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With airfare shooting through the roof after Spirit’s demise and multiple TSA shutdowns, why chance airport hassles when you could just hop aboard a train, snag a window seat, and embrace an old-fashioned sense of adventure?

More travelers appear to be doing just that, especially for regional travel.

Nobody is happier than Amtrak, which is reaping the benefits while showcasing its slick new NextGen Acela trains, launched last year on the Northeast Corridor, with even more modern upgrades coming to numerous routes in the years ahead.

But today, we’re focusing on just a steal-of-a-deal with one sticking out among the rest as 2 icons are easier to reach than ever before, as a single ticket only costs a bit more than your morning latte.

That’s right — just $16 gets you from Boston’s timeless streets to the “city that never sleeps,” New York City, now riding even higher as the new NBA champs.

Skip Traffic And TSA For Amtrak’s Insane Summer Deal

Whenever you hear of someone booking a vacay in the Northeast, you likely don’t hear of Baltimore or Philadelphia too often.

Chances are it’s either Boston or the Big Apple, a pair of tourism stalwarts standing the test of time and only getting better with age — like me, if I do say so myself.

Despite their global popularity, it’s safe to say tour operators aren’t packaging the 2 cities together as they’re too far away for worthwhile day trips.

When people need to make a trip between these icons, it’s common to take the train, brave traffic, or jump on a puddle-jumper flight — but there’s no need to do any of those except hop aboard the Northeast Corridor line to save some cold, hard cash.

With budget airlines no longer feeling so budget-y, this is a steal of a deal to pack in this duo for a weekend getaway or extended vacation the old-school way.

Departure/Arrival:

• Departure station: Boston South Station
• Arrival station: Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station, New York

Safety:

Both being some of the most storied mob-linked cities in American history, my how times have changed…

While you might read some crazy stories online on occasion, by and large, Boston and NYC are both safe for tourists, and backed by our real-time Safety Index.

Boston, with a current score of 92/100:

New York City, with a current score of 82/100:

Why Boston & New York Are Phenomenal Summer Destinations

Boston and New York don’t need gimmicks to justify a summer trip — they’re 2 of America’s most walkable, history-packed, food-loaded concrete jungles in the States.

With no shortage of attractions and a few months of nonstop sunshine, both indoor museums and outdoor parks are equally inviting.

Boston gives you the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, harbor strolls, and North End eats that actually make summer in a major city feel manageable.

New York is the opposite kind of beast — louder, bigger, typically hotter, and impossible to fully conquer, but that’s all part of the draw, just like Tokyo.

Between Central Park, Broadway, rooftop bars, Coney Island, ferry rides, renowned museums, late-night food, subway people-watching, and neighborhoods that feel like their own separate trips, sensory overload is all but unavoidable.

But Wait, There’s More!

Boston to New York is a blast and a half, but if jam-packed sidewalks and aforementioned sensory overload are just too much, there are a couple of other Amtrak bargains you can pounce on that are even cheaper!

Boston is Amtrak’s hotbed for savings this summer, as a local report revealed not only the Boston-NYC route, but a couple of more gems for fewer crowds.

Rhode Island may be America’s smallest state, but it punches way above its weight with coastal charm, standout food, and even the country’s best new bar in Providence, backed by James Beard bragging rights.

For less than a gallon of gas these days, you can venture from Boston to Providence aboard Amtrak’s Northeast Regional route for just $4.

But how about an even more unsuspecting coastal getaway?

Did you ever see Mystic Pizza in the 90s?

Well, it’s a real place in Mystic, Connecticut, arguably the state’s only summer hotspot, which is why they’re demanding a new airport since Hartford is, well, the most enticing for a sunny vacation.

For just $4 more than Providence, travelers can venture from Boston to Mystic also on Amtrak’s Northeast Regional line.

In order to score any of these deals, including New York, travelers must book dates between Wednesday, July 8 and Sunday, August 30.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 44 countries and written over 1500 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Air travel in Europe is dead. At least until Ryanair fixes its incredibly strict baggage policy, and Europe as a whole gets its act together with its new mandatory fingerprinting, which is leading to major delays across airports.

For the time being, we’ll be taking the rail instead, and we guess it’s good news that there’s a new overnight train launching real soon between 2 of the continent’s top powerhouses.

From September 9, 2026, you’ll be able to board an evening train in Brussels, the capital of Belgium, and travel southbound all the way to Milan, Italy, just in time for an espresso and a pistacchio croissant the next morning.

But before you bounce right outta this page because you think you got all the info you needed, hold your horses: that’s not all there is to know. This train will be stopping in some pretty epic spots along the way, and you won’t want to miss any step of the journey:

Everything You Need To Know About The New Train

Let’s get the technical stuff out of the way, shall we?

This is a new European Sleeper service linking Belgium to Italy, run in partnership with Arenaways. It was originally planned to launch in June, but due to infrastructure delays and certification issues, it got pushed back to the fall.

It’s now got a confirmed September 9 start date, so here’s everything you need to know about the route itself, part of the current ‘night train revival’ wave across Europe:

• It runs 3 times per week each direction
• From Brussels → Milan: scheduled departures Monday, Thursday, Saturday nights
• From Milan → Brussels: scheduled departures Wednesday, Friday, Sunday nights

The total journey time is of 17 hours end-to-end, with an early evening departure around 6:00 and 9:00 pm (it varies by direction), and an overnight crossing through Germany and the Swiss Alps.

That’s when it starts to get interesting.

Brussels and Milan are the main attractions, of course, and between the former’s epic Grand-Place and delicious waffles, and the latter’s glossy art galleries and imposing Gothic Duomo, we’re sure no further introduction is needed.

Now here’s the twist: maybe the best part about this new overnight service are not the start or finish lines, but what’s lying in between.

Here’s the full list of stops on the Brussels → Milan route:

Belgium

• Brussels-Midi—6:00 pm
• Liège-Guillemins—7:30 pm

Germany

• Aachen—9:00 pm
• Cologne (Köln Hbf)—10:00 pm

Switzerland

• Zurich (Zürich HB)—6:30 am
• Arth-Goldau—07:26 am
• Göschenen (Gotthard mountain line)—08:25 am
• Bellinzona—09:28 am
• Lugano—09:45 am
• Chiasso—10:15 am

Italy

• Como San Giovanni—10:41 am
• Milan Porta Garibaldi—11:30 am

Arrival times and routing are merely estimates as the final itinerary has not yet been divulged. As you can see, however, you don’t necessarily need to go straight from Belgium straight to Milan if you wouldn’t mind, ahem, stopping by the Swiss Alps along the way.

