Are there truly the most dangerous cities in Europe? For many who have never set foot on this continent, Europe remains an ideal destination for travel and living. With its splendid cultural heritage and captivating natural landscapes, Europe has drawn global visitors for centuries. In reality, Europe remains one of the world’s safest regions overall. However, growing security concerns in certain European cities have led some residents to fear attacks, making them hesitant to venture out after dark. Many people begin to pay attention to public safety across major European cities. So, what are the most dangerous cities in Europe? How to keep safe in these cities? Let’s move on.
How to Decide the Most Dangerous Cities in Europe?
The classification of Europe’s most dangerous cities depends on the criteria and data sources used. Typically, such lists are based on crime rates, which include offences such as theft, robbery, assault, and murder. However, these crime statistics may vary due to population density, socioeconomic conditions, and law enforcement efficiency. We have compiled a list of Europe’s most dangerous cities based on the crime index published by the global database platform Numbeo. It conducts online surveys among global netizens, covering concerns about theft, robbery, violent crime, and drug abuse, as well as feelings of safety during the day and night.
According to Numbeo’s statistics, among the 15 most dangerous cities in Europe, France and the United Kingdom account for the highest proportion, with French cities making up 47% and British cities 33%. Specifically, in France, major cities like Marseille, Lyon, and Paris rank among the most dangerous, while in the UK, cities such as Birmingham, Bradford, and Coventry stand out for their higher levels of danger.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe
The safety issues of one city can negatively impact residents’ sense of well-being and satisfaction, and may even lead to population outflow. Below are the 10 most dangerous cities in Europe. Let’s explore what factors have made them stand out as the most dangerous European cities in people’s minds.
| Rank | City | Country | Crime Index | Safety Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marseille | France | 66 | 34 |
| 2 | Birmingham | United Kingdom | 64.7 | 35.3 |
| 3 | Bradford | United Kingdom | 63.7 | 36.3 |
| 4 | Coventry | United Kingdom | 62.9 | 37.1 |
| 5 | Naples | Italy | 62.4 | 37.6 |
| 6 | Grenoble | France | 61.8 | 38.2 |
| 7 | Liege | Belgium | 60.2 | 39.8 |
| 8 | Montpellier | France | 59.9 | 40.1 |
| 9 | Nantes | France | 58.4 | 41.6 |
| 10 | Lyon | France | 58.3 | 41.7 |
1. Marseille, France
Marseille is the most dangerous city in Europe. It is France’s second-largest city, located on the Mediterranean coast in the south of the country, with a population of nearly 900,000. Marseille boasts beautiful scenery and cultural diversity. However, Marseille has a crime index of 66.0, with various criminal issues concentrated in the city’s outlying areas, including racial segregation, poverty, and drug-related violence. Drug-related crimes, in particular, make life difficult for many residents in the northern districts. Many have also faced conflicts with drug trafficking gangs. In 2022, 32 people died from gang murders and drug-related violence. Drug-related homicides reached 49 in 2023. Though the number decreased in 2024, 17 cases were recorded by October. Though the local police work hard to maintain public order, it can suppress some crimes in the short term.
2. Birmingham, United Kingdom
Birmingham, the UK’s second-largest city, ranks second among the most dangerous cities in Europe. Primary crime types include pickpocketing, burglary, and vehicle theft. Dozens of individuals are arrested daily in Birmingham for carrying weapons. Key crime hotspots include the city centre, Chinatown, the Aston district, Bordesley Green, and the Old Market area. As in many other cities, gun violence is typically confined to specific neighbourhoods like the Lozelle area. Birmingham ranks 22nd in England and Wales’ 2024 city crime rate rankings. There are 119 incidents per 1,000 residents. Crime rates are higher in the city centre and surrounding areas of some universities, such as Aston University and Birmingham City University, ranging from approximately 149‰ to 180‰. The primary risks include theft, robbery, knife violence, and youth crime.
3. Bradford, United Kingdom
Bradford is among the European cities with poorer public safety, boasting an overall crime rate of approximately 133 per 1,000 residents—significantly higher than the national average. Violent and property crimes are particularly prevalent. Bradford city centre and nightlife districts suffer from poor security, with thefts occurring frequently. Residential areas experience common burglaries and vehicle vandalism. Contributing factors include unemployment during industrial transition, income inequality, high population density, and limited police resources.
4. Coventry, United Kingdom
Coventry is located in the West Midlands of England, about 30 kilometres southeast of Birmingham. It is the fourth most dangerous city in Europe. Coventry is now an important centre for car manufacturing, education and culture. It has two universities, the University of Warwick and Coventry University, attracting a large number of students. Coventry city centre and university area are relatively safe, but other places such as Foleshill, Hillfields, Stoke Aldermoor and Bell Green have more security problems, where the rates of violent crimes, drug crimes, gang activities and burglary are relatively high. These crimes are usually related to high unemployment and high poverty rates.
