destinations

As tensions and wars multiply across various regions of the globe, many travelers now place particular emphasis on safety when choosing their next destination. A new international ranking from the Global Peace Index highlights countries where stability, trust, and quality of life remain exceptionally high. From the North Atlantic to the Swiss Alps, these five nations offer a reassuring environment for both residents and visitors. Here is why they rank among the world’s safest countries in 2026.

Continental countries where safety is part of daily life

Let’s begin with the continental nations. Ranking third, Switzerland climbs two places compared with the previous year. The country benefits from its historical neutrality, low crime rates, and a high level of trust among citizens. Cornelia Choe, based in Geneva, recalls recovering her wallet after losing it twice. “These are small moments, but they leave a lasting impression and create a sense of security that is priceless”, she told the BBC. With cities renowned for their quality of life, lakes, and Alpine peaks, Switzerland offers a particularly stable environment.

Slovenia, on the other hand, makes its entry into the global top five this year. Nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, this small European country attracts with its high level of safety and low military expenditures. Slovenians maintain a close bond with nature, whether in the Julian Alps, the forests that blanket much of the country, or turquoise rivers. “Slovenians attach great importance to community and spend a lot of time in nature, which, I believe, creates in us a sense of calm and stability”, explained Jerneja Zver, head of operations for Eastern Europe at the travel company Intrepid Travel, to the BBC. The capital Ljubljana, often cited among Europe’s most pleasant cities, epitomizes this balance between urban life and green spaces.

Islands that rank among the world’s safest destinations

Heading to island nations. And there, at the top of the Global Peace Index 2026, Iceland once again leads the way. A remarkable record for this Nordic country, which has held the top spot for 19 consecutive years. This island with a population of around 400,000 stands out for a very low crime rate, limited militarization, and strong social cohesion. For Oddný Arnarsdóttir, director of Visit Iceland, this situation is deeply rooted in the local culture. “Peace is all around us in Iceland, in the nature that surrounds us, but it is also a conscious choice anchored in our close-knit communities”, she told the BBC. Between volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal springs, and small villages scattered across spectacular landscapes, the country cultivates a particularly calm pace of life.

The second place is occupied by New Zealand. Located more than 1,500 kilometers from Australia, this island nation benefits from a geographical isolation that shields it from many international frictions. The country also ranks among the least militarized in the world. Warwick Woodley, founder of NZ Golden Visa, argues that this calm is reflected in daily life. “Most people hardly think about it there, which is probably the best indicator that it’s generally not a concern”, he told the BBC. Between the Fiordland fjords, rugged beaches, and the mountains of the South Island, nature is omnipresent and easily accessible.

Ireland completes the top five. The island nation records low violence levels and maintains a long-standing tradition of neutrality on the international stage. For Didi Ronan, founder of Native Hotel in County Cork, this hospitality culture has roots in the country’s history. “Ireland’s historical experience as a nation makes its people particularly aware of the dangers of prejudice and the importance of being generous and welcoming to others”, she told English media. From the Cliffs of Moher to the wilds of Donegal, and the colorful villages along the west coast, Ireland draws travelers seeking authenticity as well as serenity.

Despite their geographic and cultural differences, these five countries share several common traits: robust institutions, a high level of trust among citizens, a strong emphasis on nature, and a high quality of life. These advantages explain why they are today among the safest destinations in the world to travel to in 2026.