When planning a trip abroad, nothing beats the comfort of knowing you're headed somewhere safe. And if you're looking for ultimate peace of mind, you might want to consider heading to Reykjavik, Iceland—recently ranked as the safest city on the planet for travelers.

The ranking comes from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, whose latest annual safety index, shared with Travel + Leisure, places Reykjavik firmly at the top. The study found that every neighborhood in Reykjavik is considered exceptionally safe, a rare distinction in today's complex travel landscape.

Carol Mueller, head of marketing at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, emphasized how safety is shaping modern travel decisions. “With so much uncertainty across the globe, travelers are being more selective than ever. This report helps people plan with confidence,” she explained in a statement.

What Makes Reykjavik So Safe?

Besides its stunning Arctic landscapes and rich Viking history, Reykjavik has a reputation for being incredibly traveler-friendly. Locals are known for their welcoming nature, the crime rate is impressively low, and public spaces feel secure—whether you're out exploring during the day or strolling under the Northern Lights at night.

That said, there’s one thing you should keep an eye on: volcanic activity. While Reykjavik itself is calm and orderly, Iceland sits atop a geologically active hotspot. Travelers are encouraged to stay updated on local advisories, though disruptions are rare and well-managed.

Copenhagen Returns to the No. 2 Spot

Right behind Reykjavik is Copenhagen, Denmark’s effortlessly stylish capital. According to the report, Copenhagen boasts a slightly more cosmopolitan vibe but retains a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Locals ride bikes more than they drive, and crime is minimal—though there is one caveat.

Tourists are advised to be cautious in Freetown Christiania, an autonomous neighborhood known for its alternative culture. Photography is frowned upon, and there have been instances of petty crime when visitors ignored the rules. Still, this quirky area is just a tiny pocket of an otherwise incredibly safe city.

Zurich Makes a Strong Return

Snagging third place is Zurich, Switzerland, which didn’t even appear in last year’s top 15 but has made a big comeback. This clean, efficient, and beautifully maintained city is known for more than just its banks and chocolate—its streets are among the safest in Europe.

Zurich offers a peaceful atmosphere, reliable public transport, and some of the world’s best healthcare, making it ideal for travelers seeking both luxury and security.

Photo: unsplash.com/@justmejuliee

Amsterdam and Honolulu Complete the Top 5

Amsterdam, with its charming canals and artistic soul, took the fourth spot. While known for its liberal policies and vibrant nightlife, the city maintains high standards of public safety and inclusivity. It's a great destination for solo travelers, especially women and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Meanwhile, Honolulu climbed impressively from 13th to 5th place this year. The Hawaiian capital earned praise for its remote location, low car ownership rates, and laid-back island lifestyle. While natural elements like waves and wildlife are always a consideration, crime in the city is notably low.

Which Countries Feel the Safest Overall?

When asked about entire countries, travelers ranked the Netherlands as the safest nation in the world. Australia came in second, followed closely by Austria. These rankings were based on how travelers perceived the safety of everything from urban areas and transportation systems to healthcare and inclusivity.

How Was the Safety Ranking Determined?

Berkshire Hathaway surveyed frequent travelers from the United States and asked them about their experiences and perceptions across several categories:

Risk of violent crime

Threat of terrorism

Transportation safety (airports, taxis, public transport)

Access to healthcare

Safety for women

Inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community

Experiences of people of color

These insights were then compiled to produce a well-rounded view of what makes a city "safe" for tourists.

Top 15 Safest Cities in the World for Travelers (2026 Edition)

1. Reykjavik, Iceland
2. Copenhagen, Denmark
3. Zurich, Switzerland
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
5. Honolulu, USA
6. Sydney, Australia
7. Barcelona, Spain
8. Lisbon, Portugal
9. Tokyo, Japan
10. Dublin, Ireland
11. Venice, Italy
12. Seoul, South Korea
13. London, UK
14. Singapore
15. San Francisco, USA

Whether you're planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, these cities offer not only amazing sights and experiences—but also a sense of safety that allows you to truly relax and enjoy your journey.