The safest and most dangerous holiday destinations revealed

July 17 2025

Whether you’re jetting off to sunnier climates for a spot of peace and quiet, or planning an exotic excursion somewhere off the beaten track, there are lots of things to consider when choosing a holiday destination. One important factor is the level of safety for tourists.

To help you choose a destination that’s perfect for you, we’ve analysed data on crime level, murder rates and more for each country to reveal the safest and most dangerous holiday spots around the world.

Putting a few extra security measures in place such as installing a security alarm can help put your mind at ease when you’re not at home. Combine this with smart home security to protect your home while you’re away.

The ten safest holiday destinations (score out of 100)

Andorra tops the list thanks to its impressively low crime index rate, with both visitors and residents reporting few concerns about personal safety. Looking further east, Slovenia ranked in second place, followed closely by Switzerland in third position.

Andorra - 90
Slovenia - 65
Switzerland - 58
Singapore - 57
Japan - 56
Iceland - 47
South Korea - 45
China - 43
Finland - 43
Denmark - 43

The ten most dangerous holiday destinations (score out of 100)

Based on levels of street crime, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico top the list of riskiest countries to visit, due to an average safety rating of just 15 out of 100. This low rating reflects a combination of elevated crime levels and public safety perceptions, signalling that travellers should approach these destinations with added caution and awareness.

Dominican Republic - 15
Puerto Rico - 15
Philippines - 16
Mexico - 16
Malaysia - 17
Brazil - 17
India - 18
France - 18
USA - 19
Greece - 19

Holiday destinations with the most crime

Mexico ranks in first place for its high crime rate, with a score of 67.8 out of 100. The country also ranked in the number one spot for murder rates.

Mexico - 67.8
Dominican Republic - 67.3
Puerto Rico - 67.1
Philippines - 64.5
USA - 61.1
Malaysia - 60.1
India - 59
Brazil - 58.6
France - 57.9
Greece - 56.1

Countries with the highest murder rates (per 100,000 people)

Mexico has the highest murder rate, with 28 deaths per 100,000 people. Brazil follows closely behind, with 22 murders per 100,000 people.

Mexico - 28
Brazil - 22
Puerto Rico - 17
Dominican Republic - 11
USA - 7

Countries with the most worries about being mugged or robbed (out of 100)

The Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico top the list as countries with the greatest level of worry about being mugged or robbed. Surprisingly, Sweden is also included in the rankings, even though the country isn’t present in the overall highest crime ratings.

Dominican Republic - 75
Puerto Rico - 70
Philippines - 68
Brazil - 65
Malaysia - 64
India - 57
France - 57
Mexico - 56
Egypt - 51
Sweden - 46

What our experts say

Jake Beecroft, General Manager at ADT UK&I Subscriber, comments: "Visiting any destination calls for a combination of sensible precautions and proper planning.

“Even in countries considered safe, it’s important to remember that no place is entirely risk-free. Being aware of your surroundings, understanding local customs, and taking steps to protect your personal belongings can make all the difference.”

Research your destination – Look up local safety concerns and customs, and confirm your emergency contacts before you go.
Keep important documents secure – Use a money belt or secure pouch to store your passport, ID, and travel documents.
Stay aware of your surroundings – Avoid distractions, like excessive phone use, when in unfamiliar or crowded areas.
Use trusted transportation – Opt for licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services, especially at night.
Avoid Displaying Valuables – Keep expensive jewellery, technology, and large amounts of cash out of sight.
Always get insurance – Don't forget to opt for holiday insurance whenever you venture abroad.
Share your itinerary – Let a trusted friend or family member know your plans and check in regularly.
Blend in with locals – Dress and behave like locals to avoid drawing unwanted attention as a tourist.
Carry a decoy wallet – Keep a small amount of cash and expired cards in a secondary wallet in case of theft.
Use lightweight portable door locks – Bring compact door alarms or portable locks for added security in hotels or rentals.

For more tips and advice on how to protect your home when going on holiday, check out our safety checklist guide.