This Country Was Ranked the Safest in the World for Women, LGBTQ+ Travelers, and People of Color

When it comes to safe travel destinations, the Netherlands consistently ranks at the top, especially for women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ travelers. Its progressive values, strong social systems, and long-standing reputation for peace create an environment where visitors feel welcome and secure. That sense of safety and inclusion is more than anecdotal. It’s reflected in how travelers recently rated the country.

A study by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection surveyed American travelers about the countries they visited during the past five years. The research combined traveler safety ratings with external indices and data to calculate an overall safety score. The Netherlands ranked the highest for safety, public health measures, and inclusivity. Women often report feeling comfortable walking alone, even at night, while LGBTQ+ travelers point to the country’s visible acceptance and its role as the first nation to legalize same-sex marriage. Travelers of color also share positive experiences, highlighting the cultural diversity and openness found in cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht.

The study draws on the Global Peace Index, which rates the Netherlands among the most peaceful countries in the world, reflecting the country’s low crime rates, political stability, and strong quality of life. In city-level data from Numbeo, The Hague and Eindhoven earn spots among the 12 safest cities globally. Another factor contributing to the country’s sense of security is infrastructure. Public transportation is efficient, clean, and safe, making it easy to move around without relying on cars. Health care standards are also high, and emergency services are reliable and accessible.

That said, no destination is entirely without its quirks, and in the Netherlands, one of the biggest things to watch out for isn’t crime—it’s bicycles. Because bicycles outnumber people in the Netherlands, pedestrians must exercise caution when navigating the streets. In Amsterdam, travelers can experience the country’s bike culture by renting bikes or joining guided tours through operators like Amsterbike. In addition, several hotels, including the Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam and The Highlander, offer convenient bike packages.

Rounding out the study’s top five safest destinations are Australia, Austria, Iceland, and Canada.

For more information on the study, visit Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection’s website.