worst tourist cities in europe

10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe

Europe is a diverse continent with incredible art, food, architecture, history, and stunning cities.

Many European cities are pedestrian-friendly and set up for tourists.

However, like on all continents, some cities are more dangerous than others.

The danger comes in many forms, including terrorist attacks, scams, natural disasters, and criminal activity.

Regardless of how safe a place may be, there is always some risk level while traveling.

There aren’t many destinations across the globe that are completely crime-free, but some cities rate much higher than others from violent and property crime reports.

Keep reading to learn more about the top 10 most dangerous European cities!

Ten: Sarajevo, Bosnia

Nine: podgorica, montenegro, eight: rome, italy, seven: athens, greece, six: dnipro, ukraine, five: nantes, france, four: montpellier, france, three: catania, italy, two: minsk, belarus, one: bradford, united kingdom, one: know the emergency phone number, two: be aware of your environment, three: don’t leave valuables visible in hotel rooms, four: don’t travel alone at night, five: keep wallets in your front pocket, are european cities safer than u.s. cities, what are the safest european cities, which european country has the highest crime rate.

As the capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina, Sarajevo has seen its share of violence during the war in the 1990s, which broke up Yugoslavia.

Luckily, most of that violent crime has subsided, but Sarajevo is still number ten on this list because of a crime rate of 47.06.

The most common crimes in the city are purse snatching, pickpocketing, and other theft, which occur in specific areas of the city.

Also, Sarajevo has bombs and landmines left over from the war that still hasn’t been cleared, but these areas will be marked off with tape, so don’t tempt fate.

Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica, is a small city with some problematic areas, contributing to the crime rate of 48.18, which should be avoided if possible.

Most crime in the capital results from rival criminal gangs, including car bombings and daytime shootouts.

While this sounds scary, tourists are not targeted, and these violent crimes don’t occur in touristy areas.

In any case, it’s essential to be on the lookout for more petty criminals who are scam artists or pickpocket professionals.

Don’t travel alone at night; if you must, be vigilant in secluded areas.

Rome is a bustling and vibrant city with a large population, so some crime is to be expected.

Bag snatching and pickpocketing are the most common crimes against tourists and locals, so it’s critical to remain vigilant.

Also, scam artists are in heavily touristy areas, such as the Spanish Steps and Colosseum, so be polite and friendly, but don’t engage in any activities.

Once the sun goes down, stay away from secluded areas, downside streets, or alleys.

Public transportation is a safe option for getting around town or calling a taxi.

Generally, Athens is safe for visitors, but petty crimes regularly occur, so be aware of your surroundings and personal items.

Athens is a massive city, so it’s no surprise that it’s number seven on this list, with a crime rate of 52.30.

Plenty of scams exist in tourist areas near the Plaka and Acropolis.

Also, fake taxis are common, so using ride-sharing apps or booking with a reputable taxi company is critical.

Also, look out for suspicious behavior and be aware of your nighttime environment.

At this moment, Ukraine and all cities are the most dangerous considering the war that terrorizes the locals.

In non-war years, Dnipro is Europe’s sixth most dangerous city, with a crime index of 53.37.

Dnipro is a popular backpacker and adventure destination, so plenty of transients come through the city.

Like in most other European cities, Dnipro is subjected to scams, pickpocketing, and some violent crime.

The best tip for safely navigating this Eastern European city is to avoid secluded locations, especially at night.

Nantes is one of the most beautiful cities in the country and is safe from violent crimes.

However, car theft and pickpocketing are significant issues.

The city has also seen an uptick in drug-related incidences in recent years.

The city has two dangerous neighborhoods that should be avoided when visiting: Bottiere and Dervallieres.

Also, there are plenty of protests and demonstrations throughout the year, some of which turn violent.

If you stick to the northern areas of Nantes where the crime is lower, there will be significantly less risk of becoming a victim.

Although Montpellier, France, is a stunning town with a lengthy history, beautiful art and architecture, and a burgeoning food scene, there is plenty of crime to navigate when visiting.

Theft and pickpocketing are the most common crimes against tourists, so keeping an eye on your surroundings and belongings is critical.

Burglary and car theft are also common and contribute to the 58.83 crime rate.

Criminals target those who look distracted, vulnerable, and out of place.

Located off the coast of the Boot, Catania is a city on the island of Sicily, a popular international tourist destination.

Like most other Italian cities, Catania has plenty of crime-related issues, especially surrounding pickpocketing and petty theft.

With the most recent crime index of 60.88, Catania is the third most dangerous European city.

Sadly, the city’s crime index continues to climb each year due to increases in carjacking, petty theft, and violent crimes, especially as inflation impacts the globe.

Also, Catania has plenty of corruption within the police and government, and natural disasters, like volcanic activity and earthquakes, regularly occur.

At number two, Minsk, Belarus, has a crime index of 61.75. Surprisingly, the Belarussian government has a zero-tolerance policy for crimes committed by locals and tourists.

While this has helped to keep society in check, it’s still one of the most dangerous cities on the continent.

Tourists must be aware of their surroundings as muggings, pickpocketing, and other petty crimes are regularly committed.

Also, visitors must be vigilant for reckless driving, such as ignoring traffic laws and signals and speeding around the city.

Crossing the street must be done with extreme caution.

The most dangerous city in Europe is Bradford, United Kingdom, which has the highest crime index amongst all European cities, with a total crime index of 64.33!

The most common crimes in Bradford are theft, harassment, and violent outbursts by citizens.

The Bradford police department doesn’t agree that the city is the most dangerous in Europe.

Still, it’s critical to be aware of your surroundings, not venture out at night alone, and not leave visible valuables in cars when visiting.

It’s important to note that most crimes in Bradford are committed in certain lower-income pockets.

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Europe

When traveling, it’s always essential to have general safety tips in mind; these include the following:

The emergency number for all European countries is 112.

Therefore, if you’re from the United States , don’t dial 911 for an emergency, as the call won’t go through.

In the United Kingdom, you can dial 999 or 112 to reach an emergency dispatcher.

Like in American cities, one moment, you’re in a safe area, and the next, the neighborhood flips into a poverty-stricken area.

If this occurs, don’t panic; turn around and return the way you came or call a ride share to pick you up.

It’s not like there’s a line you’re going to cross and immediately become the victim of a crime.

But, on the other hand, if you have a bad feeling, don’t keep walking in that direction.

Never leave valuable items in a visible location in hotel rooms, especially in Italy.

Theft by local hotel staff is common in Italy, so keep important or expensive items out of sight by placing them in your suitcase with a lock.

If you have expensive jewelry or other items, use the room’s safe for storage.

For solo travelers, traveling alone at night is an unavoidable situation.

Therefore, if you must travel alone at night, walk in well-lit areas, and don’t wander down dark alleys or side streets.

This also relates to being aware of your environment, so promptly leave the area if it doesn’t feel right.

Place your wallet or phone in your front pocket when walking in crowded areas is necessary.

If you have items in your back pocket, pickpocket professionals can easily lift them, so avoid being the victim of a crime by using front pockets.

Frequently Asked Questions

European cities are generally safer, with some U.S. cities often making the top 50 lists for most dangerous in the world.

On the other hand, European cities rarely make these lists.

This is because the European poverty level is significantly lower than the U.S., and it’s more challenging to acquire weapons, like handguns, in most European countries.

Basel, Switzerland, enjoys the lowest crime rate in Europe and is considered the safest European city.

Other highly safe cities include the following:

• Geneva, Switzerland
• Warsaw, Poland
• Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Vienna, Austria
• Zurich, Switzerland
• Porto, Portugal
• Bern, Switzerland
• Zagreb, Croatia
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Split, Croatia
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Rijeka, Croatia

Belarus has the highest crime rate in Europe, with a 58.4 index.

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3 Comments on 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe

Bradford scores highly due to willingness of people to speak to the police as is culturally known that the violent criminals banally propagate the “don’t be a grass” mentality as is converse to a West Yorkshire natives “helping old ladies to cross the road” upbringing (- Make of that what you will).

Despite its rich history and stunning architecture, living in Rome means constantly being on guard against pickpockets and scam artists, especially around tourist hotspots like the Spanish Steps.

Bradford is the most dangerous city in Europe with a high crime rate and common theft, harassment, and violent outbursts.

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31 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe & Safety Tips

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 05/04/2024

Europe is an incredibly diverse continent and has many beautiful cities. Many of those cities are perfectly set up for tourists, but some are considered more dangerous than others. 

What makes a city dangerous? Is it the number of criminal reports? Natural disasters? Scams? Terrorist attacks? Generally, it’s a combination of all of those. Europe is quite lucky to be a continent full of safe and bucket list-worthy destinations . But there will always be some level of risk wherever you go. 

There aren’t many places in the world that are completely crime-free, sadly. But the cities below have seen higher rates of crime than others — sometimes, these are petty crimes like pickpocketing, and others are as serious as homicide. 

Let’s take a look at 31 of the most unsafe cities in Europe.

Note: These cities are ranked according to their crime index but are not listed in any specific order.

31 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe

1. amsterdam, netherlands .

Crime index: 33.68

Image by Red Morley Hewitt on Unsplash

For the most part, Amsterdam is a safe city for tourists. But it is a busy destination, with throngs of visitors arriving each year. So there will always be opportunistic crimes happening in and around the city, but especially in the Red Light District. 

Crime in Amsterdam is largely concentrated in the nightlife districts and mainly involves pickpocketing at train stations and on public transport. Often, the victims find themselves inebriated or alone and unsure of where they are. Staying in a group and keeping yourself safe while out enjoying the night is important here. 

Safety tip : Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t leave any belongings unattended. Also, never take a taxi from the streets as they are often not legally registered.

2. London, UK 

Crime index: 52.81

The UK’s capital is an incredible city but has its fair share of crime and it is one of the most dangerous cities in Europe. Most of the city is safe, with 24-hour public transport and well-lit areas around bars and restaurants. As someone who lives in London, I generally feel safe, but I know where to go and not go.

The most dangerous areas are around the East End, where there is often gang violence and drug dealing. Here, you’ll want to stick to the main roads and avoid unlit areas. In the city center and tourist districts, it’s mostly safe during daytime hours. But at night, pickpocketing and muggings can become more common in London . 

Safety tip : Don’t go out alone at night, and always be aware of your surroundings. Make sure your belongings are with you at all times, especially on public transport. 

3. Paris, France 

Crime index: 53.19

Image by Anthony DELANOIX on Unsplash

How dangerous could the city of love really be? Well, a trip to Paris is generally very safe for tourists. But there have been reports of pickpocketing and bag snatching in the city’s main tourist spots like Montmartre and the Louvre. 

In addition, subway stations are known to be dangerous at night. The areas around Les Halles, Châtelet-Les-Halles, and Gare du Nord can be particularly dangerous after dark. Be sure to take extra precautions when traveling around these areas. 

Safety tip : Keep your belongings close to you, and don’t carry large amounts of cash in public. Also, always stay in well-lit areas, especially at night. 

4. Madrid, Spain 

Crime index: 29.42

Image by Quique Olivar on Unsplash

While Madrid Spain is another city known to be generally safe for tourists, there have been reports of pickpocketing and muggings. These incidents tend to happen in areas with large crowds, like on public transport and at tourist attractions. 

In addition, the La Latina district has seen a rise in crime over the past few years. This area is home to some of the city’s most popular bars and restaurants, so be sure to take extra precautions when traveling in this area. 

Safety tip : Don’t become a statistic, avoid anyone who seems to offer you something you didn’t ask for. Scams are common here, and they target tourists who are unaware. 

5. Brussels, Belgium 

Crime index: 50.80

Image by François Genon on Unsplash

If you’ve ever been to Belgium, you’ll know it’s a country full of friendly faces and bustling cities. Brussels is no exception, but there have been reports of pickpocketing and muggings in the city center. These are mostly confined to the main tourist spots and public transport hubs. 

Be vigilant when walking around the city center, especially at night. Belgium doesn’t have the highest crime rate in Europe but do avoid traveling alone late at night in deserted areas, and always take licensed taxis from reputable companies that you have pre-booked.​​​ 

Safety tip : This city has also been the victim of terrorist attacks, and there is a chance of another occurring. So it’s best to stay up-to-date with travel warnings and always be aware of your surroundings. 

6. Porto, Portugal 

Crime index: 36.42

Portugal’s second-largest city is a beautiful place to visit. But it also has its fair share of crime. Pickpocketing, burglaries, and muggings occur in the downtown area and on public transport. 

There are also parts of the city that have drug problems, such as the Rua Vila Nova de Foz Côa and Rua Peso da Régua areas. Be particularly careful when traveling in these areas, and avoid any dark streets.

Safety tip : Avoid walking around these areas late at night, and never carry large amounts of cash in public. Also, make sure your hotel or accommodation is well-recommended and secure.​​​

7. Bucharest, Romania 

Crime index: 27.98

Image by Dan V on Unsplash

Bucharest is a city full of culture and history, but it also has its share of crime. Pickpocketing and mugging are common in crowded areas such as public transport stations, parks, tourist attractions, and markets. In addition, there have been reports of theft from parked cars. 

Scammers are also known to operate in the city, especially targeting tourists as they board trains and buses. But it is good to note that crime in Bucharest has been on a steady decline, and it’s a brilliant city to visit.

Safety tip : If you’re out drinking at nightclubs, keep an eye on your drinks. as there have been reports of spiking in the city. 

8. Stockholm, Sweden 

Crime index: 45.10

Image by Anna Hunko on Unsplash

At first glance, Stockholm is a peaceful, calm place that has very low crime rates. But, like all cities, it still has its dangers. Pickpocketing is the most common crime in the city, with public transport stations and tourist attractions being particularly prone to this type of theft.

Scams are also common in Stockholm, so be sure to know who you’re dealing with before handing over any money or information. In general, take the same precautions when traveling to Stockholm as you would in any other city, such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving personal items unattended. Follow these tips, and you should have a safe and enjoyable time in Stockholm. ​

Safety tip : Rinkeby is one area in Stockholm that frequently experiences violence, most in the form of street fights. So it’s best to avoid these areas after dark. 

9. Riga, Latvia 

Crime index: 37.93

Riga is known as a beautiful, peaceful city and I really like it. But it still has its dark corners, with pickpocketing and muggings being the most common crimes in the city. These tend to occur around popular tourist spots, such as Old Town and Freedom Monument.

You will mostly encounter bag snatching in crowded streets, so it’s best to keep your bags close and always be aware of your surroundings. The risk of terrorism is also present in Riga, so be sure to check the latest travel warnings and always keep an eye out for suspicious activity. 

Safety tip : Be extra careful when using public transport, as pickpockets often target travelers on buses and trams. It’s best to carry your bag close to you at all times and hesitate to give money or personal possessions if asked by strangers.​​​

10. Kiev, Ukraine 

Crime index: 46.63

Image by Robert Anasch on Unsplash

Kiev is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors, but its political instability has led to high levels of corruption and crime. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and phone snatching, is common in public areas; tourists are frequent targets for thieves.

Scammers are also known to operate in the city, so be wary of strangers offering you help or deals that sound too good to be true. Be especially careful when withdrawing money from ATMs, as there have been reports of card skimming in Kiev. 

Safety tip : It’s a good idea to keep your passport and other important documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or money belt. Make sure that you’re always aware of your surroundings, and never enter unfamiliar areas after dark. ​​​​​ ​

Note: With the Russian invasion ongoing in Ukraine, it is not advised to travel to the country until things are stable again. 

11. Sofia, Bulgaria 

Crime index: 41.76

Image by Natalya Letunova on Unsplash

Sofia is an up-and-coming destination for tourists, but there are still some dangerous neighborhoods. The areas with high tourist traffic also have the highest risk of petty crimes. Pickpocketing is common in tourist-heavy areas, and muggings have been reported in the city.

Scams are also prevalent in Sofia, so be sure to know who you’re dealing with before handing over any money or information. The city has an unusual number of stray dogs running around, which can be dangerous if they attack. If you do come across a stray dog, keep your distance. 

Safety tip : Be on the lookout for suspicious activity when exploring the city, especially near tourist sites. Be extra cautious during evening hours, as crime tends to increase after dark. It’s best to travel in groups when possible and avoid any unfamiliar or secluded areas. ​​​​

12. Belgrade, Serbia 

Crime index: 38.54

Image by Ljubomir Žarković on Unsplash

The biggest threats in Belgrade are pickpockets and muggings, but otherwise, it’s relatively safe. Tourists are frequent targets for theft, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Another safety concern is the floating nightclubs run by the Balkan mafia. These clubs can be quite dangerous if and when fights break out, as they often get violent. But most of the time, these clubs are just a place for people to enjoy themselves.

Safety tip : Another potentially dangerous space for tourists in Belgrade is sports games, where there have been reports of violence. It’s best to avoid these events if possible, or at least stay away from the rowdiest fans. 

13. Warsaw, Poland 

Crime index: 26.44

Image by Kamil Gliwińsk i on Unsplash

Warsaw is generally a safe city, but its high levels of poverty have led to an increase in petty crime. Pickpocketing and phone snatching are the most common crimes reported by tourists, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Scammers are also prevalent and target tourists where they can. But Poland’s government is working hard to combat the crime in Warsaw, and you’ll likely see heavy police presence in the city. 

Safety tip : The Praga district is one of the more dangerous spots in Warsaw, so avoid this area if you’re alone. 

14. Thessaloniki, Greece 

Crime index: 47.58

An interesting fact about Greece is that Thessaloniki is the ideal Greek beach vacation destination. The city is gorgeous and well-located for day trips to nearby Halkidiki , but it’s also crowded and busy. This creates the perfect breeding ground for petty crime. 

As a tourist, it’s not advised that you wander alone around Lahanokipoi, Egnatia Street, and suburbs like Dendropotamos. But if you keep your valuables close and your wits about you, there is a medium to low risk of bag snatching and other theft. I felt very safe when I visited Thessaloniki.

Safety tip : This is one of the most walkable cities in Greece. So to enjoy this but avoid being a victim of crime, plan your routes before you leave your accommodation. 

15. Hamburg, Germany 

Crime index: 43.26

Hamburg is an artistic city, but like Amsterdam, it has its own Red Light District. This can cause crime to increase at night. There isn’t much violent crime that occurs in the city, but petty theft and vandalism can be high at times. 

The more dangerous areas like Reeperbahn are often patrolled by police, though. So if you stay in well-lit areas at night and stay vigilant, you’re unlikely to attract any criminal attention while spending time in Hamburg . 

Safety tip : Prostitution and drugs cause many of the city’s issues, and if you’re out at night, you may come across very persistent sex workers. It’s best to avoid them and not make any contact. 

16. Nantes, France 

Crime index: 55.90

Image by quentin on Unsplash

One of the most beautiful cities in France , Nantes, is relatively safe. Pickpocketing and car theft are both issues, and there has been a sharp increase in criminal activity over the past few years due to drug dealing. 

Nantes also has some dangerous neighborhoods that you should avoid. These include the Dervallières and Bottière areas. At times there are also demonstrations that can turn violent;  staying away from these is advised. 

Safety tip : For a safe and pleasant time in Nantes, stick to areas in the North of Nantes as the crime is lower in this region. 

17. Dnipro, Ukraine 

Crime index: 53.37

Image by Kyrylo Kholopkin on Unsplash

Located in Eastern Europe, Dnipro is a popular tourist destination for backpackers and adventurers. But like most cities in Ukraine, it’s not without its risks. There have been reports of pickpocketing, scams, and even violent crime. 

It’s best to stay away from secluded locations at night. There is also a lot of organized crime and corruption in the city.

Safety tip : As a tourist, it’s important to stay away from any kind of political demonstrations that could lead to violence or arrests. 

18. Malmo, Sweden 

Crime index: 53.56

Image by Pontus Ohlsson on Unsplash

Of all the Swedish cities, Malmo is the worst affected by crime . There are gang shootings, bombings, and other violent acts that occur throughout the city. While tourists are unlikely to be victims of crime, it’s important to stay aware and not wander around alone at night. 

Malmo also has a large population of gypsies; while they may try and scam you out of money or goods, they are generally harmless. The biggest risk is petty theft and pickpocketing, which have been known to occur in crowded areas. 

Safety tip : Keep yourself out of trouble by avoiding the surrounding suburbs at night, and stay away from potential bar brawls. But if you do have any problems, know that the police are fast to act and will help. 

You might enjoy my articles on Europe’s most visited cities and Europe’s most polluted cities.

19. Kristiansand, Norway 

Crime index: 43.45

Image by Gunnar Ridderström on Unsplash

Norway is known to be a safe country, and Kristiansand is not as dangerous as it might sound. There are drug issues and petty theft, but violent crime is rare. However, it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings at all times and keep valuables close. 

The city’s main pain points are drunks and beggars loitering in the streets and looking for targets. It’s best to avoid areas that are known for drug dealing and loitering. Try and stay in well-lit areas at night if possible. 

Safety tip : If you see a suspicious person, it’s best to walk away and find alternative routes back. Always trust your gut feeling and be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn’t feel right, take an alternate route or go somewhere public where there are 

20. Minsk, Belarus 

Crime index: 61.75

Image by Darya Tryfanava on Unsplash

Even though Minsk has a high crime index, the Belarus government has a zero-tolerance policy for all crime. This has made it one of the safest cities in Europe. Tourists should still be aware of their surroundings, however, as there have been reports of pickpocketing and mugging.

One major danger in the city, though, is the reckless driving of the local drivers. They often speed and ignore traffic laws, so it’s important to be cautious when crossing the streets. 

Safety tip : It’s against the law to photograph state buildings in Minsk, so while staying safe, avoid getting into trouble with police as well. 

21. Bradford, United Kingdom 

Crime index: 64.33

Image by Ollie Jordan on Unsplash

Bradford has the highest crime index of all European cities. The crime here is mainly centered around violent outbursts, but there is also a lot of harassment and theft that goes on. 

It’s important to note that the Bradford police don’t agree with the city’s reputation for being the most dangerous city in Europe. Regardless, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and not leave any valuables visible in cars or other public places.

Safety tip : It’s best to avoid the seedy areas around the city at night as this is when the majority of crime takes place. 

22. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Crime index: 47.06

Petty crime is high in Sarajevo, and travelers are more likely to be victims of pickpocketing, purse snatching, and other forms of theft. If you’re visiting Sarajevo, stay away from dodgy areas of the city and always be aware of your surroundings. Don’t leave any valuables visible in your car or on display in public areas. 

Safety tip : Another danger in Sarajevo is the landmines and bombs left behind from the Yugoslav wars. Avoid the hilly areas that are marked off with tape, and don’t enter abandoned buildings. 

23. Lodz, Poland

Crime index: 42.24

Image by Florian Rebmann on Unsplash

This city hosts many film festivals and has plenty of attractions for visitors. Lodz is relatively safe for tourists, but there are crimes reported in some neighborhoods. You will also notice plenty of beggars in the streets, and this can cause vandalism and other nuisances. 

Safety tip : Streets like Włókiennicza Street, Abramowskiego Street, Solna Street, and Limanowskiego Street are best avoided.

24. Montpellier, France 

Crime index: 58.83

Image by Nathan Cima on Unsplash

There is quite a bit of crime in Montpellier. Pickpocketing and theft are the most common crimes tourists experience, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your belongings while out and about. Car theft and burglary are also quite common in the city.

These are not uncommon things for such a big city, though. Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, as criminals often target tourists who look vulnerable or distracted.

Safety tip : It’s not wise to walk anywhere after dark in this city, especially if you are a woman. Rather take a secure car service and be aware of street lurkers when you are out. 

25. Podgorica, Montenegro 

Crime index: 48.18

Image by Denis Ismailaj on Unsplash

Podgorica is a tiny city, but it does have some problem areas. A lot of the crime here happens between rival criminal groups, and this includes daytime shootouts and car bombings. That sounds very scary, but as a tourist, you’re not targeted in these attacks. 

However, it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid any suspicious activity. Avoid the slums and secluded areas when traveling in Podgorica, as these are the places where crime takes place.

Safety tip : Be extra vigilant after dark and travel in groups if possible. Also, watch out for pickpockets who may target tourists.

26. Glasgow, Scotland 

Crime index: ​​43.86

Scotland’s Glasgow has a bit of a notorious reputation. The city has its share of crime and violence, ranging from thefts to violent attacks. But most of these are caused by drunk rowdiness. 

The streets are policed quite heavily during the day to ensure everyone behaves and in case of (rare) terrorist attacks. If you go out to a pub in Glasgow , it is best to stick to areas with plenty of people around and avoid going alone.

Safety tip : Don’t wear football colors out in public (local or international). This is a touchy subject and will only cause trouble — pubs don’t allow football colors at all, either. 

27. Catania, Italy

Crime index: 60.88

Image by Samir Kharrat on Unsplash

You’ll find Catania just off the coast of Sicily , and it’s a popular tourist destination. However, like most places in Italy, Catania has issues with petty theft and pickpocketing. The city’s crime index climbs each year, sadly, and it’s made up of petty theft, carjacking, and the occasional violent crime. 

Catania also sees a lot of corruption. On top of all that, natural disasters strike the city regularly, so be prepared for earthquakes and volcanic activity. It is a beautiful city, though, and if you’re careful, you can have a lovely vacation here. 

Safety tip : Never walk in the streets alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and make friends with locals so you have some on-the-ground knowledge. 

28. Milan, Italy

Crime index: 43.56

A trip to Milan offers many opportunities for fun and exploration, but there are some safety concerns that travelers should be aware of. Pickpocketing is a major problem in Milan, especially on public transport such as buses and trains. 

Tourists are prime targets for scams, so it’s important to stay alert and know who you’re dealing with before handing over any money or information. There are areas to avoid, such as Loreto, Central station, and Porto di Mare, which are not known to be safe for tourists at night.

Safety tip : People may approach you and offer you help, but be wary as the majority of these offers will then turn into demands for money. 

​​29. Barcelona, Spain

Crime index: 45.51

Barcelona came under terrorist fire fairly recently, making it all the more important to stay aware of your surroundings. Pickpocketing, muggings, and scams are all common in Barcelona, so it’s best to avoid unfamiliar areas after dark. 

Be sure to keep a close eye on your belongings at all times, especially near Barcelona landmarks and tourist sites such as La Rambla and the beaches. Barcelona’s nightlife is famous, but always keep an eye on your drinks, as reports of drugging have been made.

Safety tip : It’s best to avoid unfamiliar areas after dark and never wander alone at night. Be on the lookout for suspicious activity at all times, and keep a close eye on your belongings. 

30. Rome, Italy

Crime index: 52.13

Rome is a busy city, so it’s inevitable that there will be some crime. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most common crimes, so it’s important to stay vigilant and keep a close eye on your belongings at all times.

Scam artists also operate in fascinating Rome , targeting tourists with fraudulent schemes designed to separate them from their money. Be especially cautious in crowded tourist sites such as the Colosseum and Spanish Steps, where pickpockets thrive. 

