Is travelling in Europe as safe as it used to be? With a war on our doorstep in Ukraine and tensions higher than ever in the Middle East, there are valid concerns about political events and crime affecting our summer break.
Our survey of some of our favourite holiday destinations suggests that while most are very safe for tourists, there are potential dangers to look out for.
From illegal taxi drivers in Spain and fake tour guides in Morocco to no-go areas in Egyptian tourist hotspots and political demonstrations in Turkey, here’s our ultimate guide to holidaying crime (and stress) free in Europe and northern Africa this summer.
A civil guard on patrol in Badajoz, Spain
SPAIN
More than 18million Britons travel to Spain and its island archipelagos each year. The country is one of the safest in Europe and incidents impacting tourists are rare.
Crime: Spain has very low rates of mugging and theft. Robbery rates on the coast are around 100 per 100,000 inhabitants with this only rising to around 200 in Barcelona.
Police: The Spanish police force can issue fines of up to £500 if you’re caught riding in an unlicensed taxi, so make sure you book with a reputable company – especially when travelling from busy airports such as Malaga and Gibraltar. The Guardia Civil are approachable and friendly as a rule. Be aware that a genuine officer may ask you for photo ID but will never ask you to hand over your bag, wallet or purse.
Emergency services and healthcare: Healthcare is of a high standard throughout Spain, though serious illness on the smaller islands may require a transfer to a hospital in a larger mainland city. As with all countries listed, you should make sure you have a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and reliable travel insurance to access care while abroad.
Political stability: There have been street protests in Majorca and Barcelona recently against tourists but the target of locals anger is the local authorities rather than visitors so you are unlikely to be considered a target in what are overwhelmingly peaceful protests.
Safety score: 8/10
Tourists flock to the Colosseum in Rome, Italy
ITALY
The fourth most popular destination for British tourists, Italy is considered a very safe country – but exercising caution in bigger cities is recommended.
Crime: Petty street crime is fairly widespread in the busiest areas in larger cities such as Naples and Rome. Termini station in Rome and the ‘Circumvesuviana’ train between Naples and Sorrento are both particularly well known for bag snatching. Theft from parked cars is particularly common in Rome, particularly in the Colosseum area so, if you’re using a hire car, leave your most valuable possessions back at your hotel. Robbery rates in tourist heavy areas remain low, however, with between 15 and 50 robberies reported per 100,000 inhabitants.
Police: The country has a very reliable and trusted police force.
Emergency services and healthcare: Healthcare standards in Italy are of a good standard and you can expect similar treatment as you would get in the UK.
Political stability: The country is considered very politically stable with a noticeable decrease in political demonstrations under the government of current Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Safety score: 7.5/10
Protests are common in France, such as this rally on May Day in 2021, which is used to mark the fight for workers’ rights
FRANCE
The current Olympic host country has had a steady wave of political unrest in recent years with the Gilet Jaune movement holding numerous marches and protests. There is a general election as well this summer but the political situation is not expected to trouble tourists.
Crime: France has a robbery rate of between 75 and 125 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants but you are very unlikely to be a victim of crime in most French cities. You should, however, be extra vigilant when in Paris on the RER (train) line B (which serves Paris Charles de Gaulle airport and the Paris Gare du Nord Eurostar terminus) and the RER line D, which serves the Stade de France; both have been the location for assaults in the last couple of years.
Police: The French gendarmes are typically friendly and helpful. You must be able to show photo idea on request however so it’s best to keep your passport with you.
Emergency services and healthcare: Healthcare is of a high standard in France but is generally not free at point of contact – so make sure your travel insurance hasn’t expired before you cross the Channel.
Political stability: The French love to strike and industrial union action will see significant strikes on public transport systems, particularly in Paris, and demonstrations and marches in many major cities this summer. These, and other protests, should be avoided by visitors as they have been known to turn violent.
Safety score: 7.5/10
Dubrovnik is a beautiful coastal city in the southern part of Croatia
CROATIA
With a low crime rate compared to the EU average, Croatia is one of the safest tourist destinations in Europe. Exercising the same basic caution that you would at home should be enough to enjoy the safest of holidays.