If you’re interested in the Germany stretch, maybe this European Sleeper isn’t for you as there’s regular service going from Brussels to cities like Aachen and Cologne daily, at earlier times.

On the other hand, if it’s Switzerland where you’re headed, this is now probably the smoothest ride from North-Central Europe to the Alps, without any changes and on a single ticket, you’ve been patiently waiting for.

Where To Stop In Switzerland With The New European Sleeper From Brussels To Milan

Arth-Goldau

This may be a small alpine settlement, but it packs quite the punch. It’s one of Switzerland’s best bases for nature and day trips, with the popular Natur- und Tierpark Goldau being right on your doorstep here: it’s a big wildlife park built into a natural rockslide forest.

It’s home to bears, wolves, lynx, and wild deer, all roaming in large enclosures that feel pretty natural. There are walking trails, epic viewpoints, and even petting areas where kids can feed and safely interact with the animals. Think of it as Switzerland’s coolest, most immersive, family-friendly open-air zoo.

On top of that, right in the vicinity of the village, Mount Rigi, the Queen of the Mountains, is a short cogwheel train ride up away from Arth-Goldau. At the top, you’ll get huge panoramic views of the Swiss lakes on one side, and the Alps on the other.

Before you go ahead and book those tickets, do make sure you check the documentation you may need to present when crossing borders in Europe.

Yeah, Schengen usually means no border control, but now more than ever, spot checks have been carried out to ensure there are no overstayers. Switzerland is particularly strict with it, and on occasion, Swiss police may board trains to verify travel documents and query travelers on the purpose on their visit.

Head over to the Entry Requirement Checker page right now and verify whether there are any entry and stay regulation updates affecting your destination.

Bellinzona

If you’re coming to Europe for the fairytale castles, cobbled streets that look frozen in time, and amazing food, this is probably where you should hop off the train instead of Milan.

The city is the capital of Ticino, the “Italian Switzerland”, and it’s that ‘castle + alpine views’ kind of place, and way more interesting than people might expect for an intermediate, morning train stop.

Bellinzona has not one, but three massive medieval castles, all UNESCO-protected. Castelgrande is the biggest, most impressive, and also the easiest one to reach, with its sturdy walls and towers looming over the city, and access via a public glass elevator that’s probably the best panoramic viewing platform in Switzerland without paying a single cent.

Higher up on the hillside, Montebello is more quiet and atmospheric.

It has a nice walking path between vineyards and viewpoints, and the views are unmatched. Finally, Sasso Corbaro is the highest one. Ironically, it’s also the smallest, yet it boasts the best views of all three castles, with the Alps unfolding before you like a painted backdrop.

Lugano

Set right on the Italian Swiss Riviera, straddling the shores of the crystal-clear lake of the same name, Lugano may be enclosed within a hugely-popular tourist circuit, yet it’s probably one of the most underrated destinations across the pond.

Como’s the second stop after this, but it will feel quieter and slower once you’ve taken that iconic funicular from Lugano’s train station down to the Old Town, with views of the church tower, and the sun-kissed alpine peaks in the distance.

Espresso bars line the promenade and spill onto sunlit squares, ferries glide across the water, taking passengers from the Swiss side to Italy, sitting right across the lake, in a setting that feels more Mediterranean than Alpine, proper, and the city itself is compact, but surprisingly elegant.

The Historic Center is made up of cobbled lanes, arcaded streets, and pastel-hue buildings that could easily belong in the neighboring Lombardy, in Northern Italy, and if you’re looking for that green escape, Parco Ciano has those manicured flower beds, century-old trees, and ornate gates opening out onto the lake itself.

It’s arguably one of the most beautiful city parks in all of Switzerland.

What really sets Lugano apart is how quickly you can escape it: a funicular takes you right up Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore, both commanding sweeping panoramas over the lake, and you’re a short bus ride away from postcard-ready lakeside villages like Gandria and Morcote.

Switzerland is one of the safest European destinations this summer, being awarded a Level 1 status by the U.S. Government, which typically means Americans may exercise normal precautions when visiting, and scoring 90/100 on the Traveler Safety Index:

More On The Train Itself

The Onboard Experience

Accommodation types

1. Seats—airline-style seating, reclining but not fully flat, best for budget/short sleepers
2. Couchettes—4–6 berth shared cabins, basic bedding provided, more comfortable for overnight routes
3. Sleeper cabins—1–3 person compartments, real beds with a flat and proper mattresses, more privacy

Ticket Prices

1. Seats—$54+
2. Couchette—$109–$230+
3. Sleeper cabins—$142–$285+

Prices are only an estimate for now based on other similar European Sleeper services, and they may vary depending on the date of booking and seat availability.

Key Onboard Features

• Bedding is included in sleeper classes
• There are women-only compartments available
• Power sockets can be found at seats/berths
• Some cars have small lounge-style areas

What It Will Feel Like

• Early evening boarding in Brussels
• ‘Hotel-on-rails’ vibe overnight
• Stops are functional, not really meant for sightseeing unless you’re ending your journey at any point halfway through
• Swiss Alps section early morning (this is the most scenic part, and you can hop off at the intermediate Swiss stops if you’re breaking up the trip in different sections)
• Smotth arrival to Milan either late morning the next day, or early afternoon, depending on routing and schedule

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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You’ve heard the news: oil prices are through the roof, which means flights are going sky-high in more ways than one.

That was the final nail in the coffin for Spirit Airlines, which turns out was losing $1.61 for every $1 it took in — yikes!

Why I’m able to go to AutoZone and buy a pint of oil for the same exact price before the Strait of Hormuz chaos is another question, but hey, we’re not here to put you to sleep with an Economics lesson; we’re here to get you to Europe as cheaply as possible.

Frankly, the latest insight from Dollar Flight Club, experts in budget travel, revealed some shockingly low prices — so much so, I’m considering taking back swearing off Europe in 2026 after hearing of 6-hour lines with the latest EES border-control fiasco.

That said, Europe is timeless, gorgeous, storybook, and dozens of other adjectives that fit the bill, but the top 4 cheapest cities to reach especially stood out as some of our team’s favorites for summer.

Here are Europe’s 4 best value destinations for summer (June-August 2026):

PLUS: We’ve created an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article to find your perfect match!

4) Bergen, Norway

Hey, we didn’t say it would be cheap once you get here — we just promised to get you here without breaking the bank.

Yes, Norway can be very pricey.

