Dubrovnik, Croatia. Photo: Shutterstock Dubrovnik is the safest city in Europe, according to a new investigation by the tourism company Riviera Travel, which unveiled the ranking of the continent's safest cities.
Safety is an essential consideration when booking a vacation, and given the current phenomena of riots and protests across Europe, a relatively safe city can provide peace and enjoyment for the holiday.
The safest destinations index evaluates European cities primarily based on the lowest crime rates.
These are the five safest cities in Europe
Dubrovnik - One of Croatia's most popular cities, and also the safest according to Riviera Travel, with an overall safety score of 44.1. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved old town and extraordinary medieval architecture.
Despite being a leading party destination on the continent, it currently has a very low crime rate. Dubrovnik is particularly welcoming to tourists while protecting its residents and creating a safe environment for visitors. The city is very walkable, and the old town has particularly well-lit streets.
Tallinn – Estonia's capital, ranks second in the safest destinations index, with an overall safety score of 55.8 and very low crime levels.
Its old town is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, a well-preserved example of a medieval city. Many locals, especially in the service and tourism industries, speak English.
Estonia's most efficient services and electronic government system promote safety, ensuring easy access to services and information online.
Warsaw - Placed third in the index, with an overall safety score of 60.2. Although the city has experienced moderate crime growth in the past five years, it still maintains a very low crime rate. An increase in household income and economic growth, along with declining unemployment in Poland, have also reduced crime levels.
An abundant police presence in the city, along with well-lit public spaces, contributes to visitors feeling safe even when walking around Warsaw at night.
Prague - Ranks fourth in the safest destinations index with an overall safety score of 50.9. Like Warsaw, Prague has experienced moderate crime growth over the past five years, although its crime levels remain very low.
Prague, known as the "City of a Hundred Spires", offers a combination of stunning tourism and safety, with effective law enforcement handling pickpockets and other crimes, as well as maintaining order.
Krakow - Another Polish city secured the fifth place, with an overall safety score of 64.3. The city's crime level is currently low, mainly due to a high police presence, particularly in tourist areas, which provides enhanced security and deters crime.
Krakow fosters a tourist-friendly approach, with the old town and other major tourist centers being crowded and well-lit. The city's public transportation is generally safe, even at night.