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Choosing where to go is part of the excitement, but peace of mind matters just as much once you arrive. This guide looks at the countries that stand out for 2026, using the latest Global Peace Index as the starting point.
By Alvirno Jordan
Reviewed by Alvirno Jordan
Date 01 September 2026
A safe holiday destination is about much more than a low crime rate. A country can have very little street crime and still pose risks through political unrest, conflict, unsafe roads, severe weather or limited access to emergency help.
The Global Peace Index, or GPI, is published by the Institute for Economics & Peace. It looks at the wider picture and ranks 163 countries using 23 indicators across three broad areas: Societal Safety and Security, Ongoing Conflict and Militarisation.
Based on the countries highlighted in the 2026 research, these destinations stand out for travellers looking for peace, stability, reliable infrastructure and memorable experiences.
Iceland has become closely linked with peaceful travel. It has held first place in the Global Peace Index for years and, in 2026, once again ranks as the most peaceful country in the world.
That reputation is supported by very low crime, strong social trust, political stability and a close sense of community. Iceland has no standing army, and police have traditionally not carried firearms as part of routine patrols.
The biggest travel risks in Iceland usually have little to do with crime.
Iceland is especially well suited to solo travellers, nature lovers, road trips and anyone hoping to escape crowded destinations.
New Zealand rises to second place in the 2026 Global Peace Index after ranking third the previous year. It performs strongly on measures linked to societal safety and security, political stability and ongoing peacefulness.
New Zealand is one of the world great adventure destinations, with mountains, glaciers, beaches, forests and national parks offering a wide range of experiences. Much of this natural beauty lies beyond the cities, so mobile connectivity can be useful. BeachSIM reliable, high speed New Zealand eSIMs make it easier to stay connected while exploring.
New Zealand is especially well suited to solo travellers, nature lovers, road trips and anyone hoping to escape crowded destinations.
Switzerland falls one place to third in the 2026 Global Peace Index after ranking second in 2025. Its overall GPI score deteriorated by 1.2%, but it remains one of the most peaceful countries in the world. Reliable infrastructure and transport make it easy to explore cities, lakes and the Alps, although mountain conditions call for extra care.
The main travel hazards in Switzerland are often found outside the cities.
Switzerland is especially well suited to solo travellers, families, couples and outdoor adventurers.
With so much to explore by rail, road and trail, a BeachSIM Switzerland eSIM helps travellers stay connected to maps, transport updates and essential travel information throughout the trip Switzerland eSIM.
Slovenia has become an even stronger choice for travellers looking for a peaceful getaway, reaching fourth place in the 2026 Global Peace Index after ranking sixth in 2025. Its improving safety and security make it especially appealing for exploring beyond the capital, from Lake Bled to quiet Alpine villages and mountain landscapes.
Slovenia is especially well suited to families, couples, solo travellers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ireland remains a notable option for travellers seeking a peaceful and straightforward destination, ranking fifth in the 2026 Global Peace Index after placing fourth in 2025. Despite the slight drop, it still offers a strong sense of security and suits solo travellers, couples and families exploring cities, coastal towns and the countryside.
Ireland is especially well suited to solo travellers, couples, families and people travelling abroad for the first time who want an easy destination to navigate.
Austria has appeal well beyond its cities and Alpine scenery. It ranks sixth in the 2026 Global Peace Index after ranking fifth in 2025, but remains a notably peaceful destination. Getting around is generally easy thanks to good public transport and infrastructure, while travellers heading into the Alps should take extra care in winter.
Austria is especially well suited to families, couples, solo travellers and winter sports enthusiasts.
Portugal has long been an easygoing destination for travellers, and its seventh place in the 2026 Global Peace Index, up from eighth in 2025, reinforces that reputation. Its mix of relaxed cities, coastal towns and rural regions makes it a comfortable choice for exploring at your own pace.
Portugal works particularly well for travellers who want cities, beaches and relaxed sightseeing without complicated logistics.
Portugal is especially well suited to solo travellers, families and people travelling abroad for the first time.
Singapore reputation for safety is supported by its eighth place in the 2026 Global Peace Index, one place lower than in 2025. It remains the most peaceful country in Asia, with very low crime and strong public security, which makes it especially appealing to visitors.
Visitors still need to follow local rules carefully, especially those covering public behaviour, smoking and littering.
Singapore is a good fit for families, solo travellers, first time visitors and travellers who value convenience.
Finland offers a quieter kind of safety, combining peaceful cities with wide forests, lakes and open spaces. It ranks ninth in the 2026 Global Peace Index after placing tenth in 2025. Reliable public transport, well maintained infrastructure and a calm atmosphere make travelling around the country straightforward.
Finland is especially well suited to solo travellers, families and nature lovers.
Japan climbs three places to 10th in the 2026 Global Peace Index after ranking 13th in 2025, entering the top 10. Its overall improvement was driven largely by stronger performance in the Ongoing Conflict domain, although its Militarisation score deteriorated. For travellers, part of the appeal is how easy it can be to move around a densely populated country while still enjoying an orderly and secure environment. Trains are exceptionally reliable, public spaces are well maintained and serious crime is relatively uncommon.
Japan is especially well suited to solo travellers, families, first time visitors and trips focused on food and culture.
According to the 2026 Global Peace Index, travelers have plenty of peaceful places to choose from. Iceland, New Zealand, Japan, Slovenia and Singapore all offer very different trips, from wild landscapes and city culture to easy island escapes, while giving you a solid foundation for a comfortable, secure journey.
The best choice depends on the kind of trip you want. Wherever you go, a few simple habits can make a real difference. Check current travel advice, learn about risks specific to your destination, stay aware of what is happening around you and then enjoy the journey.
About the author
Japan is famous for lost wallets finding their way back, and that says a lot about everyday safety there. Violent crime is extremely rare, public transport feels calm, and solo travellers, including women, often find Japan reassuringly easy to explore.
Spain works well alone when you plan around its rhythm: late meals, reliable trains between big cities and plazas where sitting with a coffee never feels odd. Start with Madrid or Seville, then let the Spanish rail network prove you can do the rest.
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