Imagine stepping off a plane knowing you can explore freely without constantly looking over your shoulder. The 2025 Global Peace Index reveals a continuing decline in global peacefulness, with many key indicators that precede major conflicts higher than at any time since World War II. As international travel regains momentum in 2025, safety remains a top concern for globetrotters, with not all destinations being equal when it comes to crime and personal security.
Travel decisions in 2025 are increasingly driven by safety considerations rather than just stunning landscapes or cultural attractions. This comprehensive assessment examines multiple factors, including crime rates, political stability, and societal safety, with high-ranking Global Peace Index countries typically being stable and peaceful, making them ideal for travelers. Let’s explore the destinations where you can truly unwind and those that demand extra vigilance.
Iceland: The Unshakeable Peace Champion
Iceland is the safest country in the world for the 16th consecutive year, according to the Global Peace Index. Iceland has a very low level of crime, typically attributed to its high standard of living, small population, strong social attitudes against crime, high level of trust in its well-trained police force, and a lack of tension among social and economic classes, with no military or police who do not carry firearms. In 2021, there was only 1 reported murder in Iceland, reflecting the country’s low crime rate, with the community being highly valued and culture promoting nonviolence.
Singapore: High-Tech Safety Haven
In a Gallup report from 2018, Singapore residents felt the highest sense of personal security and had more positive experiences with law enforcement than did residents of any other country, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world, possibly due to the severe penalties that are issued for even small crimes. Singapore reports one of the lowest intentional homicide rates globally – just 0.2 per 100,000 people, according to the UNODC. Singapore is widely recognized as one of the safest countries in the world due to its exceptionally low crime rate, robust legal system, strict enforcement of laws, world-class healthcare system, efficient public transportation and high standards of cleanliness.
New Zealand: Adventure Without Fear
Like Iceland, New Zealand has a very low crime rate, and violent crime is especially rare, with theft still worth guarding against, especially in tourist areas, but overall risk is minimal. Known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming culture, New Zealand has consistently low crime rates, with relatively low violent crime rates, high levels of public trust in institutions, stable political environment, transparent governance, and strong rule of law. This adventure-lovers’ paradise is celebrated for its safety, hospitable locals, and stunning outdoor experiences, with hiking, bungee jumping, and exploring Hobbiton all on the table in this friendly and secure nation.
Ireland: Celtic Charm With Peace of Mind
Ireland became notably more peaceful in 2021 and has retained the third spot in 2023, with crime being quite low outside of a few city neighborhoods and little threat of cultural violence or terrorism. Besides being a beautiful country, Ireland has always been very safe and super-friendly to visitors and foreign residents, highlighted as a favored destination for foreigners due to its exceptional safety standards. Ireland’s low crime rate and friendly locals make it ideal for travelers, from Dublin’s cultural landmarks to the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way, feeling both safe and enchanting.
Portugal: Southern European Stability
Portugal comes in seventh among the most peaceful countries rankings for 2023, having been ranked 18th globally in 2014 and has since made significant strides, with an increased police presence resulting in a decreased crime rate. Portugal stands out as one of the safest countries in the world thanks to its low crime rates, political stability, and welcoming communities, with violent crime being rare and streets generally safe for both locals and tourists, boasting a high-performing public healthcare system ranked among the best in Southern Europe. Portugal consistently ranks among the best countries for retirement, due in no small part to its high level of safety.
Denmark: Scandinavian Serenity
Ranked second on the 2023 Global Peace Index, Denmark is another one of the safest and happiest countries in the world, being one of the few countries where people report feeling safe at any time of day or night, even children. A safe country to travel and live in, Denmark is characterized by a high degree of political stability, freedom of the press and respect for human rights, also boasting a high level of income equality and frequently ranked as one of the happiest nations in the world. This Scandinavian gem is known for its safety and high quality of life, where visitors can experience Danish culture in Copenhagen or venture to its serene countryside.
Japan: Order and Respect Culture
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, known for its extremely low crime rate and strict law enforcement, with a modern, efficient, and accessible healthcare system, even for tourists, and public transportation that is not only punctual but also incredibly safe, even during late-night hours. With a strong sense of social responsibility and community order, Japan offers a high level of public security and cleanliness that travelers can count on. Known for its clean cities and meticulous order, Japan is extremely safe for tourists, from Tokyo’s vibrant energy to the serene temples in Kyoto, where visitors feel at ease exploring the country’s culture-rich cities.
South Africa: Beautiful But Risky
With a staggering 88.5 sexual assaults per 100,000 population and the highest crime index of 75.4 among analyzed destinations, South Africa demands extra vigilance from travelers. South Africa, with an alarming Travel Danger Score of 76, is top of the list of perilous destinations. High crime rates in South Africa mean being vigilant about personal belongings. Despite its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes, the country’s crime statistics present serious challenges for tourist safety.
Venezuela: Economic Crisis Fuels Danger
At the other end of the spectrum, Venezuela was rated the world’s most dangerous country, with a dismal safety score of 19.3. The capital city of Caracas is a focal point for violent demonstrations, organized crime, robbery, kidnapping, and homicide, with most kidnappings being “express” and lasting less than 48 hours, frequently targeting people leaving hotels, traveling in taxis, or walking in wealthier areas, while tourists are often targeted for robbery or theft. Venezuela’s ongoing economic crisis has led to soaring crime rates, including armed robberies, carjackings, and kidnappings, with political instability, hyperinflation, and a collapsing healthcare system contributing to the risks for travelers who may also face challenges accessing basic necessities like food and water.
Mexico: Paradise With Hidden Perils
The drug war in Mexico is one of the most violent conflicts on the planet with cartel activity permeating through many levels of the Mexican economy and society, with cartel conflicts continuing to drive violence across Mexico, including tourist areas previously less affected, such as Cancun, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta. Surprisingly, some of the actually extremely popular vacation countries, such as Mexico and Turkey, are at the very bottom of the list, with Mexico being an important and increasingly popular vacation destination for many Americans, but ranked just 118th, with the biggest point deduction being the high crime rate in the country. The border regions along with Tierra Caliente, which includes parts of Michoacán, Guerrero, and Mexico states should be avoided, if possible.
The Bottom Line: Smart Travel in 2025
Travelers are increasingly prioritizing safety when choosing destinations, with countries with lower crime rates and high safety, such as Singapore, Japan and Taiwan, tending to be preferred for tourism, making them ideal for tourists looking for a stress-free experience. While countries like Andorra, Japan, and Singapore remain top choices for those seeking peace of mind abroad, the U.S. and U.K.’s lower rankings suggest that perceptions of safety are increasingly shaped by public experiences and media coverage, offering a snapshot of where to go – and where to think twice – when safety is a priority.
The contrast between the safest and most dangerous destinations couldn’t be starker. What strikes me most is how economic stability and social cohesion create environments where tourists can genuinely relax and explore. What do you think matters more when choosing your next destination: incredible sights or genuine peace of mind?