I’ve been a handful of times, mostly on layovers, but I did have the distinct pleasure of visiting Bergen, and it still stands out in my mind as one of Europe’s prettiest postcard destinations in my mind’s eye.

Surrounded by flowing fjords and 7 mountains with a color-wheeled townscape, Bergen is no snooze-fest — it’s calling for adventure where hopping on a boat tour is all but obligatory.

Said adventure is much more enjoyable during summer, when the winter-wonderland vibes have completely subsided, and you get long daylight hours, glassy waters, and steep green mountains rising around the fjords.

According to Dollar Flight Club, you can score round-trip flights to Bergen this summer as low as $441.

Better yet, once you land, know you’re in good hands.

Our Safety Index indicates Norway is one of Europe’s safest countries with a real-time score of 88/100:

3) Porto, Portugal

Bergen is surprisingly affordable this summer for one key reason — and Portugal is in the same boat. As my realtor loves to drill into me, it’s all about “location, location, location.”

Portugal, like Norway, lies on Europe’s western edge, so it’s less fuel for airlines to burn than say if you flew to Austria.

But unlike Norway, Portugal feels tailor-made for summer — especially Porto, a budget-friendly, terracotta-roofed, azulejo-laden stunner that keeps climbing higher on travelers’ wishlists.

The Algarve may steal some of the shine away with golden beach getaways like Albufeira and Quarteira, but Porto is Lisbon’s best alternative as the Portuguese capital has been pushing travelers away with higher prices and overtourism headaches giving Barcelona a run for its money.

Set on the vibrant waterfront of the Douro River, Porto is welcoming and comes alive in summer with riverside wine bars, golden-hour sunsets, blue-tiled photo ops, and Atlantic beaches just a short ride away.

According to Dollar Flight Club, you can score round-trip flights to Porto this summer as low as $426.

Travelers are saying Porto currently feels safe with a high safety score of 85/100:

While you’re planning out logistics, you might as well double-check travel alerts and entry requirements for your trip.

2) Dublin, Ireland

Dublin needs no description, but we’ve got one for you anyway.

Easily one of Europe’s most convenient gateways — even if it wasn’t so affordable to get here — this is yet another city that can be a wallet drainer on arrival, which is why many opt for a couple of days before hopping aboard a dirt-cheap Ryanair flight elsewhere.

Ireland, in general, is astounding come summertime with its bygone castles and lush greenery expanding from windswept coastlines to storybook villages.

Ironically, one of the coolest things to do here is grab a seat inside a dimly-lit classic pub spanning centuries of tall tales that who knows are true or not.

According to Dollar Flight Club, you can score round-trip flights to Dublin this summer as low as $390.

Travelers feel even safer here than they do in Norway, currently scoring safety levels 88/100:

1) Stockholm, Sweden

If I can fall in love with Stockholm during a dreary winter, then there’s no doubt you can find your new heartthrob in summer.

I’ve been to every major city in Scandinavia, and Bergen too. Stockholm is undeniably my favorite.

You can read all about my vitriol for Copenhagen here…but I have nothing but glowing remarks for Sweden’s most beloved city.

While I still have a lot of places to check of my European wishlist, I can’t imagine there are many more captiviating Old Towns than the urban island of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan.

Though slightly touristy, I never got tired of roaming every nook and cranny with a cupful of mulled wine or piping hot coffee.

Call me a fika freak, but the “fika” life is for me, where lounging in a cozy cafe with no time limit isn’t frowned upon — it’s encouraged.

It’s even better in summer, when Gamla Stan’s cafes move outside, the harbor feels alive, and you can wander for hours without needing to thaw out afterward.

According to Dollar Flight Club, you can score round-trip flights to Stockholm this summer as low as $350.

I never felt unsafe in Stockholm, albeit a bellyache from questionable Indian food, but travelers agree the city feels safe to explore with an impressive 85/100 safety score:

Now take this quiz to find your perfect match!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 44 countries and written over 1500 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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To no surprise, London, Paris, and Barcelona are not Europe’s cheapest destinations.

With a name like Travel Off Path, sometimes you have to do just that to save the big bucks.

A new U.K. based report unveiled explicit details as far as pricing goes, listing 4 underrated cities that are well worth your while for an affordable Euro-trip.

Some trendy, some lesser-known, and one being one of Europe’s all-time biggest comeback stories, all of them are vibrant, cultural, and very under-hyped.

I’ve had the fortune of visiting a couple of them, and already have the other pair on my wishlist — not only to stretch my budget on my next globetrotting jaunt, but to experience more authentic cities without the fluff of Europe’s icons.

Ready to save? Let’s dive in:

PLUS: We’ve built an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article to find out which one is your perfect match!

4) Belgrade, Serbia

As a former capital of Yugoslavia, you might think Serbia’s capital is drab and stale, but I was blown away in my brief stopover in Belgrade.

Yeah, you have to get used to cigarette smoke at seemingly every restaurant, but wandering the gritty yet grand streetscape couldn’t have been more refreshing for a sense of discovery.

I can attest that Belgrade is cheap. It doesn’t matter if it’s your hotel, a local beer, or a taste of back home at Mickey D’s, you won’t go broke enjoying a city break here, which is one of many reasons why digital nomads in particular love it.

Another reason is safety. Long gone are the days of Belgrade being defined by 1990’s headlines.

Travelers currently give Serbia a safety score of 86/100 on our Safety Index, though I will say Belgrade is the only place in all my travels where I’ve been randomly stopped by the police just to check my passport.

A bit sketchy, no?

Per our sources, here’s a rundown of common prices you can in Belgrade:

• Coffee: $3.35
• Beer: $4.72
• Museum: $8.77
• 2-night stay: $193.49

While you’re planning out logistics, you might as well double-check travel alerts and entry requirements for your trip.

3) Tirana, Albania

Another capital I’ve had the pleasure of visiting is Tirana, but full disclosure: the real highlight was the country next door.

Tirana is very underrated, especially if you’re a foodie.

Think Athens-style menus without the touristy prices, plus plentiful cafes where you can sip espresso with Mount Dajti in view and calls to prayer echoing in the background.

While this is another city digital nomads love for its safety and affordability across the board, Tirana’s real purpose, if we’re being honest, is a springboard to either Albania’s phenomenal coastline or to one of my favorite all-time destinations, Ohrid, North Macedonia — an easy bus ride away, and well worth it.