Also, avoid visiting any secluded areas alone at night. If you do need to travel somewhere late at night, use public transportation or a licensed taxi service.​​​​

Safety tip : Even hotel rooms can be targeted, so don’t leave your belongings at the hotel unless you have a safe in the room. 

31. Athens, Greece

Crime index: 52.30

Athens is a relatively safe city for tourists, but there have been reports of pickpocketing and other petty crimes. It’s important to stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings when walking around the city.

Be wary of scams targeting tourists, especially in tourist-heavy areas like the Acropolis or Plaka. Fake taxis are also common in the city, so it’s best to book with a reputable taxi service or use ride-sharing apps like Uber. Be aware of your surroundings when walking around at night, and keep an eye out for any suspicious behavior.​​​

Safety tip : There are often demonstrations in the city, which can become violent. It’s best to avoid these areas as much as possible. 

Frequently asked questions about Most Violent Cities in Europe

What is the roughest city in the uk.

The northern county of Cleveland – which includes Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees – claimed the top spot as the roughest area in the UK .

What European capitals are ranked by safety?

Europe’s safest cities include Oslo, Zurich, Bern, Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Munich.

What is the safest city in Europe?

Copenhagen comes first as the safest city in Europe according to the 2021 Safe Cities Index.

What is the safest city in UK?

Reading is considered to be the safest city in the UK with 59 recorded crimes per 1,000 people.

Round Up of Europe’s Most Dangerous Cities

These European cities may have gotten bad reputations for crime, but it’s often not any worse than what you’d find in your own city. The general rule is that the busier a city gets, the more crime you will, unfortunately, see. The definition of the worst cities in Europe generally depends on which statistics are reviewed. So when it comes to what is the most dangerous city in Europe it is almost impossible to come up with a clear and fair answer.

Being vigilant and aware of your valuables and yourself is always advised, wherever you are. Don’t let the fear of something being stolen scare you away from visiting one of these cities, but do make sure your safety is your first priority in the most dangerous European cities.

Related Posts:

Dangerous Countries

Dangerous Cities

Dangerous Places

Dangerous Roads

Dangerous Airports

Safest Cities in the World

Most Dangerous American Cities

Most Dangerous Canadian Cities

Corrupt Countries

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Home > News > 33 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe (2024 Edition)

33 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe (2024 Edition)

Europe is arguably the safest continent on the planet, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its risks. Some European cities can be quite dangerous, meaning you should take extra care to be safe. Here’s a list of Europe’s 25 most dangerous cities.

European Crime Rates

Crime rates and indices in certain European urban areas pose significant concerns regarding public safety and security. These measures provide valuable insights into the prevalence of crime and the overall safety of a city.

One commonly used index is the Global Peace Index (GPI) , which ranks countries and cities based on various indicators, including levels of violence, crime rates, and perceived criminality. According to the GPI 2021 report, some European cities such as Lisbon, Barcelona, and Rome have relatively high crime rates compared to other cities within Europe.

Additionally, Eurostat data reveals that certain Eastern European cities like Sofia and Bucharest also experience higher crime rates compared to their Western counterparts.

However, it is important to note that while these statistics can provide a broad overview of crime trends in different cities, they should be interpreted with caution as factors like population density, socioeconomic conditions, and cultural dynamics can significantly influence crime rates.

The Most Violent European Cities

1. tallinn, estonia.

Estonia’s capital city, Tallinn, is also the country’s most populous city and a popular tourist destination . Many people are attracted by the stunning architecture while there’s also plenty else for people to do.

The city is mostly safe and has a low crime rate of 22.58, although there is an increased risk of petty crime and even violent crime around the port area. However, Tallinn has a homicide rate of around 5.5 per 100,000 people despite its low crime rates.

2. Vilnius, Lithuania

As the capital city of Lithuania, Vilnius is also the largest city in the country. The city is known for its architecture and is also an important centre for music and arts.

The most significant risk to visitors to Vilnius is from petty theft, with violent crimes not at all common. The city also has a low crime rate of 26.95, making it relatively safe overall especially in broad daylight, and you should only avoid a few districts. However, the city traditionally has a high murder rate which was as high as 10.4 per 100,000 people in 2008.

3. Florence, Italy

Florence is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for arts and culture. This Italian city has famous galleries that contain some of the world’s most important art collections, while there’s also the striking Duomo cathedral that attracts visitors from far and wide.

Violent crime is not common in the city, but tourists still need to keep their wits about them. Crimes that people in Florence need to be mindful of include scams, stealing credit cards, and pickpocketing. Florence has a crime rate of 38.49

4. Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast is the largest city of Northern Ireland and the capital city. The city is a popular tourist destination with plenty to do, including the Titanic Belfast museum, which is devoted to the infamous RMS Titanic ship that was built in the city.

Belfast has seen considerable upheaval during the 1970s and 80s bombing campaigns, which are now in the past. The city has an average crime rate of 43.72. Be careful and you’re unlikely to have problems, but carelessness could find you in trouble.

5. Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas is one of Lithuania’s most important cultural, academic, and economic cities. The museums and theatres here will be of interest to people interested in history and the arts. Crime rates here are a little below average, with a rate of 37.84, but the homicide rate is relatively high at 5.4 per 100,000.

The high murder rate is largely contributed to by domestic disputes fuelled by alcohol. While such disputes tend not to affect other people, it’s still wise to be extra vigilant if you want to enjoy the city’s nightlife.

6. Milan, Italy

Milan is one of the most important cultural centres on earth and is home to some of the world’s most important museums and other historical sites. Like Italy’s capital city Rome, Milan is also one of the most important cities in the fashion world, with many of the biggest labels born here.

Although the main tourist areas are mostly safe, tourists should avoid straying into surrounding suburbs. It is still wise to be alert in the tourist areas because crimes like pickpocketing, theft, and theft help contribute to a crime rate of 44.12.

7. Sarajevo, Bosnia And Herzegovina

Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city is known as ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ due to its religious significance. The city was beleaguered in the 1990s and held under siege during the Bosnian war but has strongly recovered since.

Sarajevo’s troubled political past is now history, and normality has returned to the city. However, there is pickpocketing and other petty theft, as you would find in most other tourist destinations. While most tourists are unlikely to experience problems in the city, the crime rate is at 45.03 and rising.

8. Glasgow, Scotland

Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow is an ancient city that is brimming with activities for visitors. Old cathedrals and city districts meet art galleries and other modern attractions. The warm and hearty Scottish welcome can also be very endearing, but it’s wise not to let down your guard.

Glasgow is home to various gangs, and turf wars have occurred in the city. In 2010, the city had a murder rate of 5.1 in 100,000 people, with a crime rate of 45.38. Astonishingly, Glasgow murder rates in 2020 made up 20% of all crimes committed in the entirety of Scotland.

9. Istanbul, Turkey

Locate right on the border between Europe and Asia, Istanbul has long been a popular destination for tourists globally. Although the city has plenty to keep visitors excited, they shouldn’t let their guard down.

Most tourists here will experience no real problems, although they should be alert to pickpockets. The city can become more dangerous for people who stray away from the tourist centres, however. The city had a homicide rate of 2.6 per 100,000 people in 2017 and a current crime rate of 47.55.

10. Kiev, Ukraine

Kiev is Ukraine’s capital city, as well as its most populous.  The city is also an important industrial, historical, and education centre and offers a lot for visitors to see and do.

Kiev has a reasonably high crime rate of 45.70, and the murder rate in 2010 was 3.2 per 100,000. Most areas are pretty safe, but you should take extra care on the suburbans trains where violent crimes are known to occur.

11. Dublin, Ireland

Ireland’s capital city, Dublin, is the second-largest city in the country and a popular tourist destination, helped by its rich history and entertainment.

Petty crimes like pickpocketing are relatively common in tourist areas like Grafton Street, making it wise to be extra vigilant, especially at night. Violent crimes are not common but, as with any other city, it’s best to avoid straying away from the centre and into the surrounding neighbourhoods. The city has a crime rate of 51.54.

12. Brussels, Belgium

Home to the European Parliament, Brussels can be considered to be at the heart of European politics. The city has plenty of places of interest to keep tourists busy, while visitors can also make the most of the chocolate, beer, and waffles.

Petty crimes like theft and pickpocketing are relatively high, but violent crimes are not usually something to be concerned about. However, one factor that does make Brussels a potentially dangerous location is that the city is often the target of terrorist attacks, and several terrorist groups have been found in the city. Brussels has a crime rate of 51.6.

13. London, England

How to the Queen of England and one of the planet’s most valuable cultural centres, London is not a city that most would not consider dangerous. However, the city does have issues with violent crime, including in recent years.

The big screen has immortalized some London gangsters, and there is still some gang activity in the city, but it’s not likely to affect the average person. However, serious knife crime is another problem in the city, while around 30% of London residents have been robbed or assaulted at least once. London has a crime rate of 53.36.

14. Odessa, Ukraine

Odessa is Ukraine’s third most populous city and a primary transport and tourism hub. The city is steeped in history, art and culture, making it a popular destination for visitors.

The city’s tourist centres are typically quite safe, albeit with the usual risks of pickpockets and other petty criminals. However, it would be best if you kept clear of the city’s open-air markets, where pickpocketing and even robberies are more common. As a result, Odessa has a fairly high crime rate of 53.75.

15. Paris, France

Paris is one of the world’s most famous cities and a global centre of art and culture. Millions travel here every year from around the globe to see some of the most famous landmarks on the planet.

Visitors will need to be careful, however, as pickpockets and are petty criminals are active. The city and the city has a relatively high crime rate of 55.13 and has been a target for terrorist attacks in the past.

16. Athens, Greece

Athens is one of the world’s most ancient cities, and tourists come from all over the world to take in the rich history and make the most of the local beaches. However, Greece has long been fairly poor, and things got considerably worse during the 2007-08 financial crisis.

The homicide rate for Greece was a fairly low 0.7 per 100,000 people in 2019. However, the city has a crime rate of 55.43, which includes drug use and violent crimes.

17. Malmo, Sweden

Malmo is Sweden’s third-largest city and an important commercial centre. The city is also home to museums, theatres, exciting architecture, and other places of interest for visitors.

Although Malmo is quite safe provided tourists take appropriate care, there is still a need to be careful. The city has a high crime rate of 56.14 and had a murder rate of 2.9 in 100,000 people, which is considerably higher than the national average. 

18. Naples, Italy

Naples is perhaps best known for its proximity to Mount Vesuvius – the volcano that famously erupted and wiped out the ancient Roman city of Pompeii. The city has been a major tourist destination for hundreds of years, but it’s a hotbed of crime.

Naples is the home of the Camorra organization, a mafia-type group involved in a wide range of criminal activities. The city has a crime rate of 58.26, while murder rates are also relatively high for the country.

19. Catania, Italy

Catania is one of Italy’s largest cities and is located on the island of Sicily. Sicily is a popular tourist destination, and Catania has made moves to attract more tourists in recent years.

The city’s rich history and location appeal to tourists, but the city’s reputation for crime does not. While the city is probably safe for careful tourists, mafia organizations are active in the city, helping to give it a high crime rate of 60.68.

20. Birmingham, UK

Birmingham is the second-largest metropolitan area in the UK and is an important cultural, social, and financial centre. The city also has plenty to keep visitors entertained with museums, galleries, entertainment, and a range of other attractions.

However, studies have shown that around 42% of Birmingham’s inhabitants feel at risk in the city, partly due to the city’s knife crime problems and a high crime index of 61.26. Most visitors will be safe provided they avoid certain areas, but it’s certainly wise to be precautious.

21. Kyzyl, Russia

Kyzyl is an industrial city in Southern Russia that is not well known by tourism in general. However, there are some interesting historical spots for people who do make their way to the city.

Kyzyl has a reputation for being unsafe for tourists, which is largely fuelled by alcohol. The city is also known as a criminal hotspot, and the murder rate has been as high as 35 per 100,000. There has apparently been a decrease in these rates recently, but it’s still best to go to another destination instead.

22. Marseille, France

Marseille is one of Europe’s most important trading ports and the second-largest city in France. Marseille is also the oldest town in France, so you can expect to find plenty of history here, and tourists will find enough to keep them occupied.

However, Marseille has a serious crime problem, partly due to migrants facing poverty condition. A thriving drug trade exists in the city, with various criminal organizations contributing to a crime rate of 61.50. Most crimes here include mugging, credit card theft, and pickpocketing, although violent crimes are also a problem with contract murders

23. Donetsk, Ukraine

Donetsk is the 5th largest city in Ukraine and one of the country’s main industrial centres. The city has some interesting museums to visit as well as architecture that would tempt a lot of people. However, the city is one that’s best avoided.

Donetsk is a hot point of political chaos, social unrest, and violent protests. The Donetsk People’s Republic has a de facto administration of the city and claims it as their republic’s capital city, and fighting for control over the city is still ongoing. The city is also home to criminal organizations, and the crime rate is very high at 69.1

24. Grozny, Russia

Grozny is the capital city of Chechnya, a constituent republic of Russia. The city has been in the epicentre of two relatively recent wars and was recently built up again after extensive damage from explosions and missile attacks.

Although wars have now subsided, the city is still unsafe, and many governments advise their citizens against travelling to the region. The crime rate is an average 37.91, but this might partly be down to regular patrols on the streets. Nevertheless, serious crimes like kidnapping and terrorism are serious risks.

25. Shkodër, Albania

Shkodër, the traditional capital of Albania, is one of Albania’s most popular tourist spots and is the country’s 4th most populous city. Steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside, the city has plenty to offer to visitors and local Albanians.

Unfortunately, crime is rife, including serious crimes such as human trafficking, extortion, and drug smuggling. The city has a murder rate of around 36 per 100,000 people. Reports have suggested that there are at least four criminal organizations operating in the city, contributing to the high crime rate of 76.56.

26. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Located in Amsterdam, the Red Light District is notorious for its high incidence of illegal activities. Being one of the most famous areas in Europe, it attracts both tourists and locals alike. However, this district has gained a reputation for criminal behavior due to its association with prostitution and drug trade. 

26. Paris, France

Paris faces its own challenges in terms of petty theft. Known as a popular tourist destination, the city’s bustling streets and crowded attractions create an ideal environment for pickpockets to thrive.

The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Champs-Élysées are particularly notorious hotspots for such criminal activities, where unsuspecting visitors often fall victim to skilled thieves. Pickpocketing incidents involve techniques that range from simple distractions to sophisticated maneuvers, leaving victims disheartened and financially compromised.

Efforts have been made by local authorities to combat this menace through increased surveillance and public awareness campaigns, but vigilance remains crucial for tourists exploring the enchanting streets of Paris.

27. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, like many other urban areas, faces the issue of pickpocketing, which poses a significant concern for both residents and tourists alike. The city has gained notoriety as one of the major hotspots for this type of crime in Europe. 

Pickpocketing incidents often occur in crowded places such as public transportation hubs, tourist attractions, and busy shopping areas. Criminals employ various techniques to distract their victims and snatch wallets, purses, or electronic devices without detection. 

Despite efforts by local authorities to combat this problem through increased police presence and awareness campaigns, pickpocketing remains a persistent issue in Brussels. Tourists are advised to take precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being vigilant in crowded areas. 

As with any urban environment prone to pickpocketing, visitors should exercise caution while exploring Brussels.

28. Porto, Portugal

Porto, Portugal is known for its crime rates, which can be a concern for both residents and tourists visiting the city. According to the latest statistics, Porto has experienced an increase in overall crime rates in recent years.

The most common types of crimes reported include theft, burglary, and drug-related offenses. Pickpocketing is also a significant issue in certain areas of Porto, particularly crowded tourist spots like Ribeira and São Bento train station. It is advised for visitors to take precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.

However, it is important to note that crime rates can vary depending on the neighborhood within the city. Local authorities have been implementing measures to address this issue, including increased police presence and CCTV surveillance systems in strategic locations to ensure public safety.

29. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, Romania has been reported to have a number of scams targeting tourists and unsuspecting individuals. These scams often involve pickpocketing, fake taxis, and various street scams. 

Pickpocketing is a common problem in crowded areas such as train stations and tourist attractions. Tourists are advised to keep their belongings secure and be aware of their surroundings. 

Fake taxis are another concern in Bucharest, with drivers overcharging passengers or taking longer routes to increase the fare. It is recommended to use reputable taxi companies or transportation apps to avoid falling victim to this scam. 

Additionally, there are various street scams where individuals may approach tourists offering help or selling counterfeit goods at inflated prices. Travelers should exercise caution and be wary of strangers approaching them with unsolicited assistance or offers that seem too good to be true.

30. Riga, Latvia

Visitors to Riga, a popular tourist destination in the Baltic region, should be aware of the prevalence of crime around its tourist spots and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety. 

While Riga offers numerous attractions and cultural sites that draw tourists from all over the world, it is important to acknowledge that the city also faces certain security challenges. Criminal activities such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams are not uncommon in crowded areas frequented by visitors. 

Tourist spots like Old Town and central markets tend to attract criminals due to their high footfall. To mitigate these risks, travelers should remain vigilant, keep their belongings secure, avoid displaying valuable items openly, and be cautious when approached by strangers. 

Additionally, seeking advice from local authorities or hotels regarding safe areas can further enhance personal safety while enjoying Riga’s vibrant atmosphere.

31. Sofia, Bulgaria

Organized crime in Sofia poses significant challenges to the city’s security and stability, warranting attention from authorities and concern from the international community.

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, has been grappling with a high level of organized criminal activities for several years. The presence of powerful criminal groups involved in various illicit activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and extortion has contributed to an atmosphere of fear and insecurity within the city. 

These criminal organizations are known for their sophisticated operations and extensive networks that span across national borders. The impact of organized crime on Sofia’s society is far-reaching, affecting not only public safety but also economic development and democratic governance. 

Efforts to combat organized crime in Sofia require coordinated action from law enforcement agencies, judicial institutions, and international partnerships to dismantle these criminal networks and restore security to the city.

32. Podgorica, Montenegro

With a significantly high homicide rate, Podgorica struggles to address the underlying factors contributing to this issue and find effective solutions.

According to statistics, Podgorica has one of the highest homicide rates in Europe. The reasons behind this high rate are multi-faceted and complex. Socioeconomic disparities, organized crime, drug trafficking, and political instability have all been identified as contributing factors.

Additionally, the lack of trust in law enforcement agencies further exacerbates the problem, making it difficult for authorities to effectively combat crime and bring perpetrators to justice.

Despite efforts by the government to improve security measures and strengthen law enforcement institutions, more needs to be done in terms of addressing the root causes of violence and implementing comprehensive strategies that promote social cohesion and economic development.

Only through such holistic approaches can Podgorica hope to reduce its alarming homicide rate.

33. Kristiansand, Norway

Kristiansand, a city in Norway, has witnessed an alarming surge in criminal activities, prompting significant concern among officials and citizens alike. In recent years, the crime rate in Kristiansand has been on the rise, with various types of offenses being reported.

One notable increase is seen in property crimes such as theft and burglary. These incidents have not only affected individuals but have also impacted businesses and public spaces within the city.

Authorities have responded by implementing measures to combat this rise in crime, including increasing police patrols and enhancing surveillance systems. Additionally, community engagement programs and awareness campaigns have been launched to educate residents about crime prevention strategies.

Despite these efforts, addressing the root causes of this trend remains crucial for ensuring the safety and security of Kristiansand’s population.

Most Violent Places to Travel in Europe

Just like any other region on this planet, Europe has its dangerous elements. The key for tourists and residents alike is vigilance. Understand your risks and behave accordingly.

For more information on crime rates, see our post on the most dangerous cities around the world or check out the most dangerous cities in Asia .

Armormax Team 204 articles

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most violent place in europe.

Aside from our highest crime city on this list, Tallinn, Estonia there are other areas across Europe that are known for being extremely violent places. In Estonia alone there is the city of Shkoder where human trafficking and organized crime is high. Another dishonorable mention is Bradford in the United Kingdom.

What is the murder capital of Europe?

Latvia continually tops the list of highest murder rate per capita of any European country. It averages 4.9 murders per 100,000 inhabitants.

What city has the most stabbings in the UK?

London has reported the highest percentage of knife attacks in the United Kingdom with nearly 200 crimes per 100,000 people.

What country has the highest crime rate in Europe 2024?

Belarus, France, Sweden, and Moldova come in with statistically the highest crime rates in Europe as of late 2023.

What are some places to avoid in Europe?

There are certain countries in Europe where tourists should exercise extra caution. This includes countries like Turkey, Kosovo, Cyprus, and Montenegro.

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The 17 most unsafe cities in Europe

While a host of european cities are listed as being among the safest in the world, others surprisingly rank very low, article bookmarked.

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Personal safety is one of the key components for living somewhere with a decent quality of life.

And so Mercer, one of the world's largest HR consultancy firms, releases its Quality of Living Index each year, part of which ranks the safest cities to live and work in.

The list is one of the most comprehensive of its kind and is carried out annually to help multinational companies and other employers to compensate employees fairly when placing them on international assignments, according to Mercer.

The 30 most dangerous cities in the world

Mercer says the personal-safety ranking is based on the cities' "relationship with other countries, internal stability, crime, and law enforcement." In other words, it should come as no surprise that war-torn cities or those rife with crime rank the lowest.

Mercer looked at 450 cities and then made a list of 230 cities that are the safest for workers. While a host of European cities are listed as being among the safest in the world, others surprisingly rank very low in the index.

• Read more The 19 happiest cities in Europe, according to people who live there

This may come as a surprise that some of Western Europe's biggest and most affluent cities are not leading the list for being the safest cities on earth but this is mainly due to a number of terrorist attacks and threats over the last year that have dragged them down the rankings.

Other issues like petty crime or threats to national security have also made an impact on some of the cities.

Business Insider went to the bottom of the list to find the 17 most unsafe cities in Europe.

17. Milan — The city slipped in the ranking to No. 63 this year after the FBI warned that St. Peter's Basilica, the Duomo, and La Scala were under threat of a terrorist attack.

15 (tie). Barcelona, Spain — The city is known for being one of the pickpocket capitals of the world, pushing it into rank 64th on the personal-safety index. The British foreign office says under the safety and security section (crime) "there has been an increase in the number of thefts from hire cars; remove all valuables or store items out of sight."

15 (tie). Belfast, Northern Ireland — The city, ranked 64th, has a relatively low violent crime rate compared with other towns and cities in Northern Ireland. But the proportion of people living in poverty is the highest in Belfast, rocking social stability and increasing petty crime.

13 (tie). Tallinn, Estonia — The picturesque walled city has relatively low violent crime but ranked 66th in the list because of drug and human trafficking from organised Russian syndicates.

13 (tie). Warsaw, Poland —The city has one of the lowest crime rates in the country but ranked 66th because of the number of political protests being held in Poland.

12. Paris — The city ranked 71st after a series of terrorist attacks. In November, suicide bombers and gunmen attacked multiple locations in France's capital, including cafés, restaurants, and a music venue, killing 130 people and injuring hundreds of others.

11. London — It may be a surprise to see London in the list, but Mercer ranked Britain's capital 72nd. Ellyn Karetnick, head of Mercer's International Mobility Practice in the UK, said, "In Europe and beyond terrorist attacks and incidences of civil unrest are closely monitored and analysed, and any impact on quality of living for expatriates is reflected in the rankings."

10. Bucharest, Romania — Violent and organised crime is quite low in Romania's capital, but the city ranked 79th because of widespread corruption and petty crime.

9. Zagreb, Croatia —Like Zagreb's other major Eastern European counterparts, corruption drags the city down — it ranked 79th.

7 (tie). Riga, Latvia — Apart from anti-immigration protests starting to dominate the streets, Riga is ranked 82nd on the index for its thriving organised crime and prostitution syndicates.

7 (tie). Rome — The city dropped to 82nd after Rome, and other Italian cities, were put on high alert for terrorist attacks similar to the Paris attacks in November.

6. Madrid — The city ranked 84th in Mercer's list for its social unrest resulting from countrywide austerity measures that led to massive unemployment levels, especially among its youth population.

5. Budapest, Hungary — The city dropped to 93rd in the index after a massive increase in social unrest in the city since the refugee crisis. Chaos at train stations and protests in the streets have erupted several times as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has tried to curb the flow of migrants in and through the country.

4. Sofia, Bulgaria — A high level of social unrest has pushed the city into 118th. People in Bulgaria, which is the European Union's poorest member, continually protest against the government over benefit and pension cuts as well as against corruption.

3. Athens, Greece — After extensive and prolonged austerity measures, poverty and crime has increased giving Athens a ranking of 124. Furthermore, "the recent political and economic turmoil in Greece, which resulted in violent demonstrations in Athens and other cities in the country, has undermined its safety ranking," says Mercer. The influx of hundreds of thousands of migrants is also exacerbating the city's safety position.

2. Belgrade, Serbia — Violent crimes are low in the city, but Belgrade sinks to 131st in the index for its wide-scale corruption and bribery issues as well as from theft and vandalism.

1. Kiev, Ukraine — The country's capital ranks 189th because of civil unrest and its pugilistic relationship with Russia. Though the UK foreign office says Kiev is "calm" compared with the Russian-annexed region of Crimea, Kiev is rife with theft, vandalism, and violent protests that have killed or injured hundreds of people.

• The rise of the richest man in Britain • Lloyds bankers now get a max of £4,600 in bonuses • UK Treasury: We have no Brexit contingency plan

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The 20 The Most Dangerous Cities In Europe (2024 GUIDE)

Written by: jade poleon | reviewed by: editorial team.

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Believe it or not, behind the postcard-perfect façade, majestic cobblestone streets, and romantic glow of historical landmarks, certain European cities have earned a notorious reputation for having a dark side.

While it can be easy to get carried away by the romantic charm of visiting cities like Paris or Athens, it is worth researching to know which cities are more dangerous than others and what to be aware of. Luckily, we have summarised this so you can decide whether to visit these dangerous cities or opt for a safer alternative.

While you may notice that many of these dangerous cities are in France, the rest are scattered throughout the continent, and some may come as a surprise, so stick around while we uncover the details behind these unsafe areas.

As someone who has traveled extensively around Europe, I can share tips on staying safe, and together, we can explore the enigma behind the most dangerous cities that contradict Europe’s idyllic image.

In this article, we will dive into the crime rates of these European cities, what you should be aware of, and everything in between so you can understand more about what lies beneath the iconic images of these popular spots.

So, let’s jump in!

The 20 Most Dangerous Cities In Europe

1. marseille, france.

While Marseille boasts a picture-perfect location, with stunning coastal landscapes and picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea, you should be aware of a darker side to the city.

Marseille is considered one of the most dangerous cities in Europe and, according to Numbeo, has the highest crime rate on the continent . With a crime index score of 65.2, Marseille soars above cities like Stockholm, Bologna, and Belfast, yet it is not the only city to feature a crime rate of this level.