5. Naples, Italy
Naples is the largest city in southern Italy, boasting a rich cultural heritage. Despite its unique charm, Naples ranks among Europe’s most dangerous cities, with higher security risks than most Italian cities. The presence of organised crime groups significantly impacts the city’s security environment, with their illegal activities primarily involving drug trafficking, smuggling, and gang conflicts. However, tourists and residents should be more concerned about petty crimes such as pickpocketing, robbery, and scams. Theft and burglary frequently occur at Naples’ train stations and metro stops. In the past, incidents of bags or cameras being snatched from passing motorcycles have also been reported. Traffic in Naples is chaotic, and the risk of vehicle break-ins is high. Residents should exercise particular caution when using buses R2, 152, and 202, which connect the city centre to the train station.
6. Grenoble, France
Grenoble is a renowned French city of science, a university hub, and a winter sports centre, often called the “Capital of the Alps.” Surrounded by mountains, it boasts stunning scenery. However, Grenoble is one of the most dangerous cities in Europe. Its security challenges extend beyond property crimes, with armed violence, drug trafficking (particularly cannabis), and gang conflicts posing more prominent threats. These crimes are often linked to turf wars over drug markets.
Areas like Villeneuve (La Villeneuve), Le Village, and Arlequin have become synonymous with Grenoble’s security issues. These large social housing estates serve as epicentres for drug dealing and gang violence. Nevertheless, Grenoble also faces petty crime in its bustling tourist areas. Moreover, as the second-largest city in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region after Lyon, it experiences heightened risks of pickpocketing on local and long-distance public transport, alongside other assaults.
7. Liege, Belgium
Liège serves as the economic and cultural hub of Belgium’s Wallonia region, yet it grapples with challenges common to post-industrial cities: high unemployment, localised poverty, and the resulting crime issues. Liège-Guillemins Station, a major transportation hub connecting Brussels, Paris, and Cologne, Germany, sees a diverse mix of travellers and is a hotspot for pickpocketing, snatch thefts, and drug dealing. Particularly at night, the environment becomes relatively chaotic, making it a “hotspot” for public safety concerns in Liège. The Saint-Léonard district is one of the oldest areas in Liège and currently one of the most troubled in terms of public safety. Its narrow streets are lined with cheap bars and adult shops, where drug dealing and street crime occur with high frequency.
8. Montpellier, France
Montpellier is the capital of the Occitanie region in southern France. It is a vibrant university town and tourist destination, with students comprising approximately one-quarter of its population. Although it ranks among the most dangerous cities in Europe, its overall public safety environment is not as poor as Marseille’s. Saint-Roch train station serves as the city’s transportation hub, attracting a diverse crowd and making it a high-risk area for pickpocketing and snatch thefts. The Old Town, the core tourist area, is bustling and safe during the day and early evening. However, certain alleys on its outskirts, along with places like the Perrou Gardens, can become spots for drug dealing or homeless gatherings when deserted late at night. Some suburbs with high poverty and unemployment rates also face more pronounced crime issues.
9. Nantes, France
Nantes, the capital of France’s Loire region, is known as the “Venice of the West” for its rich historical heritage and vibrant cultural life. It ranks as the ninth most dangerous city in Europe. Public safety issues in Nantes extend beyond petty crimes targeting tourists, manifesting more prominently in frequent violent protests, vandalism of public property, and a recent rise in knife attacks and street robberies. The area around Nantes train station is notorious as a nighttime crime hotspot. Homeless individuals, drug users, and alcoholics congregate here, making it a high-risk zone for robberies, drug dealing, and violent assaults. Place Buffier, the heart of Nantes’ nightlife, is lined with bars and clubs. On Friday and Saturday nights, alcohol-fueled fights, robberies, and antisocial behaviour are common occurrences.
10. Lyon, France
You might be surprised to learn that Lyon ranks among Europe’s most dangerous cities. Lyon, France’s third-largest city, serves as the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and stands as a major economic, industrial, and cultural hub in France. Home to one of Europe’s largest commercial centres, the area around Part-Dieu train station and its surrounding business district sees extremely complex foot traffic. It is a hotspot for pickpocketing, snatch-and-grab thefts, and drug dealing. The Guillotière neighbourhood (in the 7th arrondissement) is Lyon’s most dangerous area. While it features affordable markets and a vibrant, diverse atmosphere, it is also severely affected by poverty, drug dealing, and street crime.
Common Crimes in Most Dangerous Cities of Europe
Although these most dangerous cities in Europe have distinct features in public security, they share a set of crimes that affect local residents. Below, we break these common offences down into two categories.
- Property crimes
- Pickpocketing: the most common and frequently encountered crime in high-risk areas includes city centres, tourist attractions, and public transportation systems in nearly all cities.