Travelers are currently giving safety scores of 83/100 for Albania:

Per our sources, here’s a rundown of common prices you can in Tirana:

• Coffee: $2.89
• Beer: $5.19
• Museum: $6.76
• 2-night stay: $172.00

2) Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is one of Europe’s unsung capitals for a myriad of reasons — one being you can Bucha-rest easy thanks to its thermal spas and leafy parks.

While some of its communist-era edges still show — or charm, depending on your appetite for concrete — overall, Bucharest is a delight to visit.

Whether you’re indulging in papanasi, a traditional fried donut to kickstart your day with a sugar rush, or wandering past architectural eye candy you didn’t expect, or taking a train ride out to hush-hush locales like Sinaia, this city is one of Europe’s easiest to plan out and stay long-term without busting your budget.

Little-known budget airline HiSky intended to make Bucharest so much more accessible for Americans with an exciting new Chicago-Bucharest route set for June 2026, but ultimately canceled.

However, they do still serve JFK, so East Coasters can still reach Bucharest with ease and be welcomed by a slightly Old Town, immaculate castles reminiscent of Dracula’s lair, grand boulevards, and cafe-lined streets that still feel wildly unknown.

Travelers are currently giving safety scores of 90/100 for Romania:

Per our sources, here’s a rundown of common prices you can in Bucharest:

• Coffee: $2.96
• Beer: $3.84
• Museum: $9.45
• 2-night stay: $198.87

1) Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

One of Europe’s most storied cities — for both better and worse — there’s no denying its insanely cheap and one of the continent’s best-kept secrets, not only for its historical significance, but for stunning nature, cafe culture, and fascinating East-meets-West atmosphere with a mish-mash of cultures, including Orthodox Serbs, Catholic Croats and Muslims.

Sarajevo can be a tear-jerker if you visit its captivating museums covering the Siege of Sarajevo and Bosnian War, but it can also feel like a celebration of resilience, with a maze of bazaars, cozy coffee houses, and plates of ćevapi that cost less than your morning Americano back home.

What makes Sarajevo especially special is how quickly the city changes around you — one minute it feels like an old-world bazaar, the next it looks like a grand European capital.

Travelers are currently giving safety scores of 85/100 for Bosnia & Herzegovina:

Per our sources, here’s a rundown of common prices you can in Sarajevo:

• Coffee: $2.31
• Beer: $3.31
• Museum: $6.60
• 2-night stay: $210.76

Now take this quiz to find your perfect budget escape!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 44 countries and written over 1500 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Asia is challenging to sum up in a few words, especially given its vastness and diversity.

Sometimes it may feel impossible to tackle or even narrow down where to go.

The easy route is to follow the crowd to Tokyo, Phuket, and Bali, but as we all know, some of the best travel memories made derive from forging your own path into the lesser-known.

Experts at Lonely Planet have revealed a month-by-month guide for summer, featuring a few destinations that ring a bell.

As such, Travel Off Path‘s team was fascinated by Asia’s biggest summer surprises, ranging from South Korea to India, but not where you expect.

Without further ado, here are 4 surprising cities you should scope out as your next summer adventure:

PLUS: We’ve created an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article to find out which one is your perfect match!

Busan: Asia’s Top Spot To Kickstart Summer

South Korea may have Seoul, but they’re not a Seoul-dier.

I tried…

Busan is where the country’s K-Pop craze meets vibrant beaches, all without sacrificing Seoul’s Korean barbecue sizzle and mesmerizing neon streetscape.

Any globetrotter knows that city beaches are 50/50 at best in terms of quality and matching up with the postcards we’ve all seen.

Busan is on the good side of the 50/50, where scenic coastline stretches past golden beaches, rocky bluffs, and glassy high-rises — and you can get an even better view on one of the city’s quirky train carts, known as the Sky Capsule.

Haeundae is renowned as Busan’s must-see beach, while Gamcheon Culture Village is a popular photo op for its pastel maze of hillside homes, eye-popping murals, and sea-view alleyways.

No matter how you end up planning your trip, June feels absolutely splendid with average temperatures of 72°F.

Travelers are currently scoring South Korea’s safety levels with 85/100 on our Safety Index tool:

Be sure to double-check Travel Alerts & Entry Requirements before your trip.

Shimla: India’s Best-Kept Secret

Is there any country more wondrous than India?

Sometimes wonderfully chaotic, sometimes wonderfully delicious, and sometimes wonderfully off-putting — at least according to my street food algorithm.

But wondrous nonetheless, with no better time to visit than July with 81–88°F weather.

You know New Delhi, Mumbai, and perhaps Udaipur if you’re travel nerds like us, but one place that’s more reminiscent of Valparaíso or Guanajuato at first glance is little-known Shimla, boasting a kaleidoscopic cityscape spilling down the Himalayan foothills.

This once British-colonized town still reflects its history, especially for travelers ready to be wowed.

Take the Hogwarts-esque Viceregal Lodge and the Rothney Castle, for example — truly breathtaking to see.

Shimla is full of surprises across the board, and mostly good at that. Being well-kempt, it’s a great place to indulge in Indian cuisine without worrying about travelers’ arch nemesis “Delhi belly”, but do watch out for pesky local thieves, rhesus monkeys.

Travelers are currently scoring India’s safety levels with 70/100 on our Safety Index tool:

Sendai: The Best Of Japan Wrapped Into One Underrated City

Think you have to visit Tokyo and/or Osaka?

That’s because you don’t know about Sendai.

Lonely Planet touts this virtually unknown city as the “best alternative to well-known cities”, with “everything you came to Japan for – fresh sushi, wacky karaoke, ancient temples”.

I’m sold already.

Japan is captivating end to end. That’s why more airlines are launching new flights to the country’s far-flung cities because they’re worth your while.

Sendai is only an hour and a half from Tokyo via bullet train, a bucket-list item for sure.

Few places make you feel more like a local than Sendai, a city that has yet to be swallowed up by mainstream tourism.

August is said to be a perfect time to visit weather-wise, with highs of just 80°F due to its cooler mountainous climate, earning the moniker “City of Trees”.

Travelers are currently scoring Japan’s safety levels with 89/100 on our Safety Index tool:

Chengdu: China’s Panda-monium Powerhouse

China is such a global powerhouse, in more ways than one, it’s hard to keep up with its massive metropolises.

Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong are the obvious headliners, but Chengdu may be the one that piques Americans’ interest most.

After all, travelers flock to my hometown of San Diego to see pandas napping and gnawing on bamboo like puppies with a new toy.

In Chengdu, though, you can see the real deal in China’s beloved “panda capital”, where visitors can see babies at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.