Among the crimes to be aware of, the most common occurrences include car theft, muggings, robberies, and worries about safety in the home. Marseille can easily captivate you with its charm, but this city is one to be wary of.

If visiting, it is best to avoid certain areas like the northern districts and stick to safer places like La Panier or La Corniche. Most crimes in Marseille are gang-related, but no one wants to get caught up in a feud, so avoid walking alone at night and stay in well-lit tourist areas if you are visiting the city.

2. Coventry, United Kingdom

According to Numbeo, Coventry in the United Kingdom has a crime rate of 64.68 , not far behind Marseille. When visiting Coventry, it is worth noting that the city’s most dangerous areas are Willenhall, Foleshill, Hillfields, and Wood End.

Crime rates have been increasing in Coventry over the past few years, and most of the crime happens in these four areas, which makes them twice as dangerous as the rest of the city.

While the whole city is not regarded as dangerous, these areas should be avoided, and in fact, there are safe areas to visit in Coventry, such as Earlsdon and Kenilworth.

Some of the leading crimes in Coventry include violent crime, problems with prostitution, antisocial behavior, and theft. According to local police, it is advised not to walk alone on streets at night and never display valuable items that can pose a risk of mugging.

Police are taking active measures in the areas mentioned with police patrol and active CCTV cameras to help target the high crime levels. Still, until things significantly improve, it is best to be cautious when visiting Coventry.

3. Birmingham, United Kingdom

Birmingham, UK, has great attractions like art galleries, museums, and chocolate factories, making it a popular spot for a weekend away. Yet, there are some things to know regarding safety in this city.

Birmingham has been regarded as the most dangerous major city in the West Midlands, and in 2022, the overall crime rate was 145 crimes per 1000 people .

According to Crimerate.co.uk, ‘Birmingham is the second most dangerous major city, and the 245th most dangerous location out of all towns, cities, and villages’, and care should be taken when visiting.

Birmingham is notorious for burglaries, but other crimes, such as criminal damage and arson, make it a city where you must be cautious. The most common crimes that appear to be prevalent in Birmingham include sexual offenses and violence.

Birmingham City Centre is said to have the worst crime in the city, while other areas to practice caution include Bordesley Green, Aston and Newtown, and Acock’s Green.

4. Montpellier, France

Sometimes regarded as the little brother of Marseille, Montpellier is a city deemed unsafe, where precautions should be taken. Located in the south of France, in a region known for its beautiful coastline and world-famous wines, Montpellier attracts plenty of tourists each year, but the city has a darker side, which visitors should be aware of.

With a crime index of 62.42 and a safety index of 37.6 , it is clear that Montpellier, France, is a destination where you need to be more cautious than in other French cities.

While Montpellier can be considered safe, especially in the ‘nice neighborhoods,’ it has certain dangers that tourists should know about.

The city is known for pickpocketing, purse theft, and urban violence, and the city is increasingly seeing issues with drug trafficking and gang-related crime, the latter of which generally does not affect tourist regions.

Areas to be cautious about visiting are The Mosson, The Paillade, around Montpellier station, and Gambetta, to name but a few.

5. Naples, Italy

Naples is a world-famous city for its cuisine, specifically for inventing the pizza we know and love. Yet, it is also notorious for its crime, which many people already know.

The city’s reputation as a dangerous place has stuck around, and today, it is still a city where tourists need to take precautions. The city that was once named the murder capital of Europe may not be as unsafe as it once was, but organized crime is a massive problem in this city and other parts of Italy.

When visiting Naples, chances are you will have no incidents, mainly if you stick to the main tourist areas’ well-lit streets and avoid carrying valuables, which may increase your risk of theft.

Yet, the truth is that Naples is a city that has a significant connection to the Italian mafia , so it is advised never to walk alone or visit unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially at night.

While Naples is a popular tourist destination, staying cautious is essential to staying safe while on vacation.

6. Catania, Italy

Catania, a city on the island of Sicily, Italy, has often been referred to as the most dangerous city in Europe, and despite it being a popular tourist destination, precautions should be taken.

Due to the illegal activities of powerful mafia families and the city’s high crime rate , Catania remains a city that has earned the nickname ‘the black city.’ Of course, many people visit this bustling city without issues, but it is worth knowing that it has not yet left its lousy reputation.

In fact, despite the efforts of local police, the high crime rates have not decreased, and the city remains to have a big problem with drug trafficking.

While this is something that tourists may not encounter, it is always best to know the ins and outs of each city you visit to stay as safe as possible.

When visiting Catania, it is advisable to be cautious of pickpockets and constantly closely monitor your bags and valuables, especially in busy areas.

7. Liege, Belgium

Belgium, the home of Belgian fries, beer, and chocolate, may not come to mind as a dangerous country, but the city of Liege has a dark side . While the city is safe during the daytime, it is advised to avoid walking alone at night, and even if you are staying a few minutes from the center, it is advised to take a cab rather than walk. So, why is Liege so ‘dangerous’?

Liege, unlike some of the other cities, has an increasing crime rate, which focuses on drug-related crimes and street harassment. Compared to the capital, Brussels, Liege has an overall higher crime rate, which has increased in the past three years.

Theft from vehicles is also common, so if driving in the city, always ensure no valuables are left in your car and lock it securely before leaving it.

8. Grenoble, France

One prominent country on this list is France, and one of the most dangerous cities in Europe is Grenoble , located in the Spoth east of France. The city has problems with people using or dealing drugs as well as property crimes like vandalism and theft.

Grenoble can be a safe city for tourists to visit, but there are certain areas to avoid, such as Arlequin, Villeneuve, and Mistral.

It is worth noting that pickpocketing and bag snatching are common occurrences in urban areas and prevalent in many other French cities mentioned here.

It is advised to steer clear of the said neighborhoods by day and night, keep your valuables out of sight, and try to stay in well-lit and busy parts of the city to avoid any incidents. Overall, Grenoble is seeing a drop in specific crime rates , such as house burglary, yet other crime rates are still rising.

9. Paris, France

Paris may be a city that depicts the ideal destination for a romantic holiday, yet the city has some areas that should be avoided. And in fact, Paris is one of the most dangerous cities in Europe.

Beyond the Eiffel Tower and the quaint patisseries, Paris is dealing with an increasing crime rate like many other European cities. While tourists flock to this world-famous city to soak up the atmosphere and the iconic views, locals are beginning to feel the city’s insecurity, and more areas are becoming increasingly risky.

If visiting or planning to move there, it is worth noting that the most dangerous areas of Paris are the train stations of Gare de l’Est and the Gare du Nord at night, the central red-light district of Pigalle at night, and also Stalingrad and Chateau Rouge.

Generally speaking, Paris has plenty of safe areas to visit, but the 18 th /19 th ‘arrondissements’ (neighborhoods) are ones to be specifically aware of. To keep visitors safe, the Paris Police have a safety brochure with tips and advice for visiting the city.

10. Malmo, Sweden

Compared to other cities in the Nordic countries, Malmo is considered one of the most dangerous cities for various reasons . The city may not be as big as others on our list, but the crime rates are just as high, and precautions should be taken when visiting this Swedish city.

Safety can mean different things to different people depending on where you come from, and if you compare Malmo to the USA or Brazil, for instance, it is regarded as safe; however, in Europe, Malmo is viewed as being a dangerous city .

So, what do you need to be aware of? Purse snatchers and pickpockets are prevalent in busy touristy areas. In contrast, remote areas away from the center should be avoided, and walking alone at night in any part of the city should be avoided.

The area of Rosengard is one to be avoided since this is one of the riskiest parts of the town, and there are some problems with drug gangs, with many violent crime-related incidents taking place between gangs rather than tourists.

Look at this crime rate comparison between Malmo and Copenhagen , two cities merely separated by a bridge.

11. Athens, Greece

When we consider the most dangerous cities in Europe, we cannot forget about Athens, the capital of Greece. While this famous city is known for its incredible Greek ruins, it is also notorious for having some dangerous zones, making it an unsafe city to visit.

Regarding staying safe in Athens , it is worth noting that walking around certain areas at night is not advised, particularly Omonia and Patissia and some parts of Monastiraki, Ermou, Psiri, and Syntagma Square.

Athens is known for its historic attractions and vibrant nightlife, but try not to walk alone at night if you decide to venture out in the evening.

While serious crimes such as gun crimes are sporadic in Athens, you should be vigilant of petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching, which can happen in busy touristy areas, by both adult and child thieves.

Some bad areas we have mentioned are seen as dangerous since they are frequented by drug dealers, anarchist groups, and thieves, so always stay in groups and avoid these areas at night.

12. Nice, France

Like many cities mentioned here, Nice in the South of France has good and bad areas, which you should know about. The South of France is known for its glorious coastline, luxurious villas, and shopping opportunities, but Nice has some dark spots behind this facade.

Crimes have been on the rise in this region of France in the past years, especially in Nice and Marseille, and the Mediterranean area, in general, has long been renowned for being a crime-ridden and corrupt region of the continent.

That is not to say that Nice and the south of France should be avoided, but caution should be taken when visiting. The areas to be vigilant in are the Arson and Riquier district, French Street (red light district), Pastor and Saint Roch districts, and around St Michels Bridge at night.

In addition, Las Planas is considered one of the most unsafe places in Nice, while Ariane, located in the northeast of the city, must also be avoided. While these areas are deemed unsafe, tourists should experience no issues in places like Old Town Nice, Port District, or The Gambetta District – just keep your wits about you and stay streetwise throughout the city.

13. Manchester, United Kingdom

When it comes to the UK, Manchester is among the most dangerous cities, so much so that it has made it to our list of the most dangerous cities in Europe, too.

Compared to other UK cities, Manchester has a huge problem with crime, and the rate of crime is 383 crimes per person. Crimes that are most common in this UK city include vehicle crimes, property crimes, burglary, shoplifting, and antisocial behavior, which makes some parts of the city unsafe to visit.

The city is experiencing a high increase in crime rates , so much so that the local police have stopped giving updates to the public. The safest areas in Manchester include Rusholme, Chorlton, Fallowfield, Didsbury, and Gorton, while the places to avoid are Moss Side, Cheetham Hill, Longsight, and Salford, to name but a few.

These areas have a history of crime, such as drug offenses, gang-related crime, theft, robbery, and antisocial behavior, so try to avoid these neighborhoods if visiting the city, especially at night.

As we mentioned, crime is increasing in Manchester, but the local police are trying to combat this issue with CCVT surveillance, manned guarding services, and mobile patrols.

14. Lyon, France

Lyon is considered one of the most dangerous cities in France, but while you may not experience any problems in many tourist areas, pickpocketing and scams are notorious.

When it comes to hazardous areas apart from petty crimes, there are areas in Lyon to steer clear of, especially if you are alone or visiting at night.

This recent survey ranked Lyon as the fifth most dangerous city in France after Lille, Paris, Orly, and Saint-Denis, stating that ‘Lyon presents a risk of being the victim of a crime or misdemeanor of 97.53 per 1000 inhabitants, or 9.8 %’.

But is Lyon really that dangerous? According to the survey, Lyon was considered safer than Bordeaux, Cannes, Grenoble, Rouen, and Puteaux, but there are things to be cautious about when visiting the city.

Just like other French cities, Lyon is made up of arrondissements or districts, and the riskiest places to visit are the 7 th , 8 th, and 9th districts.

The safest areas are Vieux Lyon, La Presqu’Ile, and Downtown Lyon, and many tourist areas are safe during the day; just be aware of pickpocketing and do not walk alone at night.

15. Brussels, Belgium

Regarding the most dangerous cities in Europe, we cannot forget about Brussels, Belgium. While this city is not necessarily a city to avoid, there are certain things to be aware of to stay safe during your visit.

According to Numbeo, Brussels has a crime index of 54.70, and the good news is that this famous city’s crime rate is decreasing. It can be said that Brussels is like many major cities in Europe in that the majority of the city is safe, at least by day, yet there are a few risky neighborhoods that should be avoided where possible.

Brussels is considered one of the major cities in Europe where pickpocketing is common, especially in busy touristy areas and on public transport like the train and subway. Yes, this may not sound as ‘dangerous’ per se as some other cities, but no one wants their vacation ruined by being robbed.

It is best to leave valuables in a safe at your hotel or avoid flashing anything expensive when out and about. While the police have successfully lowered the crime rate , it is still best to avoid areas like the Gare du Midi and Molenbeek, where crime is still prevalent.

16. Dnipro, Ukraine

While Dnipro is a popular city to visit and is generally safe in many areas, it is regarded as one of the most dangerous cities in Europe in terms of petty crimes.

Tourists are generally well received, and people are always willing to help, but it is worth knowing that there is a chance that you can be robbed of your belongings, especially if they are visible in public.

It is advised to remain vigilant, avoid walking alone on deserted streets, and avoid visiting unfamiliar neighborhoods by day or night.

Dnipro is not as dangerous compared to other cities listed above, yet purse snatching, pickpocketing, and muggings are common, so it is best to be wary.

Numbeo rated Dnipro’s crime index as 54.47 , which is moderate compared to cities like Marseille, Paris, or Manchester.

According to this recent article, Dnipro has been regarded as the most dangerous city in Eastern Europe, where pickpocketing, scams, and violent crime are more prevalent than in other neighboring cities.

17. London, United Kingdom

London may be a world-famous destination, with iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, and Canary Wharf. Yet, it can certainly be dangerous, especially if you are unsure of the neighborhoods.

By day London is generally a safe city to visit, especially in touristy, built-up areas, but by night there are many places you should avoid.

London’s crime rate is 85% of the national crime rate, and violent crime is said to make up 23% of all crimes.

So, what should you be aware of when visiting London, one of the most dangerous cities in Europe? Areas to be cautious of include Westminster, Camden, Southwark, Lewisham, Lambeth, and Hackney.

The safest parts of London include Richmond, Harrow, Bexley, and Sutton, to name but a few. This report shows that the overall crime rate for London in 2022 was 95 crimes per 1000 people, most of which were violence and sexual offenses.

While London is an excellent city to visit, it is certainly worth being aware of which areas are crime-ridden and which are the safest, as with many major capital cities worldwide.

18. Odessa, Ukraine

Since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022, Odesa has suffered repeated bombings, leaving it an unpredictable and dangerous place to visit, despite it becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site last year.

While Odessa is not as dangerous as other cities we have listed, the danger level has undoubtedly increased since the war began. Since tourists are not too common in this city, it is best to stay vigilant if you are visiting the city.

Petty theft can be an issue here, so always keep valuables out of sight and be aware of your surroundings when in the city. One of the significant reasons Odessa has been deemed unsafe in recent years is, of course, the volatility of the city and the military conflict, which is unpredictable.

The US government advises tourists not to travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s war against Ukraine. At the same time, the UK Government also warns against any travel to Ukraine due to the safety and security of the country.

19. Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki, located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, may not be as dangerous as Athens, but it is a city where precautions should be taken.

While it is unlikely that you will experience any violent crime in this popular city, you should know that pickpocketing and petty theft are common, especially in urban areas and busy tourist regions.

Thessaloniki has a crime index of 53.78 , which puts it at a medium level of risk in terms of a global perspective.

Yes, the crime rate may have increased over the years, but the good news is that the crimes are rarely violent and focus on pickpocketing and other petty crimes.

With this in mind, if you want to make sure you are risk-free, always leave valuables in the hotel if you are sightseeing, and it may be wise to carry a ‘fake’ wallet or purse with some loose cash for any situation that may occur.

20. Dublin, Ireland

Lastly, one of the most dangerous cities in Europe is Dublin, Ireland. The city, famous for being the hub of Guinness, Trinity College, and the Phoenix Park – Europe’s largest enclosed park, also has a dark side.

There are plenty of places to avoid in this city, especially in recent times, as the level of crime has increased, even in broad daylight. Areas to avoid in general are the inner city of Dublin, Tallaght, Ballymun, and Blanchardstown and the regions highlighted here, which Dublins Deliveroo drivers created .

Ireland has been ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, but the capital is another story. During the day, the city is relatively safe, especially if you are in busy touristy areas.

Still, it is advised not to venture down unknown streets, wander around at night, or take certain public transport like the Dublin Bus. The safest areas to stick to are Dublin 4, Dublin 6, The Docklands, and some parts of Dublin 1.

Always trust your gut instinct or ask a friendly local for their advice if you are unsure.

About The Author

Jade Poleon

Jade is a seasoned traveller, yoga enthusiast, adventure seeker and travel writer passionate about seeing the world and sharing hidden gems with others. As well as having travelled to 91 countries thus far, she has written for several websites and published her first book ‘The Ultimate Irish Road Trip Guide’. She is a keen writer of satirical articles, as well as ‘The best things to do’ and ‘The best dishes to try’ around the globe. Jade is currently on a campervan adventure around Europe, where she continues to get her travel and food inspiration. She is excited to share what she discovers with her readers.

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10 Of The Most Dangerous Cities In Europe

As wonderful as traveling abroad in Europe is, tourists should be aware of these 10 cities that are considered the most dangerous in all of Europe.

Personal safety cannot be overemphasized in the world of today, no matter where you live. European countries are known to be major travel destinations, but not everywhere can be regarded as safe. Some areas should be avoided as they can be very dangerous. Travelers planning to go on a trip to any city must know important facts about the cultural practices, environment, and people of their desired holiday, so as not to become crime victims.

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One major way to measure a city’s safety level is through its homicide rate, other crimes, and even terrorism. Based on these, here are the 10 most dangerous cities in Europe.

10 Istanbul, Turkey

This location is known to make headlines because of terrorist attacks. Turkey can be said to be the most dangerous country in all of Europe. Istanbul residents receive threats and attacks from terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda, Kurdish separatists and many others. These groups are known to set off bombs in one or multiple locations in the city.

These threats and attacks have been going on for decades and seem never-ending. Other than terrorism, there are also risks of mugging and thefts within the streets.

9 Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi , the capital city of Georgia is one of the most dangerous cities in Europe. One part of Georgia continues to experience repeated public unrest after the 2008 conflict with Russia. The public protests result in violence and riots which lead to the loss of lives and property. The police use brute force on the protesters.

This consistent protesting has led to an increase in the crime rate in Tibilisi. There have been cases of attempted bombing and explosions in the city suburbs. Even with the security improvements made by the government, the risk of crime is still on a high scale.

8 Grozny, Russia

In the last decade, this city experienced intense war that resulted in bombings, missile attacks and destruction of most of the city's structures. Even with the current state of improvement in this city, there are still reports of a high level of criminal activity there. A notable source of these crimes is the presence of the Russian mafia in this city.

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There are many displaced and homeless persons who live on the streets. With reconstruction still ongoing in this city, many of the people here reside in uncompleted buildings with lack of electricity and this has led to an increase in the crime rate.

7 Mitrovica , Kosovo

Mitrovica is a major city located in Kosovo. It is divided between two ethnic groups which are the Serbs and the Albanians. This division has led to countless ethnic riots and other acts of violence resulting in loss of lives and property. There is notable constant tension between these two ethnic groups and constant fights occurring without warning.

Other than this, there is also high rate of criminal activity and corruption occurring in the city. With all these, the city runs inefficiently with the police being of little help to victims of the criminal acts occurring within the city walls.

6 Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia being the capital city of Bulgaria is known to have a high number of thefts and robberies. Travelers are always scared to visit there due to this reason. In a survey, about 30% of the city’s residents aren’t assured of the city’s safety even with the decreased crime rate. Organized crimes are high in the city and this was confirmed when a gangster murdered a radio host in broad daylight.

Even upon his arrest, he was released because no eyewitness was confident enough to testify against him. Contract murders are on a high scale in Sofia with crime bosses controlling the judicial authorities.

5 Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is an Estonian city located on the northern coast of the country. Its small population size and a relatively large number of murders per capita, which is 5.5 murders per 100,000 people place it at the top of the list. The total population of this city is about 450,000 and based on statistics, the city experienced between 22 to 40 homicides in the last decade.

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The cases of homicide that take place in this part of Europe is quiet uncommon and where the crime rate is high, there were up to 9.4 murders per 100,000 till it came down to 5.5.

4 Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city , located in the United Kingdom. Glasgow has long been known to have issues with turf wars between gangs. Because of this and other acts of violence, there have been reports of many deaths over the years. In 2010, a total of 30 murders occurred and this averaged the number of violent deaths that occur in Glasgow every year.

The gang and turf wars make Glasgow one of the least safe cities in all of Europe and most especially within the United Kingdom. The homicide rate is 5.1 murders per 100,000 people, making it unsafe for people during any time of the year.

3 Vilnius, Lithuania

Located in the Baltic states, Vilnius is the largest and capital city of Lithuania. The homicide rate within the last decade has decreased exponentially with 58 homicides recorded in 2008 resulting in a rate of 10.4 murders per 100,000 inhabitants and in 2016, 26 homicides were reported resulting in a rate of 4.7 murders per 100,000 residents.

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The current homicide rate is still the same as at last report. Even with these high number of homicides, tourist may still likely be victims of petty crimes like credit card theft and pickpocketing.

2 Moscow, Russia

Moscow is the capital city of the largest country in the world by land mass, Russia. It has a total population of 12.2 million people and is the cultural center of Europe. This city is located near the Moskva River, and recorded 483 murders in 2010 compared to 767 recorded in 2006.

Within the last decade, however, there has been a decrease in the rate of homicides. The number of violent crimes happening within this city is decreasing but other crimes such as car theft and robbery still remain a major problem there and keeps the crime rate at a high level.

1 Marseille, France

Marseille is a port city located in the southern part of France. This city has been a major trading point for centuries. The majority of the crimes that happen here are petty including theft, mugging, and pickpocketing.

The crime index is at a high rate due to the low presence of police officers. There’s a poor investment in law enforcement in the city along with high cases of corruption and inequality. Travelers often recommend other cities to visit in France.

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Most Dangerous Cities in Europe

Hash-mark 20 most dangerous european cities , 1. marseille, france.

Marseille, France, the second largest city in the country with a population of 870,321, has gained a reputation for being the most dangerous city in Europe. The crime rate in Marseille is five times higher than in any other French city, with the most prevalent crime being murder. 

Despite its beautiful Mediterranean setting and rich history, the city faces challenges related to public safety, making it important for residents and visitors to exercise caution.

2. Naples, Italy

Naples, Italy, the third-largest city in the country after Rome and Milan, has a complex story. Despite experiencing considerable economic growth since World War II, the city grapples with persistent joblessness and confronts challenges associated with high levels of political corruption and organized crime. 

Unfortunately, Naples has gained the reputation of being the second most dangerous city in Europe. The city's gun death rate is 1.31 per 100,000 residents annually, with an average occurrence of a gun-related death once every 14 days. 

3. Birmingham, United Kingdom

Birmingham is a bustling city with a population of 1.145 million. In 2021, it ranked as the third most visited city in the UK by people from foreign nations. 

However, it's important to note that Birmingham has faced challenges, being considered one of the more dangerous cities in Europe. 

In the past, the city had a crime rate higher than the average for England and Wales, with 89.92 recorded offenses per 1000 population in 2022–23.

4. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is an important city in Europe. It serves as the administrative center of the European Union, hosting key EU institutions in its European Quarter. Despite its significance, Brussels has gained a reputation as the 4th most dangerous city in Europe. 

Tourists, especially around the popular Grand Place in the city center, need to be cautious about pickpocketing. Reports of muggings have also been noted in this area. 

Additionally, the Brussels North Station and the nearby neighborhood of Saint Josse-ten-Noode are known for higher crime levels. Visitors should be aware of these safety concerns while exploring the city.

5. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is the second-most populous municipality in the country, with a population of 1.6 million people. While it is a vibrant and culturally rich city, it has faced challenges and is considered one of the more dangerous cities in Europe. 

In 2022, there were 68,484 reported crimes, showing a decrease of 8.6% from the previous year. Unfortunately, pickpocketing, muggings, and scams are common occurrences in Barcelona, reminding residents and visitors to stay vigilant in the bustling streets and tourist spots.

6. Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, is the biggest city and the capital of the country. It's a place rich in history and culture. While it's known for its ancient landmarks, like the Acropolis, it's also important to be aware of safety. Athens has been ranked as the sixth most dangerous city in Europe. 

Some areas, such as Monastiraki, Larissa, and Peloponissos, have higher crime rates. The most common issue is pickpocketing. The overall crime rate in Athens is 58.65, which falls into the Moderate category. 

Visitors should stay vigilant, especially in crowded places, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in this vibrant city.

7. Manchester, United Kingdom

Manchester, located in the United Kingdom, is a vibrant city celebrated for its impressive architecture, rich culture, and significant contributions to music and media. Boasting a bustling atmosphere, the city offers a multitude of exciting activities. Known as a massive town, 

Manchester is home to two powerhouse football teams (Manchester City and Manchester United) that captivate sports enthusiasts. 

However, it's important to note that in the 2022/23 reporting year, the crime rate for Greater Manchester rose to 128.9 crimes per 1,000 population, marking an increase from the previous year, making it one of the cities with a higher crime rate in Europe.

8. London, United Kingdom

London, the capital and largest city of the United Kingdom is another UK city on our list of the most dangerous cities in Europe. While crime rates differ in various parts of London, most of the city is generally safe. London boasts 24-hour public transport and well-lit areas near bars and restaurants, ensuring a secure environment. 

However, it's important to note that recorded crime has been increasing in London, particularly in violent crimes and stabbings, contributing to a rise in overall murder rates. 

9. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city with a rich history, being one of the oldest in the world and the second-oldest capital in Europe, right after Athens. However, despite its cultural charm, it's essential for visitors to stay vigilant. 

Sadly, Lisbon has gained a reputation as the 9th most dangerous city in Europe. Tourist areas like Sintra, Cascais, and Mafra are particularly prone to theft, making it important for visitors to be cautious and aware of pickpockets, as the risk of encountering them is high in this top tourist destination.

10. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a vibrant city with a population of 921,402. Known for its picturesque canals and friendly atmosphere, it's also recognized as a city with over 800,000 bikes. However, bike theft is a significant concern, making it important for residents and visitors to secure their bicycles. 

Despite its charm, Amsterdam faces some safety challenges, as it has a crime index of 28.75. The city's popularity among tourists contributes to the presence of pickpockets, particularly during the busy summer months. 

It's advisable for visitors to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in this otherwise enchanting destination.

11. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, stands as the heart of the nation, bustling with cultural, media, political, and economic activities. The Stockholm region plays a significant role in Sweden's economy, contributing more than a third of the country's GDP. 

Despite its initial appearance as a tranquil and low-crime city, it shares common urban challenges. Among its neighborhoods, Rinkeby faces periodic incidents of violence, often manifesting as street fights. 

It's important to recognize that even in a generally safe city like Stockholm, there are areas where caution should be exercised.

