Skip to content

Reykjavik city center

Reykjavik city center
© Shutterstock

These are the 15 safest cities in the world

Reise
Reisetipps

Fear is not your travel companion here: stroll through the streets without worry and enjoy the atmosphere - the "Safest Cities Report 2026" reveals which 15 cities in the world make this possible.

Is my bag still there? Will I be run over at the next traffic light? Travelers often ask themselves these questions when they feel unsafe in a vacation destination. The latest "Safest Cities Report 2026 " by US insurer Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has found out which cities do not have fear as a travel companion.

Safety First: the 15 safest cities in the world

The study is based on the experiences of over 1,500 travelers from the USA who were surveyed and who themselves had traveled to the cities evaluated. Among other things, crime rates, healthcare and safety on public transport were assessed.

1st place: Reykjavik - Iceland's quiet capital

Reykjavik tops the ranking for the second time in a row. The Icelandic capital boasts an exceptionally low crime rate, excellent medical care and an open, helpful society. No neighborhood is considered dangerous.
The only uncertainty factor is the volcanic activity on the island. But the city is well prepared for even that.

The top 5 safest cities in the world

2 Copenhagen - Denmark's safe feel-good paradise

Hardly any other metropolis conveys as much serenity as Copenhagen. Violent crime is rare, cyclists dominate the streetscape and sustainable urban planning ensures harmonious coexistence. Safety is a top priority here - unagitated but effective.

3 Zurich - cleanliness, structure and stability

The Swiss financial metropolis is one of the most orderly cities in the world. A high quality of life, political calm and excellent health standards make Zurich a prime example of urban security. The high price level indirectly contributes to the fact that unrest and social conflicts are rare.

4th Amsterdam - Serenity in Dutch

Openness, tolerance and mutual respect characterize the cityscape of Amsterdam. Whether on foot, by bike or by boat - travelers can move around in a relaxed manner here. Violent crime is the exception, and the police have a visible but unobtrusive presence.

5 Honolulu - island idyll with a safety guarantee

Honolulu remains the safest major city in the USA. The Hawaiian capital benefits from a strong social community and efficient disaster protection - for example in the event of storms or volcanic eruptions. Despite the tropical climate and crowds of tourists, the atmosphere here is peaceful and serene.

Safe worldwide: places six to 15

6th Sydney - Relaxed and well prepared

The Australian metropolis is considered one of the most liveable cities in the world. Natural hazards such as bushfires are cushioned by a well-organized emergency system, and the crime rate is low. Sydney's open, friendly mentality makes the city a safe haven for travelers.

7th Barcelona - Back in the top ten

The Catalan capital has significantly improved its security image in recent years. New concepts in tourism management and a stronger police presence are having an impact. Despite millions of visitors every year, travelers today perceive Barcelona as orderly and safe.

8 Lisbon - Sunny serenity and stable structures

Portugal's capital is a newcomer to the ranking - and rightly so. Lisbon scores points for its low crime rate, functioning infrastructure and relaxed pace of life. A plus: the city is lively but not overcrowded.

9th Tokyo - order in perfection

In hardly any other megacity does coexistence work as smoothly as in Tokyo. Violent crime is practically non-existent, and local transportation is considered one of the safest in the world. The Japanese culture of politeness plays a major role in making people feel safe even at night.

10 Dublin - Ireland's warm security

Dublin impresses with its openness and humor - and low crime rates. Hardly any part of the city is considered unsafe, the distances are manageable and visitors quickly become part of the urban lifestyle.

11 Venice - Safety on the canals

Travelers feel at home between gondolas and bridges: serious crime is rare in Venice. Only pickpocketing occurs, especially in tourist areas. The compact structure of the city and the high police presence create a feeling of security.

12th Seoul - Technology meets discipline

South Korea's capital combines innovation with social order. Low crime rates, cleanliness and respect in public spaces make Seoul a safe destination. Only in political discussions is tact required - especially in relation to North Korea.

13 London - Safe world metropolis

Despite its size, the British capital boasts well-functioning security structures and a high police presence. The tourist districts in particular are considered safe. Only the left-hand traffic remains the biggest challenge for many visitors.

14 Singapore - Control as a principle

Singapore is considered one of the best organized cities in the world. The strict laws ensure order and cleanliness - and one of the lowest crime rates in the world. If you stick to the rules, you can travel here completely carefree.

15 San Francisco - Strong infrastructure despite challenges

Although the Californian metropolis is repeatedly in the headlines due to social problems, travelers rate central districts such as Fisherman's Wharf or Nob Hill as safe. Well-developed emergency services and reliable transportation systems help visitors feel that they are in good hands.


The Falstaff Travel Editors
Author
Find out more
1 / 12