Wondering where in Europe you can feel completely at ease while exploring? Whether you’re planning a solo trip, travelling with kids, or even considering a move abroad, safety is likely at the top of your list—and for good reason.
To help you find the perfect destination, we’ve rounded up the 15 safest cities in Europe. These rankings are based on updated 2025 stats around crime, healthcare, infrastructure, and overall quality of life. So, if you’re after culture, charm, and calm streets, this list is a great place to start.
Top 15 Safest Cities in Europe (2025 Rankings)
If you want to travel with complete peace of mind, you need data you can trust. Numbeo—the world’s largest crowd-sourced database for cost of living and quality-of-life stats—asks hundreds of thousands of locals and travellers each year how safe they feel in their own neighbourhoods. They then blend those answers with official figures to create its annual Safety Index.
Below, we’ve used Numbeo’s freshly published 2025 snapshot to highlight the places in Europe where you can explore after dark without a second thought.
1. The Hague (Den Haag), Netherlands – Safety Index: 79.5
Numbeo ranks The Hague first in Europe this year, thanks to a stellar score of 79.5. Dubbed the “City of Peace and Justice,” it hosts the International Court of Justice, and that diplomatic role translates into an especially visible police presence and extensive CCTV coverage.
Locals regularly cycle along the city’s coastal routes and through the Binnenhof well after dark, a confidence you’ll quickly share when you visit. Add cultured pit-stops like the Mauritshuis and the beach at Scheveningen and you’ve got a break where peace of mind comes baked-in.
2. Munich, Germany – Safety Index: 79.4
A hair behind is Munich at 79.4. Consistently Germany’s lowest-crime metropolis, the city pairs spotless streets with efficient public services and strong community policing.
That means you can hop on a U-Bahn after a beer garden session or wander the Englischer Garten at dusk without jitters. Its extensive public transportation system guarantees quick travel, while the friendly locals make social interactions feel effortless.
3. Trondheim, Norway – Safety Index: 79.3
Trondheim, Norway’s historic tech hub, posts a safety score of 79.3. National media highlight Trondheim’s low violent-crime figures and a “strong community spirit” that encourages residents to look out for each other.
Well-lit pedestrian paths, late-running buses and comprehensive CCTV help you enjoy the Nidelva-side warehouses and the colourful Bakklandet district even after the sun dips below the fjord. It all adds up to a relaxed, student-infused atmosphere where caution never crowds out curiosity.
4. Zagreb, Croatia – Safety Index: 78.6
As Croatia’s capital, Zagreb takes fourth place, scoring 78.6 on the Safety Index. Zagreb offers a balanced mix of urban life and relaxed charm, and crime rates here remain low—especially when it comes to violent offences.
Trams run late, parks like Maksimir stay busy with joggers and families, and central areas such as Dolac Market and Tkalčićeva Street feel lively but safe. For travellers, it means you can explore with confidence—just keeping the usual street-smart habits in mind.
5. Ljubljana, Slovenia – Safety Index: 78.5
Ljubljana may be small, but when it comes to safety, it punches well above its weight. With a score of 78.5, the Slovenian capital is known for being clean, calm and easy to navigate—especially with its mostly car-free city centre.
Locals regularly walk or cycle across the Triple Bridge and around the riverbanks late into the evening, and crime tends to be limited to the occasional pickpocket. It’s a great choice if you’re after a stress-free, walkable break with a friendly atmosphere.
6. Bern, Switzerland – Safety Index: 78.4
Switzerland’s capital city shares sixth place with a score of 78.4. Bern blends old-world charm with modern efficiency, and it shows in how safe the city feels. The arcaded old town is lively after dark, public transport runs smoothly and reliably, and violent crime is almost unheard of.
Even around the main station, locals describe the atmosphere as friendly and safe, day or night. It’s an ideal destination if you want to experience Swiss culture with zero hassle.
7. Eindhoven, Netherlands – Safety Index: 78.4
Also scoring 78.4, Eindhoven is another Dutch city that earns high marks for safety. According to Numbeo’s data, crime levels are very low—especially when it comes to serious incidents or street-level threats.
It’s a tech-focused city with a young, international crowd, and you’ll find it easy to move around thanks to its well-lit streets and reliable transport. Even late at night, walking or taking the bus here feels straightforward and safe—whether you’re exploring the design district or heading back from a local event.