There are no direct flights from the U.S., but easy connections from other Chinese cities.

While the weather is in August with an average of only 77°F, the real heat comes from the region’s notoriously spicy Sichuan cuisine.

Don’t say we didn’t warn ya!

Travelers are currently scoring China’s safety levels with 91/100 on our Safety Index tool:

Now take this quiz to find your perfect match!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 44 countries and written over 1500 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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If you’re keen on a little country-hopping adventure around Europe this year, you’re absolutely spoiled for options.

Whether it’s the new European Sleeper from Paris to Berlin, or the colossal, 715-mile journey from Basel, in Switzerland, to Copenhagen, in Denmark, new inventive train routes linking all of the most unlikely destinations are springing up everywhere.

For those who would like to keep it ‘local’, though—as in, restricted to a single geographical region—you might want to hold off on booking those overnight sleepers until you’ve read this.

To those heading to Central Europe in the coming months, a new direct train is launching from Germany to Belgium, passing through six stunning, yet still relatively under-the-radar cities along the way, and trust us when we say they absolutely deserve a spot on your next Eurotrip:

So What’s New?

Starting September 7, 2026, Deutsche Bahn (Germany’s national rail operator) and SCNB (Belgium’s) will formally launch the first-ever direct ICE connection between Cologne, a city in western Germany, and Antwerp, the largest Dutch-speaking hub in Belgium.

Now, before any Americans out there start getting anxious about a supposed ICE train, that’s just an acronym for inter-city high-speed trains.

That said, you might just want to check the travel rules that apply at your destination using the Entry Requirement Checker, as passport control within the Schengen Zone has been tightened as of late. Yep, even if you’re traveling from one Schengen country to another.

Back to the train itself, this is huge news in the scope of Germany–Belgium rail travel, as up until now, most ICE services terminated in Brussels.

There will be 2 trains daily in each direction, in addition to the existing 7–8 daily ICE services between Brussels and Cologne, and the total travel time is only 2h25. That is, if you’re traveling from one end of the line to the other.

The first departure from Cologne is scheduled for 6:30 a.m., arriving in Antwerp at 9:00 a.m. The second departure is set for 5:30 p.m., reaching Antwerp at 7:45 p.m.

Departing from Antwerp, the first train leaves the station at 11 a.m., pulling up to Cologne at 1:24 p.m. The second and final daily service sets out at 7:00 p.m., arriving in Cologne at 9:23 p.m.

Based on the existing Cologne ↔ Brussels route, this is how much you should expect one-way fares to cost:

• Super Saver (early booking): $35–$55
• Standard Flexible Fare: $75–$140
• 1st Class: $110–$220

You already know where this route starts, and where it ends, but what about all the incredible intermediate stops you can hop off at?

(PLUS: We’ve also created a quiz for you at the end of this article to find which stop is calling your name!)

The Full Route

Cologne, Germany

The departure point for the new ICE train, Cologne is a vibrant riverside city in West Germany primarily known for its imposing Gothic cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral is a soaring, somber-looking church that took centuries to build, with towers so sturdy they survived a whole shower of Allied bombings during WWII.

The surrounding Altstadt did not get as lucky, with many of the historic half-timbered buildings and charming cobbled streets reduced to rubble, but lucky for the history buffs among us, parts of it have been reconstructed, and every year, more of the ugly-looking modernist blocks disappear, while ornate niches and Romanesque domes make a comeback.

Coolest thing about Cologne, though? It has a beergarten scene like no other in Germany, and if you’re looking for some rowdy Kölsch-fueled fun on a Thursday night, you should definitely pop by Biergarten am Aachener Weiher

Aachen, Germany

One of the oldest cities in Germany, and a criminally underrated cultural powerhouse, Aachen used to be the favorite residence of Charlemagne. As in, the guy who basically shaped medieval Europe, and whose descendants would go on to found France and Germany as we know them.

Aachen Cathedral, with its imposing Romanesque dome and glittering mosaics, is among the first cathedrals ever built in Europe, standing as a testament to Charlemagne’s legacy… and he just so happens to be buried there.

Germany’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has an octagonal core that is over 1,200 years old, and it feels strikingly different from your standard Gothic German cathedral.

Aachen is also a border city, with Belgium and the Netherlands right next door, so culturally it feels delightfully mixed. Think biking lanes running along leafy boulevards, kerbside snack stands serving Belgian-style frites, and a young, international vibe.

Liège, Belgium

Your first stop in Belgium, Liège, was one of the key cities of the old Prince-Bishopric of Liège. In other words, it wasn’t just another medieval town. It was essentially a small ecclesiastical state in its own right, which has always given it that slightly rebellious, almost irreverent edge.

It straddles the winding Meuse River, a serpentine waterway that shaped its industrial past. At one point, it was Belgium’s main hub for steel and coal, so it feels arguably more industrial, gritty, and raw than, say, Aachen.

That said, architecturally it’s still a bit of a mix, with impressive churches and old buildings like Liège Cathedral, a Gothic landmark dating back to the 13th century, squeezed in between modern redevelopments and industrial-era housing.

It’s not your typical European fairytale town, but it’s got character in spades.

Plus, you won’t find tastier waffles anywhere else in Belgium. Liège is the home of Liège waffles—the denser, caramelized-sugar-in-the-batter version of the lighter, arguably overrated Brussels waffle—so it’s a good thing you’ll be burning some calories on the way up the landmark 374-step Montagne de Bueren.

Leuven, Belgium

Everyone keeps telling you to go to Bruges or Ghent, but if you’re truly looking to beat the crowds in Belgium this year, you should try your luck at Leuven, right on the doorstep of Brussels, and an arguably even prettier town.

The city center here is one of the best-preserved medieval cores in the entire country. There are cobbled lanes everywhere, winding streets, and a super-ornate Town Hall that looks almost castle-like, and who would have thought?

Stella Artois, your favorite European import beer, actually hails from here.

The brewery history shows up everywhere, and beer culture is a huge part of local identity. Whether it’s a dreary weekday or Friday night, you can find KU Leuven students (at one of Europe’s oldest universities) gathering around Oude Markt and gulping down their golden lagers.

This square is nicknamed the “Longest Bar in Europe” due to the sheer number of cafés and bars lining it (I think I counted some 35 or maybe it was the beer?), and despite the obvious bohemian feel, it still feels comparatively quieter, and much more orderly and tidy than neighboring Brussels.

Brussels, Belgium

Listen, I’m not the greatest Brussels enthusiast out there, but I do get why some people fall madly in love with it.

