Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe

Europe may be known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cultures, but like anywhere else, it has its share of cities where crime rates are a bit higher. When we talk about the most dangerous cities in Europe, it's important to note that this doesn't necessarily mean these places are off-limits or completely unsafe.

Many people visit these cities and have amazing experiences, but higher crime statistics do give some areas a reputation for being less secure than others.

The Top Ten

Naples (Italy)

A coastal city in southern Italy, Naples is the capital of the Campania region. It is renowned for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and as the birthplace of Neapolitan pizza.
Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city serves as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and the... read more

I lived in Naples for several years. Although it's dirty and deteriorating, the city itself is very beautiful, and some places are truly special.
By the way, I must admit that many people are arrogant. They claim to be friendly and warm, but I encountered a lot of rude and impolite individuals who were often extremely intrusive.
The level of ignorance here is rare in other European cities. It's very difficult to find people who can speak English, even at a basic level. Italian itself can be a problem for some, especially in certain neighborhoods.
Episodes of racism and xenophobia, sometimes even leading to violence, are quite common. These are based on personal and friends' experiences. I have seen people insulted or even attacked for having disabilities or physical challenges.
I have personally never had problems with robbery, but I am aware of many who have. It's not unusual to see tourists robbed or victims of bag-snatching.
In my view, Naples is probably one of the most challenging cities to live in Europe due to poverty, unemployment, a lack of opportunities and services, and high levels of crime and pervasive violence. Despite all this, I still think the city is worth visiting. I don't believe you would encounter major problems going there as tourists. Just avoid carrying too much money or expensive devices with you and stay alert.
Moscow (Russia)

Moscow is the capital and most populous city of Russia. It is located in western Russia along the Moskva River. Moscow is a major political, economic, and cultural center and is home to the Kremlin, Red Square, and numerous historic landmarks.

In Russia, it is advisable for anyone within a city with a population over 100,000 to be indoors by 7 PM. Drinking in public is permitted, and to a Russian enduring a nine-month winter, beer is as commonplace as Kool-Aid is to someone from the USA.
Each March, Russian girls looking for extra vacation money for the summer often send love letters to romantics and spouse hunters on the internet. Scammers are not sentimental. It is purely about the money.
As for food, do not expect fine dining unless you are Andrew Zimmern. If you do not speak Russian, you may be refused service. However, international fast-food chains like McDonald's, KFC, and Pizza Hut will generally serve you well all over Russia.
It is best to purchase all your alcoholic beverages in a market, never from a street kiosk. Furthermore, avoid drinking in a bar, even if it is run by Hindus, as they may quickly separate you from your cash.
Belgrade (Serbia)

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, lies at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The city has a rich history that is reflected in its architecture, including landmarks such as the Belgrade Fortress and St. Sava Temple. Belgrade is also known for its lively nightlife and vibrant music scene, which... read more

People will tell you it's safe, but it's really not that safe. People are frequently beaten by the police and authorities. Homosexuals openly showing affection may face severe repercussions, including potentially lethal attacks. While murder is not as common as in other post-communist countries, it does occur. Robbery is more frequent, but the most troubling issue is larceny, from which Belgrade suffers significantly.

I have lived in Belgrade all my life, and I think the city is generally safe. Sure, there are a lot of people who are hardcore nationalists, and yes, there are gangs and pickpocketing. But not all people in Belgrade are bad, and not all parts of the city are dangerous.
It's a shame that a lot of people don't visit Belgrade because of what happened in the past or because of the actions of a few. Most people living in Belgrade are kind and friendly. Don't judge us based on the actions of some idiots.
Donetsk (Ukraine)

It concerns me to hear that my grandmother's hometown is so dangerous. She says the crime rate is terrible there. Additionally, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine does not help the situation.

Donetsk is not particularly dangerous. It is just an average industrial city in Eastern Ukraine. There is not much to see here, and it is generally safe unless you venture into the suburbs at night and make it obvious you are a tourist.

Do you know what is happening in East Ukraine? With the war going on, Donetsk is certainly one of the most dangerous cities in Europe.
Glasgow (UK)

Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, is renowned for its industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. The city features impressive Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture along with modern landmarks like the Riverside Museum. Glasgow's thriving arts and music scenes are showcased in venues such as the... read more

Some comments here are totally nonsensical. Glasgow's dangerous reputation comes from historical gang crime between youths that live on housing estates in the city's suburbs. Those who complain about growing up around crime are likely to live in areas like this, particularly in the east of the city. They are notorious to locals. The city itself continues to offer high levels of quality of life, particularly in the west of the city, which has some of the most affluent areas in Scotland. Glasgow is rich in culture and beauty and was visited by over 3.2 million tourists in 2018. Do not believe everything you see in the media.
Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated along the Miljacka River. The city is renowned for its cultural diversity and is often referred to as the "Jerusalem of Europe" because of its combination of Islamic, Orthodox, Catholic, and Jewish influences. It hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics... read more