12. Rome, Italy

After Naples, Rome is another Italian city that stands tall in the list of top European dangerous cities. The Italian capital captured the hearts of 8.6 million visitors in 2019, making it the 14th most visited city globally. 

However, the city grapples with some challenges, as pickpocketing, car burglary, and purse snatching are significant concerns. 

13. Paris, France

Paris, the French capital, is known for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. It ranks as the 13th most dangerous city in Europe, although crime is comparable to other big cities. 

Violent incidents are infrequent in the city center, but caution is advised for women walking alone at night. Certain areas, such as Les Halles, Châtelet-Les-Halles, and Gare du Nord, can be more risky. 

Recently, there has been a rise in reported cases of sexual harassment, and occasionally assault, involving taxi drivers. Visitors should stay aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions while enjoying the city's beauty and culture.

14. Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw, the capital and biggest city of Poland is home to 1.86 million residents. While it's an essential European city, some caution is needed as it's known for occasional pickpocketing, especially in crowded places. Paying extra attention to your belongings is a good idea. The Praga district, particularly Brzeska Street, is considered the riskiest area. 

Additionally, caution is advised around large football events, as football hooliganism can be a concern before or after these gatherings. 

15. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, rests on the east coast near the River Liffey, traced back to its Viking origins in 841. Despite its historical charm, Dublin faces challenges with thefts and burglaries, ranking as another city in Europe grappling with safety concerns. The Central Statistics Office reports higher occurrences of these incidents in the city.

16. Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg, Germany, is the second-largest city in the country, following Berlin. It boasts the biggest port in Germany and is the second-busiest in Europe. However, it is ranked as the 16th most dangerous city in Europe, with property crimes being frequently reported. Notably, the Reeperbahn area in Hamburg is considered less safe compared to other parts of the city.

17. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is the biggest city and the capital of Romania. It's a lively place, but you should be careful about petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially on public transportation. The gun death rate is 0.14 for every 100,000 people each year. Crime levels are higher in the southern parts of the city, with Ferentari being a neighborhood where crime is more common due to social challenges.

18. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is our next destination. With a population of 1,681,405 in the metropolitan area, it's a bustling city. However, like any other place, Belgrade has its challenges, and visitors should be cautious about pickpockets and muggings. 

The overall crime rate in Serbia declined by 7.56% in 2022, reaching 1.06. One particular safety concern revolves around the floating nightclubs operated by the Balkan mafia. 

19. Bradford, United Kingdom

Bradford, located in Yorkshire, UK, is the penultimate city on our list of the most dangerous cities in Europe. Despite being the third-largest economy in Yorkshire, Bradford faces a concerning issue with crime,  surpassing the national average of England by approximately 65 times . 

The city grapples with various challenges, primarily revolving around violent incidents, but harassment and theft also contribute to the overall crime rate.

20. Catania, Italy

After Naples and Rome, Catania is the third Italian city on our list. Catania is the second-largest municipality in Sicily and is known for its historical charm and vibrant culture. However, it has gained notoriety for certain safety concerns. 

Catania is ranked as the second most dangerous city in Italy for muggings. Tourists should be cautious as pickpocketing, overpricing, and taxi scams are reported as the top crimes in this otherwise picturesque city.

hash-mark Most Dangerous Cities in Europe Bottom Line 

While these cities face varying degrees of safety challenges, it's essential to note that many ongoing efforts are being made to address these issues and improve the overall safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike. Understanding the safety risks in Europe's most dangerous cities can help you stay safe while traveling.

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10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe: Official Ranking

Most dangerous cities in europe: danger concept, what are the most dangerous cities in europe, parameters used, 1. minsk (belarus), 2. tbilisi (georgia), 3. tirana (albania), 4. saint petersburg (russia), 5. kiev (ukraine), 6. moscow (russia), 7. skopje (macedonia), 8. sarajevo (bósnia-herzegovinia), 9. istanbul (turkey), 10. sofia (bulgaria).

European cities are always on lists of the safest in the world. However, it is necessary to remember that the continent is not homogeneous and that in some cities the traveler needs to be careful. In this article, we list the Europe's most dangerous cities and we explain the reasons for that. Check out.

First of all, it is important to point out that the concept of danger is totally different in Brazil and in Europe. There, for example, there are not the high rates of urban violence, with robberies and murders, that exist in Brazil. However, there are also crimes of corruption and cybercrime, as well as ethnic conflicts and terrorist attacks, which are rarer here. In Europe, violence motivated by political, religious, racial and ideological issues is more pronounced in some regions. It is also worth warning that European dangers should never be a reason for you to give up on your trip. Just as you wouldn't give up on a trip to the North or Northeast of Brazil, even knowing that there are the most violent cities in the country, you shouldn't abandon the idea of ​​visiting a European city due to problems that may eventually occur. Information and a little caution are enough to guarantee your safety and a good trip! Now, if your idea is to live in Europe, it might be interesting to look at our list with caution, as there are much safer cities in Europe.

One of the most used rankings to measure the safety or insecurity of a city is Mercer's Quality of Living Index survey. It is used, for example, as a parameter for multinational companies to relocate employees and calculate fair remuneration for professionals working abroad. The concept of quality of life does not only cover personal safety, but a set that includes physical, mental, psychological and emotional well-being. And quality of life is a concept intrinsically related to the existence or not of violence in cities. To rank the ten most dangerous destinations on the European continent, we resorted to Mercer's 2019 survey. This is because, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the 2020 ranking cannot yet be completed.

To arrive at the result of the list of the most dangerous cities in Europe, we consulted the list from bottom to top: from European cities with less quality of life to those with better quality of life. We present, then, the ten cities with the lowest level of quality of life, among the 231 cities considered in the study. It is worth mentioning that the survey only included those cities where the necessary data for the comparison could be obtained. To corroborate our argument, we also resorted to the Itamaraty portal, to collect the most relevant recommendations for each of the aforementioned destinations. Follow along.

Georgia was part of the Soviet Union, as was Belarus. Itamaraty states that it is vehemently advised against any movement from the capital Tblisi to the separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, administered by authorities not recognized by the Brazilian government and the international community. In these regions, the occurrence of physical violence, robberies and kidnappings, including foreign citizens and tourists, is more common. The capital, on the other hand, is charming and quiet for Brazilian standards.

The capital of Albania has no crime at Brazilian levels. But there are disputes between locations, especially related to organized crime, with violent actions and gunshots and explosions. Brazilian citizens are advised not to react to any act of xenophobia and to report the occurrence to police authorities and, if necessary, to the Brazilian Embassy.

Due to the conflicts in eastern Ukraine, especially in the Crimea region, measures were adopted to allow foreigners to enter certain territories, especially in regions bordering Russia. Members of minority ethnic groups can be victims of violence in the city. Itamaraty advises Brazilian citizens not to react to any situation of violence. The recommendation is to leave the area immediately and report the occurrence to the police and the Brazilian Embassy.

In Moscow, the same recommendations given for Saint Petersburg apply: avoid conflicts in bars and clubs and don't remain alone – especially if you're a woman. Terrorist attacks, unfortunately, are part of the city's dangers. So, avoid staying long periods near government buildings and points of great agglomeration.

There is no Brazilian diplomatic representation in the country, and consular services are provided remotely. This is already a point that demands attention from Brazilians, who are more vulnerable. In general, Macedonia is a safe country, but the usual precautions with pickpockets should be taken, especially in high-traffic areas. Car theft is also common. There is also the possibility of earthquakes. And social tensions between Slavic-Orthodox and Albanian-Muslim. The country experienced a civil war in 2001.

After a period of instability and a high frequency of terrorist attacks, the Turkish authorities have managed to prevent the occurrence of new attacks. And tourism has increased. But the risk of new attacks persists, as terrorist groups continue to operate in the region. To protect yourself, it is recommended to always be well informed about the region and avoid large crowds. Through the social media of the Brazilian embassy and consulate, tourists can follow up-to-date information.

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The Top 10 most dangerous cities in Europe (Updated – 2023)

• August 28, 2023

Europe is a fascinating continent that boasts a rich diversity of culture, art, architecture, history, and breathtaking cities. From the stunning Gothic cathedrals of Spain to the exquisite Italian cuisine, Europe has something to offer every traveller. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Paris or taking in the stunning views of the Swiss Alps, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences to be had. With so much to see and do, Europe is truly a destination that should be at the top of every traveller’s list.

Numerous cities in Europe are designed to cater to foot traffic and tourists.

Just like any other continent, there are cities in every part of the world that are more dangerous than others.

There are various forms of danger that pose a threat to our safety. These hazards may include terrorist attacks, scams, criminal activities, and natural calamities. It is essential to recognize and prepare for these potential dangers to safeguard ourselves and our loved ones.

Travelling, no matter how secure the location may seem, always involves a certain level of risk.

While it’s impossible to find a completely crime-free destination anywhere in the world, some cities have a better reputation for safety than others. Reports on violent and property crime can help determine which cities are safer than others.

If you’re curious about the most perilous cities in Europe, don’t stop reading just yet! Here, we’ve got a list of the top 10 cities you should watch out for.

10 Cities in Europe That Have the Highest Crime Rates

10. sarajevo, bosnia.

Sarajevo, being the capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina, has had its fair share of violence during the 1990s war that led to the disintegration of Yugoslavia.

Fortunately, the incidence of violent crime has significantly decreased in Sarajevo. Despite the positive development, the city still ranks tenth on the list due to a crime rate of 47.06.

Purse snatching, pickpocketing, and other forms of theft are unfortunately quite prevalent in certain areas of the city, making them the most common crimes reported.

In addition, it’s worth noting that there are still bombs and landmines left over from the war in Sarajevo that have not yet been cleared. However, authorities are taking measures to mark off these areas with tape to ensure safety. It’s important to heed these warnings and avoid venturing into these restricted territories.

9. Podgorica

If you’re planning to visit Montenegro, it’s important to know that the capital city, Podgorica, has some areas that are considered problematic. This contributes to the city’s crime rate of 48.18, which should be taken into consideration when planning your trip. It’s recommended to avoid these areas if possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Montenegro.

The majority of criminal activity in the city is caused by warring criminal factions, often leading to incidents such as car bombings and gun battles in broad daylight.

Although it may seem intimidating, it’s important to note that these acts of violence are not directed towards tourists, and they typically do not take place in areas frequented by tourists.

It is crucial to remain vigilant and keep an eye out for individuals who engage in petty crimes, such as those who deceive or pickpocket others for their own gain.

It’s always better to avoid traveling alone at night. However, if it’s unavoidable, it’s important to be extra cautious in isolated areas. Keeping a watchful eye and being aware of your surroundings can help ensure your safety.

8. Rome, Italy

It’s no secret that Rome is a vibrant and bustling city with a high population density, which means that there is a certain level of crime that goes along with it.

As a tourist or local, you should always be cautious of bag snatching and pickpocketing, as they are the most common crimes. It’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings to avoid falling victim to these crimes.

It’s important to be aware of scam artists when visiting heavily touristy areas, like the Spanish Steps and Colosseum. While it’s always good to be polite and friendly, it’s best to avoid engaging in any suspicious activities to ensure your safety and avoid falling victim to scams.

It’s important to be vigilant and avoid secluded areas, down side streets, and alleys once the sun sets. Sticking to well-lit and populated areas is a good safety practice to prevent any unwanted incidents.

When it comes to travelling within the city, public transportation is a reliable and secure option to consider. It offers a convenient way to move around town or even hail a taxi.

7. Athens, Greece

Athens is generally considered safe for visitors, however, petty crimes are not uncommon. It’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your personal belongings while exploring the city.

With a crime rate of 52.30, Athens secures the seventh spot on this list. Being a massive city, it is expected to have some level of crime.

When exploring tourist areas near the Plaka and Acropolis, it’s important to be aware of potential scams that may exist. It’s unfortunate, but there are plenty of individuals who prey on unsuspecting tourists, so it’s always best to exercise caution and do your due diligence before engaging in any transactions or interactions with locals. Stay vigilant and keep your wits about you to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

It’s important to be cautious when using taxis, as there are many fake ones out there. To ensure your safety, it’s recommended that you either use ride-sharing apps or book with a reputable taxi company.

It’s important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep an eye out for any unusual or suspicious behavior and take precautions to ensure your safety. Remember to always trust your instincts and take action if you feel uncomfortable or threatened. By staying alert and cautious, you can help protect yourself and avoid potential dangers.

6. Dnipro, Ukraine

Currently, Ukraine and its cities are facing a grave threat due to the ongoing war which has caused fear and distress among the local population.

According to statistics, during times of peace, Dnipro ranks as the sixth most hazardous city in Europe, with a crime index of 53.37.

As a sought-after spot for backpackers and adventure seekers, Dnipro attracts a considerable number of travelers passing through the city.

As with other European cities, Dnipro is not immune to scams, pickpocketing, and some instances of violent crime.

To ensure a safe and secure experience while exploring this Eastern European city, it is highly recommended to steer clear of secluded locations, especially after dark.

5. Nantes, France

Nantes is a breathtaking city that stands out for its stunning beauty. It is also considered a safe haven due to its low rate of violent crimes.

Although, it’s important to note that car theft and pickpocketing remain significant issues.

In recent years, the city has experienced a rise in drug-related incidents.

If you’re planning a visit to the city, it’s important to be aware of the areas that may pose a risk to your safety. Specifically, Bottiere and Dervallieres have been identified as two neighborhoods that should be avoided due to their high crime rates. It’s best to exercise caution and steer clear of these areas to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Throughout the year, numerous protests and demonstrations take place, with a few of them escalating into violence.

By staying in the northern regions of Nantes, where crime rates are lower, your chances of falling victim to criminal activities significantly decrease.

4. Montpellier, France

Despite Montpellier’s charm, rich cultural heritage, and impressive culinary offerings, the city is not immune to criminal activity. As a visitor, it is important to be mindful of this fact and take necessary precautions while exploring the area.

When it comes to crimes against tourists, theft and pickpocketing are unfortunately some of the most prevalent. In order to stay safe, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and keep a close watch on your personal belongings.

The crime rate in the area is quite high with burglary and car theft being the most common crimes reported, which accounts for 58.83% of the total crime rate.

It’s no secret that criminals often prey on those who appear to be distracted, vulnerable, or out of place. Whether it’s because someone is lost, on their phone, or simply not paying attention to their surroundings, criminals are on the lookout for easy targets. It’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar or high-risk areas. By doing so, you decrease your chances of being targeted by criminals.

3. Exploring Catania, Italy

Catania is a charming city situated on the beautiful island of Sicily, just off the coast of the Boot. It is an extremely popular international tourist destination, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Just like many other cities in Italy, Catania faces its own share of crime-related problems, particularly concerning pickpocketing and petty theft.

According to the latest crime index, Catania has been ranked as the third most unsafe city in Europe, with a score of 60.88.

It is disheartening to see that the crime index of the city has been on a continual rise each year. This is primarily due to the increase in carjacking, petty theft, and violent crimes. The impact of inflation on the world has only added to the problem.

Furthermore, the city of Catania is plagued by corruption within its law enforcement and government officials. In addition, the region is no stranger to natural disasters, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, which occur frequently in the area.

2. Minsk: A Travel Guide

Ranked at the second spot, Minsk, Belarus boasts a crime index of 61.75. What’s surprising is that the Belarussian government has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any kind of criminal activity committed by both locals and tourists alike.

Although efforts have been made to maintain order, the fact remains that it is one of the most perilous cities in the continent.

It is crucial for tourists to exercise caution and remain vigilant of their surroundings due to the prevalence of petty crimes such as muggings and pickpocketing. It is important to stay alert and keep valuable possessions secure in order to avoid becoming a victim of these types of crimes.

As you explore the city, it’s important to keep an eye out for reckless drivers who may disregard traffic laws and signals and speed through the streets. Stay alert and exercise caution to ensure your safety throughout your travels.

It’s important to exercise caution when crossing the street.

1. Bradford

Bradford, United Kingdom, has been deemed as the most dangerous city in Europe, with the highest crime index amongst all European cities, standing at a total crime index of 64.33.

In Bradford, theft, harassment, and violent outbursts are the most prevalent crimes committed by citizens.

According to the Bradford police department, the claim that the city is the most dangerous in Europe is not accurate.

Being aware of the surroundings is of utmost importance when travelling to a new place. It’s advisable not to venture out alone at night, and to keep valuables out of sight in cars. These simple precautions can go a long way in ensuring a safe and hassle-free trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that the majority of criminal activity in Bradford tends to occur within specific areas of lower-income neighborhoods.

5 Essential Safety Tips for Your Trip to Europe

When you’re on the road, it’s crucial to keep some basic safety tips in mind. Here are some suggestions:

Step One: Memorize the Emergency Phone Number

In case of an emergency in any European country, dialling 112 is the universal emergency number that should be dialled for immediate assistance.

If you find yourself in an emergency situation and you reside in the United States, it’s important to note that dialling 911 will not connect you to emergency services.

If you find yourself in an emergency situation in the United Kingdom, simply dial 999 or 112 to be connected with an emergency dispatcher who can provide you with the assistance you need.

Tip Two: Stay Mindful of Your Surroundings

Similar to many cities in America, you may find yourself in a secure neighbourhood one moment and suddenly find yourself in an impoverished area the next.

In the event that this happens, there is no need to be alarmed. Simply turn back and retrace your steps, or consider calling a ride-share service to pick you up.

The reality is that becoming a victim of a crime is not a sudden event that occurs after crossing a certain line.

• The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Carolina
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The 20 Most Miserable Cities in Europe

The world has descended into turmoil with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. It's made life difficult for almost everyone with changes in our lifestyles, fear of the unknown, sickness, death, and depressed economics. Other factors that influence the perceived and real quality of life include unemployment and inflation, contributing to the overall misery of life for people in some sectors of society. We looked at the European front and found that several countries have a high misery score for their citizens. England , Italy, Spain, and France report some of the most miserable living conditions for some people. We first looked at the most miserable countries then broke it down into the cities with the largest concentrations of sad residents. The European Commission Health and Consumer Protection Directorate-General  issued a report that highlights some of the most depressed and unwell cities in the EU. They cited high numbers of mental health diagnoses among their citizens. The numbers are sobering. Here are the twenty most miserable cities in Europe. We've included the reasons why the quality of life is currently taking a downturn.

20. Nottingham, England

According to Somerset , Nottingham is among the top five cities in England with people experiencing extreme stress. The reason is due to the impact of the pandemic and list effects on their jobs. Secure employment is an ongoing problem in the city without a pandemic. Nottingham is one of the most miserable cities in England and Europe because of the high-stress levels among residents and their inability to maintain secure employment.

19. Brighton, England

Some residents of Brighton participated in a survey to assess their stress levels and degree of happiness. Fifty percent of the respondents reported feeling some degree of pressure and stress. They feel miserable because of the current economic situation in the city. It's getting more difficult for older residents to find part-time to full-time jobs. Those who are employed worry about becoming sick when working with the public during a worldwide pandemic. These factors combine to make Brighton one of Europe's most miserable cities.

18. Dudley, England

Dudley is a miserable place to live because it has a low happiness index score. It falls below Nottingham with a score of 7.0. Wales Online lists it as the saddest town in England. The reasons include scores of elderly who feel lonely and secluded. A lack of human companionship is an ongoing problem among this segment of the population. The ongoing pandemic is only one of the reasons for the documented rise in unhappiness.

17. Bristol, England

Fifty percent of the people surveyed in Bristol claim that they feel miserable because of the current economic circumstances and pervasive health concerns due to the pandemic. These are the top two factors that are making Bristol one of the most miserable cities in Europe. Residents have little to do for fun and little money to spend on the limited activities available for public interaction.

16. Liverpool, England

Liverpool has a high rate of stressed-out residents. Respondents to the same survey reported a higher level of stress and worry. It's a city hard hit by the pandemic with health services stretched to their limits. Those who need regular healthcare have trouble obtaining it. Their health concerns get put on hold due to the numerous Covid-19 cases flooding into healthcare facilities. Seventy-five percent of respondents say that job stress has taken a toll on their mental health and happiness levels.

15. Madrid, Spain

Idealista reports that Spaniards highly value cleanliness in their city streets. A few cities in Spain excel in maintaining clean and sanitary living conditions, but others fall short. Madrid is listed as one of the most miserable cities in Europe to live for those who demand living in clean and orderly neighborhoods.

14. Alicante, Spain

Alicante is a city that could do a lot better with its waste management systems and street cleanliness. Even though the town's residents would like to see change, not everyone holds these values equally. Those with poor hygiene habits contribute to the problem of garbage in the streets. It's even worse for having dirty streets than Madrid. It's miserable to live under the dirty condition where it's not safe or healthy for children to play outdoors because of the poor waste management systems.

13. Palma, Spain

Palma, Spain is one of the most miserable cities in Spain, if you're parents raising school or university-age children. While Vigo, Zaragoza, and Bilbao rank among the top-rated cities for educational opportunities, Palma has the worst rating in Spain. People who live in Palma have few educational options. It's one of the factors that make this city a miserable place to live.

12. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the worst places in Spain if you value environmental quality and clean air. While Bilbao, Zaragoza, and Vigo boast the best air quality in Spain, Barcelona and Madrid tie for the worst two cities in all of Spain. Pollution is one of the biggest factors that makes Barcelona a miserable place for those with allergies or respiratory problems to live. It has some of the most terrible air quality scores of all the major urban areas of Spain.

11. Catalan, Spain

People who live in Catalan also know that they're in one of the least safe cities in the country. It's not much fun to live under conditions that put you at a higher risk of becoming the victim of a crime. Catalan is one of the most unsafe places to live for its citizens. The fear of crime puts it up high on the misery factor and qualifies the city for inclusion in our list of the 20 most miserable cities in Europe.

10. Rome, Italy

The Local lists Rome as one of the worst cities in the world to live in. It has received low scores because of its work-to-life balance, a weak economy, and great difficulty in achieving career advancements. Three-quarters of the people surveyed are dissatisfied with the local economy and their career opportunities. Housing is sparse and not affordable, and the public transportation system needs improving. Two thousand Romans surveyed shared their concerns that the quality of life is on a downward spiral from where it sat just five years ago. Air quality, the cost of healthy foods, and life expectancy are also concerns of the residents.

9. Milan, Italy

Milan is a miserable place to live unless you're wealthy. The cost of living is so high in this city that it's hard for the average citizen to make ends meet. With the recent pandemic taking a toll on the healthcare system, it's a frightening place to live if you have any medical condition because it's hard to obtain even the most basic health services with the continuing increase of hospitalizations due to Covid. It's hard to find quality healthcare for non-life-threatening conditions. If you manage to get in for an appointment, it's a place to become exposed to illness with so many affected by Covid.

8. Naples, Italy

According to Business Insider , Naples is one of the most miserable places to live and it's not a place that is high on the list of destinations for travelers either. We learned that Naples has long been a dumping ground for toxic waste. The environment is polluted. Not only is trash dumped in the streets, but for decades, it has been the destination of toxic nuclear waste. It's not a good place to live. People who reside there live in fear of developing a life-threatening illness, and many already have due to the toxic environment.

7. Florence, Italy

The World Health Organization has listed Florence as one of the unhealthiest places to live in Europe. The quality of the air in Florence is affected by pollution. PM10 has for decades contributed to a rise in respiratory illnesses and higher mortality rates for residents of the city. This city is a miserable place to live for people with respiratory problems. It's got to be tough knowing that you can also shorten your life if you spend years living there.

6. Genoa, Italy

Genoa is a city that the World Health Organization lists as one of the most unhealthy environments. Hospital admissions, higher bronchitis rates, and a higher mortality rate because of air pollution are listed as realities for the citizens of Genoa. Years of continued exposure erode the respiratory health of residents.

5. Turin, Italy

Italy is a country that has more than its share of unhealthy cities. If it's not the economy bringing about misery, it's the poor air quality or lack of good waste management services. Turin is yet another Italian city listed as dangerous because of air pollution by the World Health Organization. More incidences of adverse health outcomes due to air pollution are reported for Turin's residents.

4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

I AM Expat lists Amsterdam as one of the most miserable cities to live in The Netherlands. The city has the ranking of the most dangerous city in The Netherlands. An explosive crime rate makes it unsafe just to walk down the streets by yourself. The incidences of violent crimes, thefts, and robberies are high in Amsterdam. It would be miserable to live your life on guard for criminals. It's depressing to work hard to obtain the things you need in life, only to have them stolen or vandalized when you're at work. This is one of the greatest disadvantages for the people who live in Amsterdam.

3. Athens, Greece

Greek Reporter lists Athens as one of the worst places in the country to live for drivers. It takes the prize when it comes to charging high fees for parking, taxes, and fuel. Athenians' life quality is diminished by high transportation costs. Enjoying the other amenities but remains a contention for citizens. The overall safety of the roads also gets a poor rating with multiple fatalities and road rage incidents reported. This is one of the reasons why taxi services are so expensive in the city. Residents of Athens are not happy with the current transportation problems in the area and it's miserable whether you use public transportation or attempt to operate your vehicle. It contributes to the overall misery experienced in the city.

2. Marseille, France

Travel.com lists Marseille, France as one of the worst places in Europe to live. Located in the southern region of France, the city is one of the countries largest trading ports and a major hub for economic activity. As such, it has also attracted its share of criminals who make their living by preying on the vulnerable. The incidences of pickpocketing, mugging, and other types of petty theft are higher in Marseille than in any other large city in France. The crime rate is high and the number of police officers is low. This issue exists because of the low investment in law enforcement due to inequality and corruption.

1. Moscow, Russia

Moscow is Russia's capital city . The city is the home of 12.2 million citizens and it serves as one of Europe's cultural centers. Although it is a popular tourist destination, the number of crimes committed in the city is frightening. It's a miserable place to live because there are numerous robberies, car thefts, and violent crimes that occur regularly. Everyone who lives there knows that it's a dangerous place to live and this helps to contribute to feelings of fear and depression. The high crime rate in Moscow makes this one of the most miserable places in all of Europe to live.

You can also read:

• 20 Must See Attractions in Europe
• The 20 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe
• The 20 Most Affordable Places to Live in Europe
• The 20 Best Places To Live for the Outdoors in Europe

Written by  Dana Hanson

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The 9 Most Dangerous Places in Europe

Europe might be the second smallest continent on the planet, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in diversity. From its Mediterranean beaches to its high-altitude ski resorts, volcanic islands to buzzy metropolitan cities, there’s a destination for everyone. But, of course, there’s a dark side to it all, just as this guide to the most dangerous places in Europe will reveal!

