Montreal, Canada, has been named the safest city for travelers in a new study, with European destinations making up the majority of the top 15. The ranking, compiled by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, analyzed 38 popular destinations using data from Numbeo, The Economist, and GeoSure Global.
Montreal secured the top position due to its low crime rates and well-regarded neighborhoods. However, the study notes potential traffic complexities, particularly due to ongoing construction.
Zurich, Switzerland, followed in second place, praised for its safe ambiance and high living standards. Switzerland has also been recognized as a top destination for solo female travelers.
Amsterdam, Netherlands, ranked third, recognized for its surprisingly safe environment despite its vibrant atmosphere. Tokyo, Japan, placed fourth, with high scores for personal safety, nighttime safety, and access to health facilities.
Reykjavik, Iceland, took the fifth spot, attributed to its lack of a standing military, very low crime rates, and strong social cohesion. Iceland has consistently been ranked as one of the world's safest countries. Oslo, Norway, came in sixth, offering good medical care and physical safety for all travelers, though pickpocketing can occur at the central railway station.
Singapore ranked seventh, noted for its cleanliness, modern infrastructure, and strict enforcement of anti-social behavior fines. Venice, Italy, secured the eighth position, lauded for its safety and healthcare, with a caution for petty crime in busy tourist areas.
Sydney, Australia, placed ninth, receiving high ratings for livability and safety across its neighborhoods. Honolulu, Hawaii, rounded out the top 10, noted as an extremely safe major American city, although it dropped from fifth place in the previous year's study.
Other cities in the top 15 include Dublin, Ireland; Copenhagen, Denmark; Barcelona, Spain; San Francisco, US; and Paris, France. Despite its romantic reputation, Paris was highlighted as a city where travelers are most likely to encounter pickpockets, particularly in tourist hotspots like the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre. Barcelona also presents a risk for pickpocketing in busy areas such as Las Ramblas.