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Euronews
7 days ago
- Euronews
Medieval towns, low crime rates: Why these are Europe's safest cities
Dubrovnik is Europe's safest city, according to new research by tour operator Riviera Travel, which unveiled its ranking of the safest cities on the continent. Although factors like activities, weather and budget usually shape holiday considerations, safety is also a vital consideration when booking your next getaway. Knowing that you're in a relatively secure city can make it so much easier to fully relax and enjoy your holiday. The Safest Destinations Index evaluates European cities based on both the growth in crime rate over the last five years as well as the current crime level, for a combined safety score. The lowest number indicates the safest destination, based on the lowest level of crime. 'These findings confirm that Europe offers excellent culture and beauty, as well as unparalleled safety. From Dubrovnik's medieval charm to Prague's incredible spire-filled skyline to Zurich's scenic beauty, Europe's safest destinations allow you to roam freely with peace of mind,' Joanne Lynn, head of European Product at Riviera Travel, told Euronews Travel. 'While our findings rank these cities as the safest in Europe, it's important to take precautions still and be vigilant when visiting new destinations.' Which cities are the safest in Europe? Although European cities are usually relatively safe, compared to global cities overall, the following destinations take safety to the next level. Dubrovnik Dubrovnik, one of the most popular cities in Croatia, is also its safest, according to Riviera Travel, with an overall safety score of 44.1. The city, dubbed the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its well-preserved fortified Old Town and exceptional medieval architecture. Despite being one of the top party destinations on the continent, its current crime level is considered to be very low, with the amount of crime seen in the last five years also low. Safe night exploration is possible, even alone, with the city being very walkable and the Old Town having especially well-lit streets. Dubrovnik has fostered a very strong sense of community, according to Lonely Planet. It is particularly welcoming to tourists while also protecting residents, creating a secure environment for visitors. Violent crime is rare, although petty crimes like pickpocketing can still happen, along with occasional tourist traps and taxi scams. Tallinn Tallinn bagged second place in the Safe Destinations Index, with an overall safety score of 55.8 and very low current crime levels. The city is one of the safest capitals in Northern Europe. The Old Town is another UNESCO World Heritage site, being an exceptionally well-preserved example of a medieval northern European trading city. Many locals, especially those in the service and tourism industries, are comfortable with English, making it easier for tourists to ask for help if needed. Taxi apps like Bolt offer 'Women for Women' services, which let female passengers specifically ask for rides from female drivers. Estonia's highly efficient public services and e-government system also promote safety, while ensuring that accessing services and information online is usually quite easy. Warsaw Warsaw came in at third place on the index, with an overall safety score of 60.2. Although the city has seen moderate growth in crime in the last five years, it still has a very low current crime level. Significant post-war reconstruction and stylish contemporary districts have attracted hordes of visitors wanting to explore rebuilt historic quarters. Abundant municipal police presence, as well as well-lit public spaces, have contributed to travellers feeling safe even when walking around Warsaw at night, according to Travel Ladies. Increased household income and economic growth, along with falling unemployment in Poland, have decreased crime levels too, according to Statista. Prague In fourth place on the Safe Destinations Index was Prague, with an overall safety score of 50.9. Similar to Warsaw, Prague has seen a moderate rise in crime in the last five years, although it still retains very low crime levels at the moment. Dubbed the 'City of a hundred spires', Prague offers a tantalising blend of spectacular sightseeing and safety. Law enforcement is proactive and efficient about handling pickpocketing and other crimes, as well as maintaining order, according to Prague Views, with the city having a good surveillance system as well. A lack of major tensions and strong social support systems contributes to safety too, with Prague's residents and visitors also being generally more aware of their surroundings and belongings. Kraków Another Polish city, Kraków, bagged fifth place, with an overall safety score of 64.3. The city currently has a low crime level, with a moderate increase in the last five years. This is mainly because of high police presence, according to Visit Krakow, especially in tourist areas, providing an enhanced sense of security and discouraging crime. Like Dubrovnik, Kraków fosters a tourist-friendly attitude, with the Old Town and other key tourist hubs being crowded and well-lit. Local authorities and services are well-experienced in handling common tourist problems. Public transport is generally safe too, even at night. Amsterdam Amsterdam was in sixth place, with a moderate growth in crime in the last five years, along with a low level of crime at present. The Dutch have an especially high trust in the police, according to Ultimate Party Experiences. This makes crime witnesses and victims in Amsterdam more likely to report incidents, helping reduce overall crime. Amsterdam also has a more tolerant and liberal approach to things like sex work and cannabis usage, which helps reduce the likelihood of crimes around these activities. The overall relaxed and global village vibe of the city, as well as its live-and-let-live approach, encourages inclusion and higher safety as well, with a strong sense of community and support.