The good news is that Europe is hardly known as a dangerous place. In fact, the stats show that Europe is supposedly the safest continent in the world overall. It’s also generally considered to be a perfect place for solo travelers and female travelers. Still, with 44 countries in the mix, you can’t say the same for every destination…

Yep, there’s bound to be some bad apples. Cue our selection of nine spots that reign among the most dangerous places in Europe. We think you’ll be surprised at what’s there, from the home of pizza to small towns and cities nestled in the English countryside to historic French port towns that date back some 3,000 years. Intrigued? Let’s go…

Table of Contents

1. Naples, Italy

The regional capital of Campania and the modern birthplace of pizza, Naples is Italy’s third-largest city and one that needs little introduction. It’s best known for its gritty metropolitan appeal but Naples also offers some spectacular natural beauty, being set to the backdrop of Mount Vesuvius.

But it isn’t the imposing volcano that has earned this city a dangerous reputation. Naples has one of the highest crime rates of any Italian town, scoring a whopping 62.52 – that’s some 30% higher than the national average! So what is it about Naples that makes it so unsafe?

Naples ranks high when it comes to the probability of muggings, carjackings, drug dealing, property crime, and even assault and armed robbery, but the truth is, these crimes don’t affect tourists most of the time. Pickpocketing and petty crime are rife in busy areas, but that’s the same as in Rome and Florence.

What really sets old Napoli apart is the presence of the Camorra, a network of criminal gangs who have caused problems for locals, police, and the government for decades. The Neapolitan Mafia have actually operated for around 400 years, but grew really powerful in the 19th century. They’ve been an integral part of life here ever since.  

Mafia crime has tainted Naples with high levels of corruption in particular. As a traveler, that could be of particular concern if you get in trouble while in the city or need to deal with the authorities. It’s also something to think about if you’re considering moving to southern Italy or setting up a business here – the mafia have been known to take their own taxes and whatnot!

2. Birmingham, United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is home to more than its fair share of dangerous cities and Birmingham is one that demonstrates even higher crime rates than Mafia-led Naples on Italy’s south coast. With an index of 63.01, Birmingham is one of the most dangerous places in Europe. Period. In fact, there’s a moderate to high risk of most crimes in the city, from vandalism and property theft to racial attacks and sexual assault. 

We should caveat this by saying there’s a low chance that visitors will run into risks when walking around Birmingham by day. The city is bristling with cultural draws, from the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery with its pre-Raphaelite masterpieces to happening  Sherborne Wharf with its cafes and bars. Most of those are generally safe for tourists and see thousands of people come their way each year.

It’s just that the safety index after dark is a mere 26.49, which is very low, even for a busy city. The likes of Liverpool and Leicester often get a bad rep for crime, but Birmingham ranks higher, with 137 crimes per 1,000 people. It’s important to remember, however, that Birmingham is the second-most populous city in the UK, after London, and is the most densely populated in the Midlands, which has a big impact on the likelihood of crime. 

Birmingham also demonstrates high levels of poverty with more residents living in deprived areas than any other city in the UK. That, naturally, has an impact on crime rates, but it can also mean that the most frequent crimes aren’t of a violent nature and therefore shouldn’t be of huge concern to drop-in visitors, with shoplifting, pickpocketing, and home burglaries coming out on top. 

The truth is, Birmingham is safe to visit and also a good place to work and live but there are precautions you should take in the city center and in certain suburbs. It isn’t advised to flash your wealth, walk around after dark, or get too carried away if you’re out drinking in town.

3. Coventry, United Kingdom

Another entry from the UK, Coventry demonstrates the second-highest crime rates of any English city and currently ranks as the second-most dangerous place in Europe. It’s not got quite the same issues as, say, Naples. Corruption and bribery aren’t really big in these parts. It’s more about direct crimes, such as physical assault, armed robbery, home break-ins, and muggings.

Coventry records fewer crimes per 1,000 people than the densely populated city of Birmingham, at just over 110 in 2022. However, violent crime makes up more than a third of this figure, and there are some postcodes in the city that are known for their rough reputation, like Willenhall, Foleshill, Hillfields, and Wood end – all hotspots for criminal activity and best avoided if you’re just visiting

Perhaps most notably, there was a rate of 48 violent and sexual offenses per 1,000 head of population here in 2022. That’s quite a considerable figure – sitting at nearly double what it is in London!

The city demonstrates moderate safety levels for walking around during the day with an index of 46.55. That’s the snippet of good news, because the medieval cathedral, galleries, museums, 14th-century St. Mary’s Guildhall are all things you simply have to see. 

Sadly, Coventry isn’t the safest place at night. The town has an index of just 27.36. Places like Willenhall and Foleshill especially should be avoided once the sun has gone down, as the likelihood of being a victim of crime is double that of the center.

4. Catania, Italy

Although Naples takes most of the rap when it comes to Italy’s least safe cities, Catania, on Sicily’s east coast, is actually the most dangerous place in the country, and one of the most dangerous places in Europe. 

Sitting at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania is as geographically spectacular as its Campanian sister. Still, the active volcano sets the scene perfectly for what’s a pretty volatile port town, ready to erupt at any moment in a flurry of crime.

Yep, Catania has an overall crime index of 63.79. But before we get into that, we’ll say this: Most of the city’s central neighborhoods are relatively safe for tourists to wander around. You can explore the wide Piazza del Duomo with its whimsical central fountain and decadent Catania Cathedral, and head to La Pescheria after, where a rowdy weekday fish market is anchored by incredible seafood restaurants.  

At night, the safety index dips to just 28.46. Some streets can be isolated and very poorly lit, making them dangerous for visitors. There are high reports of robberies, muggings, carjackings, and incidents of drug dealing and use.

Corruption and bribery are of particular concern in Catania, at an index of 84.76. This is where Catania’s and Naples’ problems align, since the Sicilian Mafia has also historically abused its power in the city. 

Librino, on the south side of town, is known as the roughest neighborhood, not only in Catania but all of Italy. It’s a place that you definitely don’t want to visit as a tourist, and pretty much a no-go area for solo travelers. Arms dealing, drug trafficking, and even homicide are all daily occurrences in those parts!   

Don’t be too put off a visit here – the town is wonderful! Just be sure to take the usual pickpocketing precautions in the center, and, on top of Librino, be careful to avoid the Nesima, Villagio Sant’Agata, San Giuseppe la Rena, and St. George neighborhoods.

5. Marseille, France

 The south of France might be best known for its international film festivals, glitzy seaside resorts, and olive-oil-doused cuisine, but the bustling port city and capital of ​​Bouches-du-Rhône department, Marseille, also has a crime-riddled reputation. Blessed with Mediterranean weather, Marseille is still a popular tourist destination, especially for the rich and famous, but it is also France’s least safe city…

Marseille’s overall crime rate hovers at 64.55 and the city demonstrates high levels of crimes. The run the gamut from petty theft to armed robbery, vandalism to serious assault. Thing is, the place is relatively problem-free by day, when it has a safety index of 50.40, though tourists still need to be careful, as pickpockets and scammers operate everywhere in the city.

Sadly, Marseille’s safety at night dips to an index of 27.74. Street crime is common, especially in the northern districts, and solo travelers should avoid unlit streets and the metro after dark. The crime rates are more than five times higher in Marseille than in the rest of France, and the murder rate is especially high due to the criminal gangs that operate here. Marseille is also known for its trafficking of all kinds from – drugs, weapons, humans. 

Marseille has been a hub for trade and immigration since it was founded by the Greeks over 2,000 years ago. The old port is the beating heart of the city and fishmongers sell their catch here along the boat-lined quay. The Basilique Notre-Dame-de-La-Garde also draws tourists from all around the region. That Romanesque-Byzantine church, known to locals as Bonne Mere, is also a lavish 19th-century symbol of the town and is visible from all across Marseille. 

It should be mentioned that a lot of the violence is isolated to criminal gangs, with turf wars and settling scores being the reason for most murders. However, the sex trafficking trade can affect visitors and women should be especially careful when enjoying the nightlife in Marseille. Never take a drink from a stranger and never leave your drink unattended. Don’t trust anyone and think carefully before giving out any of your personal details to a stranger.    

6. Bradford, United Kingdom

Undoubtedly less iconic than Marseille or Naples, but nonetheless among the most dangerous places in Europe, Bradford is a regional city in England’s West Yorkshire region. It’s tucked near the eastern foothills of the Pennines, which you can see rising on the horizon.

Bradford has a lot to offer in the way of culture. As the world’s first UNESCO City of Film, you can learn about the city’s rich media history in the National Science and Media Museum, home to its own IMAX cinema. Meanwhile, Bradford’s Industrial Museum is housed in a refurbished 19th-century mill.

Bringing that down is a reputation for poverty and crime. And so it is that the crime index sits at 66.52, the highest in Europe as a whole! Muggings, carjackings, assault, drugs, vandalism, and even corruption are all issues in Bradford. In fact, Bradford experiences 159 crimes per 1,000 people – the worst in the UK.

By day, Bradford is a relatively safe city, with an index of 45.71. There’s plenty to draw visitors, too. There are art galleries dedicated to David Hockney, as well as bustling shopping areas and areas of natural beauty like Lister Park and its boating lake.

You should be wary of pickpockets in busy areas, but most of the crime is concentrated outside of the city in the poorer suburban neighborhoods. The Eccleshill and Ravenscliffe estate area is one of the most notorious hotspots for car crime, while Toller Lane, Bradford Moor, and Great Horton see high levels of assault. At night, Bradford has a safety index of just 23.33, which is low by any standards.

7. Nantes, France

Nantes has been a place of military and industrial importance since the medieval era. The town was central in the unification of France and Brittany throughout the 1500s, and later became the principal trading port of the country in the 1600s. Since then, it’s ridden a bit of a rollercoaster ride between high levels of deprivation and sudden bursts of rejuvenation.

Sadly, the stats still paint a pretty gritty picture for this charming town on the lovely Loire River. Numbeo reports that it has an overall crime rate of 62.11, which is enough to place it firmly within the top 10 most crime-ridden and dangerous places in Europe. The numbers also show how Nantes is worse off than even Paris when it comes to the risk of muggings and thefts, so be sure to have your wits about you as you move through the old center. 

Talking of the old center, there’s oodles in and around there that might just make the risk of visiting seem wholly worth it. You’ve got the handsome Château des ducs de Bretagne, a onetime ducal castle with imposing keeps. You’ve got beautiful botanical gardens complete with vintage greenhouses. Plus, some of northern-central France’s most accomplished winelands await on the outskirts.

8. Minsk, Belarus

With a crime ranking of 56.86, Minsk just about makes it onto our list of the most dangerous places in Europe. It’s the sole spot listed here that takes us over to Eastern Europe; the very boundaries of the continent, in fact, closer to Moscow than to the Atlantic Ocean. 

There’s no doubt that crimes are a regular occurrence in Minsk. Numbeo lists the risk of being attacked and insulted as very high. There are also moderate risks of muggings and assaults. However, just as in those southern Italian cities before it, the real problem here is highlighted by the soaring likelihood of witnessing corruption and bribery. 

Minsk is one of the worst places in Europe for that. The folk over at Freedom House put it simply: “Belarus is an authoritarian state in which elections are openly rigged and civil liberties are severely restricted.” All that’s framed by recent political upheavals that were put down violently by governmental forces. Not a good look.

9. Nice, France

Despite the name, you might find that Nice isn’t all that nice at all. Granted the iconic English Promenade and the sun-kissed sands of the Cote d’Azur that await nearby are surely worth braving the town for, but there are crime stats here that any visitor should be aware of. Namely, Nice is currently ranked as the eighth most crime-ridden city on the continent. 

It gets there with an overall crime ranking on Numbeo of 57.92. That’s gained by the fact that crime has been increasing significantly in the last three years, plus high risks for car thefts, being insulted, robberies, and – probably most notably – violent crimes. 

Thankfully, the vast majority of the crime in Nice is limited to certain neighborhoods, none of which crossover with the main tourist areas you see on the postcards and in the travel brochures. Try to stick to the blocks of old Nice around the Promenade des Anglais. Dodge the areas of Les Moulins and Nice Nord, which are generally quite poverty-stricken and dangerous both day and night.

What is the most dangerous country in Europe?

Europe is generally the safest continent in the world, but the Baltic countries in northeast Europe demonstrate the highest homicide rates with Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia coming in as the most murderous. The UK is home to more dangerous cities, with consistently high crime rates than any other country in Europe. However, Turkey’s close proximity to the Middle East and the ongoing conflicts and gun crime that brings, means it’s probably the most dangerous overall.

What is the safest country in Europe?

Of the 20 safest countries in the world, Europe stakes a claim to 14 of them and Iceland steals the top spot with a crime index of just 24.96, plus low to very low levels of all types of crime besides. Walking around during daylight is extremely safe, at an index of 85.04. In fact, it’s also safer to walk around at night in Iceland than it is to walk around most European cities during the day!

Is there more violence in France or the UK?

France and the UK are both home to some of Europe’s most dangerous cities, but acts of violence against other people in the UK tend to be much higher than in France. There are around 1,500 assaults per 100,000 in Britain, and as many as 5,000 property crimes, whereas there are just 748 acts of violence per 100,000 in France and just over 3,000 incidents of property crime.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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European Tourist Traps to Avoid

Every european country's worst tourist trap.

All 44 countries that comprise Europe have amazing things to offer visitors. But they also all have destinations and experiences that can easily be categorized as tourist traps. 

OK, maybe not all of them — Moldova, for example, isn’t a place with many tourist traps because it isn’t a place with many tourists. The United Kingdom, on the other hand, is full of foreign visitors and things designed to get their money while offering minimal actual value. 

We’ve searched for some of the kitschiest experiences in every European country that we’d advise you to skip while offering up alternative sojourns that are far superior. Yes, Europe is filled with places you should visit. But it’s also home to plenty of places you should avoid at all costs.

Albania — Durres Beach

This tiny Balkan country has a gorgeous stretch of coast on both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The most popular place to catch some rays and cool off is Durres Beach outside the capital city of Tirana. But good luck finding even a grain of sand among the throngs of thonged tourists. This is where folks go for bubble parties and sickly sweet cocktails. 

Instead, check out Gjipe Beach. It’s lightly traveled, farther south on the Ionian Sea and well worth the effort. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Durres Beach

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"Well ... this place is typical Dhermi place that rips off every tourist they reach ... soulless." — Livia A., Tripadvisor

Andorra — Ski Resorts

Stuck between Spain and France is the mountainous paradise of Andorra. Naturally, most folks come for the winter sports, booking stays at local ski resorts. The problem? During peak season, this can make overcrowding a serious problem. Plus, these resorts are often pricey.

Savvy visitors are better off ditching their snow gear and warming up in the Caldea thermal spa instead. It’s Europe’s largest thermal spa and worth every relaxing penny.

What Visitors Have to Say About Andorra Ski Resorts

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"Just wasted a week of my daughter's life at the snow garden where the children were hoarded in and sat down for an hour and a half with no activities. They then went outside to just stand there in a line for two hours, getting around three turns to ski about two meters. Absolute rubbish." — Sarika B., Tripadvisor

Austria — Mozart and Strauss Concerts

Vienna is a classical music lover’s dream. Many of the greatest composers hailed from the Austrian capital — but that was many, many years ago. Nowadays, most tourists remember the greats at Mozart & Strauss concerts at the Kursalon, showcasing songs by the two musical legends.

Geared toward tourists, these shows are numerous, expensive and frankly not high-quality enough to justify the cost, especially when they're packaged with overpriced dinners. 

Instead of spending your money on one of these kitschy performances, see a live show at the uber-famous Musikverein, where all the greats performed in their day. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Mozart and Strauss Concerts

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"Music OK. Room hot, stuffy, crowded. Selfish people obstructing view." —Anonymous

Belarus — Old Town Minsk

Avoid the “Old Town” that’s not really very old in Minsk — many of the original 17th and 18th century houses here were recreated in the 1980s — and go literally anywhere else in the capital city, such as the Palace of Art. 

Note: Visa-free tourism has been allowed in Belarus only since 2017, so there aren’t exactly traditional tourist traps around the country. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Old Town Minsk

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"The historic center of Minsk is minuscule, but it contains quite a few churches, some squares and a handful of old houses. It's so well maintained that it could be in Disneyland, so it's not very authentic. Good for a stroll." — Cinbkk, Tripadvisor

Belgium — Mini-Europe and Atomium

Brussels is home to not one, but two ho-hum tourist attractions. Mini-Europe is a cheesy amusement park featuring replicas of European Union monuments that frankly aren’t all that impressive. (The scale is 1:25.)

The park sits at the foot of Atomium, a bizarre structure made of stainless steel spheres that was constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Expo. Today, it’s a museum that mostly seems dedicated to getting you to buy stuff at the gift shop. 

The names of these places are cool, but that’s about it.

Instead, go to the Grand Place in Brussels, especially if you’re visiting in August when the entire square is covered in a blanket of flowers. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Mini-Europe and Atomium

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"Very expensive, no real reduced prices for kids. The magic of such an attraction is in the automatic scenes, but here most of them are out of service, there are sunken boats, broken models ... not a soul fixing anything, makes you wonder what you are paying for." — Carmeron_vdb, Tripadvisor

Bosnia and Herzegovina — Stari Most

Stari Most, the famous bridge in Mostar that dates back to the 16th century, is actually quite impressive and high, measuring 79 feet. 

Just don’t fall for the diving scam here, in which handlers take bets on whether or not a young man will jump. These hucksters only want your money, and if you stand around you’ll almost certainly see the same diving action for free.  

What Visitors Have to Say About Stari Most

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"The bridge isn't original. It was bombed in the '90s. It's also overrun with tourists and tacky tourist shops." — Jenn L., Tripadvisor

Bulgaria — Sunny Beach

Sunny Beach is full of tourists ready to party hard. If you’re between the ages of approximately 18 and 22, and enjoy getting wasted on cheap booze while throngs of people act like idiots around you, be our guest.

Everyone else should head to another beach town on Bulgaria’s Black Sea Riviera, like Ahtopol or Irakli. Both are clothing-optional and offer plenty of excitement, sans the hordes of intoxicated carousers. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Sunny Beach

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"This funfair was awful. We have never been to such a miserable place before. The staff was like 'we do not care.' We bought tickets for the happy hour from 17 to 20, and it turns out that we can't use them whenever we wanted." — Joanne Rick, Tripadvisor

Croatia — Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is quite a stunning walled fortress, but it’s absolutely mobbed with tourists from every corner of the world. For that, we can largely “thank” “Game of Thrones,” which used the location as a stand-in for King’s Landing and turned the destination into an over-touristed mess. (On that note, avoid the tourist-trap GoT tours here, too!)

Instead, check out one or two of Croatia’s thousand-plus islands or Dalmatian Coast towns like Zadar and Split. All offer scenic beauty with a modicum of breathing room.  

What Visitors Have to Say About Dubrovnik

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"Dubrovnik is just too expensive. Prices for parking tickets can't be real. 1 hour 50 kuna? What can you see for 1 hour? Daily ticket is 600 kuna? Insane! Food and drinks?? Horrible ... Don't waste your money here." — _almicaaa_, Tripadvisor

Czech Republic — Expensive Beer in Prague

Yes, this sounds weird as a tourist trap, but when you’re in the famous city and want to enjoy some of the world’s best suds, make sure you’re not paying more than 50 CZK (a little less than 2 euros) for the common brands. Some craft beers will go for more than that, but it’s a baseline you should always be aware of. 

Otherwise, you could find yourself getting ripped off, as far too many tourists are.

What Visitors Have to Say About Expensive Beer in Prague

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"This is obviously targeted at tourists who do not know the normal price of beer. I went there with some friends, ordered a round of beers and after being told the price we drunk the beer and left. 57 czk [Czech koruna] for Pilsner is quite a lot. The same price for Rychtá? is ridiculous. 73 czk for Lobkowicz? Seriously?" — Martin Melka, Google

Denmark — Little Mermaid Statue

The diminutive Little Mermaid statue is one of Copenhagen’s top tourist attractions, which is exactly why you should avoid it. At a mere 4 feet tall, you’ll be lucky to catch a glimpse of it through the dense crowd. 

Instead, check out Gefion Fountain. Much more artistic, it depicts the Norse goddess Gefjon driving a group of animals. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the Little Mermaid Statue

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"Copenhagen's most overrated attraction. There are much more beautiful and fascinating statues nearby (for example, the Zinkglobal)." — Lorenzo Casadei, Google

Estonia — Tallinn

Tallinn, the capital city, is impressive and filled with interesting history. But it’s also where basically all the tourists to Estonia go, which means plenty of overpriced attractions and not a lot of elbow room. 

Instead, check out the neo-classical vibes of Tartu, a college town south of the capital. Or for a true Estonian experience, head to the resort city of Parnu on the Gulf of Riga and relax in a smoke sauna. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Tallinn

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"There is nothing special to say. Just for a walk around it is OK. But recommend not to eat or drink there. Restaurants and bars are unreasonably expensive. If you want to eat or drink, you better do it outside of old town. There are plenty of places even in the city center to eat and drink. Restaurants and bars in old town are a complete rip-off." — Rainis_Enely, Tripadvisor

Finland — Rovaniemi

If you’ve come this far, you probably wanted to truly get away from it all. So there’s no reason to go to the mega-touristy Santa’s village of Rovaniemi, where it’s Christmas 365 days a year (sounds like a Tim Burton movie from hell). 

If you’re way up in Lapland, you’re in one of the peak positions to view the incredible natural phenomenon called Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights. This is a way better use of your precious time.  

What Visitors Have to Say About Rovaniemi

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"It's like a shopping mall, but expensive. You have to pay for nearly everything, even if you want to see reindeers. Wouldn't recommend." — Christian W., Tripadvisor

France — Eiffel Tower

We would never tell anyone to avoid the Eiffel Tower. Except that’s exactly what we’re doing.

The world’s most iconic radio tower is also the world’s most visited paid monument. Get close enough to take some photos, but avoid those crazy lines by heading to Paris’ second-tallest skyscraper, Montparnasse Tower, for equally if not more awesome panoramic views of the city. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the Eiffel Tower

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"This tower attracts a huge crowd, but it is not maintained at all. View is not worth it in daytime, but I am not sure about night." — Muhammad Tayyab, Tripadvisor

Germany — Oktoberfest

We love boots of beer as much as anyone, but we also value streets free of sots and their watery discharges. Oktoberfest is for most attendees a drunken blur. That’s why Munich has so many medics on site and police, albeit friendly police, to try to keep order and peace. 

If you’d like to sample Germany’s incredible beer, do so anytime of year anywhere in the country except late September and early October in Munich. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Oktoberfest

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hofbrau Wirtshaus (@hofbraeu.wirtshaus)

"It's just not my kind of fun. That being said, there are reasons why I don't like Oktoberfest.

• The crowd and the squeezing
• Tourists, infinite amount of tourists. Vomiting tourists, tourists sleeping on the sidewalk, tourists occupying haupt bahnhof and therefore annoying homeless people, tourists trying to hook up.
• Terrible terrible music
• (So many) people who cannot handle their drinks
• Cold! It's cold." — thisisntsummer, Tripadvisor

Greece — Acropolis

If selfie sticks, glossy rocks and massive crowds are your jam, then by all means make the pilgrimage to the Acropolis, Athens’ ancient citadel and home of the Parthenon temple. But the city, and all of Greece for that matter, is filled with other archaeological sites that contain a fraction of the tourists. 

Many are located around the base of the Acropolis, so while you’re enjoying Hadrian’s Library or the Ancient Agora, you can snap a few photos of the Parthenon without traversing the slippery slopes or having to dodge tourists from all directions. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Acropolis

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"Huge queue, entry intervals from two hours. Very hard to take pictures from outside, so you are forced to pay and wait." — Iaroslav-Andrei Hapenciuc, Google

Holy See — Basically All of It

Also known as Vatican City, this microstate and headquarters of the Catholic Church is essentially one big tourist trap. Visitors to the Sistine Chapel, for example, are herded through like donkeys and given only fleeting glimpses of the incredible frescoes. 

There’s only one way to actually enjoy this destination, and that’s by booking in advance a 7:15 a.m. breakfast at Vatican Museum on a weekday, to enjoy one of the most extensive art collections in the world while most people are still in bed. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Vatican City

"Don't bother. So busy with the groups. The groups are the issues because there were hundreds of them so you basically see nothing. We ran past every group we saw. We couldn't wait to leave. The audio guide is really hard to use as well." — Sun_Love2003, Tripadvisor

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Hungary — Budapest

It’s easy to think of Budapest and only Budapest when visiting Hungary. The city rightfully earned the title of “Paris of the East” thanks to its incredible architecture and Danube River that cuts it in two. It’s full of castles and terrific food, but also hordes of tourists. To only spend time there would be a mistake. 

Hungary is full of spectacular little towns and cities, such as Sopron on the Austrian border. The concentration of protected buildings and official monuments here — 240 in total — make for a Baroque and medieval architecture wonderland.  

What Visitors Have to Say About Budapest

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Regarding one of Budapest's main attractions, the Hungarian Parliament Building:  "It is amazing from outside especially at night. But about inside? No, you need to wait in queue, pay for a ticket and then you will have a tour of about 15 mins of a building with less than 150 years history. I do not recommend visiting inside." — Samira1358, Tripadvisor

Iceland — Blue Lagoon

This little island nation is one of the least-visited countries in Europe, so it doesn’t exactly have what one might consider traditional tourist traps. However, where there are tourists and a few bucks to be made, there will be less than ideal adventures and attractions.

So instead of paying $94 for the most basic experience at the Blue Lagoon geothermal seawater spa (it can get as expensive as $622 for the complete package), check out the Secret Lagoon for less than $25. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the Blue Lagoon

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lena Nguyen (@lena21nguyen)

"Subpar experience, well below expectations! We went at 5 p.m. in December. It was dark already and overcrowded. The experience from start to finish was that of a factory production line.

There are multiple tour groups which didn’t help with the experience either.

Ninety seven euros for a factory production line was too much. Secret lagoon was much better." — Alex Thomas, Google

Ireland — Oliver St. John Gogarty Pub

For a relatively small country, Ireland packs in a ton of attractions and attracts a ton of tourists. That makes it especially important to wade through the fluff to find truly unique experiences. 

The Oliver St. John Gogarty pub and restaurant in Dublin’s Temple Bar neighborhood should be avoided at all costs. It was designed specifically for tourists who think Ireland is all about potatoes and Guinness — and you will pay a premium for that stout. 

Instead, try something like Mary's Bar and Hardware Shop, which is a throwback to Ireland’s old village pub scene, when a bar was tucked inside a grocery or DIY shop. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Oliver St. John Gogarty Pub

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Oliver St John Gogarty (@gogartys)

"Don't bother coming here, worst service ever seen, overpriced menu, food tasted like cr*p. Please take my advice, don't come here." — Kenard T., Yelp

Italy — Piazza Navona

Public squares, or piazzas, are big in these parts, especially Rome. The most famous is easily Piazza Navona, which is beautiful but full of tourist traps like bland restaurants, cheesy street performers and folks hawking cheap souvenirs. It’s also wildly crowded with camera-wielding visitors. 

