8 Safest Countries in Europe in 2025
1. Iceland
Safety Score: 1.095- Capital City: Reykjavík
- Global Passport Index ranking: 25
Safety Score: 1.095Since 2008, Iceland, a Nordic island nation, has held the highest position in the Global Peace Index. It is recognized as one of the world’s happiest, safest countries and where citizens feel the most content. Iceland sets itself apart as the sole member of NATO without a standing army, navy, or air force. The nation’s low crime rates and minimal corruption showcase its strong economic and political stability.
Iceland, which ranked third on the latest Women, Peace, and Security Index, is also one of the safest countries for women to travel alone.
Community bonds run deep in Iceland, with an impressive 98 percent of Icelanders reporting that they have a dependable support system in times of need. Petty crime rates and registered criminal offenses are low because, in such closely-knit communities, the bonds between individuals are strong, allowing for collective action during challenging times.
This nation showcases a high level of development and holds a prestigious position as the third-ranked country on the UN’s Human Development Index. Additionally, it holds the impressive title of being the third happiest nation in the world, as per the World Happiness Report. Considering metrics such as human development, happiness, healthcare, education, and law and order, Iceland emerges as a valid choice for the safest country in Europe.
2. Ireland
Safety Score: 1.26- Capital City: Dublin
- Global Passport Index ranking: 7
Safety Score: 1.26Year after year, Ireland draws millions of entrepreneurs, investors, international students, and tourists enticed by its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, hospitable citizens, business-savvy atmosphere, quality education, and workforce known for its expertise. It also stands for having one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe.
Ireland epitomizes a global standard of excellence. It holds the remarkable distinction of being ranked second in the Global Peace Index, affirming its status as one of the most peaceful countries on Earth. Furthermore, the country is eighth on the UN’s Human Development Index.
The nation is also one of the safest European countries to visit in 2025, ranking among the top twenty on the Women’s Peace and Security Index. And many foreigners praise it for being the safest country in Europe for international students.
Besides being a beautiful country, Ireland has always been very safe and super-friendly to visitors and foreign residents. Due to its exceptional safety standards, Ireland is highlighted as a favored destination for foreigners. Moreover, its historical connection to the United States makes it one of the best European countries for American tourists.
3. Austria
- Safety Score: 1.294
- Capital City: Vienna
- Global Passport Index ranking: 15
The landlocked country of Austria has a very profound reason for why it’s among the safest countries in Europe. The 1955 Austrian State Treaty, also known as the Austrian Independence Treaty, was crucial in establishing Austria as a safe country.
This treaty marked the end of the Allied occupation of Austria and its transition to full sovereignty. It ensured that Austria remained a permanently neutral country, meaning it would not partake in military alliances or join conflicts.
This neutrality clause from the treaty has had profound implications for Austria’s safety. By not aligning with any military blocs or engaging in military conflicts, Austria avoids the security risks associated with involvement in international disputes. This has contributed significantly to Austria’s reputation as a secure and peaceful country and one of the safest in Europe. Therefore, its position in third place on the GPI is well-earned.
4. Switzerland
- Safety Score: 1,294
- Capital City: Bern
- Global Passport Index ranking: 4
Safety Score: 1,294An obvious candidate for one of the safest European countries, Switzerland is famous worldwide for all the right reasons. It is one of the world’s oldest, politically stable, and economically prosperous nations. With its stellar banking and privacy laws, it is the favored choice for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals. It is also rated as the country with the lowest crime rate in Europe.
As one of the safest countries for banking, Switzerland has several entries in the top 10 safest banks in Europe. The policy of neutrality has played a critical role in maintaining Switzerland’s safety, stability, and distance from violence. The Swiss have long experienced a peaceful environment, free from the threat of war or turmoil.
On the Global Passport Index, Switzerland ranks fourth because of its high investment category scores, making it a top destination for global investors.
5. Portugal
Safety Score: 1.371- Capital City: Lisbon
- Global Passport Index ranking: 24
Safety Score: 1.371If you’ve followed along until now, you may have noticed a trend between safety and countries with a colder climate; however, that’s not the case, and Portugal is a testament to that. So, is Portugal safe? Yes. The country ranks seventh among European countries on the Global Peace Index.
Portugal’s safety was largely attributed to its very low crime rate and political neutrality. As a great tourist destination and one of the safest and cheapest places, the country attracts many tourists worldwide.
In addition to being one of Europe’s safest countries, it’s one of the friendliest in the world toward foreign nationals, making it one of the safest European countries to study abroad. The Portuguese government has welcomed thousands of foreign nationals through the Portugal Golden Visa program. As per the Global Passport Index, the country is worth highlighting because it has shown improvements in investment prospects, which reflect a global shift in economic policies and mobility trends.
Our Portugal immigration guide shows you how you can relocate to an European country that is consistently ranked as one of the safest in the world.
6. Denmark
Safety Score: 1.393- Capital City: Copenhagen
- Global Passport Index ranking: 8
Safety Score: 1.393Scandinavian nations have consistently led rankings as the safest countries in Europe and worldwide. Scandinavian countries consistently secure the top ten positions across various metrics like quality of life, education, healthcare, safety, and overall happiness.