Daily Mirror
02-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Underrated EU island welcoming Brits where tourism backlash doesn't exist
Deterred by escalating anti-tourist sentiment in Spain? Don't worry, this beautiful EU island offers equally stunning beaches, history and architecture - all without the threat of angry protestors Avoid the angry protestors on this stunning European island just over three hours from the UK. For decades, sun-worshipping Brits have been flocking to sunny Spain - partying in the hectic regions of Magaluf and Benidorm, or chilling out in the more laid-back coastal gems stretching across the Costa del Sol. Lured in by golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, cheap booze and stunning history, the country has watched its tourism rapidly boom. Last year, Spain and its slew of insatiably popular islands, witnessed a record-breaking 94 million international visitors - a 10 per cent spike from the year before. However, the influx sparked backlash amongst locals, who argue the skyrocketing demand for short-term holiday lets has priced them out of the property market. 2024 witnessed a string of protests erupt across the country, with banner-holding residents demanding Brits 'go home' and never return. This anti-tourist rhetoric has spiralled in recent years, with fresh vows of demonstrations to take place during the insufferably busy summer. If you've been put off by the clashing protests, Joanne Lynn, a European travel expert over at Riviera Travel, recommends visiting Malta instead. Situated in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the North African coast - Malta may only span some 122 square miles, but it certainly packs a powerful punch. Here, you'll find a UNESCO city dripping in history, ancient ruins, stunning architecture and pristine beaches. Highlights include the 'Blue Grotto' - a network of six sea caves that has been branded the perfect dupe of Italy's Amalfi Coast - and the Saluting Battery ceremony in the capital, where a restored canon is fired Monday through Sunday twice a day. Speaking exclusively with the Mirror, Joanne explained how the country has 'largely avoided' this kind of tension thanks to the island's more 'measured approach to tourism and strong emphasis on maintaining local culture'. "While the island can certainly get busy, particularly around popular beach areas during peak season, it has not experienced the same degree of backlash or protest seen in places like Barcelona," she said. "Crucially, Malta hasn't faced the same pressures on housing markets or local infrastructure, which has helped preserve a generally positive relationship between residents and visitors." Last year, Malta welcomed 3.6 million tourists - almost 20 per cent more compared to 2023. But despite its growing popularity, Joanne says travellers can still enjoy a 'fulfilling experience without the added concern of tourism-related unrest'. "Overall, Malta's combination of high-quality restaurants, museums, historical tourist attractions and quiet towns makes it a great choice for anyone looking to avoid demonstrations across Europe, while still being able to experience a wonderful summer trip abroad," she added. Of course, this is not to say that everyone on the islands loves the sudden influx of Brits. Certain areas, such as Comino - a small island of the Maltese archipelago, have become super crowded in the busy summer months. Back in 2022, a local group named Movimenti Graffiti stripped the area of its deckchairs and sun beds to make it clear that Comino should be protected 'not plundered'. You can fly directly to Malta from most major UK airports, including Glasgow, Belfast, Liverpool, and London Stansted, with flights taking an average of three hours and 15 minutes. If you're flexible with dates, you can grab return fares for as little as £50 in June. Accommodation on the island is equally affordable, with a slew of no-thrill hotels, hostels, and apartments available. For example, a week's stay (Monday, June 9-16) at The Rose Hostel in St Julian's will set you back £349. This is based on two adults staying in a seven-bed mixed dorm. However, if you want a more luxurious trip - check out Grand Hotel Excelsior. Located in Valetta, this stunning resort boasts a large outdoor and indoor pool, a private beach, spa, and three restaurants. You can splurge out on the Superior Deluxe Double Room with a sea view for £1,659 on the exact same dates.
Daily Mail
13-05-2025
- Daily Mail
The best walkable destinations in Europe revealed - as gorgeous Italian coastline bags the top spot
Skip the car rental hire and put your best foot forward on a holiday in one of these walkable destinations. Joanne Lynn, head of European Product at Riviera Travel, has revealed the best destinations on the continent for a walking holiday. From a dreamy UNESCO Italian hotspot to an iconic canal city, find out which of Europe's cities are the easiest to discover on foot. Amalfi Coast, Italy One of Italy 's prettiest holiday destinations, the Amalfi Coast is also one of Europe's most walkable holiday hotspots, according to Riviera Travel. Joanne says: 'Situated between the Gulf of Naples and Salento, the Amalfi Coast offers stunning views of Italian landscapes and the Mediterranean Sea, providing an exceptional backdrop for a breathtaking walking holiday.' A UNESCO heritage site, the Amalfi Coast is world-renowned and loved for its lemon trees and colourful clifftop villages. And the beautiful holiday destination is set to get easier to reach with BA launching new flights to Salerno later this May. Amsterdam, Netherlands It might be best known for cycling but Amsterdam is also a fantastic destination to explore on two feet. Joanne explains that the Dutch capital has a combination of 'walkable streets' and 'pedestrian-only zones'. She adds: 'The canals dotted throughout the city only add to the scenic nature, providing some great views while travellers stroll around this bustling location.' Many of the city's top attractions including the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and Vondelpark are within a half an hour walk of each other. Dubrovnik, Croatia The historic city of Dubrovnik is an ideal option for a walking holiday, according to Joanne. She says: 'The city's Old Town is car-free, with its cobbled streets only accessible by foot. Additionally with the city located on the coast, travellers can enjoy some amazing views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding Dalmatian islands.' Walking Dubrovnik's historic walls is one of the city's highlights but tourists will need to buy a ticket to do so. However, the city's main attractions are all within an easy walk of each other which means tourists can save on the cost of car hire. Florence, Italy The Italian city's 'flat and compact' centre means it's 'easily accessible for exploration on foot' Florence is a popular honeymoon destination but it's also a great choice for holidaymakers who like to walk. Joanne says: 'Often considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a city everyone should visit at least once during their lifetime. 'Located in the region of Tuscany, Florence is a wonderful city, home to well-known landmarks including Ponte Vecchio, Campanile di Giotto and Uffizi Gallery.' The Italian city's 'flat and compact' centre means it's 'easily accessible for exploration on foot'. Krakow, Poland Krakow, Poland's second-largest city, is another fantastic destination for holidaymakers who like to walk. 'The Polish city is relatively compact and easy to navigate on foot, with pedestrian-only zones in place in the city's Old Town,' reveals Joanne. She adds: 'Furthermore, there's plenty of history and medieval architecture to discover, making it a great place to explore while boosting fitness.' Tourists can walk from Rynek Glowny, the city's main square, to Wawel Royal Castle in just 15 minutes.
