Published on
October 18, 2025
Travel safety continues to be a high priority for many people, and as we look ahead to 2026, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s (BHTP) latest annual State of Travel Insurance (SOTI) report identifies the three safest destinations for international travellers. According to the report, the three safest countries to visit in 2026 are the Netherlands, Australia, and Austria. The three safest cities in the world are Reykjavik, Copenhagen, and Zurich.
As the world continues to navigate travel uncertainties, the new rankings serve as a valuable guide for those seeking secure and enjoyable travel experiences. BHTP’s comprehensive analysis factors in a variety of crucial elements, including health risks, crime rates, and political stability, providing a holistic view of travel safety.
Top Safest Countries to Visit in 2026NetherlandsAustraliaAustriaIcelandCanadaNew ZealandUnited Arab EmiratesSwitzerlandJapanIrelandBelgiumPortugalFranceUnited KingdomDenmark
One of the standout shifts in the rankings is the Netherlands’ dramatic rise to the top position, moving from 14th place the previous year. This surge underscores the country’s well-established reputation for healthcare quality, low crime rates, and welcoming environment for international tourists. Notably, Austria enters the top 10 for the first time, further enhancing the appeal of Central European destinations.
Notable Trends in Travel Safety
The findings reveal interesting trends in the global landscape of travel safety:
Emerging Regions: The United Arab Emirates has gained recognition as one of the safest countries to visit, moving up significantly in the rankings. The country’s modern infrastructure and robust security measures have contributed to this rise.Established Safety Standards: Countries like Iceland, Canada, and New Zealand continue to dominate, maintaining consistent rankings year after year due to their exceptional safety records and well-developed emergency response systems.Safe European Destinations: Austria’s debut in the top 10 and consistent performers like Switzerland and Germany highlight the importance of safety in European travel. These nations are widely recognised for their stable political environments and safe urban spaces.Top Safest Cities for 2026ReykjavikCopenhagenZurichAmsterdamHonoluluSydneyBarcelonaLisbonTokyoDublinVeniceSeoulLondonSingaporeSan Francisco
Reykjavik, Iceland, retains its position as the safest city for the second consecutive year, followed by Copenhagen and Zurich, both offering travellers an ideal blend of safety, culture, and modern amenities. Notably, Honolulu (USA) has seen a significant improvement, ranking 5th due to its well-regulated tourism industry and low crime rate.
Methodology and Ranking Process
BHTP’s report compiles traveller feedback from a large sample of American travellers who rated the safety of countries and cities they visited within the last five years. The safety score is then calculated based on several factors:
Health Risk: Availability and quality of healthcare, along with how prepared a destination is to handle public health issues.Crime Rate: Assessment of violent and property crimes, including incidents that affect tourists.Terrorism Threat: Analysis of risks from terrorism and political instability in a region.Safety for Underrepresented Groups: Consideration of how safe the destination is for diverse groups, including women and LGBTQIA+ travellers.Natural Hazards: Exposure to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods.
This comprehensive approach ensures that the rankings are well-rounded, taking into account both perceived safety and actual risks that travellers might face. Data from sources like Numbeo, Global Peace Index, and GeoSure Global complement the traveller feedback, further enhancing the accuracy of the results.
Planning Safe and Enjoyable Trips in 2026
As travel resumes and travellers look to explore new destinations, ensuring safety is key. The BHTP Safest Destinations report provides valuable insights, ranking the Netherlands, Australia, and Austria as the safest countries to visit in 2026. The cities of Reykjavik, Copenhagen, and Zurich also stand out as secure, welcoming urban spaces for international visitors.
Whether you are enticed by the stunning beauty of nature in Iceland, the history and culture of Portugal, or a vibrant city such as Tokyo, each of these destinations provides tranquillity of mind while facilitating unforgettable travel experiences. As the international traveller prepares for 2026, this report is a valuable resource for the traveller seeking safety without sacrificing the thrill and joy of travel.