Crime: Pick-pockets are common in the most heavily frequented parts of major ports and cities such as Dubrovnik and Zagreb. Reported robberies number barely 20 per 100,000 inhabitants, making Croatia one of the safest European holiday destinations. The main crime that tourists experience is being pickpocketed so be careful in Dubrovnik, especially if a large cruise ship has disgorged its passengers for the day.
Police: You’ll be treated with genuine concern by the police if you have been the victim of a crime in Croatia. In cities such as Split and Dubrovnik high standards of public behaviour mean that, although unlikely, you could be given an on the spot fine for walking the streets shirtless or in swimwear or drinking in a public place where alcohol isn’t permitted. If you’re engaging in what police deem to be drunken behaviour then fines rise as high as €4,000 (£3,386).
Emergency services and healthcare: Hospitals are generally of a good standard in the areas tourists are most likely to frequent though less so in more remote areas. Be sure to have valid travel insurance.
Political stability: As a member of the EU, Croatia is extremely stable and has been since declaring independence from the former Yugoslavia in the early 1990’s. Organised crime is present in Croatia but poses no danger to tourists.
Safety score: 8/10
Kyrenia Bay in North Cyprus
CYPRUS
Politicians will tell you that Cyprus has been in a ‘ceasefire’ situation between the Greek and Turkish sides of the island for half a century. The reality is far less dramatic, however, with tourists welcomed on both sides. The island’s close proximity to the Middle East does mean that demonstrations pertaining to the Israel-Gaza crisis may occur. Be aware if any that are planned during your stay (there are numerous English language Cypriot online newspapers such as the Cyprus Mail) and steer clear.
Crime: Cyprus has a very low crime rate and tourists need not be concerned about being the victim of robbery or theft.
Police: The Cypriot government announced last year that it intends to launch a special Tourism Police which will see officers on bicycles in the most visited areas for tourists in order to be accessible and offer help.
Emergency services and healthcare: The island has a very good healthcare system, considered by the World Health Organisation to be at the same level as the US and UK and it is common for hospital staff to speak to some English in the hospitals located in the main tourist areas.
Political stability: Cyprus’s status as a country severed in two during the 1974 war is hard-baked and extremely unlikely to change in the foreseeable future. This means that shifts in local politics won’t affect your stay but in general it’s best not to offer strong opinions on the ceasefire due to local sensitivities.
Safety score: 8/10
Maltese capital city of Valletta
MALTA
Malta is a very safe island to travel around though, as in all holiday destinations, opportunistic thefts can occur so be careful around ATM machines on the island and don’t carry large amounts of cash on your person.
Crime: Pick-pocketing has been known to occur on the bus routes between Valletta and St Julian’s. Scams targeting Brits are on the increase so be wary of any propositions in the form of romance or friendship as these can result in your being financially fleeced.
Police: A specially created Tourism Police band of officers was quietly dropped a year after its implementation in 2017 but you will still generally find Maltese police approachable and friendly.
Emergency services and healthcare: Hospitals are generally of a high standard and healthcare is of a very similar standard to what you would receive in the UK.
Political stability: Malta is a very stable, democratic nation with no issues that should worry tourists.
Safety score:Â 8/10
Montenegro is one of the safest countries in Southern Europe
MONTENEGRO
Tiny Montenegro is one of the safest countries in Southern Europe for travellers. As with any destination, don’t leave your valuables unattended and be vigilant around ATM machines. Otherwise, relax; this is one of the more stress and hassle-free destinations.
Crime: The robbery rate in Montenegro is exceptionally low by European standards, around 15 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Pickpocketing can occur, as it can anywhere, but there’s no need for hyper-vigilance and there are no areas of this small Adriatic nation where extra caution is needed.
Police: In the Travel Safe Abroad safety index, Montenegro ranks in the upper third of all countries, above the United States and France. The country has a high number of police officers who are well-equipped and trained. While the country has a history of drug gangs, the new government has put in a large effort to clamp down on organised crime and most of the ‘Mafiosi’ are either behind bars or on the run.
Emergency services and healthcare: Hospitals are of a good standard and are able to provide most forms of care. International travel insurance is vital if you have a serious injury or illness, however, as some Montenegro hospitals may not have facilities for more complex cases.