So after you get a whiff of Navona, keep walking a bit and find Campo de Fiori. This public square is a hopping outdoor marketplace by day and a restaurant and nightlife destination by night. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Piazza Navona

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"Piazza Navona is located perfectly for a tourist visit to Rome. Just don’t go to the piazza. It’s filled with vendors trying to sell you all kinds of junk and surrounded by restaurants with staff outside trying to pull you in. Best advice - Skip it. Walk straight through." — BMB65, Tripadvisor

Latvia — Jurmala

When it heats up in summertime, everyone heads to the seaside resort city of Jurmala outside the capital of Riga. The crowds can be overwhelming at these beaches, so it makes more sense to check out another town on the Gulf of Riga like Saulkrasti, or even to opt for a lake experience at the family-friendly Kisezers. 

Visitors will find the same warm sun and cool waters, but none of the 80-year-old men in thongs. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Jurmala

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"The toll on the bridge to Jurmala is a state-organized tourist trap! If you dont understand the Latvian-only toll warning signs and miss the exit to the ticket machines, you will be pulled over by the police (hand picked for your foreign license plate) and definitely fined for 20-40 lats." — Partel L., Tripadvisor

Liechtenstein — Winter in the Alps

Liechtenstein is small — its capital city, Vaduz, has only about 5,000 residents — but the mountainous country is full of wonders, all of which can be experienced in a relatively short trip thanks to the country’s compact size. 

Tourists come here for winter sports in the Alps and lakeside lounging in warmer months, both of which can be had in a million other locales. Visitors would be wise to instead trek through the castles and museums of Vaduz and the Roman ruins of Schaan, which is actually more populated than the capital city. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Winter in the Alps

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Berggasthaus Masescha (@berggasthaus_masescha)

"We stopped there as part of a day tour and really was not worth it. It was just one of those awful tourist traps that have tatty overpriced souvenir shops everywhere. The lovely views on the way in and out are the only thing of great worth in coming to that area." — Oldgrumblebum, Tripadvisor

Lithuania — Hill of Crosses

Unless you’re on a Christian pilgrimage, there’s no reason to make the trek all the way to the Hill of Crosses, which is exactly what you’re picturing in your head. And “hill” is being generous; it’s more like the Mound of Crosses. 

Instead of driving three hours north of the capital Vilnius, just stay right there in the city. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city as a whole was the center of Europe’s largest medieval state, famous for its Baroque, Gothic and neo-classical architecture. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the Hill of Crosses

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jakub (@j_a_s_m)

"I do not understand this place, mountain of crosses and everything. What is there to look at. Tourists come for 10 minutes maximum. Parking fee, honestly sorry for the money spent for parking, as there is nothing interesting here." — Jevgeni SM, Google

Luxembourg — Grand Ducal Palace

This landlocked microstate is famous for its dozens of castles — 130 by some estimates — meaning that if you make your way to Luxembourg you’re probably going to visit plenty of these historic structures. 

That makes it doubly important to avoid the most boring castle of all: Grand Ducal Palace. This is where the Grand Duke of Luxembourg lives and conducts his business, and it has virtually nothing interesting going on. Your time will be better spent checking out the castles of Vianden, Beaufort, Bourscheid, Larochette or Clervaux.

What Visitors Have to Say About Grand Ducal Palace

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tamara (@ta_my_t)

"Couldn't get in even though we queued at the entrance for ages. When we got to the top, we were told go elsewhere for tickets. No directions given. No signage. Then when we got to ticket office, no tickets. Disappointing." — Christine Casey, Google

North Macedonia — Fortress Kale

This small Balkan nation, not to be confused with the northern Greece region, is full of historic ruins and extremely wild wildlands. Most start their journeys in the capital city of Skopje, where all would be wise to avoid the Byzantine-era Fortress Kale. It lacks basic signage and upkeep is nonexistent. 

For a dose of North Macedonian history, visit the Archaeological Museum of Macedonia. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Fortress Kale

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"The only good thing is the landscape. Garbage and waste everywhere, nothing you can really visit, entrance hard to find, probably when tourists come close signs fade due to embarrassment for the shameful state of the fortress. Keep away." — Andrea Mondello, Google

Malta — Comino

Malta is comprised of three islands just south of Sicily, which means it’s a popular Mediterranean destination for sun and surf. Most beaches are fairly crowded, naturally, but some are more insane than others. Comino, the smallest of the three islands, should be avoided at all costs, unless you dig swimming with thousands of strangers and sunbathing next to even more. 

Check out the hidden gems — that require a bit of effort to reach — in Imgiebah Bay, Qarraba Bay and St Peter’s Pool for actual R&R.

What Visitors Have to Say About Comino

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NachoPizarro (@nash_66)

"Horrific!! Stay away. It is a pit of drunk kids - techno beats and kebab smell. Way WAY to many people on to small space. Trash everywhere and close to impossible to have a dip in the sea." — Oslo-TJ, Tripadvisor

Moldova — Nothing!

It’s hard to pinpoint any tourist traps in the third least-visited country in Europe, where just 121,000 international tourists go each year.

So instead of avoiding places in Moldova, travelers should just go there, period. Why? It has interesting museums, cultural attractions like monasteries, archaeological ruins (including three UNESCO sites) and plenty of big-city charm in the capital of Chisinau, with zero real tourist traps to speak of. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Moldova

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Moldova, Chisinau (@chisinau_moldova)

"Had a great day visiting the two most famous wineries with our guide Veaceslav Gorita. Very smooth organization and an all-round excellent trip. Our guide was great to chat with (in excellent English) about the trip and Moldova and its history more widely. He recommended a really nice, inexpensive place for lunch out in the suburbs of Chisinau we would never had considered otherwise. Both wineries are excellent, though the atmospheres are very different." — Alex C., Tripadvisor

Monaco — Monte Carlo District

The land of millionaires is among Europe’s least-visited countries and one of its smallest with about 40,000 residents. Still, its casino, auto race and Mediterannean seaside attract well-heeled visitors and those who want to gawk at yachts and cars that cost as much as a studio apartment in San Francisco. 

Most visitors will head for the Monte Carlo district, where the people-watching is prime but the meals are way overpriced and most people lose their shirts at the casino. For a more alternative and affordable experience, check out the flora and incredible views of the Mediterranean from the Jardin Exotique garden. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the Monte Carlo District

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"What a letdown this place was. In fact, the whole of Monaco itself. Ugly buildings with the odd nice one, full of massive tour groups off cruiseliners, construction everywhere and little greenery...don’t bother!" — intervallo, Tripadvisor

Montenegro — Old Town Kotor

Often overlooked in favor of its more popular neighbors of Croatia, Italy and Greece, Montenegro is a beautiful and dynamic little country on the Adriatic Sea. Its capital, Kotor, is one of the oldest cities in the Balkans and boasts plenty of charms.

But while its walled Old Town is a throwback to medieval times, it’s also the most touristy part of the city and can make you feel like the locals are grabbing at your pockets every minute. 

A better option? Find your way to the Adriatic jewel that is Sveti Stefan on the Budva Riviera.

What Visitors Have to Say About Old Town Kotor

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alina Raulea (@alina.raulea)

"Gridlocked pollution-filled tourist trap. One day is more than enough. The traffic is at standstill because of the sheer volume and creates dirty fume clouds that choke you when you walk. The beautiful bay is hidden by numerous obscenely sized cruise ships that totally spoil the view and bring thousands of tourists to clog the streets." — RJW121, Tripadvisor

Netherlands — Heineken Experience

Looking for a nice pint or several of Dutch beer? Then avoid the Heineken Experience at all costs. 

What used to cost 1 euro for a full brewery tour and all the beers you could drink has become an 18-euro advertisement for a global alcohol brand with kitschy “experiences” like creating your own Heineken label. And all you get to drink is two half-pints of awful beer. 

Instead of imbibing propaganda, check out the Netherlands’ incredible craft-beer scene, found in cities from Haarlem to Amsterdam to The Hague.

What Visitors Have to Say About the Heineken Experience

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Antonio Carlos • Mr Carudao (@mrcarudao)

"I only had a few hours in town, and thought this would be a great tour. I was extremely disappointed. You know the short animation that a movie theater shows you before the movie starts? It’s like that, merged with a commercial Disney ride.  It was by far the strangest tour I'm have ever been on." — Dan Vennard, Google

Norway — Pulpit Rock

Most visitors come to this Scandinavian paradise for the natural beauty — snowy mountains and deep-cut fjords — and the dearth of other people. 

But though Norway is huge and lightly populated, in recent years tourists have been making it much more crowded . If you want to enjoy anything resembling solitude, avoid places like Pulpit Rock, a 1,900-foot cliff overlooking a fjord that can only be enjoyed after waiting in a long line. The Trolltunga rock formation and port town of Ålesund have also suffered from over-tourism.  

Look for guided tours of Norway’s true wildlands or opt for off-the-beaten-path destinations like Rjukan, Åna-Sira or Folldal to discover the peace and beauty that made this country so popular to begin with. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Pulpit Rock

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"This hike attracts a massive number of non-hiker types who will do anything to get that selfie at the top. It was not a pleasant experience. Heavy hiker traffic in both directions over steep, slippery rocks. Aggressive, inconsiderate hikers trying to push through and overtake at all times. Not a safe situation. Trash on the sides of the trail." — Runyogagirl, Tripadvisor

Poland — Upside Down House

There are numerous mountain resort towns in Poland that offer memorable experiences in all seasons, and one of the best is Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains. But whether you’re there for wintertime skiing or summertime hiking, there is one major tourist trap to cross off the list: the Upside Down House. 

It’s meant to symbolize the decades of the Polish People's Republic in the Eastern Bloc and how twisted, or upside down, the country was during this time. We’re down with that kind of rebellion, but not so much with the huge crowds. The house is also really small, making a tour of the inside a waste of time and money. 

Save a few euros by snapping a quick photo from the outside, then spend the rest of your day exploring the rest of this cool little mountain town.  

What Visitors Have to Say About the Upside Down House

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"This is a total rip-off, tourist trap. Overpriced and really showing nothing of value. Better rent a kayak or explore neighboring lakes. Waste of your time." — TheKrizizzy, Tripadvisor

Portugal — Sintra

Tourists have only recently discovered the wonders of Portugal, so it’s pretty easy to avoid the crowds and have a truly authentic experience. Many visitors will start their journey in Lisbon, the capital city, and take day trips or short excursions in all directions. One of the first towns people flock to is Sintra, and for good reason — it’s a gorgeous slice of UNESCO-protected history. 

But it’s also super-crowded and filled with people looking to make a quick buck off hapless tourists. The dining is overpriced and tours of places like the Sintra Palace cost way more than they should (up to 27 euros per person !). 

Just as gorgeous, and far less touristy, is Viana do Castelo in the north of the country. Rent a car and take a four-hour road trip you will not soon forget. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Sintra

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"I'm not sure what there is to see here. It's the western most tip of the Eurasian landmass, tick." — hollaab, Tripadvisor

Romania — Casa Vlad Dracul

If you’ve made it all the way to Romania, congratulations. It’s well worth a visit and none of your friends have ever been there or can even locate it on a map (it’s in southeastern Europe). 

Once there, you will likely want to visit the beautiful forests and mountains of Transylvania in the north. And you might even have designs on cozying up with the world’s most famous vampire, Vlad the Impaler (Dracula). He was a ruler of old Wallachia and is still revered in the country.

Vlad was born in Sighisoara, a romantic little town and UNESCO site. By all means visit Sighisoara — just avoid Dracula kitsch like Casa Vlad Dracul. It’s reputedly the home where Vlad was born, but it's been completely rebuilt since he was there . The onsite restaurant is mediocre, and a tour amounts to walking into a tiny room and getting jump-scared by a guy dressed in a cheap Count Dracula costume. 

Simply enjoying the town on foot is a far better way to go. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Casa Vlad Dracul

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"Not worth the admission fee, just an overrated 'haunted house' with no haunting. A couple of Halloween decorations and a silly jump scare. No effort put into it at all and the place has a weird smell." — Anca P., Tripadvisor

Russia — Lenin's Mausoleum

Say what you will about Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov, aka Vladimir Lenin, but the father of the Soviet Union still attracts huge crowds. That’s because his corpse has been lying in state since his death in 1924. See it for yourself in Moscow if you must, but know that there are much better ways to spend your time in the Russian capital. 

The queue for Lenin will take forever, and all you’ll get is a glimpse of the body before being shuffled along. If it’s Soviet-era relics you desire, there are numerous tours and attractions offering exactly that and more. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Lenin's Mausoleum

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Martin Dixon (@martin_dixon)

"The organization of the line is a huge disaster. There's no organization at all! Don't go past 11:00 a.m. or you can end up waiting 1 hour and 45 minutes just to see how they close the fence in front of hundreds of people and your waiting time will be for nothing." — Iñigo Cámara, Google  

San Marino — Shopping

One could make a case that this microstate with millions of visitors a year is one big (er, small) tourist trap. Its tax-free status has made it a haven for shoppers looking to buy generic stuff for much less money. As they say, when in (somewhat nearby) Rome… 

In all seriousness, if you’re looking for a break from the beaches of Rimini, you could do a lot worse than a San Marino day trip. Located in the Apennine Mountains, the views are stunning and the history is fascinating (it’s the world’s oldest republic ). Go for the sightseeing and avoid the shopping crowds. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Shopping in San Marino

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"In the hope of doing some good tax-free shopping, this was a huge disappointment. Only a few shops. Fifth floor closed. Very boring." — Eddyvdbr, Tripadvisor

Serbia — Ski Resorts of Zlatibor

It’s difficult to fault the popular destinations of Belgrade, which is one of Europe’s cooler if grittier cities. So how about the ski resorts of Zlatibor? Why would anyone come to Serbia for skiing? 

The country spent a lot of time and money trying to make these resorts destination-worthy, and sadly, those efforts did not pay off. The resorts are small and the slopes offer little in the way of exciting runs. 

Instead of coming here for snow sports, check out the country’s amazing wildlands when the ice melts. There’s Djavolja Varoš (Devil’s Town), where the legend goes that petrified wedding guests make up the eroded rock formations. Then there’s Mokra Gora village, Uvac Canyon or Derdap Gorge — all breathtaking and one of a kind. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the Ski Resorts of Zlatibor

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dragana Gaga (@stress_free_zone_22)

"The new trail they brag about is a mild horror, for two days it was a mixture of ice and mud, not to mention the holes. It takes them two days to 'fix' it. We haven't even seen the black trail because it hasn't worked for five days. When you call, they tell you that the ski resort is open, but you have to ask if the trails are open. All the worst." — Mona Simic, Google

Slovakia — UFO Observation Deck

There are thousands of visitors to the UFO Observation Deck, but none of them are extraterrestrials. The attraction’s name, disappointingly, refers to its spaceship-like shape.

Still, if you’re keen on being 300 feet above the capital of Bratislava and eating expensive “authentic” food, this is your spot. Just don’t show up if you use a wheelchair, as it’s inaccessible. 

For better views and some actual Slovakian history, head to the Bratislava Castle above Old Town. The site dates to the Stone Age and contains a museum and restaurant serving traditional Slovak food. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the UFO Observation Deck

View this post on Instagram A post shared by metthouse movie (@metthouse_movie)

"Not worth it. Go to the castle. Grounds are free, and the view is nice. (And the elevator smells a bit ... off-putting.)" — Joie Finley, Google

Slovenia — Lake Bled

Many visitors to this former Yugoslavian state will no doubt check out Lake Bled. It’s often considered the country’s biggest tourist trap, although not necessarily in the avoid-at-all-costs kind of way. Visitors should, however, know a few things before they set out for the lake. 

Most things you will want to do are anything but free of charge, including parking. Taking a boat to the little island with the medieval castle can cost 10 to 15 euros per person, and there’s a charge for seeing Savica Falls as well. It’s only a few euros, but most hikers don’t expect to pay anything after trekking for hours to get there.

Oh, and parking tickets are common around the lake, so look out for signs or pay 20 euros for a pass. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Lake Bled

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"If you are type of people who likes pure nature, this is not the place for you. Everything here is paid (e.g., swimming in the lake) and so many tourists!" — Adriana Valkova, Tripadvisor

Spain — La Rambla

La Rambla might be Barcelona’s most iconic street, but these days it doesn’t live up to the hype. 

Years ago, it was a fascinating place to see oddball street performers and even weirder items for sale, like exotic plants and pet birds. However, all that charm has been replaced with tourist tat. Also gone are the tapas bars and traditional Catalan food, replaced by overpriced restaurants with bland menus catering to international travelers.

Instead, head to Rambla del Poblenou for its culture, food, people-watching and shops, famously connecting the sea to the mountains. 

What Visitors Have to Say About La Rambla

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raimon (@raisabate)

"Absolutely swarming with prey, I mean tourists, it's a haven for scams and theft, while offering nothing in return for the risk. Guess I don't get it. The food is terrible and overpriced, people are constantly trying to sell you drugs, toy helicopters, beer, or those unbelievably annoying, squeaky mouth things." — Nick A., Yelp

Sweden — Gamla Stan Restaurants

When in Stockholm, be sure to visit the old town called Gamla Stan. It’s full of incredible sights such as the Nobel Museum, and the architecture is stunning. Peruse the streets and enjoy the ambiance.

Just don’t dine here. 

With so many tourists, the restaurants are overpriced and the quality is low compared to the rest of the capital city. Instead, go to the Östermalm neighborhood for its array of interesting eateries. The area is slightly sleepy overall, but the dining scene is on fire. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Gamla Stan Restaurants

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Agaton Ristorante E Pizzeria (@agaton_gamlastan)

"Terrible! Looked as if they dropped the fish on the floor, and picked it up again. Waiting too long. Only one poor waiter, running! Absolutely not recommended." — 857kirstenn, Tripadvisor

Switzerland — Matterhorn

Tourists will likely seek out the Matterhorn area of the Alps when in the land of skiing and chocolate, but that will come with some downsides. Yes, the mountain is spectacular, but the crowds are not.

There have also been recent concerns over the mountain’s safety . At least six people have died while trying to climb it this year. 

Luckily there are tons of alternatives, such as Gemmipass. There you will find some of the country’s best hiking and plenty of family-friendly activities, plus much smaller crowds. 

What Visitors Have to Say About the Matterhorn

View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@dr.alexbeloborodov)

"The Swiss government or the tourism industry must be praised for their clever marketing as they have been able to sell off a boring mountain to the tourists and rip them off.

This is one of the most boring mountains I have seen and not much to do if you're not a winter sports lover." — Tyronne W., Tripadvisor

Ukraine — Chernobyl

We’re pretty certain that if you’re visiting this former Soviet republic you can do a lot better than touring the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster.

Before the war with Russia, Chernobyl tourism was increasing as, apparently, more and more folks just are throwing caution to the wind for a chance at some voyeuristic experience. (A 2019 HBO hit show made matters even worse .) Even if they tell you the radiation levels are too low to be harmful, we can’t think of a single reason to visit the area. 

There is an entire country surrounding Chernobyl that is far more worthy of your time. Check out Kyiv for big-city life, Odessa for a seaside jaunt or the Carpathian Mountains for rural adventures. 

What Visitors Have to Say About Chernobyl

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nataly (@lady.adventure_)

"I want to say first everything you read about Chernobyl is true - it is a really fascinating place.

However, the guides we had for this tour are some of the worst I have ever had." — Carkyshark, Tripadvisor

United Kingdom — London Eye

London is easily one of the world’s most interesting cities, so what exactly compels someone to spend upward of £40 ($53) to wait in line for an hour to ride a Ferris wheel? 

Apparently, nearly 4 million people queue up for the 440-foot London Eye every year, which means you should not. Want an incredible view of the city? Try climbing up Primrose Hill. OxoTower has an observation deck as well, and the Sky Garden is free. 

What Visitors Have to Say About London Eye

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Canning (@canninglondon)

"Not worth it. Not at all. Take the boat cruise, that is sooo worth it." — Tracy Rider, Google

Watch out, tourists: The European destination with the most pickpocketing

As we prepare for summer travel , safety remains vital for many travelers. Some of us might be a little rusty after not traveling internationally during the pandemic, making us wonder, how can we make sure our valuables are safe.

With  European destinations , such as London, Paris and Rome, trending this summer, new research by Quotezone.co.uk found that thousands of travelers said that they experienced petty theft while visiting Europe's top destinations in its European Pickpocketing Index.

The index from the U.K.-based insurance comparison website ranked the top European travel destinations against the proportion of pickpocketing mentions in visitor reviews of a country's top five tourist attractions on Tripadvisor , according to a news release. 

"Theft can happen anywhere and tourist hotspots are convenient places for criminals to target (people's) wallets and purses whilst they are busy taking in the sites," Greg Wilson, founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said in a statement. 

"Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Trevi Fountain in Rome are particularly popular with pickpockets as they can move more inconspicuously amongst larger crowds," he added. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Staying vigilant: European travel scams every tourist needs to know about

'Thieves target tourists': I got pickpocketed in Paris!

Below are the European countries with the most pickpocketing mentions:

• Netherlands

Tips for staying safe against pickpocketing:

• Remain vigilant. Keep your valuables safe, as in literally keeping them in the hotel safe. Travel with a secure bag with zippers that stays close to you, such as a cross-body bag or money belt, Wilson said.
• "Try never to leave personal belongings unattended because travel insurance companies require travelers to take 'reasonable care' and could reject claims if items have been left alone," Wilson said. On that note, double-check to make sure you know exactly what's in there.
• If you do experience petty theft, get a police report to support the insurance claim. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected]

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10 most dangerous and unsafe cities in Europe

TRAVEL TRENDS Created : Feb 20, 2024, 00:00 IST

While Europe is often considered the safest continent globally, it is not without risks. Certain European cities pose potential dangers, necessitating extra caution for safety. To ensure that you enjoy a hassle-free and safe Europe, here is a compilation of the 10 most dangerous and unsafe cities in Europe.

Florence, Italy

Florence is undoubtedly one of Europe's most sought-after destinations, and lures visitors from far and wide with its rich arts and culture scene. Renowned for its world-class galleries and the iconic Duomo cathedral, the city offers a remarkable experience. Despite a relatively low violent crime rate, tourists are advised to remain vigilant, particularly against scams, pickpocketing, and credit card theft.

Glasgow, Scotland

It’s Scotland's largest city, with a rich blend of ancient charm and modern attractions. Although it now has a low crime rate, and has a history of gang-related incidents, visitors are cautioned to maintain awareness. In 2010, Glasgow had a murder rate of 5.1 per 100,000 people, constituting 20% of all crimes in Scotland that year.

Istanbul, Turkey

Sitting at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, Istanbul is another popular tourist destination that attracts global tourists with its rich history. While most visitors experience no issues, caution is advised, especially outside tourist centers. With a homicide rate of 2.6 per 100,000 people in 2017 and a current crime rate of 47.55, Istanbul presents mild risks, mainly in less frequented areas.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

With popular tourist attractions like the Titanic Belfast museum, Belfast is another tourist spot that ranks high in tourism radar. With a moderate crime rate, Belfast has managed to overcome its tumultuous past. While generally safe, visitors are advised to exercise caution to avoid any potential trouble.

Athens, Greece

It’s the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization, but unfortunately, grapples with rising crime, including property crimes and drug use. Tourists should be cautious, particularly regarding taxi scams and pickpocketing, despite the city's historical and cultural significance.

Paris, France

Paris faces its own challenges in terms of petty theft. Famed as a popular tourist destination, the city’s bustling streets and crowded attractions create an ideal environment for pickpockets to thrive. Places like the Eiffel Tower, and Louvre Museum are particularly notorious hotspots for such criminal activities, where unsuspecting visitors often fall victim to skilled thieves. Efforts have been made by local authorities to combat this menace through increased surveillance and public awareness campaigns, but vigilance remains crucial for tourists exploring the enchanting streets of Paris.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels also faces a significant pickpocketing challenge, which has earned it a reputation of a major hotspot for such crimes in Europe. Incidents often occur in crowded places like transportation hubs, shopping areas, and tourist attractions, where criminals employ various techniques to snatch valuables discreetly. Despite increased police presence and awareness campaigns, pickpocketing persists. Tourists are advised to secure their belongings and stay vigilant in crowded areas when exploring Brussels or any urban environment prone to this issue.

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest faces scams targeting tourists, including pickpocketing, street scams, and fake taxis. Pickpocketing is prevalent in crowded areas, urging tourists to secure belongings. Fake taxis overcharge or take longer routes; using reputable services is recommended. Street scams involve unsolicited assistance or counterfeit goods; travelers should exercise caution and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

Porto Portugal

Porto faces concerns about crime rates, impacting both residents and tourists. Recent statistics show an uptick in overall crime, with common offenses including theft, burglary, and drug-related incidents. Pickpocketing is prevalent in tourist-heavy areas like Ribeira and São Bento train station, prompting visitors to secure valuables and stay vigilant. While crime rates may vary by neighborhood, local authorities are addressing the issue with increased police presence and CCTV surveillance for enhanced public safety.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Situated in Amsterdam, the Red Light District is infamous for its elevated occurrence of unlawful activities. As one of Europe's most renowned areas, it draws the attention of both tourists and locals alike. Nevertheless, this district has garnered a reputation for engaging in criminal behavior, primarily due to its association with prostitution and the drug trade.

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While Europe is often considered the safest continent globally, it is not without risks. Certain European cities pose potential dangers, necessitating extra caution for safety. To ensure that you enjo...

Urban Abroad

Urban Planning and Travel Blog

Safest cities in Europe

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 10th, 2024 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

Where are the safest cities in Europe?

When it’s time to choose a destination for your next vacation, you won’t be surprised to know that you’re not the only one looking at how safe a city is.

Being able to travel with confidence knowing that the place where you’ll be visiting and spending some well-deserved time off is safe is paramount.

But which are the safest cities in Europe in 2023? Keep reading this post to learn about the cities climbing the ranks of safest places to travel in Europe.

Table of Contents

In this guide, we are going to take a look at some of the safest cities in Europe that you can travel to as well as what to expect when visiting.

First, we would like to look at some of the reasons why you may choose to visit Europe over one of the other 6 continents on earth.

Why visit Europe?

The European continent counts on a rich historical heritage full of beautiful landscapes and its treasure trove of millenary cultures , traditions and customs.

However, these are literally just a few reasons why Europe is the most visited continent in the world and why it continues to attract visitors every single year.

