Travel fiends looking for the safest holiday destinations have no shortage of options. Several beautifully scenic spots are renowned for their care for their global visitors.

A recent study from the team at International SOS once again crowned Iceland the safest country in the world, and Luxembourg surprises in second place.

Known as one of the wealthiest European nations, Luxembourg boasts a combination of low crime, political stability, and minimal health risks, landing it near the summit for safety-conscious British travellers.

Don’t be fooled by its size; Luxembourg is brimming with things to see and do, including five Christmas markets spread across the city centre and Gare district.

The 2024 Luxembourg Christmas Market runs from November 22 to January 1, 2025, making it one of the few Christmas markets in Europe that goes on after Christmas.

The capital, Luxembourg City, is very compact and walkable, making it easy to cover a large area quickly.

All public transport is free – including trains and trams if you have tired legs.

Luxembourg’s scattered festive markets have everything you’d expect: fairground rides, ice skating, and food and drink vendors, each with a unique charm. Place d’Armes, a central location in Luxembourg City, features a traditional Christmas market with food, gifts, and mulled wine.

There are plenty of historical attractions to explore elsewhere in the city. The city’s top attraction is Vianden Castle, one of Europe’s largest fortified castles.

It’s located in the northern part of the country. A tourist ‘Tindust’ said: “I grew up in Luxembourg and visited this castle when we were kids. I recommend making a day of it and exploring the surrounding walks to get a good view of the castle.”

For those eager to delve into history, La Chemin de La Corniche awaits in one of Luxembourg’s oldest quarters – perfect for sightseers who love to discover on foot.

One impressed visitor shared her experience on Tripadvisor: “Beautiful walk along the balcony of Europe. Gorgeous photo spots all along the way.”

November and spring (March to May) are among the best times of year to visit Luxembourg. These periods offer mild weather and fewer tourists, making them ideal for exploring the country’s scenic beauty and cultural sites.

Direct return flights from London Stansted to Luxembourg start from £77 in December, and the journey takes a mere one hour and 15 minutes.

According to Skyscanner, direct return flight prices are the same for those prepared to take a long weekend from Friday, November 22, to Monday, November 25.

Looking for an alternative trip? International SOS has ranked the following countries the safest in the world:

1. Iceland
2. Luxembourg
3. Norway
4. Switzerland
5. Denmark