Is It Safe To Travel To Europe?
Stefan Terwindt • March 7, 2025
A Guide for 2025
Europe continues to be one of the most captivating and welcoming destinations for travelers. Despite some geopolitical events, the vast majority of European countries are safe, vibrant, and eager to host visitors. With the right preparation and awareness, you can explore stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and historic sites with complete confidence. This guide highlights the current travel landscape, entry requirements, and essential safety tips to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
The Current Travel Landscape in Europe
Europe remains open and thriving, with world-famous cities, picturesque countryside, and charming villages ready to be explored. While the conflict in Ukraine persists, it has minimal impact on most European destinations, and countries such as France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Spain continue to operate normally. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Border Regulations & Public Gatherings: Some countries have enhanced border security measures, and peaceful political demonstrations may occur in major cities. Staying informed and mindful of local events ensures a smooth travel experience.
- Digital Security Awareness: As digital connectivity grows, it's always a good idea to use secure Wi-Fi networks and enable two-factor authentication for added protection.
- Smart Travel Habits: Like any major tourist destination, cities such as Paris, Rome, and Barcelona experience petty crime like pickpocketing. Being mindful of your belongings and aware of your surroundings helps prevent any inconvenience.
Entry Requirements for Traveling to Europe in 2025
Before embarking on your journey, ensure you meet the latest entry requirements:
- Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
- ETIAS Authorization (Coming in 2025): U.S. travelers will soon need to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver to visit most European countries—stay updated on the latest travel regulations.
- Schengen Visa (If Required): Non-U.S. travelers should check visa requirements for the Schengen Zone.
- Travel Insurance: While not mandatory for U.S. travelers, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected delays is highly recommended.
- Health & Vaccination Recommendations: While COVID-19 restrictions have eased, it’s always good practice to check health advisories for your destination.
Top Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable European Adventure
To make the most of your European travels, follow these simple yet effective safety measures:
1. Stay Informed & Connected
- Monitor travel advisories from reliable sources such as the U.S. State Department or your home country’s travel authority.
- Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time updates on safety conditions.
2. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
- Enjoy Europe’s bustling cities with confidence by being aware of your surroundings.
- Be cautious of common tourist scams, particularly at ATMs and crowded landmarks.
3. Keep Your Belongings Secure
- Use anti-theft bags and money belts to keep valuables safe.
- Keep digital copies of important documents (passport, insurance, itinerary) in case of loss or theft.
4. Choose Trusted Accommodations
- Stay in reputable hotels or short-term rentals with positive reviews and strong security measures.
- Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and local emergency contacts upon arrival.
5. Use Reliable Transportation Options
- Opt for licensed taxis or rideshare services rather than unregulated options.
- Be mindful on public transport, especially in high-traffic areas where pickpocketing is more common.
Final Thoughts
Europe continues to enchant travelers with its timeless beauty, diverse cultures, and unforgettable experiences. With a little preparation and awareness, you can explore its wonders safely and confidently. Whether you’re dreaming of the canals of Amsterdam, the vineyards of Tuscany, or the historic streets of Vienna, Europe is ready to welcome you.
For a stress-free, expertly planned journey, Nuvia Travel is here to ensure you experience the best of Europe with ease and comfort.
Ready to plan your European adventure? Let’s create the perfect itinerary—contact Nuvia Travel today!
What the New Rankings Mean for You If “safe, easy, and inspiring” is your 2026 brief, the newest data lands with good news. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) just released its annual Safest Places for Travelers research—and there are some notable shifts. Headline: The Netherlands takes the top spot for countries, and Reykjavík, Copenhagen, and Zürich lead the city list. Safest countries (top 10): Netherlands Australia Austria Iceland Canada New Zealand UAE Switzerland Japan Ireland. Safest cities (top tier): Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Zürich (with long-time stalwarts like Tokyo and Singapore still ranking strongly). How BHTP builds the rankings (and why they matter) BHTP blends traveler survey data (how safe people actually felt on the ground) with external safety indices (infrastructure, health care access, risk metrics, etc.). That combination makes the list especially useful for families, first-timers, and anyone who wants solid logistics with low friction. What changed for 2026 The Netherlands jumps to #1. Think immaculate rail links, bike-first cities, and traveler-friendly English—plus cultural depth beyond the big hitters. UAE breaks into the top 10 at #7, reflecting years of investment in safety and visitor infrastructure. Northern Europe still dominates cities : Reykjavík and Copenhagen remain gold standards for walkability, transit, and low petty-crime rates.