Sarajevo is a nice city, however, it is true that you can get robbed easily. Whoever does visit the city should keep themselves in the downtown area and should not walk around the suburbs. The city is full of historical buildings, and I would call it the European Jerusalem. There is a diversity of different religions in one place, a city with good people ready to help at any given time.
Like any other big city, yes, there are gangs, however, it is safe if you keep yourself in the old town. It is a beautiful city with a nice nightlife, nice restaurants, and nice food. You just need to get in contact with someone local and then you will discover the beauties of the city itself and the people that live there.
True, it was much nicer before, but the war has done its damage. Many local people are not really from Sarajevo. A huge population migration happened during and after the war. In my opinion, it is a must-see city.
Sofia (Bulgaria)

Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, located in the western part of the country. Founded thousands of years ago, it is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history reflected in its diverse architecture that includes Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet influences.... read more

As a 16-year-old Sofian, I can tell you that I loathe this city with all my heart. You can get robbed at every corner. You can step over fresh dog excrement on every street, even in the city center. Everywhere there are these unbeatably ugly Stalinist high-rise apartment blocks from the communist era that look as if they were part of a horror film set.
The sidewalks are the worst in the entire universe, the air is the dirtiest in Europe, and the mayor is the dumbest ever. Of course, as everybody here has said, there are the Roma, locally known as Tsigani. These people live on the edge of the acceptable, frenetically building illegal houses around Sofia's outskirts. The corrupted pseudo-police never do anything against them. That's why they terrorize the people, steal, and also ride for free in the messy public transport. All of these unfixable issues contribute to the ridiculously harsh, prison-like atmosphere for those like me who just wait for the day when we'll get out of this hell on Earth.
Kaliningrad (Russia)

Organized crime haven. Very dangerous.
Pristina (Kosovo)

This place should be higher on the list. When I visited two years ago, people randomly asked me on the streets if I was American and if I wanted to be harassed. I felt extremely vulnerable everywhere I went. It may be safe for the locals, but not for tourists. Travel with men and in a large group if you go. (I dressed conservatively, so do not even think I deserved to be harassed by these scary people. Additionally, I am Canadian.)

Considering that members of the Albanian mafia and the former Kosovo Liberation Army continue to engage in organ harvesting, prostitution, and drug trafficking, it is not surprising that this city is on the list.
Modern Kosovo is the most dangerous place in all of Europe.
Malmö (Sweden)

I've been to Malmö several times, and the bad reputation is exaggerated. There are parts of the city where you wouldn't want to go at night, but that's true for many cities, even smaller ones. Malmö may not be beautiful, but it is cozy. The city boasts many creative designers, musicians, great shopping, and excellent food from around the world. In the central parts, there is a "bohemian" neighborhood that is multicultural, young, and cool, and I would say it's rather safe even at night.

There are many immigrants, often referred to as "youth," in this city in Skåne. It's a real shame. Malmö used to be a great city, but ever since the Social Democrats and Moderates decided to enrich it, it has deteriorated. Here in Sweden, Malmö is frequently mentioned when discussing crime, immigration, and violence. I recommend everyone avoid this city.
To my fellow Swedes, I recommend voting for a party that cares about Swedes and not just about the "New Swedes" in the next election, or you will have yourself to blame when it spreads to your town.

The Newcomers

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Perpignan (France)

People here have always been rude and violent. Plus, you can easily be attacked or robbed here.

France is not safe at all, especially nowadays.

Terrible city. French people are not white
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Tyresö (Sweden)

South of Stockholm represent.

The Contenders

Pripyat (Ukraine)

No one lives here! Everyone was evacuated due to the Chernobyl disaster, and now it is a dead zone. The only danger here is radiation.

I do not understand why people would visit this place. I know there is a limited amount of time you can spend in Pripyat, but you should not risk it.

