Europe Seen as the Safest Travel Region Worldwide in 2025, With Strong Demand from the US and South Korea

Published on December 18, 2025

Europe remains the world’s safest travel region, securing its position at the top of global destination rankings for the 2025 travel season. According to the latest Long-Haul Travel Barometer, released by the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail BV, 38% of long-haul travelers plan to visit Europe between September and December 2025—unchanged from the previous year. Europe’s safety, political stability, and low risk of conflict or terrorism continue to make it the top destination for global travelers, outpacing other regions in safety and security metrics.

Increased demand for travel to Europe is particularly noticeable from markets such as the United States and South Korea, despite challenges posed by global economic uncertainty and higher travel costs. However, countries like China and Brazil have seen declines in outbound travel due to economic caution and increased costs, reflecting mixed sentiment across key markets.

Europe’s Global Appeal: Why Safety Continues to Drive Travel Decisions

Europe’s reputation for safety is one of the primary factors influencing traveler decisions. The region’s political stability, personal security, and tourism infrastructure are unparalleled when compared to other global destinations. The Long-Haul Travel Barometer shows that European destinations like France, Italy, Germany, and the UK remain the top picks for travelers from around the world. These destinations continue to benefit from their long-standing cultural appeal, offering world-class attractions and experiences.

Europe’s robust tourism infrastructure also plays a significant role in attracting travelers. From convenient transport options to welcoming locals, Europe is seen as a convenient and reliable choice for long-haul travelers looking for both adventure and relaxation.

The growing sentiment towards Europe as the safest region is evident, with travel safety remaining the most crucial factor in destination decision-making. This has been particularly important for travelers from regions facing political unrest or economic uncertainty.

Mixed Sentiment Across Global Markets

While Europe’s popularity remains strong, travel intentions vary by region. The US and South Korea have shown notable increases in interest, with US travelers reporting a 6% increase in European travel intentions for 2025, from 23% in 2024 to 29% this year. South Korea has also experienced a boost in demand, climbing from 27% in 2024 to 33% in 2025. These markets view Europe as an attractive destination for its safety, cultural richness, and diverse tourism offerings, despite the higher costs of long-haul travel.

In contrast, China remains the largest market for European travel, though intentions to visit Europe have dropped sharply—from 83% in 2024 to 69% in 2025. Brazil has also seen a decline, with 46% of Brazilians intending to visit Europe, down slightly from the previous year. This cautiousness reflects a shift in spending habits, as travelers in both regions adjust their priorities based on the economic climate and cost concerns.

Nordic Countries and Multi-Country Itineraries See Increased Interest

Europe’s Nordic countries are seeing significant interest, as travelers look beyond the traditional southern destinations. Norway, Finland, and Iceland are gaining ground, particularly due to the allure of the Northern Lights and pristine natural landscapes. Norway’s popularity has risen from 9% in 2024 to 12% in 2025, followed by Finland and Iceland, which have also seen a boost in interest.

The growing appeal of multi-country itineraries is also evident in the Long-Haul Travel Barometer, with 73% of travelers planning to visit more than one European country during their trip. Chinese travelers, in particular, stand out, with an average of 5.5 destinations planned for their European trips, compared to 3.8 in 2024. This indicates a shift towards more extensive and diverse travel experiences across the continent.

Cost Considerations and Affordability

Despite Europe’s safety and appeal, the high cost of travel remains a significant barrier for many, particularly younger travelers. The barometer reveals that 42% of respondents cited affordability as the biggest obstacle to overseas travel. This concern is particularly pronounced among younger travelers, with 61% of them pointing to high costs as a primary issue. Travelers are increasingly looking for affordable travel options such as budget airlines, train travel, and car rentals, which have gained popularity in Europe.

To adapt to the growing demand for more affordable options, many European destinations are offering flexible packages, discounts on attractions, and more cost-effective ways to travel. With the rise in train travel and car rentals, tourists can now experience Europe in a more economical and sustainable manner.

Key Travel Tips for Visiting Europe in 2025

1. Plan Early: As demand for European travel remains strong, book flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best rates.
2. Explore Multiple Countries: Consider multi-country itineraries to get the most out of your trip, especially in regions like Northern Europe.
3. Opt for Train Travel: Train travel within Europe is becoming increasingly popular due to its sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
4. Check Local Offers: Many European cities offer tourist cards that provide discounts for attractions, transport, and museums.
5. Stay Flexible: Be prepared for higher costs during peak seasons and explore alternatives for budget travel within Europe.

Conclusion: Europe’s Resilience as the World’s Safest Destination

Europe’s continued position as the safest and most resilient destination for travelers in 2025 reflects its appeal in uncertain global times. With a record number of travelers planning to visit the continent, its cultural richness, political stability, and tourism infrastructure will continue to attract millions from around the world. As Europe adapts to the changing travel landscape with cost-effective options, it is well-positioned to maintain its status as the world’s top travel destination for the foreseeable future.

Key Points:

• 38% of long-haul travelers plan to visit Europe in 2025.
• Europe’s safety is a major factor in its popularity, with political stability and personal security ranking highest among traveler priorities.
• Nordic countries like Norway, Finland, and Iceland are seeing growing interest.
• Multi-country itineraries are becoming increasingly popular, especially among Chinese travelers.
• Affordability remains a major concern, with younger travelers seeking budget-friendly options.

Official Sources for Travel Information:

• European Travel Commission
• Visit Europe
• Eurostat

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated

Source: https://etc-corporate.org/