8. Tartu, Estonia — Safety Index 78.3
Tartu is Estonia’s laid-back university capital, where pastel façades ring Town Hall Square and the whimsical “Kissing Students” fountain keeps watch over outdoor cafés. A short stroll away, the red-brick Tartu Cathedral houses the University Museum and a rooftop lookout across the Emajõgi River.
You’ll notice how relaxed the pace is: violent crime sits firmly in the “very low” bracket on Numbeo, and even petty theft rates stay modest. Walking or cycling home after dark is the norm.
9. Groningen, Netherlands — Safety Index 78.1
Groningen is the cheerful, bike-mad capital of the Dutch north, powered by two universities and a youthful crowd. That energy never tips into trouble: violent incidents rank “very low,” and the city posts a Numbeo Safety Index of 78.1.
Well-lit cycle lanes, late buses and a compact centre mean you can hop between canalside cafés without a second thought. Just lock your bike, as you would anywhere in the Netherlands.
10. Cluj-Napoca, Romania — Safety Index 78.1
Romania’s tech-forward hub, Cluj-Napoca, wraps its Gothic St Michael’s Church and lively Union Square in edgy art spaces, coffee roasters and digital start-ups. Many travellers add a day-trip to the other-worldly Turda Salt Mine, carved into a vast underground cavern.
With a low crime profile and a 78.1 safety score, Cluj lets you focus on the jazz bars and street markets rather than your wallet.
11. Tallinn, Estonia — Safety Index 78.0
Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town still looks much as it did in Hanseatic days: cobbled lanes, stout stone walls and turreted gateways. But the city is just as modern underneath—efficient public transport, walkable neighbourhoods, and a calm atmosphere make it easy to get around.
With a Safety Index of 78.0 and a reputation for low crime, it’s one of Europe’s most comfortable capitals for visitors, whether you’re strolling past Gothic churches or relaxing in the hip Kalamaja district.
12. Zurich, Switzerland — Safety Index 76.7
Zurich combines Alpine scenery, lakeside calm, and Swiss order in a way few cities can match. Art lovers will enjoy the renowned Kunsthaus Zürich, while the lake promenade and old town provide peaceful places to explore at your own pace.
The city earns a Safety Index of 76.7 and ranks among Europe’s most reliable when it comes to low crime, clean streets, and efficient public transport. Even late at night, Zurich feels polished, peaceful, and perfectly safe.
13. Reykjavík, Iceland — Safety Index 75.8
Compact and colourful, Reykjavík makes a strong case for being one of the safest capital cities in the world. The atmosphere is relaxed, the people are friendly, and violent crime is virtually non-existent.
With a Safety Index of 75.8, it’s no surprise that solo travellers, especially women, rate it highly. Don’t miss landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja church or the waterfront Sculpture & Shore Walk—and if you’re heading out to explore the Golden Circle, it all starts right here in this safe and welcoming city.
14. Prague, Czech Republic — Safety Index 75.5
Famous for its fairytale architecture, Prague is as charming as it is safe. Highlights include Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock, all within a city centre that’s easily explored on foot or by tram.
While pickpocketing in busy tourist areas can happen, serious crime is rare, and the city holds a solid 75.5 Safety Index. Stick to basic precautions in crowded spots and you’ll be free to enjoy Prague’s rich history and buzzing café culture with peace of mind.
15. Rijeka, Croatia — Safety Index 75.4
Rijeka might not be as well-known as Dubrovnik or Split, but this coastal city offers a great mix of history, culture, and sea views—without the crowds. Stroll along the pedestrian Korzo, check out Trsat Castle for views over the bay, or relax at the beach just outside the centre.
With a Safety Index of 75.4, Rijeka is considered very safe by both locals and visitors. Crime is minimal, and most travellers only need to stay alert in busy nightlife areas.
Tips for Enhancing Personal Safety
Even in Europe’s safest cities, staying alert and prepared is always a smart move. Here are some practical safety tips to help you feel more confident while travelling—whether you’re navigating busy streets, using public transport, or exploring after dark.
Stay aware of your surroundings
Avoid distractions like texting while walking, especially in unfamiliar areas or on public transport. Pay attention to people around you, street signs, and your route. This not only helps you stay safe but also helps you stay oriented.
Keep valuables secure
Use a crossbody bag that zips shut or a money belt under your clothing. Avoid keeping phones, wallets, or passports in back pockets or loose bags. If your accommodation has a safe, store extra cash and important documents there instead of carrying them all day.