It is abandoned and overgrown. Did I mention it is also full of radiation? No, there is nothing good about this city.
Istanbul (Turkey)

Istanbul, formerly known as Byzantium and Constantinople, is the most populous city in Turkey and serves as the country's economic, cultural, and historical center. The city straddles the Bosphorus Strait, placing it in both Europe and Asia.... read more

This is the worst city and the worst people I have ever encountered in my 10 years of traveling around the world. From the moment you leave the airport, you will regret going to that city. Though Istanbul is a very good city to visit as a tourist, the people there are not nice. The taxi drivers will definitely cheat you around tourist areas like Taksim.
I enjoyed the city but had a very negative experience with the people. I have been to a club in Istiklal and, because I am black, one foolish bouncer asked me to stay only by the bar. I nearly punched his face, but he was stronger than me. I wouldn't take the risk. That was the first time I experienced racism in my life.
Tirana (Albania)

Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania, located in the central part of the country. Known for its colorful Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet-era architecture, the city reflects a rich blend of cultural influences.
Tirana serves as the economic, political, and cultural heart of Albania, housing... read more

Honestly, Tirana is not even that bad. Most of the people saying bad things usually are just people that don't like Albania. But obviously, there is the very strong Albanian Mafia. They are very similar to the early Sicilian mafia, very violent, hypersensitive, and hate traitors. I go to Albania every year and have never encountered the Albanian Mafia because I have no business with them. This is the same for anyone who goes there. You are not in danger unless you have business or bad history with the Mafia.
Since Albania's new prime minister has come into place, things have improved significantly. Crime rates have decreased, the city looks better, and you can feel safe walking at night. The nightlife in Tirana is very nice.
Odessa (Ukraine)

Odessa is very beautiful but also very dangerous. There are many robbers, drug addicts, and other unfavorable people here. Never walk here at night.

It is one of the most mafia-dominated cities I have ever visited. I had a terrible experience and was robbed by the police mafia.

I never had problems in Odessa. The only issues are with corrupt police officers wanting to take your cash.
Milan (Italy)

Milan, located in northern Italy, is a global capital of fashion and design. The city's iconic Gothic cathedral, the Duomo di Milano, is a masterpiece of architecture and one of the largest churches in the world. Milan is also home to world-famous artworks, including Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper."... read more

Gypsies and undocumented immigrants, whom I believe entered the country when their Labour Party was in charge, are involved in selling drugs and pickpocketing. Additionally, the African street vendors are known to harass women, but I heard they are now being sent back to their country.

I have never experienced any problems in Milan. There are pickpockets, so watch out, but it is nothing more than that. The city is busy and a bit overcrowded with traffic, but it is also extremely interesting, inspiring, and elegant.

From my point of view, as a person they call an "Asian bitch," I faced sexual harassment on the bus, a pickpocket, and lost my Blackberry at Duomo. There was also a racist conversation and gesture on the Milan subway green line. The way they celebrate Christmas Eve involves setting off dozens of super-loud firecrackers. Policemen chased teenage gangs all night. It was totally scary. I vote for this city from the deepest of my heart.
Prague (Czech Republic)

Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and is often called the "City of a Hundred Spires" because of its skyline filled with Gothic and Baroque architecture. The city is home to the Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that overlooks the city. The Charles Bridge, decorated with statues, crosses... read more

You do not feel relaxed in Prague. This city looks like a ghost city. People there are totally different from the people in other European countries. They mostly resemble Russian people in their behavior. On my first day in Prague, two ladies tried to rob me, but I caught one of them and then they quickly ran away. The strangest thing in this story is that they tried to rob me in a big fashion shop located in the main Prague Square in front of people! There was no security for the shop, and no one even tried to help me as a solo woman! I left the entire country directly on the second day. Going to Prague was a big mistake after a long trip visiting many other European cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich.
Palermo (Italy)

I was in Palermo a week ago with my girlfriend. It felt very similar to Mogadishu in almost all the streets, except for a few central commercial ones. It looked as if it had been bombed recently. Nothing wrong happened to us, but we received many strange looks in some streets. We felt like we could be assaulted at any moment. We left in the evening. I wouldn't want to walk there late at night.

I am surprised Palermo and Corleone were not already on the list.
Liverpool (UK)

Liverpool is a city and metropolitan borough in Merseyside, England. As of the 2021 census, the population of Liverpool city proper was approximately 486,100, with estimates for the wider urban area around 500,500. The city is known for its rich maritime history, vibrant cultural scene, and as the hometown... read more

I already think England is the worst country in Europe, and Liverpool is the worst city in England. The center is being regenerated, but as soon as you leave the center, you're greeted by slums, gloomy council tenements, and people often described as chavs. Everyone in Liverpool seems to have a superiority complex and genuinely believes that being Scouse makes them God's gift to Earth. Arrogance is rampant, and muggings occur daily. And the worst accent in the world on top of it all. I'm from England and will never set foot in Liverpool again!