Political stability: Demonstrations do occasionally occur outside religious buildings or government offices but these are usually peaceful.
Safety score: 8/10
A souk in Marrakech, Morocco, where fraudsters may pose as guides
MOROCCO
This popular northern African country is generally very safe and welcoming to visitors, though you will find a higher degree of hassle and persistence from some local traders.
Crime: Violent crime is uncommon against tourists but can occur. Knifes have been used against visitors in random street attacks so avoid quiet areas at night time. Keep your valuables either in your room safe at your hotel or in a money belt as pickpocketing does take place in busy areas of Tangiers, Casablanca and Marrakesh. Watch out for fraudsters posing as ‘guides’ in the historic quarters and particularly any souks and medinas.
Police: There is a tourist police force called the Brigade Touristique who, in recent years have eroded the numbers of fake guides and aggressive beggars.
Emergency services and healthcare: Moroccan public hospitals are generally not up to European standards. Private hospitals are available but be sure to have international travel insurance as a serious injury or illness may require repatriation out of the country.
Political stability: Morocco is politically stable and was not caught up in the Arab Spring a decade ago. But demonstrations do regularly occur and have been known to turn violent between protesters and police if the demonstration isn’t authorised. Follow the English language online newspaper Hespress as a reliable guide on any breaking news during your stay.
Safety score: 7/10
The Pyramids of Giza in Cairo are a particularly popular spot for tourists in Egypt
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EGYPT
It’s unlikely that your holiday in Egypt will be disturbed by the current internal schisms and government efforts are strenuous to ensure the beaches and resorts of Sham el Sheikh remain safe. But there are regular demonstrations in major cities such as Cairo which can turn violent and should be avoided.
Crime: The general crime rate against tourists is low but there have been instances of sexual harassment against women reported to the British Embassy in recent years in Red Sea tourist resorts. Do not travel in a taxi alone, do not allow hotel cleaners to enter your room while you’re alone and don’t leave children with hotel staff.
Police: There is an English speaking Tourist Police that operates in most of the main tourist areas of Egypt. Daily News Egypt is an independent, English language online newspaper that you should consult before embarking on any excursions outside the main tourist areas. Police have powers to close beaches and city squares at no notice should there be considered a risk from demonstrators or terrorists.
Emergency services and healthcare: Healthcare in Egypt is not free so be sure that you have travel insurance. There have been reported instances of hotel doctors overcharging so be sure of what the charges are. Not all state hospitals are equivalent to mainland Europe in terms of hygiene and many doctors and medical staff may not speak English.
Political stability: Egypt has been in political turmoil since the Arab Spring. In 2019, at least 16 people were injured after an attack on a tourist bus near the Giza pyramids, while, in 2018, a bomb killed four people on a bus near the Giza pyramids. Kidnapping is also a risk so don’t be surprised to see armed security officers around popular tourist sites. Your phone may also be checked before you enter some of these areas.
Safety score: 6.5/10
The Suleymaniye Mosque on the Third Hill of Istanbul, Turkey
TURKEY
Turkey is generally a safe country for holidays but you should exercise more vigilance than in years past, particularly when it comes to avoiding demonstrations relating to the Israel/Gaza conflict outside embassies.
Crime: Pickpocketing is very common in Istanbul so be sure to keep your valuables safe and leave anything you can’t afford to lose at your hotel. In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff. These have, most commonly, been committed by someone the victim met during their holiday such as tour guides and hotel workers. Don’t let staff enter your hotel room while you’re alone and don’t accept any offers of tours from guides who can’t show you official accreditation or ID.
Police: The country has Tourist Police Officers who are generally helpful and will show concern if you approach them. It’s illegal not to have a form of photo ID on your person while you’re exploring Turkey.
Emergency services and healthcare: English-speaking doctors are limited in the more rural areas though standards of care in the main cities and tourist areas are adequate. Turkish law states that all medical care is free if you’re injured in a road accident (this applies to both tourists and locals) but having travel insurance is still essential if you’re visiting any part of Turkey.
