Featuring countless cultures, languages, landscapes, and experiences, the vast continent of Europe is a celebration of diversity. Travelers must stay alert and keep their wits about them since no two nations are the same. Within Europe’s borders are safe countries, dangerous countries, and everything in between. Read on to learn the safest and most dangerous destinations in Europe.
Iceland Is Officially The Safest Country In The World
According to the Global Peace Index report published by World Population Review that takes into account political instability, violent conflict, the potential for terrorist attacks, level of distrust, number of homicides, and military expenditures as a percentage of GPD, Iceland is ranked at the top of the list. The Nordic nation is officially the safest country in the world for 2020.
The interesting thing about Iceland is that it is so statistically safe and, at the same time, it’s also a top destination for adrenaline junkies and adventure enthusiasts. The intense landscape of volcanoes, geysers, waterfalls, and glaciers lends itself to a number of outdoor activities that people come from all over the world to take part in.
Iceland is also becoming increasingly popular for its natural hot springs. One of the most famous is the Blue Lagoon in the country’s southwest on the Reykjanes Peninsula. These days, no trip to Iceland is complete without a dip in at least one geothermal spa.
Ukraine Is One Of Europe’s Most Dangerous Destinations
The Global Peace Index lists Ukraine as one of the most dangerous destinations in Europe. Although Turkey is ranked as more dangerous, the majority of it is technically considered to be part of the Middle East, leaving Ukraine as the second-most dangerous European country.
The US Department of State advises exercising increased caution in Ukraine due to crime, civil unrest, and upcoming elections that may cause negative impacts throughout the country. There are some areas of Ukraine that travelers should avoid entirely, including Crimea and the eastern parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblast.
Those who do travel to Ukraine should expect an increased police presence and have a contingency plan in place for emergency situations. It’s a shame that the country is considered so dangerous because it really does offer a lot of beauty in the way of detailed orthodox churches and scenic mountains carpeted with woodland. There are also a number of still-standing medieval structures to observe.
Portugal Has A High Peace Index Ranking
Russia Is The Most Dangerous Country In Europe
The World Population Review ranks Russia as the most dangerous country in Europe. The US Department of State categorizes Russia as a Level 2 risk and advises travelers to exercise increased caution in most areas and to completely avoid other areas.
The main risks in Russia at present are terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Travelers are warned not to travel to the North Caucasus and Crimea at all and to have all their travel documents up to date and easily accessible in other parts of the country.
Despite its ranking, Russia remains a popular travel destination for those determined to explore the country’s many marvels. Moscow and St. Petersburg tend to be two of Russia’s most visited destinations, with the latter housing the State Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Royal Palace, and the Winter Palace.