Yes, it’s a bit dodgy in parts, the entire city center looks like it’s a permanent construction site, and the Atomium might just win the award for Most Underwhelming European Landmark, but the Grand-Place is indeed a sight to behold, and maybe that alone warrants a detour in Brussels.

Surrounded by gold-leaf guildhalls and elegant baroque facades, this central square is the heart and soul of the Belgian capital, and the go-to spot for photos and people-watching. I guess seeing you’re in the area, you could always swing by Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, a quiet white lady in the vicinity.

Not the most jaw-droppingly beautiful cathedral, but a solid one nonetheless.

Now, you wanna know a Brussels secret? It truly looks its best, and most memorable, when seen from above, and atop the Musical Instruments Museum, you’ll find a tucked-away little coffeeshop boasting an epic panorama of the city center and of Grand-Place’s spires.

Antwerp, Belgium

That’s it, folks. The end of the line. And what a cherry on top, I must say.

If Brussels has that French-speaking, Walloon-flavored, cosmopolitan-but-helplessly bureaucratic attitude, while for the most part it looks like a patchwork of mismatched modernism and EU glass boxes, Antwerp is the authentic Belgian metropolis the capital wishes it could be.

This is a city that doesn’t really try to be “cute” in the postcard sense of the word.

Yes, it’s stunning, but in a grand, slightly gritty-around-the-edges way. The Old Town carries a lot of that medieval trading-city weight, with narrow streets, guild houses around Grote Markt, and a cathedral so tall it practically anchors the skyline, but it’s all stitched together with an avant-garde, modern port-city attitude.

If it makes any sense at all to you, Antwerp is the “Milan of Belgium” to me. This is one of Europe’s most creative cities, and you’ll notice it in the boutiques, art galleries, and even the way people dress walking through the buzzing Zuid or the old harbor docks.

We know, that’s a lot of words and flourish just to say: “Antwerp is cool.”

Now take this quiz to find the stop that is perfect for you!

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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I spend a massive chunk of my year flying around the Caribbean, and I’ve noticed a huge shift in what travelers are actually looking for right now. For decades, the standard playbook for a tropical vacation was to book a flight, shuttle to a massive, walled-off all-inclusive mega-resort, and never leave the property. And trust me, I get it. One of my favorite trips this last year was heading to Cabo and rotting by the pool at Garza Blanca.

But sometimes, I get tired of that cookie-cutter convenience. I want raw, authentic magic.

If you want to experience what the Caribbean is actually supposed to feel like—living cultures, incredible historic architecture, and local economies that aren’t just manufactured tourist traps—you need to get off the mega-resort strip.

Here are 7 charming, under-the-radar Caribbean cities and towns that I am putting on everyone’s 2026 radar. (PLUS an interactive quiz at the end of this article to find out which one is perfect for you!)

1. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The First City of the Americas

Whenever I want deep, immersive history, I completely skip the walled-off mega-resorts of Punta Cana and head straight to the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo. It is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason.

Why I Love It: Walking around here feels like I’ve stepped onto a 16th-century Spanish movie set. The cobblestone streets are lined with breathtaking colonial architecture, shaded plazas, and ancient ruins that have been organically integrated into a thriving modern city.

My Strategy: I always skip the massive hotels here and book a boutique spot. I love spending my evenings eating at intimate courtyard restaurants and listening to live bachata near the Ruinas de San Francisco.

2. Christiansted, St. Croix (U.S. Virgin Islands)

The Historic Boardwalk Haven

Instead of the heavily commercialized cruise ship ports of St. Thomas, I always point people south to Christiansted on St. Croix. It boasts a completely distinct Danish colonial history and an incredible, raw authenticity that is really hard to find anywhere else in the region.

Why I Love It: This is the ultimate unpretentious, historic waterfront town. The streets are lined with shaded, covered walkways and striking yellow 18th-century Danish buildings. Seeing the perfectly preserved Fort Christiansvaern sitting right on the harbor never gets old.

My Strategy: Because it is a U.S. territory, I don’t even have to dig my passport out of my bag to visit. My perfect day here involves walking the Christiansted Boardwalk for some incredible waterfront dining, grabbing a cocktail made with local Cruzan Rum, and booking a catamaran day trip out to the pristine Buck Island Reef National Monument for world-class snorkeling.

3. Port Elizabeth, Bequia

The Retro-Nautical Haven

Bequia (pronounced beck-way) is the second-largest island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I always describe it to my friends as a snapshot of what the Caribbean looked like 30 years ago.

Why I Love It: There are absolutely no chain hotels, no mega-resorts, and no massive corporate coffee shops here. Instead, Port Elizabeth is a hub for international yachts and sailboats, giving it a surprisingly cosmopolitan but completely laid-back energy.

My Strategy: I spend most of my time walking the Belmont Walkway. It’s a coastal stone path that lets you stroll seamlessly from the bustling town center directly to the pristine white sands of Princess Margaret Beach. I highly recommend grabbing a proprietary rum punch at Coco’s and watching the sunset at Jack’s Bar.

4. Deshaies, Guadeloupe

The Volcanic Fishing Village

Located on the wild, mountainous Basse-Terre wing of the French Caribbean, Deshaies is a humble fishing village that has managed to balance international television fame (it’s the filming location for the BBC show Death in Paradise) with rugged ecological preservation.

Why I Love It: This is my go-to spot when I am craving deep green tropical rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and authentic Euro-Caribbean culture over flat, manicured beaches. The coastlines here, like Grande-Anse, are spectacular and completely devoid of obtrusive high-rise hotels.

My Strategy: English is not widely spoken here, which I actually love because it acts as a great natural filter against mass tourism. I usually brush up on a few basic French phrases before I go so I can confidently order local specialties like acras (fried seafood fritters) and a potent Ti’ Punch at a beachfront bistro.

5. Portsmouth, Dominica

The Eco-Luxury Vanguard

Dominica is known as the “Nature Island,” meaning it trades traditional white-sand lounging for dramatic black sand, boiling lakes, and deep jungle rivers. Its secondary city, Portsmouth, is currently pioneering a new wave of high-end, sustainable eco-luxury that I am mildly obsessed with.

Why I Love It: Portsmouth sits on the edge of Cabrits National Park, mixing historical British garrison ruins with ultra-luxury, low-density resorts like Secret Bay, where your villa is built from sustainably sourced hardwood directly into the jungle cliffside.

