15 Safest Countries for Travel in 2026, According to Risk Assessments

When you start mapping out travel plans for 2026, one question always comes up first: where can you go and actually feel secure the whole time? Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection pulled together its latest risk assessment for travelers, blending direct feedback from thousands of Americans who visited these spots in recent years with hard data from the Global Peace Index, crime indexes, and city-level safety scores. The result is a clear picture of 15 countries that stand out for low threats, solid infrastructure, and that everyday sense of calm. These rankings factor in violent crime, terrorism concerns, healthcare reliability, and how safe people from all backgrounds report feeling. What emerges is a group of places where stability holds steady year after year.

Netherlands

The Netherlands claimed the top position this year after a big jump in the standings. Travelers who have been there give it especially high marks for health protocols and general security that make daily life feel effortless. Cities such as The Hague and Eindhoven land among the safest anywhere when you look at crime data, so you move around without second-guessing basic things like walking at night or using public transit.

Beyond the numbers, the country earns praise for how inclusive the environment feels. Female travelers consistently rate their experiences as positive and worry-free. That combination of low crime, reliable systems, and genuine openness is exactly why it rose so far in the latest assessments.

Australia

Australia holds strong in second place, thanks in large part to its leadership in health measures and protection against terrorism risks. Strict biosecurity rules, effective gun control, and a stable political setup keep threats low while giving travelers confidence in emergency services. You benefit from infrastructure built to handle vast distances without cutting corners on safety.

Survey responses highlight how these elements translate into real peace of mind. Whether you are exploring cities or heading into more remote areas, the data shows consistent low crime rates and quick response times that set it apart from many other destinations.

Austria

Austria made a strong debut in the top three, backed by its high standing on global peace metrics and solid crime rankings. The country combines efficient public systems with low levels of unrest, so everyday travel flows smoothly. You encounter reliable transportation networks and healthcare that travelers rate among the best for accessibility and quality.

What stands out in feedback is the overall sense of order without feeling restrictive. This balance appeals to people looking for cultural depth paired with the assurance that minor issues rarely escalate into bigger problems.

Iceland

Iceland remains a benchmark for peacefulness even after slipping one spot. It continues to lead in global indexes measuring societal safety and minimal militarization. Low population density and strong community trust mean violent incidents stay rare, letting you focus on natural wonders instead of security concerns.

Travelers note the reliable emergency services and transparent government approach that add layers of reassurance. These factors keep the country in the upper tier year after year, even when natural events like volcanic activity enter the picture.

Canada

Canada delivers consistent safety through low crime rates, advanced counterterrorism steps, and universal healthcare access. It ranks near the top for North America on peace indexes, and its transportation systems earn high marks from those who have used them. You experience a diverse society where inclusivity supports comfort for all traveler groups.

Feedback from recent visitors emphasizes how these strengths create an environment where plans unfold without unexpected disruptions. The combination of economic stability and responsive law enforcement reinforces that reputation across regions.

New Zealand

New Zealand stays reliable in the middle of the pack with its strong peace index score and super-safe city ratings. Minimal violent crime and effective health systems give travelers breathing room to enjoy outdoor activities or urban exploration alike. You encounter policies that prioritize long-term stability over short-term fixes.

Survey data shows travelers appreciate the low threat levels and welcoming atmosphere that extend to people from varied backgrounds. That steady performance across categories keeps it a favorite for those seeking both adventure and security.

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates climbed significantly this year, driven by impressive city safety scores in major hubs like Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Low violent crime rates and modern infrastructure support a reputation built over time through focused development. You benefit from efficient policing and healthcare options that align well with international standards.

Recent assessments highlight how these improvements translate into higher confidence levels among visitors. The country now stands out for balancing rapid growth with measurable safety gains that travelers notice immediately.

Switzerland

Switzerland keeps its place among the leaders through high safety scores in multiple cities and a top-tier peace ranking. Precise infrastructure and low instability create conditions where travel feels predictable and low-stress. You rely on transportation and emergency services that consistently perform at high levels.

Data from traveler surveys points to strong results in terrorism prevention and overall order. These elements combine to maintain the country’s long-standing appeal for people who value precision and calm in their trips.

Japan

Japan earns its ranking despite higher population density, thanks to exceptional low crime rates and efficient systems. It scores well on peace indexes and city safety data, so you navigate crowded spaces with minimal concern. Transportation networks and public order stand out as particular strengths in the assessments.

Visitors report feeling secure even in busy urban centers, with quick responses to any issues. The cultural emphasis on respect and preparedness adds another layer that shows up clearly in the latest risk evaluations.

Ireland

Ireland holds steady with its high global peace standing and low rates of firearms ownership or unrest. The country performs especially well for certain traveler groups, including women visitors. You find healthcare and transportation that support relaxed exploration across cities and countryside alike.

Recent feedback underscores the stable environment that allows focus on experiences rather than risks. These qualities keep Ireland in the conversation for safe European destinations year after year.

Belgium

Belgium rose notably in the rankings, showing strong safety perceptions despite relaxed firearms laws. High survey scores reflect low violent crime and reliable daily operations. You encounter a setup where public spaces remain accessible and low-threat for people from all backgrounds.

The data points to effective management of potential issues, which travelers credit for the country’s improved standing. This progress highlights how targeted efforts can shift perceptions quickly.

Portugal

Portugal maintains its position through solid peace metrics and positive marks for transportation and crime prevention. The country balances tourism growth with safety measures that keep incidents rare. You benefit from healthcare systems and policing that earn consistent approval in traveler reports.

Assessments note the steady performance across categories, making it a dependable choice for those seeking European charm without added worries. Low unrest levels support that reputation effectively.

France

France improved its standing with low violent crime rates and strong transportation safety. Healthcare access and overall stability contribute to higher confidence among visitors. You experience a destination where major cities and rural areas both rate well on inclusivity metrics.

Survey responses emphasize practical advantages that reduce common travel stresses. These factors help explain the country’s upward movement in the latest evaluation.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom earns marks for health safety and low homicide rates alongside safe neighborhood scores. Traveler feedback highlights reliable services and an environment where different groups report feeling secure. You navigate public areas with the assurance that systems respond effectively when needed.

Consistent data across indexes reinforces its place in the list. The combination supports broad appeal for short or extended stays.

Denmark

Denmark closes out the list with high praise for safety among women travelers. It ranks near the top on crime indexes and benefits from strong social trust. You encounter low threat levels paired with efficient public services that make movement straightforward.

The latest assessments capture how these strengths create an inviting atmosphere overall. That inclusivity focus helps explain its enduring presence among the safest options.