The world's 11 safest countries revealed - a beautiful island nation takes top spot

With the summer season in full spring, many of us will have either gone away or are thinking of places to jet off to. When it comes to choosing a destination, safety features high on the list of priorities.

A new report by the Global Peace Index has revealed the world's 11 safest countries, with places in Europe and those further afield making the list. The report found that the world has become less peaceful for the 13th time in 17 years, with the average level of a country's peacefulness deteriorating by 0.36% over the previous year. However, despite the increase in armed conflict worldwide, the Safety and Security domain recorded an improvement over the past year. With a beautiful island nation boasting dramatic scenery, it takes top spot as the safest country in the world.

Austria, Germany, Poland and Slovakia and is home to just under 11 million people.

Prague is the capital of this picturesque landlocked European country. Renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, including Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge.

" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Finland is famous for many things, including having the world's best education system and the cleanest air. It has also been the happiest country in the world for seven years running.

To add to its impressive list, Finland is the 10th safest country in the world.

The possibility of a terrorist attack is low, and it has low crime rates as well as a high level of security.

Finland has thousands of lakes, extensive forests, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.

" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> tourist hustle and bustle.

The small country, which covers 7,827 square miles, straddles a range of terrains, including the European Alps and Mediterranean Coast.

Attracting around 6.9million tourists every year, Slovenia is considered the ninth safest country in the world.

It has a low rate of serious crime and a low frequency of both violent and property crimes.

" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Copenhagen, Denmark's capital, was crowned the world's most liveable city this year by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). It took the top spot from Vienna, which had held the title for three years.

Regularly ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world, Denmark is known for its relaxed pace of life, liberal attitudes, and world-famous design.

" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> Porto is on the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> 5. Switzerland

A mountainous country located in the heart of Europe, with towering mountains and deep Alpine lakes, is the fifth safest country in the world.

Down one place from last year, Switzerland has a low rate of serious crime, as well as a robust healthcare system.

Made up of 16,000 square miles of glacier-carved Alps, lakes, and valleys, Switzerland is one of the world's wealthiest countries and has been well-known for centuries for its neutrality.

Switzerland does not have a single official language, so people speak one of four languages: Swiss German, French, and Italian.

" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> 4. Austria

Located in Central Europe, the mountainous region of Austria just missed out on the top three.

Austria is a very safe country with low crime rates and a high quality of life, down one place from last year.

Austria is largely covered by the Alps, making it a popular destination for skiing and winter sports. However, it also boasts beautiful scenery for hiking and other outdoor activities.

The capital, Vienna, is a top destination for tourists when visiting Austria, known for its rich history, imperial architecture, musical heritage, and vibrant cultural scene.

" data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" /> New Zealand is one of the few unique countries that can boast breathtaking beaches and mountain ranges. " data-has-syndication-rights="1" data-portal-copyright="Getty" data-licensor-name="Getty" />