|
IN BRIEF
|
Want to travel without the slightest hint of unwanted adrenaline? Thanks to the Global Peace Index 2025 — which assesses 163 countries based on internal security, conflicts, and militarization — head to the safest destinations of the moment. Despite a troubled world, a few havens manage to shine: from Iceland to New Zealand, through Ireland, Austria, Switzerland, Singapore, Portugal, Denmark, Slovenia, and Finland, Northern Europe and the antipodes lead the way. Pack your bags and your serenity: these countries prove you can still explore the world in complete tranquility… with style.
Want to travel without biting your nails at the airport? This article takes you to 10 countries where security and stability are guaranteed, according to an international ranking that evaluates 163 states based on internal security, conflicts, and militarization. On the menu: practical advice, itinerary ideas, and a few surprises, to explore the planet with complete peace of mind… and a touch of enthusiasm.
Explore in peace
Every year, a global barometer studies 23 indicators to gauge the level of peace among countries. The lower the score, the more peaceful the destination. The 2025 edition reveals a global decline in peace for the thirteenth time in 17 years, with more countries in decline than states in improvement. However, true havens of calm still exist, especially in Europe and the Antipodes. Here are the places where one can breathe the most serenely… and travel without stressing about their smartwatch.
Discover the 10 safest destinations around the globe
From the icy north to futuristic city-states, these destinations boast low crime, stable institutions, and a quality of life that encourages taking one’s time. Ready to check off some boxes on your world map?
Iceland
Uncontested champion for 17 years, Iceland combines raw nature and tranquility. No standing army, a pervasive sense of security, and inhabitants who settle disputes quietly. Between glaciers, hot springs, and Northern lights, it’s the kingdom of travelers who love to take in the scenery. Want to celebrate in the heart of winter? Why not ring in the New Year with a road trip, using these ideas for a New Year in a camper van.
Ireland
Ireland regularly climbs to the top of serene countries. The cities are welcoming, the pubs warm, and diplomacy is part of the national DNA. The countryside unfolds its green hills, cliffs, and good vibes. One simply feels good there.
New Zealand
New Zealand checks all the boxes: geographical isolation, solid institutions, a relatively equal society. From hikers to surfers, everyone finds happiness here, under the placid gaze of volcanoes and kiwis. And if the sea calls you, prepare your fins with these best diving spots in the world to complete your itinerary.
Austria
Neutral since 1955, Austria cultivates a very concrete peace. The cities are immaculate, crime is contained, and the mountains invite a life outdoors. Vienna, Salzburg, turquoise lakes: everything is clean, orderly… and surprisingly lively.
Switzerland
Switzerland combines political stability, smooth-running institutions, and picturesque landscapes. Neutrality does not mean naivety: the army is ready, but daily life is of an Olympian calm. For leisure, one alternates between trails, scenic trains, and chocolates without turbulence.
Singapore
In Singapore, security is almost a national discipline. Laws are strict, the city is as clean as a whistle, and one can walk around at night without flinching. A perfect gateway to Asia, where people love to eat, stroll, and… follow the rules. For marine getaways nearby, draw inspiration from these reference diving destinations.
Portugal
Portugal has made a spectacular rise in recent years. Relaxed vibe, solid democratic institutions, intoxicating Atlantic coast: one feels good there, eats well, and walks well. Between Lisbon, Porto, and Alentejo, the journey is as smooth as a sunset over the ocean.
Denmark
Denmark has slightly increased its militarization but remains a society of great cohesion. Copenhagen is explored by bike, cafes emanate hygge, and life flows peacefully. Here, one breathes confidence just as one breathes in the sea elsewhere.
Slovenia
Small in size, great in serenity. Slovenia boasts transparent lakes, fairy-tale caves, and successful European integration. Ljubljana is cozy, Lake Bled is postcard-perfect, and everything seems within reach… and by train.
Finland
Bordering a tense area, Finland remains exemplarily calm thanks to robust institutions, low crime, and a strong sense of cohesion. Saunas, forests, design: the Nordic art of living in service of inner peace.
Global trends: a turbulent context
The paradox is that these oases of peace exist while the world is experiencing a peak of conflicts since 1945, with dozens of active hotspots and an increasing number of countries involved beyond their borders. War victims have recently reached alarming levels, with a large share concentrated around major current conflicts. In other words, the planet is agitated, but a few countries master the art of lasting calm.
Preparing your trip safely
Before you close your suitcase, think about preparation as much as inspiration. Being informed about local regulations and choosing reliable partners can make all the difference. Here’s how to travel with peace of mind.
• Get accompanied by carefully selected professionals: why selecting your travel agency matters as much as the destination? Answers here: the importance of choosing your agency wisely.
• Check country advice before heading to more sensitive areas: for example, these recommendations for travelers in Israel and Bolivia.
• Looking for an original New Year’s Eve, nomad style? Get inspired by these destinations to celebrate New Year in a camper van.
• Passionate about diving? Head to reassuring seas and renowned spots with this guide to the best diving sites.
• Insurance, document copies, emergency apps: the security checklist is not glamorous, but it’s your best travel partner.
And what about France?
France is in the middle of the 2025 ranking, penalized by high militarization and recurring social tensions, despite a safe daily life for visitors. Practical translation: Paris is not crossed with bulletproof vests, but peace is not measured only by croissants. For a soft and salty getaway, head to Brittany: check out summer tourism inspirations 2025 in the Côtes-d’Armor, perfect for filling up on salty air.