Rick Steves is great for DIY basics. See when a premium, concierge itinerary saves time, skips lines, and upgrades hotels, guides, and dining.
New to cruising? This guide eases top worries and covers cabins, itineraries, excursions & ship differences—so you can relax with an expert-planned voyage.
Let's start with a pop-quiz: Which country has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites? It's Italy, with a whopping 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to its rich history as the center of the Roman Empire and the heart of the Renaissance. But as of 2025, there are 1,199 UNESCO World Heritage Sites spread across 167 countries, with 900 categorized as cultural, 218 as natural, and 39 as mixed properties. Here are a few of my favorites: From sweeping natural landscapes to ancient cultural treasures, these UNESCO-designated wonders offer unforgettable travel experiences. 1. The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador This famed archipelago is celebrated as the birthplace of Charles Darwin’s evolutionary insight. Rich with endemic wildlife—giant tortoises, blue‑footed boobies, Galápagos penguins, and marine iguanas—it is a living sanctuary that embodies nature's adaptability and beauty. 2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania A timeless symbol of Africa’s wild heart, Serengeti National Park delivers one of the planet’s greatest natural spectacles—the Great Migration. Each year, over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras thunder across its vast plains in search of water and fresh grazing. Spanning more than 14,750 square kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for wildlife and a bucket-list safari destination. 3. Iguazú National Park, Argentina/Brazil Home to more than 275 waterfalls stretching nearly two miles across tropical rainforest, Iguazú is a captivating UNESCO site with breathtaking views, cascading cascades, and abundant wildlife. Popular features include the vantage points at Devil’s Throat and the Salto Tres Mosqueteros. 4. Mont Saint‑Michel, France A rocky tidal island crowned by a majestic Gothic abbey, Mont Saint‑Michel emerges from the sea with a fairytale aura. Medieval ramparts, narrow staircases, and sweeping views of vast tidal flats create a timeless environment that’s both spiritual and architectural.
13 smart travel hacks to save time, money, and stress—like skipping lines, booking private tours, and leaving room for spontaneous magic.
Get the facts on travel insurance—why it matters, who needs it, and what it covers. Learn how to protect your trip and travel with peace of mind.
In April, I took a group of longtime friends on a custom-designed trip through Morocco. What unfolded over nine days was one of the most memorable, immersive journeys I’ve taken in a while. Morocco has a way of getting under your skin—in the best way. Here’s how it went.
Every now and then, a trip comes along that’s not just beautiful—but meaningful. This transformational itinerary blends the energy of Mexico City with the natural wonder of the Monarch butterfly migration in the mountains of Michoacán. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just a vacation—they want an experience that inspires reflection, awe, and connection. Here’s a sample outline of how I’d design this journey for a client (or for you!).
Welcome, Europe Traveler! One of the great joys of traveling in Europe is discovering the subtle—and not-so-subtle—differences from life back home. Hotel star ratings are a prime example. While U.S. travelers may associate stars with subjective quality assessments, in Europe, a 4- or 5-star designation typically reflects a specific checklist of objective criteria.
Welcome, Adventurer Packing for a trip can be challenging, but learning carry-on packing is a game-changer for travelers. Imagine going through airport security with ease, avoiding baggage claim waits, and skipping extra fees while having all you need close by. In this travel packing guide, we'll explore versatile clothing, smart packing tips, and the benefits of minimalist packing to help you travel light without losing style or comfort. From cool travel gadgets to packing cubes, learn how to pack efficiently and maximize your carry-on. Ready to transform your travel experience and enjoy the freedom of carry-on only?