Last Updated on 14 July 2025 by Johan
As American travelers prepare for their European vacations, new updates to the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories offer crucial insights into safety levels across the continent. A recent overview by Newsweek breaks down which European countries are considered safest — and where extra caution is advised.
Where You’re Safe to Roam
The majority of European countries, including Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, Romania, and Norway, are under Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions — meaning no heightened security concerns are currently flagged for U.S. citizens.
These destinations remain popular among American tourists and are considered stable and secure. New additions to this list include Andorra (as of March 25), reinforcing its reputation as a peaceful Pyrenean gem.
Where Extra Caution Is Advised
Countries like France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Sweden fall under Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution — often due to potential terrorism threats or civil unrest. For example, the advisory for the U.K. mentions “isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland” and “continued plotting of attacks by terrorist groups.”
While these nations are generally safe for tourism, travelers should stay informed about local developments, especially around major events or political demonstrations.
Where Travel Is Not Recommended
Only Ukraine and Belarus are currently classified as Level 4: Do Not Travel, due to ongoing armed conflicts and instability. No countries in Europe are under Level 3: Reconsider Travel at this time.
The Bigger Picture: EU–U.S. Tensions Rise
Recent weeks have also seen a wave of European countries — including Germany, the UK, Finland, and Denmark — updating their own travel advisories for citizens visiting the U.S., citing increased scrutiny at border entry.
This comes as geopolitical frictions grow: US President Trump has threatened the EU and Canada with new tariffs and warned of potential NATO disengagement. While these developments don’t change individual country advisories, they reflect a shifting diplomatic landscape that could affect travel regulations in the future.
Travel Smart: Your Next Steps
- Check advisories regularly via travel.state.gov
- Enroll in STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for updates and assistance
- Be informed about local conditions, especially in Level 2 countries
- Plan for flexibility, particularly around political events or civil unrest
Source: Newsweek – Map Shows US Travel Warnings for Europe Right Now