Travel fearlessly: the Top 10 safest countries to visit in 2026 revealed
The Netherlands is regarded as a safe and welcoming destination for travellers from diverse backgrounds.
Image: Unsplash
Safety has become one of the strongest drivers of destination choice for travellers.
As the world continues navigating uncertainties, travellers are increasingly prioritising secure environments where they can explore without fear.
According to Tranxits, countries consistently ranked among the world’s safest share common strengths: low violent crime, political stability, efficient emergency response systems and high-quality healthcare.
For travellers, these destinations offer peace of mind, whether walking city streets late at night, using public transport, or exploring remote natural landscapes.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or as part of a group, these countries also offer a blend of safety, culture, and adventure for travellers, allowing you to explore the world with peace of mind.
If you're looking for an unforgettable experience without compromising on safety, here are some of the safest countries you can visit in 2026:
A welcoming haven for diverse travellers: Netherlands
The Netherlands is renowned for its low violent crime rates, strong healthcare system, political stability, and inclusive environment for diverse travellers, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of colour.
The country boasts excellent infrastructure, but visitors should remain vigilant against petty theft, particularly pickpocketing in crowded areas and be cautious around fast-moving cyclists and canals.
The Netherlands has very low rates of murder and violent crime, contributing to an overall sense of security.
A land of safety and natural wonders: Australia
Australia is another safe travel destination, characterised by its stable democracy, low violent crime rates, and friendly locals.
It consistently ranks high on global peace and safety indexes, making it welcoming for solo and diverse travellers. However, standard precautions against petty crime and environmental factors, such as sun safety and wildlife awareness, are still necessary.
Australia also ranks as one of the world's most peaceful countries, and Australians are known for their hospitality, making it a great destination for solo travellers.
With its welcoming atmosphere and abundance of child-friendly attractions, Austria is perfect for a family holiday.
Image: Unsplash
Family-friendly and peaceful: Austria
Austria is a safe destination due to its low violent crime rates, high standard of living, and political stability.
Vienna is well-policed and family-friendly, and it is often ranked among the world’s safest large cities.
The country benefits from stable governance and low internal conflict, although visitors should guard against petty theft in crowded areas and remain vigilant about general European terrorism threats.
Austria’s welcoming environment and child-friendly attractions make it ideal for families.
Nature’s beauty and low crime rates: Iceland
Iceland is often cited as one of the safest countries globally, thanks to its extremely low crime rates and high social trust.
The country consistently ranks as one of the most peaceful nations, although visitors must respect nature and follow safety guidelines for unpredictable weather and volcanic activity. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is minimal. There is a strong sense of community, meaning that locals look out for each other.
When exploring the country, visitors should stay on marked trails and check weather forecasts to avoid hazards.
A secure environment with stunning landscapes: Canada
Canada is considered a safe place to visit due to its low violent crime rates, political stability, and reliable healthcare system.
The country offers peace of mind to tourists, though visitors should remain aware of natural hazards, particularly wildlife in remote areas. It also boasts secure transport systems and robust emergency services, making it safer to navigate for tourists.
Community spirit and safety combined: New Zealand
New Zealand is celebrated for its low crime rates and strong sense of community. The country ranks highly on global peace indexes, making it a safe destination for visitors.
However, travellers should still be cautious about petty theft in tourist areas and be mindful of potentially tricky driving conditions.
New Zealanders are also known for their welcoming nature, while the absence of dangerous native animals contributes to its overall perceived safety.
New Zealand, widely recognised as the adventure capital of the world, consistently achieves a high ranking on global peace indexes.
Image: Unsplash
Strict laws and high security: United Arab Emirates
The UAE is considered very safe due to its low crime rates, strict laws, and high police presence. Its commitment to security, rapid emergency response and modern infrastructure provides significant peace of mind for tourists.
However, visitors must respect local customs and be aware of the region's laws.
Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is minimal as the country's zero-tolerance policy for crime was designed to ensure a safe environment.
Order and efficiency in a scenic setting: Switzerland
Switzerland is known for its very low violent crime rates and strict rule of law.
The country’s political stability and excellent infrastructure contribute to a culture that values peace and order, although petty theft can occur in tourist areas. It also offers top-notch public transport and healthcare.
A well-educated population and a robust social safety net contribute to overall safety.
The perceived safety of visiting Japan is partly attributed to the country's rich cultural heritage.
Image: Unsplash
Cultural respect and low crime: Japan
Japan is a safe destination characterised by extremely low violent crime and a strong cultural emphasis on respect and order.
The country has excellent public transport and well-maintained infrastructure, allowing tourists to feel secure even at night. It boasts very low rates of theft and robbery.
The country also has robust systems in place for natural disasters. Japan's collectivist culture fosters trust and results in reduced criminal activity.
Hospitality and safety for all: Ireland
Ireland is considered a very safe country for tourists, thanks to its low violent crime rates and friendly locals.
The country’s strong community policing and high rankings on global peace indexes further enhance its appeal, especially for solo travellers.
The hospitality of the Irish people makes visitors feel welcome, while community policing fosters trust and safety.