Explore Europe: 10 Safe Cities for Peaceful Travels

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.