Amid global crises and geopolitical tensions, safety is becoming an increasingly important factor for many travellers. A recent analysis reveals which countries are currently considered the most peaceful and safest destinations in the world.
Relaxed travel without security concerns – for many holidaymakers, this is a key criterion when choosing a destination. The newly released Global Peace Index provides valuable guidance by ranking countries around the world according to their levels of peace and safety. And while the world may not be at its calmest at the moment, there is still a wide range of beautiful and secure destinations to choose from.
The index is published by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). Its analysis takes into account factors such as internal and external conflicts, crime rates, terrorist activity and violent demonstrations. International relations and a country’s level of militarisation are also considered. While the 2026 report notes a deterioration in global peace due to ongoing crises and military conflicts, it also highlights numerous destinations that continue to offer a high degree of safety for travellers.
At the top of the ranking is Iceland, which has become an increasingly popular travel destination in recent years. Volcanoes, glaciers, rugged coastlines and a small population define the island nation in the North Atlantic. Around one-third of the country’s approximately 366,000 inhabitants live in Reykjavík, the world’s northernmost capital city, whose name refers to the region’s steaming hot springs.
Nature is not merely a backdrop here – it shapes everyday life. Geothermal energy plays a central role and provides Iceland with sustainable power, from heated homes to greenhouses where vegetables are grown even under Arctic conditions.
For many travellers, the South Pacific island nation represents the “end of the world” – and at the same time one of the most spectacular nature destinations on Earth. New Zealand combines glaciers, fjords, volcanoes, rainforests and long sandy beaches within a relatively compact area and has become one of the world’s most iconic travel destinations since the filming of The Lord of the Rings.
The South Island is particularly renowned for dramatic landscapes such as Milford Sound and the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, while the North Island attracts visitors with its milder climate, lush vegetation and cities such as Auckland. Māori culture also continues to play an important role in shaping the country and can be experienced throughout New Zealand.
Switzerland ranks third, improving from fifth place in the previous year’s index. In addition to spectacular outdoor experiences such as hiking through gorges and mountain excursions, the country offers culturally diverse cities including Zurich, as well as smaller destinations full of character and charm.
At the same time, Switzerland is increasingly promoting a more conscious approach to tourism and has launched campaigns aimed at improving the relationship between visitors and local communities.