Read 4 reasons why we believe Europe is worth visiting:

• Europe is the best continent to visit castles, fortresses and defensive bastions since every country has many of them, each with its own history and legends. Visiting these landmarks can really make you travel back in time . From the United Kingdom to Italy and Germany, the ancient castles are well-preserved almost everywhere and visiting them is one of the reasons why travelers love Europe.
• Museums such as the Tate Modern, the Louvre, the Uffizi Gallery, the Rijksmuseum and the Prado are some of the most famous museums and art galleries in Europe , but certainly not the only ones that constantly attract thousands of visitors. At these museums, you can admire work from brilliant artists such as Michelangelo, Van Gogh, Picasso and more.
• Cities like Paris, Rome, Venice and London have always been on the list of tourists from all over the planet. These are places worth visiting at least once in your life, considering that these cities are some of the oldest cities in the world . Read more about safety in London (which is not on our list.)
• From the Alps, and the Norwegian fjords to the Mediterranean coastline, there are different incredible landscapes and climates in Europe.

With that comes the opportunity to experience many outdoor activities , from hiking, water sports to skiing, you’ll absolutely be spoilt by choice!

On top of the reasons listed above, Europe is considered the safest continent in the world and the additional pros of counting on a high-standard of living, low crime rates and freedom of movement within the European Union.

Safest Europe country to visit?

The safest country in Europe to visit is Iceland . According to the Global Peace Index , Iceland is the safest country not only in Europe but in the whole world.

Iceland is a small country yes, but it is famous for having the most friendly and welcoming people and the lowest crime rates in Europe.

Getting robbed, episodes of vandalism or even murder are almost non-existent crimes in Iceland. On top of this, the air quality in Iceland is one of the world’s highest and road safety is taken very seriously.

Safest Cities in Europe

Without further ado, let’s now see which are the safest cities in Europe and why they are considered as safe over other cities on the continent.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s capital city attracts many students from all over the world every year since it’s one of the most important university cities in the country and beyond. At the same time it’s also a very sought-after cultural and historical tourist destination and a great place that expats end up calling home.

But the question is: is Edinburgh safe to visit? According to Numbeo.com the crime levels are some of the lowest in Europe . As proof of that, you’ll sooner rather than later notice just a few policemen around its historical city center .

Scotland is one of the safest countries to travel in Europe and a peaceful country: crime rates are relatively low and only in the city center there’s a remote risk of being subject to petty crime (thefts, pickpocketing, robberies), most likely to happen in the outskirts, hardly frequented by tourists.

Lisbon, Portugal

The Portuguese capital city is one of the safest cities in Europe and there are only a few neighborhoods to avoid which are far from the most touristic places.

It’s highly unlikely that you’ll be around these ‘bad areas’ when visiting the city. According to Eupedia.com which collects data from different reliable sources, the crime levels in Portugal are quite low . The only crime type to register an higher rate is robbery .

In general, in Portugal, it has been recorded that locals and tourists feel safe walking around during the day and night. Solo female travelers can safely walk around the streets of Lisbon without worry about assault or getting robbed.

Places to be aware of with a higher risk of robbery are the metro with direction Belem and the secondary streets of Intendente, Mouraria, Cova da Moura and Bairro Alto neighborhoods. So avoid booking accomodation in those areas.

If you’ll be traveling to Portugal in the near future and want to know which places are worth visiting during a trip to Lisbon, we recommend you check out our 3 days in Lisbon itinerary which covers a host of activities designed to keep you busy.

Berlin, Germany

In Berlin, the level of security is one of the highest you can find among European capitals. Germany’s capital city is one of the most liveable and peaceful cities of the continent , obviously without forgetting to use your common sense and exercising prudence.

We advise you to not get distracted and to keep an eye on your wallet and your personal belongings when moving around the city, especially in the most crowded areas of the city, avoid parks and isolated areas . Be aware of possible pickpockets and petty thieves which are normally positioned in the busiest touristic areas and on public transport .

According to Numbeo.com, in Berlin, there’s a low risk of getting robbed, assaulted and being subject to a physical attack because of skin color, religion or language.

Safety is a top priority in Berlin which can be considered one of the safest places to travel in Europe. Learn how to stay safe in Berlin by reading our safety guide.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is Iceland’s capital city and it’s not only the safest city in Europe but in the world! The level of crime is basically equal to zero and your only concern should be to keep your belongings safe at all times (just as a precaution).

Locals are considered the most welcoming and friendly people in Europe. In Reykjavik, you are constantly reassured that the risk of getting robbed or having to deal with petty thieves is almost non-existent .

Even violent assault-related crime rates are at their minimum . Read more about safety in Reykjavik on our dedicated page. Iceland is also called the land of ice and fire because here weather conditions and nature are so unpredictable.

For this reason, your main concerns are natural disasters when driving in the countryside. If you want to hire a car , it’s always highly recommended to get a good car insurance cover .

Venice, Italy

The famous city on the water, Venice, is one of the safest cities in Europe you could ever visit. Located in north-east Italy, Venice is known for gondolas , Rialto Bridge and the Grand Canal (to name a few) and it’s on the bucket list of many.

Most travelers rightly ask themselves is Venice a safe place to spend my holidays? According to Numbeo.com, Venice is a lot safer than other important European destinations such as Paris, Barcelona and London.

Whether you’re traveling solo or a female traveler, you can walk around Venice’s streets and piazzas during the night without feeling in danger . We normally suggest avoiding the bus and train station areas (located in the Santa Croce district) during the evening time.

Venice is extremely touristic and like any other touristic city in the world, it’s always better to keep an eye on your valuables when moving around and be aware of possible scammers too.

Copenhagen, Denmark

According to the Safe Cities Index in 2021, Copenhagen is the safest city in Europe and in the world with a score of 82,4 out of 100.

The crime rate has been among the lowest in a decade thanks to the preventive intervention and the strong local collaboration of schools, social services and police.

Equally important, is the great social cohesion that characterizes Danish citizens. This means that Copenhagen is safe both during the day and at night and makes the perfect destination to visit as a solo traveler too.

The number of harassment and violence cases are quite low, but like any city in the world it is preferable to avoid some neighborhoods or, at least, if you want to visit them, be on your guard against the usual petty thieves and pickpockets . The areas we advise avoiding if you’re concerned about safety are Vesterbro, Norrebro and Istedgade.

Florence, Italy

Florence is one of the safest places to travel in Europe and one of the major Italian cities with the lowest crime rates . Florence is far less dangerous than Naples , Palermo and Rome, even if unfortunately it has one of the highest rate in Italy for violence against women and for theft .

Even though there’s no risk of violence, solo female travelers are recommended to stick to tourist areas at night, whereas during the day, there’s only a limited risk of catcalling on the streets in and around the city center.

Just like most other cities in Europe, be aware of petty criminals targetting foreigners for crimes such as pickpocketing, muggings, vehicle break-ins, and scams.

There are no dangerous neighborhoods in Florence, so you can travel with confidence knowing that wherever you go, you’ll be safe. Check out this 2 days in Florence travel guide to learn how to spend a couple of days in this beautiful Italian city.

Budapest, Hungray

Are you asking yourself whether Budapest is safe or not? Good news! Budapest is one of the safest cities in Europe, especially for tourists. According to Numbeo.com, there’s a low risk of getting robbed, attacked, or assaulted .

Again, like most capital cities, Budapest is no stranger to minor criminal acts, but follow a few standard precautions and your stay should be absolutely safe.

Travelers just need to avoid walking alone at nighttime in risky areas such as Nyugati, Jaszai Mari Square and Blaha Lujza Square.

Petty thieves normally can be found around the most crowded areas , for example around Castle, St. Stephen’s church, Heroes’ Square, the Citadella and on public transport.

Apart from the usual precautions you’d take, there’s no other reason why you should be concerned about safety when walking around Budapest and exploring its attractions.

Transport in Europe

In Europe, there’s freedom of movement , and public transport connects the majority of its countries.

In fact, the Schengen area allows you to avoid border controls meaning you can travel between 25 European countries and safely get from one country to the other.

Let’s see how easy it’s to travel by bus, train and drive in Europe in this next section.

Traveling by bus in Europe

Traveling by bus in Europe is an affordable and an eco-friendly choice . Using the bus or coaches to cover long-distance travel, can have much less impact on the environment than traveling by car, plane or train.

On top of that, if you’re traveling on a budget , it will allow you to save a good amount of money and reach most places in the continent.

Of course, distances by coach are quite long and you’ll be spending many hours getting from one place to the other, but if time is not an issue, then traveling by bus in Europe is a good option to take into account.

Some of the coach companies you can refer to when planning intra countries trips are: Flixbus and BlaBlaBus . If traveling inside one country, always check which bus companies serve your destinations.

Trains in Europe

Traveling by train in Europe is another great option you have if you want to explore all the best of this continent. It’s not as cheap as traveling by bus , but it’s much more comfortable and you’ll save plenty of time.

It can also be more affordable and eco-friendly option than hiring a car and driving for thousands of kilometers around Europe.

If you like the idea of exploring the safest cities in Europe by train and visiting some of the aforementioned cities, then getting an Interrail Pass is a great solution!

With one pass you can potentially cover 33 European countries and travel around them all by train. You only need to think about which places you prefer visiting and create your own personal itinerary .

Follow our 2 weeks in Italy itinerary if Italy is on your radar. Then get a pass to cover some the most important cities such as: Venice, Florence, and Rome.

Driving in Europe

Road trips are part of the North American tradition, but over the years have become more and more popular all over the world. In Europe there are amazing road trips to do . Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends or family, the options are endless.

From east to west or from north to south, Europe has some truly incredible possibilities for those looking for an adventurous road trip.

Roads and motorways connect all countries in Europe and there’s no need to stop at customs. Get in your car or hiring one is the only thing you need to think about.

Try to plan where you’d like to go and study your itinerary ahead of time . If you’re looking for some ‘road trip’ inspiration, check out this Calabria itinerary , 4 days in the Amalfi Coast and 7 days in Andalusia road trip for some help from us.

Now you should have a much better idea of the best and safest cities in Europe worth visiting.

You can now be reassured that these places belong to some of the most stable countries in the Old Continent and if planning to go there, there’s no reason to be concerned about safety .

Remember to revisit this travel guide before and during your trips to Europe and use our travel resources to find your feet around this incredible part of the world!

Don’t hesitate to start planning your trip today and give our sustainable travel tips a read to ensure your trip has a positive environmental impact.

Dear responsible traveler : This post may contain affiliate links, which means, if you click through and make a purchase, book a tour or a hotel, we may earn a small commission. This is at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to maintain the quality of this site.

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Nine out of 10 of the world’s most walkable cities are in Europe - does yours make the cut?

A new study has revealed that European cities are some of the most walkable in the world.

Would you rather ditch the hire car to explore on your own two feet while on holiday? European cities are some of the most walkable in the world.

New research has revealed that the nine out of 10 best walkable cities are in Europe, with the list topped by Munich, followed closely by Milan, Warsaw and Helsinki.

The report by price comparison website Compare the Market Australia analysed walking distances, safety scores, public transport costs, as well as other factors to identify the best cities to get around without a car.

Outside of Europe, only Tokyo made its way onto the top 10 list, coming in just above Madrid, Oslo, Copenhagen and Amsterdam, which all scored highly.

European cities came out on top for walking trails, weather and safety

In some cities , driving is the only option to get around. In others, it’s easier to walk, cycle or use public transport.

To help people find their ideal walking-friendly city, Compare the Market Australia looked at eight individual factors to work out which are the best options.

They examined 53 locations, ranking them on how good they are for being car-free.

For each point, the locations were given a score between 0 and 1, with all of the cities profiled then ordered from highest score to the lowest.

Most importantly, the number of walking trails was taken into account, as according to the amount listed on the AllTrails hiking routes app. Amsterdam, Oslo and Helsinki scored particularly highly here.

Also taken into consideration was the level of safety in a city, average monthly rainfall, car-free places and the percentage of residents who live within a 1km walk of healthcare and educational spaces.

Focusing on car-free spaces was part of the research too, with the availability and cost of public transport and bike trails playing a part.

In the end, Munich came out on top, thanks to its largely pedestrian-friendly city centre, the charm of ornamental public buildings and expansive parks.

The data saw Europe in a very good position overall, with the continent taking up 20 spots out of the 53 cities analysed across the globe.

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What makes Europe’s cities so good for pedestrian access?

Following Munich on the list is Milan in Italy.

It was found to be a particularly walkable place, with 80 per cent of its population living within one kilometre of healthcare and educational services.

Next up was the Polish metropolis of Warsaw . Despite being home to a total of 3.1 million residents, the research discovered the city centre is eminently walkable, with plenty to see along the way.

Amsterdam is perhaps best known for its proliferation of bicycles, but still came in 10th spot on the list, thanks to its easily-navigable canal walkways.

It’s a good place to live - or visit - if a city’s lack of cars is more important to you than mere walkability, with over 500 kilometres of bike trails.

“Looking at transport and amenities is a crucial step of assessing a potential home,” - or holiday destination - General Manager of Money at Compare the Market, Stephen Zeller, explains. “That means looking at the public transport links, and seeing how far away your nearest stop is, what time they run to, and frequency; as well as identifying routes that you feel safe walking.”

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

I had the worst hangover of my life in Amsterdam — here’s how I cured it

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As my eyes opened against the harsh daylight, I flailed my arms out for a glass of water, to no avail.

Then came the pounding headache, the self-loathing and the realisation that I was about to embark on easily the worst hangover I’d had in my 30s , thus far.

I shouldn’t have been surprised. When I arrived in Amsterdam the night before, the first thing my friend and I did was climb aboard the Starboard Boats’ Canal Booze Cruise , where we were served cheese and (unlimited) wine on the city’s famous canals.

Two hours and countless glasses of red wine later, and our night had only just begun.

Next stop was one of the Dutch capital’s famous bruin cafés (or brown bars). Similar to a British ‘old man’ pub – only much more lively – the Dutch pubs are a quintessential part of the city’s culture.

We opted for Cafe De Tuin , in the Jordaan district, which was bursting at the seams, packed full of locals and booze.

And… that’s where the memories get hazy. I can recall pouring my own measures behind the bar, and refuelling at Mr Haz Taco Bar , a Mexican that offered delicious jerk chicken tacos, and even better cocktails – for €10.50, the El Diablo was a must.

Apparently there was a nightclub involved, the details of which are lost in the recesses of my brain, never to be retrieved again.

Before I knew it I was waking up in my bed at YOTEL Amsterdam , cursing my poor life choices.

When would I ever learn?

But with only one full day to experience Amsterdam, I couldn’t wallow in bed watching Netflix, as any self-respecting hungover person would do.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4V1BbDID-e/

I had to get out, and be a tourist, despite the constant urge to vomit.

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And, spoiler: I lived to tell the tale. And, if I can cure a 10/10 hangover in Amsterdam, so can you.

Here’s how I survived…

Yes, you want to get out and explore, but you need some semblance of sleep in order to do so.

I rested my head at YOTEL in Amsterdam Noord , in the northern part of the city which has an edgier feel – a bit like Shoreditch, but less annoying.

YOTEL has a young, fresh vibe, with a minimalist design. With the hangover raging, it took true willpower to peel myself out of the bed. Not only was it huge, but it reclined and elevated at the touch of a button – I didn’t even have to lift my own weary head to watch the smart TV.

YOTEL offers a breakfast with hot and cold options at their waterside restaurant, The Deck, which also serves cocktails and street food.

I admit, while I did pile my plate high, I was in no fit state to eat (although was reliably informed by my pal that the brekkie was delicious) and promptly went back to bed.

YOTEL is also great value for money, with rooms from just £130 a night.

Greasy food

By about 11am, the initial shock of the hangover had worn off, and I used this small window of opportunity to get myself washed, dressed and out of the hotel.

Next, I needed food. While I’m sure avocado on toast would have been the healthy option, at this point I wanted carbs, and that’s where Amsterdam’s famous bitterballen come in.

While not touted as a breakfast food, bitterballen are deep-fried balls of meat covered in breadcrumbs. The Dutch cousin to an arancini ball or potato croquette, if you will, but with a more Bovril-esque taste. We ate ours at House of Fries, where we got a portion of six balls for €6.

You can also try the bitterballen offering at FEBO, a Dutch fast-food chain where they serve the snacks via a vending machine. Go, even if it’s just for the novelty.

Alternatively, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in the right place for pancakes. These aren’t crepes, but a mini and denser Dutch version – and just as delicious. Head to the Pancake Bakery for some of the best in the city.

If it is a more traditional millennial brunch you’re after, locals we spoke to raved about Anne & Max, which also has plenty of vegetarian and vegan offerings, while Badeta is the place to go for coffee.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C5LL286RGE-/?img_index=1

Amsterdam is a perfect place to wander around – it’s all cute cobbled streets, quaint buildings and canals. So, when your stomach can’t quite take an open-top bus tour, this was the perfect way to see the city.

Reguilersgracht is often dubbed one of the prettiest streets in Amsterdam, and it’s where you can see seven of the most famous bridges – stand on one, and you can see all the others in the distance.

There’s also Lindengracht, a cute street in the Jordaan district (the scene of my hangover crime), which is home to lots of shops and restaurants, as well as a weekly food market that takes place every Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

When the weather is good, head to Vondelpark, the city’s most visited green space, where you can take a mooch around, hire a bike (do as the Dutch do), or even hire a boat and spend some time on the lake.

There’s also Kersenblosempark, about 20 minutes outside the city centre, which was recently voted the best place in Europe to see cherry blossom .

Of course, you may also want to venture to the famous Red Light District, otherwise known as De Wallen, which dates back 800 years.

So entirely different from anything we have in the UK, as a female traveller, it’s a culture shock to say the least, but it’s worth remembering that sex workers in Amsterdam benefit from the same basic rights as other workers in the country: they receive health benefits, have a workers’ union and a get access to free and unlimited STI checks.

Now, this is where my day really turned around.

We’d been recommended the sandwiches at Zero Zero by our boat tour guide the night before, and they did not disappoint.

Queuing for these sarnies was a low point – I was hungry, hungover, and genuinely questioned whether I’d finally, this time, taken it too far.

But the chunky sourdough sandwich, made in front of me using fresh ingredients, including Mortadella and stracciatella cheese, was my saviour.

The staff at Zero Zero were friendly, and genuinely seemed to be enjoying their jobs too. I’d have happily paid double the €11 it cost me to take the edge off my hangover.

Take in some culture

Reenergised, it was time to do some sightseeing. Of course, in Amsterdam, you’re spoilt for choice. A city rich in history, from the Anne Frank House to the Van Gogh Museum, there is so much to see and do.

Our first stop was the Rijksmuseum. Tickets to enter cost €22.50, and it’s completely free of charge for anyone aged 18 and under.

While it’s recommended to book in advance, we booked and paid for ours online as we waited in the short queue.

A quiet museum was exactly what my headache needed. While I wouldn’t say I’m much of an art buff, even I was impressed by some of the famous works of art, from Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, to Van Gogh’s Self Portrait and, of course, the truly jaw-dropping The Night Watch, by Rembrandt.

Then, we took quite the gear change, and headed to the Sex Museum because, well, how could we not?

Now, if you’re taking a trip to the Sex Museum in the hopes of some actual information about how sex has evolved throughout history, it may not be the place for you.

However, if you’re immature (like me) and fancy a giggle at the X-rated dioramas and the many, many, many statutes, figurines and pictures of genitalia, it’s worth a quick visit.

Grab a ‘coffee’

Of course, one of Amsterdam’s USPs is its unique coffee shop scene. For those not in the know, this isn’t the place you go to for a flat white and a croissant, but rather, they’re licensed cannabis cafes, where you can pick from their often extensive marijuana menus.

While I, of course, wouldn’t dream about smoking cannabis – much less write about it for my employer – some swear by lighting up to treat a hangover.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CX0-3IjI6Xm/

If you’re that way inclined, Free1 is a small shop with a friendly guy behind the bar who will offer recommendations to make sure you get just the right amount of stoned.

There’s window seating, a great place to people watch, or you can go downstairs and chill out in the relaxed lounge area. An ideal spot for a first-timer.

If you’re after somewhere a little more exciting, head to Grey Area, probably Amsterdam’s most famous coffee shop, which has served the likes of Snoop Dog and Willie Nelson.

A fancy dinner

As the evening closed in, the thought of another night in a brown bar left me queasy, so instead, we opted for some posh grub.

Staying close to the hotel, we ventured out into Amsterdam Noord. While this neighbourhood is a little away from the city centre, it’s easy to get to, with a free ferry (yes, completely free) running from Buiksloterweg (the port in Amsterdam Noord) to Amsterdam Centraal Station every few minutes.

Amsterdam Noord has everything you’d expect in an edgy, up-and-coming area. There’s the Oedipus Brewing Taproom , the art space SEXYLAND World , and Tolhuistuin , dubbed as a ‘cultural hotspot’, which offers pretty much everything a creative might want, from food and drink to art, dance classes and weekly parties.

And of course, there’s great food to be had. We managed to grab a table at CornerStore . The restaurant looks like a minimalist loft, with a bar, DJ and an impossibly cool clientele and waiting staff.

But it doesn’t just look good, the food is amazing too. All the plates are designed to share, and the starter of brioche with goat butter was simple yet oh-so-delicious, and only left me excited for what more was to come. The half duck confit and cold noodles with sesame and kohlrabi were also highlights of the menu.

It was a little on the expensive side, comparable to London prices. Our total bill – with starters, dessert and wine, came to £116.40 for two. But if you’re forgoing a night out for a delicious meal, it’s more than worth it.

Need to know

• Eurostar tickets from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal start from £63 one way in April.
• Rooms at YOTEL Amsterdam Noord start from £130 a night.
• Admission to the Rijksmuseum: €22.50, but free for ages 18 and under.
• Admission to the Sex Museum: €9.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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12 of the Most Underrated Cities in Europe to Add to Your Bucket List

Posted: April 20, 2024 | Last updated: April 20, 2024

While iconic destinations like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona often steal the spotlight, Europe boasts a plethora of captivating yet lesser-known urban treasures waiting to be discovered. From charming medieval towns tucked away in the heart of the continent to vibrant coastal cities along the Adriatic Sea, this article will take you on a journey through Europe’s hidden jewels, offering a fresh perspective on where your next adventure should lead you.

Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, these cities, recommended by travelers on an online platform, offer an array of cultural riches and unforgettable experiences that are bound to leave you spellbound.

1. Bologna, Italy

A travel enthusiast replied that Bologna in Italy is the underrated beauty of Europe. The famous cities in Italy overshadow Bologna, whereas it is a beautiful destination with rich history and yummiest cuisine. It is undoubtedly the city of “Food Lovers,” a fascinating attraction for many visitors. This city is also famous for its iconic view of the ‘Two Towers’; people who climb the tower claim that it gives an enchanting view of the city, making the visit worthwhile.

2. Ljubljana, Slovenia

A traveling fanatic mentioned this underrated city in Slovenia. The former town often goes unnoticed but many travelers but is known for capturing people’s attention with its fairytale-like ambiance. The city is filled with galleries, music, and theatre, making it appealing to the common eye. Moreover, Tivoli Park offers a beautiful experience.

3. Ypres, Belgium

An individual enlisted his favorite, Ypres. This place holds great significance due to its role in World War I. The city is full of historical heritage and is significant because it has been restored and reconstructed. This hidden gem is worth visiting.

4. Maastricht, Netherlands

A traveler suggested Maastricht because of its numerous high-quality restaurants. Moreover, the locals are super friendly and make the visitors comfortable with their hospitality. The city is also known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque architecture.

5. Konstanz, Germany

An esteemed follower denoted Konstanz. It is an underrated European city located in southern Germany. This destination is a blend of beauty, history, and vibrant scenery. Its fantastic architecture and culture make it a must-visit place.

6. Vicenza, Italy

Vicenza’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a desirable destination for people seeking authentic explorations. Once visited, people often want to come back again. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and as the birthplace of the renowned architect Andrea Palladio.

7. Kyiv, Ukraine

A person expressed that Kyiv, Ukraine is an underrated city that needs recognition. It offers a rich cultural experience with unfathomable memories. Saint Sofia’s cathedral holds a significant spot, making it a place worth visiting for religious people. Note: Of course, due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, visiting Kyiv right now is not advised.

8. Marseille, France

An experienced individual stated, Marseilles. Marseille, often spelled as “Marseilles” in English, is a port city located in the southern part of France, along the Mediterranean coast. It is the second-largest city in France, after Paris, and serves as the capital of the Bouches-du-Rhône department. Marseille is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning coastal landscapes.

9. Tallinn, Estonia

With its rich heritage and beautiful landscapes, Tallinn has much to offer to travelers who love history. Tallinn has a rich history dating back to the medieval period. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks.

10. Kingston upon Hull, England

A follower stated that Kingston, commonly known as Hull, is often frowned upon by the UK. Still, it is a great city to visit, located in east Yorkshire with a dynamic destination. The city has a vibrant cultural scene with various museums, theaters, and galleries. The Hull Truck Theatre and the Hull New Theatre are well-known venues for performing arts. The Hull Maritime Museum and the Ferens Art Gallery are popular cultural attractions.

11. Turin, Italy

Turin, Italy is a beautiful and historically significant city located in the northwestern part of Italy. It is home to numerous museums, including the renowned Egyptian Museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of Egyptian artifacts outside of Egypt. Turin is also famous for its Baroque architecture.

12. Berlin, Germany

An enthusiast recommended Berlin. It is the capital of Germany which offers a variety of fascinating sites, including its rich culture with a blend of history and modernity. Berlin is home to many iconic landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Reichstag building, and the Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm). The city’s architecture reflects its diverse history, with a mix of modern and historic buildings.

Source: Reddit

14 of the Most Underrated U.S. Cities Americans Say You Need to Visit

Feeling restless and bored of the usual ho-hum tourist spots across the good ole USA? Craving something more thrilling and exciting? Well, you’re in for a treat! Fellow wanderers have spilled the beans on some of the best-kept secrets in the country, and we’re inviting you to come along for the ride! So, fasten your seatbelts, grab a map, and venture off the beaten path to uncover some truly magical and underrated gems together!

Read more: 14 of the Most Underrated U.S. Cities Americans Say You Need to Visit

12 Beautiful Castles in Europe You Must Add to Your Bucket List, According to Europeans

Europeans have revealed some of their favorite castles in Europe to seek on an online platform. These architectural wonders range from the magical Eltz Castle in Germany to the romantic Chenonceau in France, the looming Hohensalzburg in Austria, and the beautiful Castelo de Almourol in Portugal, transport tourists to past periods of chivalry, royalty, and intrigue.

Read more: 12 Beautiful Castles in Europe You Must Add to Your Bucket List, According to Europeans

10 Unique European Things That You Won't Find in America

Europe’s rich history and diverse cultures have given rise to a myriad of traditions, products, and experiences that remain exclusive to this captivating region. From centuries-old architectural wonders and delectable culinary delights to quirky wildlife, these distinct elements showcase the allure and charm of Europe, offering a fresh perspective on the world across the Atlantic. Recently people shared unique items not found in America on an online platform. Check them out in this post.

