and Bern all benefit from their countries' overall peaceful environments whilst adding urban safety measures. These cities combine low crime rates with excellent public services, making them ideal for city breaks.

Why Travel Insurance Remains Important

Whilst these countries offer exceptional safety standards, travel insurance remains a vital consideration for any holiday. As travel insurance expert Ian O'Reilly explains: "Even the safest destinations cannot eliminate all risks. Accidents can happen anywhere, from slipping on cobblestones in Vienna to requiring medical attention after a hiking mishap in New Zealand. Weather can disrupt transport connections, and unexpected illnesses don't respect borders. Comprehensive travel insurance protects you financially when the unexpected occurs, regardless of how peaceful your destination may be."

Travel insurance becomes particularly important for several reasons:

Medical emergencies can occur anywhere. Even in countries with excellent healthcare systems, treatment costs for foreign visitors can be substantial. Ireland, whilst extremely safe, still sees accidents and illnesses affecting tourists, from minor injuries to more serious medical situations requiring hospital care.

Transport disruptions affect even the most organised travel plans. Flight cancellations, missed connections, and lost luggage can occur regardless of your destination's safety rating. Travel insurance helps cover these unexpected costs and arrange alternative travel when needed.

Personal accidents can happen during otherwise safe activities. A twisted ankle whilst exploring Iceland's lava fields, a cycling accident in Amsterdam, or a skiing injury in the Swiss Alps are all possibilities that travel insurance can help address.

Trip cancellations sometimes become necessary due to circumstances beyond your control. Family emergencies, sudden illness before departure, or other unexpected events can force you to change plans, potentially losing significant amounts of money without proper insurance coverage.

Planning Your Safe Travels

The Global Peace Index provides valuable insights into destination safety, but remember that peaceful countries still require sensible precautions. Research your destination, understand local customs, keep valuables secure, and maintain awareness of your surroundings. Register with your embassy if planning extended stays, and keep digital copies of important documents.

Whether you're drawn to Iceland's otherworldly landscapes, New Zealand's adventure opportunities, or Austria's Alpine grandeur, choosing a peaceful destination provides an excellent foundation for a worry-free holiday. Combine that choice with comprehensive travel insurance from Chill, and you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your journey and creating lasting memories.

The world's safest countries offer remarkable experiences without compromising security. From Europe's most peaceful nations to stable democracies across the globe, these destinations prove that safety and adventure can go hand in hand. Just remember that no destination can eliminate all risks, which is why comprehensive travel insurance remains your most important travel companion. Check out our travel insurance checklis for more.

Ready to protect your next adventure? Get a travel insurance quote from Chill Insurance today and travel with confidence, knowing you're covered for whatever comes your way.