When you pull up the news these days, does it seem like it’s rather doom and gloom? Some of our favorite major cities like London and New York seem to have so much darkness emanating from their streets.
Still, that’s no reason to cross them off your list. We just have to exercise an extra amount of caution when visiting these cultural meccas. If you’re looking to travel somewhere new – and want the comfort of peace by your side – then any one of these cities might be able to expand your horizons while offering a certain sense of safety.
Edinburgh, Scotland
By and large, you’ll feel wholly safe all across Scotland. Plus, it’s always a win-win when you don’t have to spend a few months learning a new language. Edinburgh became hugely popular after the dawn of the Harry Potter series.
But it’s always been a staple in the Celtic world, as it also hosts the annual World Pipe Band Championships. While here, you’ll feel very safe, walking the Royal Mile or Victoria Street – rumored to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley.
Of course, like anything else in life, we have to exercise caution when we’re out and about at night after a few sips from a local distillery. But, by and large, this is a safe city to call home for a while.
Basel, Switzerland
With only a quick train ride out of Paris, you can find yourself in peaceful Basel. If you can, come during the winter months so you can enjoy the Christmas markets and some mulled wine. You’ll adore the snowy backdrop that follows you wherever you go.
Basel is also an art-lovers haven, with over 40 museums and Art Basel, the most renowned contemporary art event in the world. Their next showing is June 19 – 25, 2025. So, if you miss the Christmas season, you can always aim for the start of summer. The work of more than 4,000 artists will be on display, and you’ll be sure to meet many like-minded friends.
Vienna, Austria
If you love coffee and architecture, look no further than Vienna. It’s another cultural delight because it’s where Mozart and Strauss made their lifelong mark on humanity. Like many of the cities on this list, if you can make it here around Christmastime, you’ll be dazzled and delighted.
Otherwise, any time of year you arrive, you’ll find that the streets are clean, the coffee houses are bountiful, the architecture is showstopping, and the culture that comes with classical music seems to float through the air. With plenty of hotels, B&Bs, and Airbnbs strewn throughout the city, you can station yourself right in the heart of downtown to begin your explorations.
Prague, Czech Republic
Like Vienna, Prague is the closest thing on earth to a fairy tale. Whether you stay near Old Town or just walk to it every day, you’ll be blown away by its pastel-colored baroque houses, ancient Gothic churches, and the Charles Bridge – a 1357 bridge lined with statues of saints.
Like Paris, you’ll be glad you hopped aboard a sunset cruise along the Vltava River for the unique views of the city. When you disembark, you’ll want to find some time to try at least one local brew, as it’s said that the Czechs drink more beer per capita than any other country in the world. Clearly, they must be brewing something right.
Galway, Ireland
Back to the Celts. When you think of Ireland, you probably think of Dublin. Dublin airport is usually the most affordable way to enter the country and you’ll feel safe if you decide to spend a night or two there.
But, once you get the hang of driving on the wrong side of the road, head west to Galway City. It’s smaller than Dublin – but twice as colorful. Renowned for its live Irish music every night – or trad – you’ll feel like you’re right at home, thanks to the Irish welcome.
Head to Quay Street when you’re here, a pedestrian-only lane lined with delicious eateries – especially the Quay Street Kitchen – lively pubs – especially Tigh Neachtain – and plenty of places to pick up a trinket or two to remember your time in the enchanting Emerald Isle.
When you find that you don’t want to leave this welcoming land of art, music, culture, and congeniality, here are 25 more must-visit destinations to help you extend your stay.
Bergen, Norway
Technically, here’s what you could do. Start your European travels all the way west in Ireland. Then, take a ferry to Scotland to explore Edinburgh. From there, head all the way up to the Highlands and then over to the Orkney Islands.
From the northwesternmost islands in Scotland, it’s a breeze to make your way to Norway, specifically Bergen. You’ll want to take aim at Bryggen, filled with its quintessential harborside architecture.
At night, you can explore the fish market and delight in some of the freshest seafood dishes of your life. When you’re ready for a little retail therapy, head over to Color Street to dip in and out of the most eclectic shops in Norway.
Helsinki, Finland
The Scandanavians do seem to have a bit of a stronghold on the lists of safest and cleanest cities. Since you’ve made it to Norway, why not continue over to Finland? If you can, summertime is one of the most rewarding times of year to visit – specifically from May through September.
Located on a peninsula in the Gulf of Finland, you’ll find that the city is just as alive with art and architecture as any other on this list. The main street, Mannerheimintie, is where you’ll find all the museums, theaters, shops, and cafes. Best of all, you don’t have to stress too much about learning the language as most of the locals are fluent in English.
Lisbon, Portugal
It was tough to choose between Lisbon and Porto, as both Portuguese cities are known for being safe, affordable, and full of color. But, let’s stick with the capital – a hilly, coastal city filled with pastel-colored buildings and the world-famous São Jorge Castle perched atop a hill.
Most of the stunning architecture that you won’t be able to get over can be traced all the way back to Roman times. Any city that’s as well-preserved as that is sure to be a traveler’s delight. Like most metropolises, you want to be aware of your surroundings at night. But, if you stick to the city’s well-lit Central District, you should be more than alright.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Here, we have another capital that’s safe, clean, beautifully appointed, and an art lover’s dream. They, too, have a castle that watches over the city – Ljubljana Castle. Like Vienna, you’ll find yourself falling in love with coffee all over again in Slovenia, as well.
Here, you can take aim at the Central Market for some of your explorations, as well as the famous Dragon Bridge. It’s easily a walkable city, and the ancient architecture will make even the simplest stroll down a side street feel like such a special moment in time.
Reykjavík, Iceland
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a “safest city” list without Reykjavík perched somewhere at the top. It’s also a favorite for female solo travelers who want to see the world with the assurance of safety by their side. In addition to Reykjavík, here are 20 more of the safest cities for female solo travelers.
If you enjoyed the Viking culture you experienced in Norway, Iceland will take things up a notch. Make sure you don’t overlook Faxaflói Bay and dip into any number of natural hot springs. If you can make it here when the Northern Lights are at their peak, we suspect you’ll never get that close to magic ever again.
Have Fun, and Stay Safe!
Let’s not allow the “bad” news to deter us from getting out there, seeing the world, and meeting new people. As long as we exercise a healthy amount of caution while remaining open to the world, we can have it all.
Whichever European destination you take aim at in the coming months, it’s likely we have a destination guide already queued up for you. Together, we can help you plan the perfect getaway, filled with interesting attractions to see you through. Here’s hoping we can meet you at a coffee house in Vienna someday!