Read more: 10 Unique European Things That You Won’t Find in America

Americans Rank 10 of the Most Horrible U.S. States To Visit

Many Americans have traveled across the country and have opinions on which state is the worst to visit. Some states have been deemed less desirable than others, whether it’s due to a lack of attractions or cultural diversity, high cost of living, or just an overall creepy vibe. Let’s see what Americans have shared on an online platform discussion.

Read more: Americans Rank 10 of the Most Horrible U.S. States To Visit

12 of the Worst Tourist Destinations in the United States According to Americans

Recently on an online platform, Americans have shared their thoughts on the worst tourist destinations in the U.S.

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Barcelona bus route removed from map apps to tackle tourist overcrowding

Residents welcome removal of number 116 route, often used to get to Park Güell

While some places will go to any lengths to attract visitors, residents of La Salut neighbourhood in Barcelona are celebrating a move to wipe themselves off the map.

For years, residents had complained that they could not get home because the number 116 bus was always crammed with tourists visiting Antoni Gaudí’s Park Güell. The park is the city’s second most popular attraction after the Sagrada Familia basilica.

Now they have the bus to themselves after the city council arranged to have the route removed from Google and Apple maps.

“We laughed at the idea at first,” said César Sánchez, a local activist. “But we’re amazed that the measure has been so effective.”

Luz López, 75, told elDiario.es: “Before, the bus was so full even people with walking sticks couldn’t get on.”

Albert Batlle, the deputy mayor of security and coexistence on the city council, said that as well as improving mobility around Park Güell, “we needed to eliminate references to the 116 on the internet”.

Batlle declined to admit or deny that the council had asked for the route to be removed, while a Google spokesperson would only say they would not delete a bus route unless requested to do so by the council.

Sánchez, who has been campaigning for eight years for the council to address the problem, joked: “The next thing we need to do is to get the whole of Park Güell removed from Google Maps.”

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The Opening Days of Trump’s First Criminal Trial

Here’s what has happened so far in the unprecedented proceedings against a former u.s. president..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

It’s the first day of the Trump trial and just walking out the door in my house. It’s a beautiful day, 6:11 AM. The thing that keeps running through my head is it’s kind of amazing that hundreds of jurors are going to show up at the Manhattan courthouse. And some of them are going to know what they’re there for — probably talking to their friends, their relatives about it.

Some of them are going to learn this morning talking to other jurors in line, asking what all the fuss is about. But I really do imagine that there’s going to be at least one potential juror who, headphones on, getting into court. Here they’re going to be there for the first criminal trial of Donald J. Trump. And just, I mean, how would you react?

[MUSIC PLAYING]

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.” Today, what it’s been like inside the lower Manhattan courtroom, where political and legal history are being made? My colleague, Jonah Bromwich, on the opening days of the first criminal trial of a US President. It’s Thursday, April 18.

Is that his mic? Hi, there.

Hello. How are you?

I’m doing good.

OK. Thank you for coming in, Jonah —

Thank you for having me.

— in the middle of a trial. Can you just explain why you’re able to even be here?

Sure. So we happen to be off on Wednesdays during trial, so.

We being not “The New York Times,” but the courts.

That’s right.

Which is why we’re taping with you. And because we now have two full court days of this history-making trial now under our belts. And the thing about this trial that’s so interesting is that there are no cameras in the courtroom for the wider world.

There’s no audio recordings. So all we really have is and your eyes and your notebook, maybe your laptop. And so we’re hoping you can reconstruct for us the scene of the first two days of this trial and really the highlights.

Yeah, I’d be happy to. So on Monday morning, I left the subway. It’s before 7:00 AM. The sun is just rising over these grandiose court buildings in lower Manhattan.

I’m about to turn left onto Center Street. I’m right in front of the big municipal building.

And I turn onto Center Street. That’s where the courthouses are.

I’m crossing.

And I expected to see a big crowd. And it was even bigger than I had anticipated.

Here we go. Here we go. Here we go. Now, I finally see the crowd.

You have camera banks. You have reporters. You have the beginnings of what will eventually become a protest. And you have this most New York thing, which is just a big crowd of people.

[CHUCKLES]: Who just know something is going on.

That’s right. And what they know is going on is, of course, the first trial of an American president.

All right, I’m passing the camera, folks. Camera, camera, camera, camera. Here we go.

Let’s start with Sharon Crowley live outside the courthouse in Lower Manhattan.

I want to get right to ABC’S Aaron Katersky who’s outside of the courthouse.

Robert Costa is following it outside the courthouse in Lower Manhattan. Bob, I saw the satellite trucks lined up all in a row. Good morning.

Talk to us how we got here exactly.

So this is the case that was brought by the Manhattan district attorney. So prosecutors have accused Donald Trump of covering up the actions of his former fixer, Michael Cohen, after Cohen paid hush money to Stormy Daniels. Stormy Daniels had a story about having had sex with Donald Trump, which Trump has always denied.

Cohen paid her money, and then Trump reimbursed Cohen. And prosecutors say that Trump essentially defrauded the American people because he hid this information that could have been very important for the election from those people when he reimbursed Cohen.

Right. And as I remember it, he also misrepresented what that reimbursement was. Claimed it was a legal fee when, in fact, it was just reimbursing Michael Cohen for a hush money payment.

Exactly, yeah. He definitely didn’t say reimbursement for hush money payment to Stormy Daniels. It’s a cover up case. It’s a case about hiding information you don’t want people to see.

Right. And of course, the context of all this is that it is in the middle of a presidential election. It’s 2016. Trump wants to keep this secret, prosecutors allege, so that the American public doesn’t know about it and potentially hold it against him.

Right. And prosecutors are telling a story about election interference. They’re saying that Trump interfered with an election. And Trump himself is also using the phrase “election interference.” But he’s painting the trial itself as election interference as he now runs again in 2024.

Fascinating.

And because we’re in Manhattan, and because the jury pool is going to be largely Democratic, and the judge is a Democrat, and the district attorney is a Democrat, Trump keeps claiming he cannot get a fair shake. This is democrat central. And in democrat central, Trump doesn’t have a chance.

OK. So, what happens once you actually enter the courthouse?

Outside, there’s all this fanfare. But inside, it’s a little bit business as usual. So I go up to the 15th floor, and I walk into the courtroom, and I sit down, and it’s the same old courtroom. And we’re sitting and waiting for the former president.

Around 9:30, Trump walks in. He looks thin. He looks a little tired, kind of slumping forward, as if to say with his body like let’s get this over with. Here we go.

The judge walks in a little bit after that. And we think we’re all set for the trial to start, but that’s not what happens here. And in fact, there are a series of legal arguments about what the trial is going to look like and what evidence is going to be allowed in.

So, for example, prosecutors ask that they be allowed to admit into evidence headlines from “The National Enquirer” that were attacks on Trump’s 2016 opponents — on Ted Cruz, on Marco Rubio, on Ben Carson.

Because prosecutors are in some sense putting Trump’s 2016 campaign on trial. These headlines are a big part of that because what prosecutors say they show is that Trump had this ongoing deal with “The National Enquirer.” And the publisher would promote him, and it would publish damaging stories about his opponents. And then crucially, it would protect Trump from negative stories. And that’s exactly what prosecutors say happened with Stormy Daniels. That “The National Enquirer” tipped Cohen off about Stormy Daniels trying to sell her story of having had sex with Donald Trump, which he denies. And that led to the hush money payment to her. So what prosecutors are doing overall with these headlines is establishing a pattern of conduct. And that conduct, they say, was an attempt to influence the election in Trump’s favor.

And the judge agrees. He’s going to admit this evidence. And this is a pretty big win for the prosecution. But even though they win that one, they’re not winning everything.

They lose some important arguments here. One of them was that after the Access Hollywood tape came out, there were allegations of sexual assault against Donald Trump. And you know this, Michael, because you reported two of them — two of the three in question at this very trial.

Prosecutors had hoped to talk about those during trial in front of the jury to show the jurors that the Trump campaign was really, really focused on pushing back against bad press in the wake of the Access Hollywood tape in which Trump seemed to describe sexual assault. That was a big problem for the campaign. Campaign did everything it could to push back, including against these allegations that surfaced in the wake of the tape.

But the judge, saying that the allegations are hearsay — that they’re based on the women’s stories — says absolutely not. That is incredibly prejudicial to the defendant.

Interesting.

And that Donald Trump would actually not get a fair trial were those allegations to be mentioned. And so he will not let those in. The jurors will not hear about them.

So this is a setback, of course, for the prosecution, a victory for Trump’s legal team.

It’s a setback. And it also just shows you how these pre-trial motions shape the context of the trial. Think of the trial as a venue like a theater or an athletic contest of some sort. And these pre-trial motions are about what gets led into the arena and what stays out. The sexual assault allegations — out. “The National Enquirer” headlines — in.

OK. And how is Trump sitting there at the defense table reacting to these pre-trial motion rulings from the judge?

Well, as I’ve just said, this is very important stuff for his trial.

Right. Hugely important.

But it’s all happening in legal language, and I’m decoding it for you. But if you were sitting there listening to it, you might get a little lost, and you might get a little bored. And Trump, who is not involved in these arguments, seems to fall asleep.

Seems to fall asleep — you’re seeing this with your own eyes.

What we’re seeing, overall, including our colleague, Maggie Haberman, who’s in the overflow room and has a direct view of Trump’s face — I’m sitting behind him in the courtroom, so I can’t see his face that well.

You guys are double teaming this.

That’s right. I’m sitting behind him, but Maggie is sitting in front of him. And what she sees is not only that his eyes are closed. That wouldn’t get you to he is asleep.

And we have to be really careful about reporting that he’s asleep, even if it seems like a frivolous thing. But what happens is that his head is dropping down to his chest, and then it’s snapping back up. So you’ve seen that, when a student —

I’ve done that.

(CHUCKLES) Yeah. We all kind of know that feeling of snapping awake suddenly. And we see the head motion, and it happens several times.

Lawyers kind of bothering him, not quite shaking him, but certainly trying to get his attention. And that head snapping motion, we felt confident enough to report that Trump fell asleep.

During his own criminal trial’s opening day.

Does someone eventually wake him up?

He wakes up. He wakes up. And in fact, in the afternoon, he’s much more animated. It’s almost as if he wants to be seen being very much awake.

Right. So once these pre-trial motions are ruled on and Trump is snapped back to attention, what happens?

Well, what happens in the courtroom is that the trial begins. The first trial of an American president is now in session. And what marks that beginning is jurors walking into the room one by one — many of them kind of craning their necks over at Donald Trump, giggling, raising their eyebrows at each other, filing into the room, and being sworn in by the judge. And that swearing in marks the official beginning of the trial.

The beginning is jury selection, and it’s often overlooked. It’s not dramatized in our kind of courtroom dramas in the same way. But it’s so important. It’s one of the most important parts of the case. Because whoever sits on the jury, these are the 12 people who are going to decide whether Trump is guilty or whether Trump is innocent.

So how does jury selection actually look and feel and go?

So, jury selection is a winnowing process. And in order to do that, you have to have these people go through a bunch of different hurdles. So the first hurdle is, after the judge describes the case, he asks the group — and there are just short of 100 of them — whether they can be fair and impartial. And says that if they can’t, they should leave. And more than half the group is instantly gone.

So after we do this big mass excusal, we’re left with the smaller group. And so now, jurors are getting called in smaller groups to the jury box. And what they’re going to do there is they’re going to answer this questionnaire.

And this part of the process is really conducted by the judge. The lawyers are involved. They’re listening, but they’re not yet asking questions of the jurors themselves.

And what’s on the questionnaire?

Well, it’s 42 questions. And the questions include, their education, their professional histories, their hobbies, what they like to do whether you’re a member of QAnon or Antifa.

Whether you’re far left or far right.

That’s right. Whether you’ve read “The Art of the Deal,” Trump’s book, which some prospective jurors had.

Right. It was a bestseller in its time.

That’s right. And some of it can be answered in yes/no questions, but some of it can be answered more at length. So some of the prospective jurors are going very, very fast. Yes, no, no, no, yes.

Right. Because this is an oral questionnaire.

That’s right. But some of them are taking their time. They’re expanding on their hobbies. So the potential juror in seat 3, for example, is talking about her hobbies. And she says some running, hiking. And then she said, I like to go to the club, and it got a huge laugh. And you get that kind of thing in jury selection, which is one of the reasons it’s so fun. It’s the height of normality in this situation that is anything but normal.

Right. The most banal answer possible delivered in front of the former president And current Republican nominee for president.

Well, that’s one of the fascinating parts about all this, right? is that they’re answering in front of Trump. And they’re answering questions about Trump in front of Trump. He doesn’t react all that much. But whenever someone says they’ve read “The Art of the Deal —” and there are a few of those — he kind of nods appreciatively, smiles. He likes that. It’s very clear. But because there are so many questions, this is taking forever, especially when people are choosing to answer and elaborate and digress.

This is when you fall asleep.

This Is. When I would have fallen asleep if I were a normal person.

And by the end of the day. Where does jury selection stand?

Well, the questionnaire is another device for shrinking that jury pool. And so the questionnaire has almost these little obstacles or roadblocks, including, in fact, a question that jurors have seen before — whether they would have any problem being fair and impartial?

Hmm. And they ask it again.

They’re asked it again. And they’re asked in this more individualized way. The judge is questioning them. They’re responding.

So, remember that woman who said she liked to go to the club got a big laugh. She reaches question 34. And question 34 reads, “Do you have any strong opinions or firmly-held beliefs about former President Donald Trump or the fact that he is a current candidate for president that would interfere with your ability to be a fair and impartial juror?” She said, yes, she does have an opinion that would prevent her from being fair and impartial. And she, too, is excused.

So that’s how it works. People answer the questionnaire, and they get excused in that way, or they have a scheduling conflict once they reach the jury box. And so to answer your question, Michael. At the end of day one, given all these problems with the questionnaire and the length of time it’s taken to respond to and people getting dismissed based on their answers, there is not a single juror seated for this trial.

And it’s starting to look like this is going to be a really hard case for which to find an impartial jury.

That’s the feeling in the room, yeah.

We’ll be right back.

So Jonah, let’s turn to day 2. What does jury selection look like on Tuesday?

So when the day begins, it looks almost exactly like it looked when the day ended on Monday. We’re still with the questionnaire, getting some interesting answers. But even though it feels like we’re going slow, we are going.

And so we’ve gone from about 100 people to now there’s about 24 the room there’s 18 the jury box. And by the time we hit lunch, all those people have answered all those questions, and we are ready for the next step in the process.

Voir dire. And what it is the heart of jury selection. This is the point where the lawyers themselves finally get to interview the jurors. And we get so much information from this moment because the lawyers ask questions based on what they want out of the jurors.

So the prosecution is asking all these different kinds of questions. The first round of wajir is done by a guy named Joshua Steinglass, a very experienced trial lawyer with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. And he’s providing all these hypotheticals. I’ll give you one example because I found this one really, really interesting. He provides a hypothetical about a man who wants his wife killed and essentially hires a hitman to do it. And what he asked the jurors is, if that case were before you, would you be able to see that the man who hired the hitman was a part of this crime?

And of course, what he’s really getting at is, can you accept that even though Michael Cohen, Trump’s fixer, made this payment, Trump is the guy who hired him to do it?

That’s right. If there are other people involved, will jurors still be able to see Donald Trump’s hands behind it all?

Fascinating. And what were some of the responses?

People mostly said, yes, we accept that. So that’s how the prosecution did it.

But the defense had a totally different method of voir dire. They were very focused on their client and people’s opinions about their client.

So what kind of questions do we get from them?

So the lawyer, Todd Blanche, is asking people, what do you make of President Trump? What do you think of President Trump?

And what are some of the responses to that?

Well, there’s this incredible exchange with one of the jurors who absolutely refuses to give his opinion of Donald Trump. They go back and forth and back and forth. And the juror keeps insisting you don’t need to know my opinion of him. All you need to know is that I’m going to be fair and impartial, like I said. And Blanch pushes, and the guy pushes back. And the only way the guy budges is he finally kind of confesses almost at the end that, yes, I am a Democrat, and that’s all we get.

And what ends up happening to this potential juror?

Believe it or not, he got dismissed.

[LAUGHS]: I can believe it. And of course, it’s worth saying that this guy and everybody else is being asked that question just feet from Trump himself.

That’s right. And you might think you were going to get a really kind of spicy, like, popcorn emoji-type exchange from that. But because these are now jurors who have said they can be fair and impartial, who, to some extent, want to be on this jury or at least wouldn’t mind being on this jury, they’re being very restrained.

Mostly, what they are emphasizing — much like that guy just described dis — is that they can be fair. They can be impartial. There’s one woman who gives this really remarkable answer.

She says, I thought about this last night. I stayed up all night. I couldn’t sleep, thinking about whether I could be fair. It’s really important to me, and I can.

What ends up happening to that particular juror?

She’s also dismissed. And she’s dismissed without any reason at all. The defense decides it doesn’t like her. It doesn’t want her on the jury. And they have a certain number of chances to just get rid of jurors — no questions asked.

Other jurors are getting dismissed for cause — I’m doing air quotes with my hands — which means that the lawyers have argued they actually revealed themselves through their answers or through old social media posts, which are brought up in the courtroom, to be either non-credible, meaning they’ve said they can be fair and they can’t, or somehow too biased to be on the jury.

Wait, can I just dial into that for a second? Are lawyers researching the jurors in real time going online and saying — I’m making this up — but Jonah Bromwich is a potential juror, and I’m going to go off into my little corner of the courtroom and Google everything you’ve ever said? Is that what’s happening in the room?

Yeah, there’s a whole profession dedicated to that. It’s called jury consultant, and they’re very good at finding information on people in a hurry. And it certainly looked as if they were in play.

Did a social media post end up getting anybody kicked off this jury?

Yes, there were posts from 2016 era internet. You’ll remember that time as a very heated one on the internet, Facebook memes are a big thing. And so there’s all kinds of lock him up type memes and rhetoric. And some of the potential jurors here have used those. And those jurors are dismissed for a reason.

So we have these two types of dismissals, right? We have these peremptory dismissals — no reason at all given. And we have for cause dismissals.

And the process is called jury selection. But you don’t actually get selected for a jury. The thing is to make it through all these obstacles.

You’re left over.

Right. And so when certain jurors are not dismissed, and they’ve made it through all these stages, by the end of the day, we have gone from zero juror seated to seven jurors who will be participating in Donald Trump’s trial.

Got it. And without going through all seven, just give us a little bit of a sketch of who so far is on this jury. What stands out?

Well, not that much stands out. So we’ve got four men. We’ve got three women. One lives on the Upper East Side. One lives in Chelsea. Obviously, they’re from all over Manhattan.

They have these kind of very normal hobbies like spending time with family and friends. They have somewhat anonymous jobs. We’ve got two lawyers. We’ve got someone who’s worked in sales.

So there’s not that much identifying information. And that’s not an accident . One of the things that often happens with jury selection, whether it be for Donald Trump or for anyone else, is the most interesting jurors — the jurors that kind of catch your attention during the process — they get picked off because they are being so interesting that they interest one or the other side in a negative way. And soon they’re excused. So most of the jurors who are actually seated —

Are not memorable.

Are not that memorable, save one particular juror.

OK. All right, I’ll bite. What do I need to know about that one particular juror?

So let me tell you about a prospective juror who we knew as 374, who will now be juror number five. She’s a middle school teacher from Harlem. And she said that she has friends who have really strong opinions about Trump, but she herself does not. And she insisted several times, I am not a political person.

And then she said this thing that made me quite surprised that the prosecution was fine with having her on the jury. She said, quote, “President Trump speaks his mind, and I’d rather that than someone who’s in office who you don’t know what they’re thinking.”

Hmm. So she expressed approval of President Trump.

Yeah, it was mild approval. But the thing is, especially for the defense in this trial, all you need is one juror. One juror can tie up deliberations in knots, and you can end with a hung jury. And this is actually something that I saw firsthand. In 2019, I was the foreperson on a jury.

How you like that?

Yeah. And the trial was really complicated, but I had thought while we were doing the trial, oh, this is going to be a really easy decision. I thought the defendant in that case was guilty. So we get into deliberations, but there’s this one juror who keeps gumming up the works every time we seem to be making progress, getting a conversation started.

This juror proverbially throws up his hands and says, I am not convicting. This man is innocent. And we talked and we talked. And as the foreperson, I was trying to use all my skills to mediate.

But any time we made any progress, this guy would blow it up. And long story short, hung jury — big victory for the defense lawyer. And we come out of the room. And she points at this juror. The guy —

The defense lawyer.

The defense lawyer points at this juror who blew everything up. And she said, I knew it. I knew I had my guy.

OK. I don’t want to read too much into what you said about that one juror. But should I read between the lines to think that if there’s a hung jury, you wonder if it might be that juror?

That’s what everyone in the courtroom is wondering not just about this juror, but about every single person who was selected. Is this the person who swings the case for me? Is this the person who swings the case against me?

These juries are so complex. It’s 12 people who don’t know each other at the start of the trial and, by the end of the trial, have seen each other every morning and are experiencing the same things, but are not allowed to have talked about the case until deliberations start. In that moment when deliberations start —

You’re going to learn a whole lot about each other.

That’s right. There’s this alchemical moment where suddenly, it all matters. Every personality selected matters. And that’s why jury selection is so important. And that’s why these last two days are actually one of the most important parts of this trial.

OK. So by my math, this trial will require five more jurors to get to 12. I know also they’re going to need to be alternates. But from what you’re saying what looked like a really uphill battle to get an impartial jury or a jury that said it could be impartial — and Trump was very doubtful one could be found — has turned out to not be so hard to find.

That’s right. And in fact, we went from thinking, oh, boy, this is going awfully slowly, to the judge himself saying we could be doing opening arguments as soon as Monday morning. And I think that highlights something that’s really fascinating both about this trial and about the jury selection process overall.

One of the things that lawyers have been arguing about is whether or not it’s important to figure out what jurors’ opinions about Donald Trump are. And the prosecution and, I think, the judge have really said, no, that’s not the key issue here. The key issue is not whether or not people have opinions about Donald Trump.

Right. Who doesn’t have an opinion about Donald Trump?

Exactly. They’re going to. Automatically, they’re going to. The question is whether or not they can be fair and impartial. And the seven people we already have seated, and presumably the five people that we’re going to get over the next few days and however many alternates — we expect six — are all going to have answered that question, not I hate Trump; I love Trump, but I can weigh in on the former president’s innocence or guilt, and I can do it as fairly as humanly possible.

Now, Trump is not happy about this. He said after court yesterday, quote, We have a highly conflicted judge, and he’s rushing this trial.” And I think that he is going to see these beats of the system the criminal justice system as it works on him as he is experiencing it as unfair. That is typically how he talks about it and how he views it.

But what he’s getting is what defendants get. This is the system in New York, in the United States. This is its answer to how do you pick a fair jury? Well, you ask people can you be fair? And you put them through this process, and the outcome is 12 people.

And so I think we’re going to see this over and over again in this trial. We’re going to see Trump experience the criminal justice system.

And its routines.

Yeah, openings, witnesses, evidence, closings. He’s going to go through all of it. And I think, at every turn, it makes sense to expect him to say, well, this is not fair. Well, the judge is doing something wrong. Well, the prosecutors are doing something wrong. Well, the jury is doing something wrong.

But at the end of the day, he’s going to be a defendant, and he’s going to sit, mostly silently if his lawyers can make him do that, and watch this process play itself out. So the system is going to try and treat him like any other defendant, even though, of course —

— he’s not. And he is going to fight back like no other defendant would, like no other defendant could. And that tension, him pushing against the criminal justice system as it strives to treat him, as it would anyone else, is going to be a defining quality of this trial.

Well, Jonah, thank you very much. We appreciate it.

Of course. Thanks so much for having me. [MUSIC PLAYING]

PS, have you ever fallen asleep in a trial?

I have not.

[CHUCKLES]:

Here’s what else you need to know today.

It’s clear the Israelis are making a decision to act. We hope they do so in a way that does as little to escalate this as possible and in a way that, as I said —

During a visit to Jerusalem on Wednesday, Britain’s foreign Secretary left little doubt that Israel would retaliate against Iran for last weekend’s aerial attack, despite pressure from the United States and Britain to stand down. The question now is what form that retaliation will take? “The Times” reports that Israel is weighing several options, including a direct strike on Iran, a cyber attack, or targeted assassinations. And —

Look, history judges us for what we do. This is a critical time right now, critical time on the world stage.

In a plan that could threaten his job, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson will put a series of foreign aid bills up for a vote this weekend. The bills, especially for aid to Ukraine, are strongly opposed by far-right House Republicans, at least two of whom have threatened to try to oust Johnson over the plan.

I can make a selfish decision and do something that’s different, but I’m doing here what I believe to be the right thing. I think providing lethal aid to Ukraine right now is critically important. I really do. I really — [MUSIC PLAYING]

Today’s episode was produced by Rikki Novetsky, Will Reid, Lynsea Garrison, and Rob Zubko. It was edited by Paige Cowett, contains original music by Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Dan Powell, and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly Lake.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

• April 19, 2024   •   30:42 The Supreme Court Takes Up Homelessness
• April 18, 2024   •   30:07 The Opening Days of Trump’s First Criminal Trial
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• April 16, 2024   •   29:29 A.I.’s Original Sin
• April 15, 2024   •   24:07 Iran’s Unprecedented Attack on Israel
• April 14, 2024   •   46:17 The Sunday Read: ‘What I Saw Working at The National Enquirer During Donald Trump’s Rise’
• April 12, 2024   •   34:23 How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
• April 11, 2024   •   28:39 The Staggering Success of Trump’s Trial Delay Tactics
• April 10, 2024   •   22:49 Trump’s Abortion Dilemma
• April 9, 2024   •   30:48 How Tesla Planted the Seeds for Its Own Potential Downfall
• April 8, 2024   •   30:28 The Eclipse Chaser
• April 7, 2024 The Sunday Read: ‘What Deathbed Visions Teach Us About Living’

Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Jonah E. Bromwich

Produced by Rikki Novetsky ,  Will Reid ,  Lynsea Garrison and Rob Szypko

Edited by Paige Cowett

Original music by Dan Powell ,  Marion Lozano and Elisheba Ittoop

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

Political and legal history are being made in a Lower Manhattan courtroom as Donald J. Trump becomes the first former U.S. president to undergo a criminal trial.

Jonah Bromwich, who covers criminal justice in New York, explains what happened during the opening days of the trial, which is tied to Mr. Trump’s role in a hush-money payment to a porn star.

On today’s episode

Jonah E. Bromwich , who covers criminal justice in New York for The New York Times.

Background reading

Here’s a recap of the courtroom proceedings so far.

Mr. Trump’s trial enters its third day with seven jurors chosen.

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The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Jonah E. Bromwich covers criminal justice in New York, with a focus on the Manhattan district attorney’s office and state criminal courts in Manhattan. More about Jonah E. Bromwich

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