The Global Peace Index ranks Denmark among the eight safest countries in the world, and the Women Peace and Security Index ranks it fourth due to its low crime rates, highly satisfied population, and extremely low danger rating.
It also ranks within the top twenty in the Safety Perception Index, which indicates that citizens and residents feel secure in five key domains: health, violence, workplace, personal security, and environment.
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is famous for its medieval castles, the iconic Little Mermaid Statue, and its overall charm. It is known for being one of the safest cities in Europe, ranking eighth in the world on the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Safe Cities Index (SCI).
7. Slovenia
- Safety Score: 1.42
- Capital City: Ljubljana
- Global Passport Index ranking: 36
Safety Score: 1.42Slovenia asserts itself as one of the safest countries in Europe and globally, excelling in all three critical aspects – security, medical safety, and road security.
Hidden in a diverse EU region, Slovenia stands out for its scenic beauty and charm, which often go unnoticed. Despite its rugged terrain, the country is a safe and welcoming destination for all visitors. The capital city, Ljubljana, was named the Green Capital of Europe in 2016, thanks to its car-free city center, abundant green spaces, and eco-friendly initiatives promoting sustainability.
8. Finland
- Safety Score: 1.474
- Capital City: Helsinki
- Global Passport Index ranking: 3
Safety Score: 1.474Scandinavian countries have an overall strong reputation for being safe with some of the lowest crime rates in Europe and great social welfare systems. However, even among Scandinavian countries, Finland stands out. Finland’s education system is amongst the world’s finest and is free at all levels.
The exceptional social welfare system, close-knit communities, and high living standards have consistently propelled it to achieve the highest happiness levels worldwide, year after year.
Additionally, Finland offers a secure environment as one of the safest countries for women, claiming the fourth position (out of 177 total) on the latest Women Peace and Security Index. For women who have always wanted to see the northern lights, this provides significant comfort and peace of mind regarding their personal safety.
The nation ranks within the top twenty countries in the Global Peace Index, Human Development Index, and Safety Perception Index, further showing its commitment to safety and well-being. The country has also proven to have one of the most powerful passports, with its third-place ranking on the Global Passport Index.
How the Safest Countries in Europe are Ranked in 2025
The safest countries in the world are ranked using key global safety indicators such as the Global Peace Index (GPI) and national safety scores. The GPI, published by the Institute for Economics and Peace, measures peace levels across 163 countries based on crime rates, political stability, conflict, and weapon access.
Safety scores further reflect public perceptions of security, derived from crime statistics, political risk assessments, and resident experiences. These tools help identify where is the safest place to live in the world or which country has the lowest crime rate.
For a broader perspective, the Global Citizen Solutions Global Passport Index evaluates countries based on mobility, lifestyle, and investment appeal, especially useful for expats and long-term travelers. Many of the safest countries also rank highly in passport strength and quality of life.
Explore Residency by Investment programs that offer a secure path to long-term residence in some of the most stable, peaceful nations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Safest Countries in Europe
What criteria determine the safest countries in the world?
The safest countries in the world are ranked based on a combination of crime rates, political stability, military involvement, access to weapons, and public safety measures.
Rankings from the Global Peace Index (GPI), Safety Perception Index, and national crime statistics are commonly used to assess overall safety.
Which country has the lowest violent crime rate in the world?
Iceland consistently records the lowest violent crime rate globally, with near-zero incidents of murder, assault, or armed robbery. Its high levels of community trust and lack of military forces contribute to its peaceful reputation.
Are the safest countries also the best for expats or digital nomads?
Yes, many of the safest countries, like Portugal, New Zealand, and Singapore, are also top destinations for expats and digital nomads.
They combine personal security with access to healthcare, digital infrastructure, and streamlined immigration pathways such as digital nomad visas or residency by investment.
Do the safest countries have strong gun control laws?
Most of the top-ranked safest countries, such as Japan, Singapore, and Switzerland, enforce strict gun ownership laws. These regulations are closely linked to lower rates of gun violence and contribute to higher safety index scores.
Where is the safest place to live in the world in 2025?
As of 2025, Iceland is widely regarded as the safest place to live in the world due to its low crime, minimal corruption, political neutrality, and strong social services.
Which European country is safest for women traveling alone?
Finland, Denmark, and Portugal are consistently ranked among the safest countries for women, offering low levels of harassment, high gender equality, and secure public infrastructure.
Are natural disasters considered in safety rankings?
Yes. Some safety indexes evaluate countries based on natural disaster risk, emergency preparedness, and infrastructure resilience.
Countries like Switzerland and New Zealand rank highly due to strong disaster response systems and building codes.
What is the safest country in Asia in 2025?
Singapore holds the title of the safest Asian country in 2025. It ranks #6 globally on the Global Peace Index due to ultra-low crime, political stability, and a robust legal system.
Do the safest countries have universal healthcare systems?
Many of the safest countries, like Denmark, Portugal, and Austria, offer universal healthcare, which contributes to societal stability and public trust in institutions, both key indicators in safety rankings.
Where does the United States rank in terms of global safety?
The United States does not appear in the top 10 or even top 20 of the Global Peace Index. Its lower ranking is due to factors such as higher crime rates, firearm prevalence, and political polarization.