Use trusted transport options
Stick to licensed taxis, official rideshare apps, or well-known public transport networks. In most European cities, public transit is safe and efficient—but it’s best to avoid empty train carriages late at night when possible.
Be cautious with ATMs
Use ATMs located inside banks or busy public places rather than isolated machines. Shield your PIN when entering it and check for anything unusual on the card reader before use.
Keep emergency contacts handy
Save local emergency numbers and your embassy or consulate details in your phone. Consider carrying a printed copy in your bag in case your phone is lost or runs out of battery.
Know the local laws and customs
Familiarise yourself with local laws, especially those related to alcohol, drugs, photography, and identification. Some places require visitors to carry ID at all times, and certain behaviours—harmless at home—may be frowned upon or illegal elsewhere.
Use secure accommodation
Choose accommodation with good reviews for safety, security and location. Prioritise CCTV, well-lit entrances, and 24/7 staff. Check that your room has working locks on doors and windows and avoid leaving valuables unattended. In shared spaces like hostels, use lockers where provided.
Moving? Secure your new home with smart devices
Thinking of moving to one of these areas? Even in cities with top-notch safety ratings, having a smart security setup can give you extra peace of mind. A few key devices can make a big difference—here’s what to include:
- Security Cameras: Whether battery-powered or plugged in, smart IP cameras stream live HD video straight to your phone and start recording the moment they detect motion. Many models store footage locally on a base station, so you don’t need to rely on cloud subscriptions or blazing-fast internet. For solid coverage, consider mounting an outdoor camera above your back door and placing an indoor one in the hallway to monitor comings and goings.
- Video Doorbells: Swapping your chime for a video doorbell lets you see and speak to visitors from anywhere. Motion alerts arrive within seconds, so you can deal with deliveries safely and deter unwanted callers even when you’re at work or away for the weekend.
- Alarm Systems: A basic setup with a keypad, contact sensors, and a siren helps secure entry points. Just tap to arm it before heading out. If a door or window opens unexpectedly, the alarm sounds and you’ll get a notification on your phone, giving you time to respond or call for help.
For a seamless experience, it’s worth getting all three from the same trusted brand—like eufy—so you can manage everything from one app. That makes it easier to control the system, share access with family, and stay on top of any alerts in real time.
Conclusion
Europe is filled with incredible cities, each offering its own unique charm. But when safety is a deciding factor, the destinations on this list truly shine. Whether you’re wandering through the canals of The Hague, cycling in Ljubljana, or catching a tram in Zurich, choosing one of the safest cities in Europe gives you the freedom to focus on what matters: enjoying the moment.
And while these cities already offer strong safety foundations, taking a few simple precautions—like staying aware, keeping valuables secure, and travelling on trusted transport can make all the difference.
FAQ
Which is the safest city in Europe?
As of 2025, The Hague in the Netherlands tops Numbeo’s Safety Index for European cities, just ahead of fellow low‑crime cities like Munich and Trondheim—making it the safest city in Europe to live in or visit. This high score reflects very low crime rates (both violent and property-related), efficient local policing, excellent street lighting, and strong community awareness feeling safe both day and night.
Which country in Europe has the lowest crime rate?
As of 2025, Andorra holds the lowest Crime Index in Europe at 15.3 and consequently the highest Safety Index of 84.7, according to Numbeo. This reflects extremely low levels of theft, assault, and vandalism. Additionally, Iceland consistently ranks as the European country (and often the world) with the lowest crime rate, thanks to its tiny population, strong social trust, minimal violence, and unarmed policing.
What is the safest country in Europe for tourists?
Ice-clad Iceland remains the safest European country for tourists in 2025. It consistently tops Global Peace Index rankings (around 1.107) and features minimal violent crime, unarmed police forces, high social cohesion, and very few incidents involving strangers—all contributing to its ideal reputation, particularly for solo travellers and families.
Where is the best city to live in Europe?
Vienna, Austria is ranked the best city to live in Europe in 2025 by the Economist Intelligence Unit, earning a near-perfect liveability score of 99.1. The city offers exceptional healthcare, public transport, education, and housing—all within a safe, stable, and culturally rich environment. It also boasts extensive green spaces, excellent environmental quality, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a truly well-rounded and highly desirable place to call home.