Political stability: The Israel/Gaza conflict has resulted in demonstrations outside embassy and consulate buildings (particularly that of Israel) in the major cities. Check the English language Daily Sabah website for up to date information on the current situation.
Safety score: 7/10
A view from Hallgrims church in Reykjavik, Iceland, which is one of the safest countries in the world
ICELAND
You would be exceptionally unlikely to be the victim of crime in Iceland; it’s one of the safest countries in the world.
Crime: A few of the bars in downtown Reykjavik can get a little rowdy at peak times on a weekend but, even then, you’re very unlikely to witness, let alone get involved in any violent, physical altercations.
Police: You’re extremely unlikely to have any contact with the police but, if you do need to report a theft or any other crime, you’ll find them helpful.
Emergency services and healthcare: Hospitals are of an excellent standard across the country and many medical staff speak fluent English. Be aware that the healthcare system isn’t free for tourists from the UK however so be sure to have valid travel insurance.
Political stability: Iceland is about as politically stable as it’s possible to be.
Safety score: 9/10
A police officer on a motorbike in Norway
NORWAY
This Scandinavian country is famed for being an exceptionally safe country to visit and you shouldn’t encounter any issues whatsoever during your stay.
Crime: Norway has one of the lowest robbery rates in Europe with stats showing fewer than 15 reported crimes per 100,000 inhabitants. There is a very small risk of petty theft around the main train station in Oslo but there’s no need to exercise any greater caution than you would at home in a busy area.
Police: In the unlikely event that you need to have dealings with the Norwegian police during your holiday you’ll find them polite, helpful and often able to speak very good English.
Emergency services and healthcare: Almost all hospitals are public ones but the standards are among the highest in the world. Those private hospitals that do exist are for non-urgent care so you’re unlikely to have any cause to visit them.
Political stability: Norway is a world leader when it comes to political stability. Put any thoughts of political demonstrations turning violent out of your mind. Those that do occur are invariably peaceful.
Safety score:Â 8/10
Cafes in the canton of Bern in Switzerland
SWITZERLAND
You’re exceptionally unlikely to be the victim of crime in Switzerland which ranks as one of the safest nations to travel in on the planet.
Crime: Rates are exceptionally low so there’s no need to exercise any greater caution than you would at home. There have been reports of thefts on the trains that run between. Geneva city centre and the airport so keep your possessions within sight if you use this service.
Police: Swiss police can carry guns but, in the whole of 2023, they were only used twice. You’ll find Swiss police to be helpful in the unlikely event you need to make contact with them.
Emergency services and healthcare: Healthcare standards are as high as you would expect in one of the wealthiest nations on earth. But be sure to have health insurance as Swiss hospitals charge a fixed daily fee for any stay on top of what you pay for treatment.
Political stability: Switzerland is world renowned for its political stability and you need not give the political situation a second thought before booking your holiday.
Safety score: 9/10
A police car in front of the famous Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany
GERMANY
Crime levels are broadly similar to the UK. So while there’s no need to be hyper-vigilant and there are few no-go areas, it’s important that you protect your possessions in major cities such as Berlin and Hamburg and be wary of pick-pockets in busy train and bus stations and market squares.
Crime: Robbery rates are very low throughout the country and you’re unlikely to be a target as a tourist. Exercise the same caution that you would at home.
Police: Officers in bigger German cities usually speak English and are approachable, and easily identifiable.
Emergency services and healthcare: Standards are excellent throughout Germany. In an emergency you’ll almost certainly be taken by ambulance to a hospital that has a care agreement (zugelassenes Krankenhaus). Most hospitals in Germany have this agreement and, as long as your travel insurance is valid, then you will be cared for.
Political stability: Germany is politically stable and its exceptionally unlikely that this is likely to change in any way that would affect visitors in the near future.
Safety score:Â 8/10
A busy Christmas market in Copenhagen, Denmark
DENMARK
Denmark is a very safe destination though petty crime does occur in Copenhagen so a degree of care should be taken when it comes to your possessions and keeping to well-lit areas after dark.
Crime: The Danish crime rate is very low for robberies and thefts though tourists should be careful around the central station, the main shopping street, Strøget and the Christiania neighbourhood. The latter neighbourhood is usually safe at night but you should be careful of darker side streets as gang violence does occasionally occur.