- Snatch theft (especially motorcycle snatch theft): acted through motorcycles or bicycles to snatch phones or bags before speeding away.
- Vehicle-related crimes: extremely common crime in the most dangerous cities in Europe, including smashing car windows to steal items inside and bicycle theft.
- Burglary: frequently in neighbourhoods with weak residential security measures, making local residents in European unsafest cities feel afraid.
2. Violent Crime
- Street Fights/Violent Assaults: concentrated in areas with high concentrations of bars and clubs and typically triggered by alcohol or drug abuse.
- Knife Crimes/Gang Violence: often linked to gang turf wars, especially over drug trafficking, targeting rival gang members.
- Anti-social behaviour: includes public drunkenness, vandalism, and harassment, severely impacting urban aesthetics and residents’ quality of life.
How to be Safe in Most Dangerous Cities in Europe?
Living in European cities with higher security risks can inevitably cause unease, and the likelihood of unexpectedly encountering danger is relatively greater. Whether you are a tourist visiting or an international student studying here, taking steps to protect yourself is crucial. Staying vigilant and acting cautiously are the core principles for ensuring your safety. Below are some common self-protection tips for moving in high-risk European cities. Be sure to adapt these suggestions flexibly based on the specific local conditions.
- Stay alert: In crowded subways, trams, and similar locations, if you feel surrounded by multiple people, quickly adjust your position to avoid exposing your belongings. If necessary, shout for help or seek assistance from nearby passengers.
- Secure important items: Avoid using shoulder bags or backpacks; instead, use a waist pouch or chest bag worn close to the body. Keep important items like passports and wallets in inner pockets. On public transport like subways and buses, avoid standing near doors to prevent “phone snatchers” from striking.
- Avoid nighttime outings: Minimise solo nighttime travel, especially to high-risk areas like bars, train stations, and suburban zones. If travel is necessary, go with companions, plan routes in advance, and steer clear of secluded alleys.
- Carry emergency funds: Keep a small amount of cash (e.g., 20 euros) as “escape money” to hand over during robberies, preventing confrontations. Distribute valuables across multiple bags instead of keeping them in one.
- Choose safe accommodation: The online reliable rental platform uhomes.com offers safe student accommodation with 24h security, ensuring residents’ safety. When living in your home in the top unsafe cities in Europe, you can install security devices like doorstops and dummy cameras. Use only initials on door plaques to conceal gender information.
- Remember Emergency Numbers: Memorise the EU-wide emergency number 112 and the local police number (e.g., 17 in France, 110 in Germany). Seek immediate assistance in emergencies.
Alternatives to the Most Dangerous Cities in Europe
If you prefer to avoid the most dangerous cities in Europe without compromising on travel quality, consider the following alternatives. They combine high safety standards with rich culture, quality of life, and educational opportunities, ideal for a pleasant and inspiring European experience.
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Dublin, Ireland
- Vienna, Austria
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Bath, England
Conclusion
Most dangerous cities in Europe do not imply they are entirely off-limits, but rather that these cities often face more complex public safety challenges in specific areas, such as property crime, organised crime, or social inequality issues. When planning your European itinerary, it’s crucial to know which cities require extra vigilance. By conducting advanced research and maintaining basic safety awareness, you can minimise risks when travelling in Europe’s most dangerous cities, allowing you to better explore these destinations rich in history, culture, and authentic local life.
FAQ
Which city has the highest crime rate in Europe?
According to the statistics of Numbeo, Marseille, France, has the highest crime rate in Europe. With a crime index of 66.0, Marseille is the most dangerous city in Europe.
What is the least safest city in Europe?
Based on the latest statistics on Numbeo, the least safest city in Europe are as follows:
- Marseille, France
- Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Bradford, United Kingdom
- Coventry, United Kingdom
- Naples, Italy
- Grenoble, France
- Liege, Belgium
- Montpellier, France
- Nantes, France
- Lyon, France
Does the UK have the highest crime rate in Europe?
No, the UK does not have the highest crime rate in Europe, but it faces distinct challenges in property crime and urban violence. Birmingham, Bradford, and Coventry are the most dangerous cities in the UK and Europe, with petty crimes like pickpocketing, burglary, and street fighting.
What is the safest city in Europe?
The Hague in the Netherlands is the safest city in Europe. In the 2025 Safety Index rankings, The Hague secured the top spot in Europe with a high score of 79.5. Dubbed the “City of Peace and Justice,” The Hague hosts the International Court of Justice and maintains robust policing alongside extensive CCTV surveillance, resulting in exceptionally low crime rates.
Which EU country has the most crime?
France has the highest crime rate among EU countries, with a crime index of 55.4. Marseille, Lyon, and Paris rank among the most dangerous cities not just in France, but in Europe as a whole.