My Strategy: 2026 is the year I’m telling everyone to go. Dominica’s highly anticipated new international airport is finally coming online in 2027, and I am expecting the island to explode in popularity as it gets more airlift. I love using Portsmouth as my basecamp to take a guided canoe trip up the hauntingly beautiful, mangrove-lined Indian River.

6. St. George’s, Grenada

The Culinary and Carnival Epicenter

The capital of the “Spice Island” is built around a stunning, horseshoe-shaped harbor known as the Carenage. It is a total sensory overload of colonial architecture, spice markets, and incredible waterfront dining.

Why I Love It: St. George’s leverages its volcanic soil and spice-growing heritage to foster an elite, highly localized culinary scene that I can’t get enough of. You can eat world-class fusion, or grab an authentic bowl of “Oil Down” (the national dish) at a grassroots spot like Patrick’s Local Homestyle Restaurant.

My Strategy: If you want my top recommendation for cultural immersion, book your trip for August 1–11, 2026, for Spicemas. Just be prepared to wake up before dawn on Carnival Monday for J’ouvert, where we drench ourselves in oil and paint and dance through the streets to primal Jab Jab music.

7. Willemstad, Curaçao

The Bohemian Dutch-Caribbean

You have probably seen photos of Willemstad’s Handelskade—the iconic row of vibrant, candy-colored Dutch colonial buildings lining the harbor.

Why I Love It: While the main harbor is beautiful, the real magic for me is happening just beyond the old city gates in the Pietermaai district. It is a highly walkable, bohemian enclave packed with jazz bars, boutique hotels, and cutting-edge restaurants operating out of restored 18th-century mansions.

My Strategy: Because Curaçao sits outside the traditional Caribbean hurricane belt, the weather is wildly predictable year-round, so I never stress about booking a trip here. I like to base myself in Pietermaai for the nightlife, and rent a car to explore cliff-jumping at Grote Knip beach during the day.

Now take this quiz to find out which one is perfect for you!

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As the 2026 World Cup kickoff on June 11 approaches, the primary concern for the expected 6 million traveling fans is rapidly shifting from ticket lottery results to on-the-ground survival. Spanning three countries, 16 vastly different urban environments, and 48 teams, the 2026 tournament represents the most complex logistical challenge in sporting history.

FIFA gives you stadium maps and fan zones, but they don’t tell you about real-time safety or transit meltdowns. To fix this, Travel Off Path has launched the World Cup 2026 Safety Tracker. It’s a live tool built to show you the actual travel risks in all 11 U.S. cities, 3 Mexican hubs, and 2 Canadian hosts.

What Exactly Is The Safety Score?

The core of our tracker is the World Cup Traveler Safety Index (TSI). Forget digging through complicated government crime stats—this is a simple 0 to 100 grade that tells you exactly how safe a host city is to visit. And the best part? It is already live and tracking conditions right now.

Currently, cities like Miami (85) and San Francisco (82) are in the highly stable “Low Risk” green zone, while dense, unpredictable hubs like Atlanta and Philadelphia sit at a “Moderate Risk” 60. But the score isn’t just about crime. It actively tracks extreme weather events, transit meltdowns, and local street scams so you know exactly what you are walking into before you arrive.

You will be able to clearly see the Traveler Safety Index score for all host cities on The World Cup 2026 Travel Safety page. Here is the live safety score of Miami for example:

More Than Just a City Rating

A safety score for a whole city doesn’t help when you are standing in a stadium parking lot at midnight. Our tracker focuses on the exact spots where you will be.

• Heat and Weather Hazards: In humid cities like Miami or Houston, the heat inside the stadium is the biggest danger. The tracker shows you the closest hospital—like Jackson North Medical Center, just 3 miles from the stadium—so you aren’t guessing in an emergency.

• Exact Transit Routes: We don’t just say “take the train.” We tell you the specific station names and shuttles, like the Brightline to Aventura Station. This keeps you away from traffic and helps you avoid rental scams in the suburbs.
• Local Scam Alerts: We identify the specific tricks used in each neighborhood—like fake parking attendants in neon vests in Miami or “tow-and-scam” traps in Dallas. If you know the trick ahead of time, you won’t lose your money.

Real-Time Updates

Before you book a flight or a hotel you can’t cancel, check the Traveler Safety Index. This isn’t an old government report; it’s a live signal updated by fans on the ground. Whether it’s a storm in Florida, a massive delay at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, or dealing with the high altitude in Mexico City, you get the truth immediately.

Checking the World Cup 2026 Safety Tracker is the easiest way to make sure your trip goes smoothly. Enjoy the tournament!

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The U.S. State Department’s travel map for Mexico can look pretty intimidating. With various regions tagged with intense warnings amid recent isolated events, it is easy to assume the whole country is off-limits. But that’s a massive misconception. State lines matter.

Right now, there are exactly two states in Mexico that hold the coveted Level 1: “Exercise Normal Precautions” advisory.

That is the exact same safety rating the U.S. government gives to countries like Japan and Switzerland.

Those two states are Yucatán and Campeche. Because of their geographic isolation on the peninsula and heavy investments in local security, they operate like a completely different world compared to the border regions or the cartel-heavy transit corridors.

Here are the 5 safest cities in Mexico where you can drop your guard, put your phone in your pocket, and just enjoy the culture.

PLUS: I’ve create a quiz for you at the end to find the one that matches your travel style perfectly, so stick around!

1. Mérida (Yucatán)

The Elegant Capital

Often called “The White City,” Mérida is the cultural and culinary heartbeat of the Yucatán Peninsula. It consistently ranks not just as one of the safest cities in Mexico, but in all of the Americas. The streets are clean, the locals are fiercely proud of their Mayan heritage, and the police presence is highly visible but incredibly friendly.

The Strategy: * Sunday Mornings: The city shuts down its main boulevard, Paseo de Montejo, for the BiciRuta. Rent a bike and pedal past the massive 19th-century European-style mansions without worrying about traffic.

• The Food Scene: This is the undisputed heavyweight champion of Yucatecan food. Seek out authentic sopa de lima and slow-roasted cochinita pibil. The street food here is as safe as it is legendary.

2. Valladolid (Yucatán)

The Colonial Basecamp

Most tourists only see Valladolid through the window of a tour bus on their way to Chichén Itzá from Cancún. That is a massive mistake. This vibrant, pastel-colored colonial town is incredibly safe to wander through at any hour. It has a slow, jungle-town rhythm that forces you to relax.