Liverpool is crazy. Go to the wrong area, say something out of place or do something they don't like, and trust me, you'll get shot or stabbed without a doubt. They do not mess about.
It's horrible because most of the city is like that. The nice places are lovely though. You get absolutely no trouble. For instance, Allerton, Childwall, places like that are fine. But go to Croxteth, Norris Green, Toxteth, etc., and act up, and you'll get hurt. Trust me.
Nottingham (UK)

Still on the subject of car parking in Nottingham, I read in the local press (April 2017) that almost 40% of people who challenged car parking fines in the city last year (2,814 out of 7,247 challenges) successfully appealed them. This is quite unacceptable and indicates how traffic wardens are behaving in such an irresponsibly ticket-happy manner. Nottingham City Council needs to give them a refresher training course. If penalty notices continue to be issued in this manner, it will certainly deter people from visiting the city by car.
I am sure that many other people who have obediently paid their fines would have found, if they had taken the time and trouble to challenge the notices issued to them, that their notices were also spurious. It's just that people pay the fines because they do not always have the time or the inclination to challenge them as they should.
Frankfurt (Germany)

Frankfurt is a banking city, but it is also a gateway to Europe, with a huge airport, central train station, and access to the Rhein. This means that it is really impossible to stop drugs and human trafficking, resulting in prostitution, illegal immigration, drug-related crimes, and violence.
Keep to well-populated areas at night, and if you must visit the red-light area, be very careful.

Frankfurt is actually a great city for partying and nightlife in general. On the other hand, this city has a big problem with prostitution and drugs. At night, you should stay in the city center where you can walk around on your own without any trouble. Mind the Central Station at night. There you will get in trouble with drug addicts, gypsies, and pimps or gangs.
Madrid (Spain)

Madrid is the capital and most populous city of Spain. The city has approximately 3.3 million inhabitants as of 2025. Its metropolitan area is home to over 6.6 million people, making it one of the largest urban areas in the European Union.

Bloody awful city. Anti-tourist, particularly anti-American. Awash in graffiti. The population wouldn't help anyone in distress, as the preference is destruction. No respect for the person or property. Institutional employees could give Hitler lessons! Pushy, pushy, and of course, it always helps to shout. Will NEVER be back.

As in any other big city full of tourists, if you are not careful, you might get pickpocketed or even robbed on the rare occasion. I have been there for half of my life, and not once have I had any trouble. Just take care of your things, and don't forget it is a big city with many types of people.
Limerick (Ireland)

Limerick is the type of city that you don't go out in after 6 p.m. Limerick also has the roughest suburb in Europe! I know people say it's quieted down now, but this place still has many murders to claim. In fact, if you go there, you will almost certainly wake up every morning with a burnt-out car outside your house! Eventually, this hellhole will drive you so mad that you will have to get transferred to a different place. And if you come back to look at your old house the next day, your old house will more than likely be burnt down!

People in some of the suburbs of this city don't go outside past 7 o'clock. I had a friend who used to live in Southill, a vast council estate on the city's south side, and he would often describe it as hell! Not a night goes by in this city without cars being robbed and burnt out! He eventually got transferred by the council, and when he went back to look at his old house a week later, it was burnt down!
Saint Petersburg (Russia)

A good friend of mine from Canada decided to study Russian there. He could hold out for about three months because of the high petty crime rate in the suburb where he lived and because of local police corruption.
After the first month, he decided to carry a knife as a means of self-defense. After about three months, he decided to continue his studies in Minsk.

Too bad it's true. St. Petersburg is beautiful, but some parts are really empty and deserted, and problems can occur when you are a tourist. So take a taxi or the metro, and don't go out too late in deserted areas.
Bucharest (Romania)

Bucharest is the capital and largest city of Romania. The metropolis stands on the River Dâmbovița in southeastern Romania.
Its population is officially estimated at 1.76 million residents, with a greater metropolitan area of 2.3 million residents, making Bucharest the eighth most populous city... read more

I lived in Prague for two years and was beaten up bi-weekly because of the color of my skin (Indian). I lived in Bratislava for a year, and the people there were just as horrible, slightly better than in Prague. I have since lived in Bucharest for four years, and it is literally my favorite place on earth. The people here are absolutely lovely and not racist. It is a cheap, safe paradise.
I should also mention that I was born and raised in the UK, where the people are not too racist but very violent. I was racially attacked as a child, but since I've grown up, it hasn't been too bad. I have been working as a doctor in the UK for almost a year now, and the level of violent attacks is insane.
Rotterdam (Netherlands)

The city center of Rotterdam is safe. There's nothing wrong with it. However, as soon as you enter the Southside, it starts to get dangerous. Heroin and crack addicts are everywhere, and I have never felt safe there. The big problem is that there are more drug dealers than drug users, which means more intimidating drug dealers are wandering the streets.
Don't worry about them. They usually don't do anything. This is just like the young people who swear at you and call you names. You won't get murdered in Rotterdam. It is a city known for fights, stabbings, and sometimes shootings. Just make sure not to make contact with the addicts. They are unpredictable.