Netherlands Ranked Safest Travel Destination for 2026, Overtaking Iceland

The Netherlands has officially claimed the top spot on the list of the world’s safest places to travel for 2026, according to a new report by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection. This marks an impressive rise for the European country, which jumped from 14th place last year to bump Iceland from its long-held position at the top.

How the Rankings Are Decided

The Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection report blends the personal experiences of thousands of American travelers with hard data from global safety indexes like the Global Peace Index, Numbeo’s crime statistics, and GeoSure Global safety scores. It looks at various factors such as violent crime rates, terrorism risks, health hazards, and even how safe travelers feel based on their experiences—taking into account everything from street crime to how well cities are equipped to handle emergencies.

Why the Netherlands is #1

The Netherlands’ rapid climb to the top of the rankings is no surprise, given the country’s long-standing reputation for safety, stability, and high-quality healthcare. Several key factors played into its rise:

• Peaceful Society: The Netherlands has long been known for its political stability and peaceful environment. It ranks highly on the Global Peace Index, reflecting the nation’s commitment to maintaining safety both for locals and tourists.
• Top-tier Healthcare: The Netherlands’ healthcare system is one of the best in Europe. Travelers feel confident knowing they have access to high-quality medical care if needed.
• Inclusive Safety: The Netherlands stands out for its focus on inclusivity, scoring exceptionally well for LGBTQIA+ travelers, women, and people of color. This inclusive environment has made it a top choice for those seeking a safe and welcoming destination.
• Safety in Major Cities: Cities like Amsterdam are known not only for their rich history and vibrant culture but also for their low crime rates, making them a top destination for tourists seeking peace of mind.

Other Top Countries on the List

Following the Netherlands, the top five safest destinations in 2026 include:

1. Australia: Known for its laid-back atmosphere, low crime rates, and excellent healthcare, Australia remains a favorite for safe travel.
2. Austria: A new addition to the top three, Austria’s strong infrastructure, political stability, and low crime rates helped it secure this high position.
3. Iceland: While it dropped from the top spot, Iceland remains a very safe destination, offering scenic beauty and minimal criminal activity.
4. Canada: With its friendly atmosphere and well-established healthcare system, Canada continues to be a top choice for travelers seeking safety.

Other countries rounding out the top 10 include New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates (a new addition to the top ranks), Switzerland, Japan, and Ireland.

The Safest Cities in the World

Along with ranking countries, the report also looked at cities around the world to determine which ones offer the safest environments for travelers. The top five cities of 2026 are:

1. Reykjavik, Iceland: Still a safe bet, with little to no crime and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.
2. Copenhagen, Denmark: Known for its low crime rates and welcoming public services, Copenhagen remains a top choice for safety-conscious travelers.
3. Zurich, Switzerland: With its high quality of life and excellent safety standards, Zurich is a top contender for travelers seeking security.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam ranks highly for its clean streets, low crime rates, and efficient public services, making it a great option for tourists.
5. Honolulu, Hawaii, USA: As the safest U.S. city, Honolulu continues to be known for its friendly people and low crime rates.

What This Means for Travelers

This year’s report highlights the growing importance of comprehensive safety, not just in terms of crime rates, but also access to quality healthcare, political stability, and inclusivity. The Netherlands’ rise to the top signals a shift in how travelers view safety—no longer just concerned with street crime, but with a broader, more holistic sense of well-being.

That said, experts caution that even in the safest countries, conditions can change. Natural disasters, political protests, or unexpected health crises can affect the safety of any destination. As a precaution, travelers are encouraged to enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time updates and notifications, and to consider purchasing travel insurance before embarking on their journeys.

Conclusion

The Netherlands’ newfound spot at the top of the safest places to visit in 2026 is a reflection of its commitment to providing a secure and welcoming environment for both its residents and tourists. The country’s combination of political stability, inclusive policies, and high-quality healthcare make it a standout destination for travelers seeking peace of mind.

As always, even the safest destinations require a little preparation and awareness. However, with the right precautions, travelers can experience the Netherlands with confidence, knowing that they’re in one of the safest places in the world.

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