As we look toward a new year, we also look toward a fresh list of places to add to the travel wish list. Narrowing the options down, however, can be a bit challenging. Safety is often one of the top qualifications for desirable travel destinations, especially for solo travelers—who are gaining in numbers. According to a travel survey released by Booking.com earlier this year, 59 percent of travelers planned to take a solo trip in 2024.
For those plotting their 2025 getaways, whether you plan to go alone or with a group, travel insurance provider Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection last month released its 10th annual ranking of the world’s safest countries and of the world’s safest cities. These supersafe destinations may lend you some confidence and inspire a decision on where to go in 2025.
To determine the rankings, Berkshire Hathaway analyzed responses from more than 1,500 American travelers, along with third-party data sources to evaluate concerns such as terrorism, weather emergencies, health measures, and the safety of underrepresented groups. The Berkshire Hathaway rankings also take into account data and information sourced from the Global Peace Index, Numbeo, and GeoSure Global scores for major cities in each country, among other sources.
The No. 1 country in the world for travel safety
In 2024, Iceland, in Northern Europe, is the No. 1 country for safety. Ranked as the most peaceful country in the world by the 2024 Global Peace Index, Iceland has a reputation for its low crime rates, strong education and social services systems, and “virtually non-existent tension among the economic classes,” according to the Global Peace Index. The one thing visitors need to watch out for is volcanoes, which can and do erupt, often somewhat unpredictably.
The No. 1 city in the world for travel safety
Not only did Iceland rank as the world’s safest country, but its capital, Reykjavík, secured the top spot for safest cities in the world. Surrounded by the sea, otherworldly landscapes, and natural hot springs, Reykjavík doesn’t exactly need a boost when it comes to luring travelers, but having the highest safety rating certainly doesn’t hurt. The city attributes its safety reputation to being a low-key, easygoing place.
The 15 safest countries in the world
- Iceland
- Australia
- Canada
- Ireland
- Switzerland
- New Zealand
- Germany
- Norway
- Japan
- Denmark
- Portugal
- Spain
- United Kingdom
- Netherlands
- Sweden
Australia landed in second place for the safest countries in the world, up from 10th place last year. Australia’s remote location and lower crime rates contribute to its high safety ranking. The main thing to look out for in Australia is a wide range of wildlife that is, well, wild, including crocodiles, sharks, insects, and snakes, around which visitors should remain vigilant.
The third safest country in the world is Canada, which topped last year’s list. Canada is hailed for its diversity, inclusivity, and low crime rate. This only enhances its legendary travel offerings, from fabulous multicultural cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver to remarkable natural beauty in national parks like Jasper, Banff, and Prince Edward Island.
The 15 safest cities in the world
- Reykjavík
- Copenhagen
- Amsterdam
- Tokyo
- Sydney
- Montreal
- Seoul
- Singapore
- Berlin
- Hong Kong
- Venice
- London
- Honolulu
- Dubai
- Barcelona
It makes sense that Copenhagen came in as the second safest city in the world, considering that Denmark ranks as the second most peaceful country in the world, according to the 2024 Global Peace Index. Family-friendly, and with a low crime rate, Copenhagen provides travelers peace of mind, in addition to rich culture, gastronomy, and architectural beauty. And it ranks No. 2 on the Economist Intelligence Unit’s annual ranking of the world’s most livable cities.
Rounding out the top three is Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, which is known for its strong biking culture and progressive society.
This story was originally published in January 2024 and was updated on November 6, 2024, to include current information.
