Whereas in the past it was criteria such as the number of hours of sunshine, the frequency of rainfall and the likelihood of tropical storms that had a significant influence on the choice of travel destination, in the summer of 2021 it is other indices that travellers focus on. Two factors in particular are crucial: political stability - and thus peace - within a country and the number of new corona infections. While the so-called "Global Peace Index" (GPI) is based on 23 quantitative and qualitative indicators and is collected annually, the incidence figures are more volatile. But some countries can score points in two respects.

Iceland

With a GPI score of 1.1, Iceland is not only considered one of the safest destinations in 2021 - it is the safest destination par excellence. At least in terms of peace. Crime is almost unheard of here, and the mood in the country is conflict-free. Entry for double-vaccinated travellers from a low-risk country is straightforward, with only around 5 to 10 new corona infections currently reported per day. Nothing stands in the way of a visit to the breathtaking island with its rock formations, hot springs and rugged landscapes. 

Current Information: visiticeland.com

Denmark

With a safety score of 1.253, in the list of safest travel destinations in 2021, Denmark makes it to second place in Europe and third place internationally - after New Zealand. Denmark scores with a stable political system and a low crime rate. In addition, so far the country has always been spared from natural disasters. Also in terms of Corona there is currently no great danger; entry from European countries is uncomplicated. Tivoli, Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid are already waiting!

Current Information: visitdenmark.com

Portugal

Portugal is also considered a safe travel destination without political disputes or conflicts within the population. Especially Madeira, the island off the west coast of the country is an island of bliss. The peaceful situation is accompanied by low incidence rates. There are no entry tests for double-vaccinated travellers. Both the popular beaches on the mainland and Madeira, as well as the surf spots, natural beauty and sights of Portugal, look forward to welcoming visitors.

Current entry information: visitportugal.com

Slovenia

With fifth place on the Global Peace Index, Slovenia secures a place ahead of Austria, Switzerland and Germany. Violent crimes are extremely rare here. Due to the favourable epidemiological situation, the 3-G-regulation applies upon entry, irrelevant from which country one enters. There are many reasons to travel to Slovenia - apart from the fact that it is one of the safest destinations in 2021. There are the vast forests, the opportunities to get active, Lake Bled, the Postonjna caves and the lively capital Ljubljana.

Current entry requirements: slovenia.info

Austria

With a GPI score of 1.317, Austria comes in sixth overall in the security ranking; if New Zealand is not included, because it is practically impossible to enter the country at present anyway, the Alpine republic even comes in fifth. The incidence figures are stable and relatively low, there are hardly any restrictions in daily life. Entry from most countries is also possible without any problems, a 3 G certificate is sufficient. Enchanting cities such as Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck, top cuisine, high mountains and idyllic lakes also speak for a visit to Austria.

Current entry requirements: austria.info

Switzerland

Emotionally, Switzerland would probably have been ranked much higher. However, the small country actually only makes it to sixth place in the 2021 European ranking of safest destinations. Admittedly, even with its score of 1.326, it is still more than 150 ranks ahead of last-placed Afghanistan (GPI of 3.631). In terms of Corona, Switzerland is still considered one of the model countries in Europe. This means that nothing stands in the way of a boat trip on Lake Zurich, a hike in the Alps or a visit to Chillon Castle on Lake Geneva.

Current entry requirements: myswitzerland.com

Ireland

Small pubs, vast landscapes, historic cities like Dublin and Cork, castles and rugged coastlines: Ireland has rightly earned a place at the top of the bucket list. It's a good thing it also scores so well in the global security rankings. Since July 19, travelers from the EU have only been required to show a 3-G passport and fill out an online form about their planned place of residence in order to enter the country.

Current entry information: tourismireland.com

Czechia

Few violent crimes and a rather low crime rate overall, plus no environmental disasters: the Czech Republic scores points with this, as well as with very steeply falling and overall low incidences. Entry from a European country is also easy. 3-G proof and pre-registration are currently all that is needed to enjoy the beer culture, Prague with its castle and restaurants, and the warm hospitality of the Czech Republic.

Current entry information: visitczechrepublic.com

Canada

From September 7, Canada's borders will reopen to travellers from Europe due to the good epidemiological situation - good news for all those who long for the endless expanses of the country. Nature adventures, coastal towns and maple syrup are all within reach. And the country is safe, too. Incidentally, it's the only non-European country besides New Zealand to make it into the top 10 in the GPI rankings.

Current entry information: canada.travel

Finland

After tourist visits to places 11 (Singapore) and 12 (Japan) are not possible for European travellers, the next country on the list of the safest destinations in 2021 is Finland. Also for the country in the far north the following applies: there are hardly any violent crimes, as a tourist you are very safe and the Corona numbers also stay within limits. Travellers from countries with a lower incidence than 10 cases per 100,000 inhabitants can enter the country with a 3-G certificate. Finland scores with natural beauty and relaxed cities as well as Nordic style. Not to mention the midnight sun and the northern lights.

Current entry information: visitfinland.com