The Strategy:

• The Downtown Cenote: You don’t even have to leave the city to find a sinkhole. Cenote Zaci is literally right in the middle of town. It’s the perfect place to cool off when the midday jungle heat peaks.
• Nighttime Strolls: The main plaza (Parque Principal) comes alive after dark with food carts and families hanging out. Grab a marquesita (a crispy crepe filled with Nutella and Edam cheese—trust the local palate on this one) and just people-watch.

3. Progreso (Yucatán)

The Local’s Beach

If you want the Gulf of Mexico without the sterile, walled-off resort vibe of the Riviera Maya, head to Progreso. It’s located just 40 minutes north of Mérida and serves as the weekend beach getaway for the locals. It is incredibly laid-back, highly secure, and famously boasts the longest pier in the world (stretching four miles into the ocean).

The Strategy:

• The Malecón: The newly renovated boardwalk is built for long, safe walks. It is lined with open-air restaurants where you can eat fresh ceviche with your toes in the sand.
• Skip the Cruise Days: If you want the ultimate quiet experience, check the cruise ship schedule. Visit on a day when there isn’t a massive ship in port, and you will practically have the beach to yourself.

4. Campeche / San Francisco de Campeche (Campeche)

The Pirate Fortress

Stepping into Campeche feels like walking onto a movie set. Because it was constantly attacked by pirates in the 1600s, the historic center is surrounded by massive stone walls and bastions. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably the quietest, safest capital city in the country. The facades of the buildings are meticulously painted in alternating pastel colors.

The Strategy:

• Walk the Ramparts: You can actually walk along the top of the old pirate-defense walls. Doing this right at sunset gives you an unmatched view of the Gulf on one side and the perfectly gridded, colorful city on the other.
• Calle 59: This is the main pedestrian artery. It’s lined with art galleries, cafes, and restaurants that set their tables right out on the cobblestones. It is pedestrian-only and incredibly secure.

5. Izamal (Yucatán)

The Yellow City

Izamal is a designated Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town), and it earns the title. Almost every single building in the historic center is painted the exact same shade of golden yellow. It is visually stunning, incredibly tranquil, and small enough that crime is virtually nonexistent.

The Strategy:

• The Urban Pyramid: Izamal was built directly on top of an ancient Mayan city. You can walk right up to the Kinich Kakmó pyramid—which is sitting right in the middle of town—and climb it for free. The panoramic view of the yellow town from the top is spectacular.
• The Convent: The Convento de San Antonio de Padua is the centerpiece of the town. Its massive yellow atrium is the second largest in the world (behind only St. Peter’s in Rome).

Now for the fun part! Take the quiz below to find your perfect safe getaway!

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If you’ve been following my country-hopping adventures here on Travel Off Path for the past five years, you know by now there aren’t that many places left to check off on my Europe bucket list.

Being based in Paris, and getting those $15 Ryanair long-weekender flights every chance I get, I’ve managed to visit every major European country (yep, even Ukraine in times of war), some twice, and over 100 cities.

In reality, it’s a way-higher number than that, but who’s counting at this point?

This Is The Europe I Love

Undeniably gorgeous as Europe may be, if there’s one thing I’ve noticed over the years, it’s how safety has taken a significant turn for the worse in the short timespan of half a decade.

I needn’t even go far to notice: a simple stroll around North Paris will now put me in the same hyper-vigilant state as I usually am in, say, South America or Africa.

No hate, just facts. What we call ‘Western’ Europe is no longer the high-trust society it once was, and that’s a feeling shared by many across the political spectrum.

Still, there are well-preserved pockets of the Europe we once knew and loved. You just won’t find it in London, Barcelona, Rome, or even Stockholm, formerly a rather peaceful capital, now one of the continent’s top crime hotspots.

Without beating around the bush too much, here are 5 European cities where I feel absolutely safe in:

Budapest, Hungary

A former imperial city, Budapest has retained much of its past glory, and I’m not talking only about the stately fin de siècle buildings, the red-domed Parliament on the shores of the Danube, and the squeaky-clean streets:

Other than being an absolute stunner, and possibly one of the most beautiful European capitals you’ll ever set foot in, it’s incredibly low-risk for travelers.

Coming from Paris, I’m always a bit wary of letting my guard down, especially in touristy spots, but it will only take you a quick glance around a predominantly, proudly-Hungarian Budapest to notice our self-imposed restraints do not apply here:

People walk using their phones completely oblivious to potential snatchers, train stations do not look like the gateway to the seventh Dantean hell, and women walk home alone late at night without hiding a key between their knuckles.

The U.S. Department of State concurs: Budapest (and Hungary as a whole) is a very safe destination, listed as Level 1: Americans do not have to worry with elevated crime, terrorist plots (there aren’t any), and mugging when visiting.

That said, there might be the odd catcaller or rowdy drunken fellow in the tramway, and I’d maybe consider steering clear of the outer suburbs of District VIII at night—it’s Budapest’s gypsy ghetto and drug problems and rough sleeping are rampant—but overall, you can rest assured violence is a non-issue.

Warsaw, Poland

Yet another Central European capital that’s found itself in my good graces lately is Warsaw, Poland.

I’ve been to numerous large cities in Poland at this point, and I could truly vouch for any of them, but given Warsaw’s size and its global attractiveness, it’s a particularly rare feat that it’s maintained the seemingly-unavoisable urban issues so tightly controlled.

Though it has a metropolitan area of over 3.2 million residents, Warsaw has a very low crime rate of 19.60—if we were to compare, London’s is a devastating 64.93, and my Paris nest an equally shameful 62.35.

Poland has taken some heat in the European Parliament for being tough on its border control, and showing no clemency as far as terrorism threats go, but it seems to have paid off:

Similarly to Buda, you won’t spot locals feeling for their wallets every 10 seconds in the metro, nor women deliberately avoiding certain neighborhoods out of fear of being attacked by baleful men. Poland almost seems to exist in a different universe altogether than that of the wider European Union.

As for me, I quite enjoy wandering around Warsaw’s medieval-esque Old Town, with a café-lined Market Square and a red-brick Barbican, without casting looks over my shoulder, or scanning the (majority-Polish) crowds for my usually-perceivedthreats.

Vilnius, Lithuania

It seems the further East you go, the safer you feel these days. Welcome to Vilnius, the compact, quaint capital of a tiny nation called Lithuania, straddling the Baltic Sea, and a storybook destination without the usual roadside bandits and dragons to slay.

In our Traveler Safety Index, Lithuania is one of the highest-ranking European spots out there, with a ‘stable’ badge and a current score of 85, based on live signals from real people who’ve visited recently.