Police: There is no dedicated tourist police force in Denmark and it’s exceptionally unlikely you’ll need police assistance during your holiday. Officers are approachable, many speak good English.
Emergency services and healthcare: Healthcare is of an excellent standard. Some Danish hospitals require advance notification before you arrive.
Political stability: Denmark is exceptionally stable and any demonstrations that may occur during your stay will invariably be peaceful ones.
Safety score: 8.5/10
A sign at a taxi rank in Krakow, Poland
POLAND
This central European country is a safe place to visit currently but the eastern border of the country does border Ukraine. Due to the war, it’s advisable to not travel within 50km of the border.
Crime: The main crime that visitors fall victim to is being overcharged in unlicensed taxis. You can always spot a legitimate taxi in Poland if it has the company name and phone number on the car door and it has a price card for journeys on the window
Police: There have been instances of con artists and criminals attempting to impersonate police in heavily visited cities such as Krakow and demanding to see ID so be aware of the official police uniform and its blue colours. Many Polish police officers speak some English and are approachable.
Emergency services and healthcare: Standards are high in the major cities and even in rural areas is of a similar standard to the UK.
Political stability: Demonstrations are common in Poland but rarely become violent. If you’re concerned, then consult the English language Radio Polskie website for details of events or marches that may occur during your stay.
Safety score: 8/10
The Old Town of Stockholm in Sweden
SWEDEN
Famed for its safe, liberal atmosphere, it would be hard to think of a safer place t holiday than Sweden. In reality, the country perhaps isn’t quite as liberal as you might think (there are no decriminalisation of drugs here as there are in the Netherlands of Portugal) but you should find your trip to Sweden to be one entirely free of hassle or crime.
Crime: Sweden has one of the lowest rates for robbery in Europe though don’t become complacent. Gang activity, which can turn violent, does occur in the major cities such as Stockholm, Malmo and Gothenburg though you’re very unlikely to find yourself in the middle of anything dangerous.
Police: The Swedish police generally don’t carry guns and are, as a rule, very approachable should you need them. English is very widely spoken in Sweden and most officers will speak it to a decent standard.
Emergency services and healthcare: Swedish hospitals are typically excellent with a standard that generally exceeds what you’d find in the UK. Tourists are charged the exact same amount as locals for medical care though, if you’re insured, then this isn’t something that you’ll notice should you fall ill during your time here.
Political stability: You’ve probably heard of a certain young Swedish protestor named Greta but any protests that take place in Swedish cities are invariably peaceful ones.
Safety score:Â 8/10
The Parthenon at the Acropolis in Athens, Greece
GREECE
More than 4.5million British tourists travel to Greece and its glorious islands each year – and the overwhelming majority of trips there are trouble free. However, the country has been hit with back-to-back heatwaves that have claimed the lives of several tourists.
Crime: Petty crime and theft can take place in crowded tourist areas, on public transport and at short-term rentals. Extra caution is advised in Athens, especially when walking in badly-lit areas at night and when travelling on the metro. Road deaths as a proportion of the Greek population are higher than in the UK and car crime is an issue throughout the country so be sure to keep valuables out of sight and park in a secure area. Scams in tourist areas can take place, so watch out for street sellers overcharging. Agree prices in advance, check the authenticity of anything you’re buying, and make sure you’re given enough change.
Police: The Greek police have been known to arrest tourists for ‘rowdy or indecent’ behaviour, especially where excessive drinking is involved. Some fancy dress costumes may be regarded as offensive and therefore against decency laws.
Healthcare: Treatment and facilities are generally good at public hospitals on the mainland, but are limited on the islands. Some islands, such as Folegandros, have only one GP and very limited medical facilities. A GHIC card will give you access to emergency or necessary state healthcare in Greece but not repatriation so insurance is required.
Political stability: Authorities have increased security at some prominent locations, including tourist sites, particularly around major squares in central Athens, due to the Gaza/Israel war. Despite enduring a decade-long financial crisis, Greece’s economy has stabilised.
Safety score: 8/10