Is Europe Safe to Visit Right Now?

Last Updated: 11/8/23 | November 8th, 2023

When it comes to travel, safety is usually the primary concern of travelers when they are picking a destination. Because of the ongoing war in Ukraine (as well as the current conflict in the Middle East), I’ve gotten many emails asking me if Europe is safe to visit.

The questions are always the same:

“Is it likely the war will spread? What about terrorist attacks? Refugees? There are always strikes and protests happening these days. Is Europe safe to visit?”

There is a lot of uncertainty. I get it. If you watch the news regularly, you’d think the end is nigh. Fortunately, reality isn’t nearly as bleak as the news.

Having been to Europe recently and with plans to continue to visit (as well as a team member who lives there full-time) I can say this:

Europe is safe to visit.

Let me explain why.

 

“If it bleeds, it leads” is the go-to mantra of the news and social media these days. Unsurprisingly, the media have done a good job of painting Europe in a negative light. Something happens, they pick up the story and run with it, and it gets amplified and sensationalized. A politician uses it as “proof” of his larger point, it gets amplified again, and then suddenly, a whole continent looks like it’s dangerous and engulfed in flame. (I’m not saying what happens isn’t newsworthy, but we all know 24/7 coverage creates this echo chamber.)

People also end up extrapolating from sensational coverage and assume that what they read is the only thing going on. It’s how biases are formed. It’s why people who have never been to France think “the French all hate Americans” or “the French are all rude.”

Or why many Americans still think Colombia is the dangerous narco-state they heard about throughout the 1980s.

Once engrained, these mistaken perceptions are hard to change. (And it’s not just Americans who do this. Every country around the world has conceptions of all the others!)

Combined with all the fake news on the web and how people only seem to absorb that which confirms their preconceptions, it’s easy to see why Europe looks bad.

Europe is no more dangerous (probably even less so) than any city in the US (certainly in terms of gun violence)…or anywhere else in the world.

In fact, 7 of the world’s 10 safest countries are in Europe (compared to the USA ranking 129th).

In terms of terrorism, Europe is safer than it’s ever been.

Statistically speaking, you’re actually probably safer in Europe than in the US, depending on where you live and where you’re visiting! That’s not to say Europe is perfect; it still has its issues, just like any destination. But I go to Europe multiple times every year and can tell you that, as a tourist, you are not in any greater danger than you were years ago.

“But I saw those awful protests in France!” you say.

Well, Europe (especially France) has a long history of protests and riots. While I am not here to start a debate on French integration, the fact is that France has always had an issue integrating immigrants into French society. This has been a source of friction for decades and sometimes erupts into riots, especially in the housing developments on the outskirts of Paris. They also have a strong and active working class which also leads to a lot of strikes and protests.

This is nothing new; the news media are only making it seem like something new because they are trying to tie it to the current refugee situation. There are no roving bands of youths in central Paris and no “no-go zones” in the city!

Not only am I not concerned about safety in Europe, but I’ve also led many group tours around the continent and everyone felt perfectly safe the entire time.

The truth is, statistically, you’re more likely to get hurt in your bathtub than die in a terrorist attack (over 700 Americans die in their bathtub each year!).

I am not denying that there isn’t an increase in terrorist threats around the world or that we shouldn’t be more vigilant.

But you also never know when you could be in a mass shooting, bus accident, car crash, or lightning strike here at home. We’re petrified of being in a terrorist attack while traveling abroad, but we hardly ever give any thought to getting in a car or the bathtub.

Terrorist attacks are rare and it’s very unlikely the war in Ukraine will sweep across the continent or that Hamas will start attacking European cities. The now-endless media coverage when something happens and the fact that is all we hear about make it seem like they are more common than they really are. Since pretty much only the negative things make the news, we assume that that’s the only thing happening.

Rather than violent crime and terrorist attacks, the biggest thing you’ll have to worry about when visiting Europe is pick-pocketing, which can be rampant in certain places. Even so, by keeping your wits about you and practicing certain safety tips, you’ll be able to protect yourself and avoid incident.

 

8 Safety Tips for Visiting Europe

1. Be aware of thieves or muggers working in pairs or small groups – The trick of distracting you (for example, someone “accidentally” bumping into you, holding up a map for directions, or a group of kids playing or fighting near you) is often used so that an accomplice can rob you while you’re not paying attention to your belongings. Don’t fall for distractions and keep your guard up.

2. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times – Pickpockets love to prey on careless tourists, so keep your belongings (especially your smartphone) out of reach at all times. Be especially alert in crowded places near major tourist attractions, markets, or on public transit. Do not leave your purse or bag hanging off the back of your chair while dining in restaurants, especially on the beautiful outdoor terraces that are so common in Europe. It’d be all too easy for thieves to swipe it without you even noticing!

3. Be mindful of your money – Likewise with your money. Don’t carry every euro you have in your wallet or pocket. Spread it around (some in your wallet, some in the hotel safe, some in your backpack), so that if someone steals your wallet, you’ll still have money elsewhere.

4. Be careful when using ATMs – Only use ATMs inside a bank. Robberies are much more common at outdoor ATMs, and skimmers can be placed on outdoor ATMs (to steal your PIN). To stay safe, only use indoor ATMs.

5. Carry a photocopy of your passport with you – This is a no-brainer for anyone who travels overseas. Put your real passport away in the lockbox provided by your hotel or hostel and carry around a photocopy or a digital version on your phone or in your email.

6. Never leave your drink unattended – This is another universal safety tip, but especially if you’re backpacking and partying in Europe. Drinks can be spiked at any moment, so always keep yours close, or hand it to someone you trust if you need to.

7. Download the Prey app to your phone and laptop – If your devices get stolen, you’ll be able to track them and remotely turn on your camera to photograph the thief (you can also wipe the data and message the thief too). It costs just $1.10/month.

8. Buy travel insurance – We never think that something is going to go wrong on trips. But it does sometimes — which I’ve learned from experience. I’ve lost luggage in South Africa, had my gear break in Italy, and popped an eardrum in Thailand. I was also knifed in Colombia. While it’s not fun to think about, bad things can happen while you’re traveling, which is why I never leave home without travel insurance.

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

 

What About the War in Ukraine?

I’ve had tons of people emailing me recently asking if it’s safe to go to Europe even though there is currently a war going on between Russia and Ukraine. The conflict has been ongoing for years, however, it’s entirely localized in Ukraine. That means the rest of Europe is safe to visit.

Obviously, visiting Ukraine is out of the question (and I’d suggest you avoid visiting Russia as well), but neighboring countries like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania are still perfectly safe (just don’t go too close to the border). While the conflict is front of mind for everyone (both tourists and locals), you really won’t notice it in terms of day-to-day events as a tourist. The war is completely isolated to Ukraine, which means you’re free to travel elsewhere in Europe without worry.

What’s the Safest Country in Europe?

While most countries throughout Europe are considered very safe (minus the exceptions discussed above), in terms of numbers, Iceland, Ireland, Denmark, and Austria are considered the absolute safest.

Is Europe Safe to Travel Solo?

Europe is one of the safest places to visit as a solo traveler and is an excellent choice even for first-time solo travelers. I’ve been going there for decades and have rarely encountered any problems. Solo female travelers should also feel safe throughout Europe.

Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink in Europe?

The tap water throughout Europe is generally safe to drink (with the possible exception of rural areas and some beach destinations, so always be sure to ask locals about the water when you arrive). Depending on where you’re traveling though, it might taste a bit different than what you’re used to due to higher mineral content.

The best way to improve the taste of your drinking water and ensure that it’s safe to drink is to bring a LifeStraw reusable water bottle. They have built-in filters that purify your water so you don’t get sick. Plus, carrying a reusable water bottle will help you avoid single use plastics and save money in the process, as buying water bottles all the time can add up in Europe!

Are Taxis in Europe Safe?

The taxis in Europe are safe and reliable, though like anywhere, you should always make sure you’re getting in an authorized taxi. You can definitely hail a taxi from the street safely, just make sure you pay attention that the meter is turned on and running properly.

***

I can’t guarantee nothing will happen when you visit Europe. But that applies to any region of the world. However, I can say that the chance of something happening to you is so slim that if you’re afraid of that, then you better be afraid of everything else too.

I get that emotion makes human beings irrational, but don’t live your life in fear of what might happen. If you do, the terrorists win, you lose out on living your life, and we live in a state of perpetual fear and anxiety of those around us.

And that’s no way to live.

Visit Europe. It’s safe. Be vigilant and careful but be even more so in the bathtub as you get ready or in the car on the way to the airport. Those places are really scary!