Data retrieved from Numbeo, the largest database of user-contributed data about cities and countries worldwide, show that crime across Europe has been on the rise over the last few years.
Its “crime index” helps people make informed decisions about their travel plans. The index goes from 0 to 100.
“We consider crime levels lower than 20 as very low, crime levels between 20 and 40 as low, crime levels between 40 and 60 as moderate, crime levels between 60 and 80 as high, and crime levels higher than 80 as very high.”
With five cities in the top 10, France seems to be the most dangerous destination in Europe, followed by the United Kingdom (3 cities), Belgium (1) and Italy (1).
The “safest” cities on this index start with “high” crime levels.
10. Paris, France – 57.8 (High)
Crime has massively increased in Paris over the last 5 years (72.98). Crimes against one’s property, such as theft and drug use and dealing, score the highest with (67.58) and (64.19).
The theft of electronic devices, purses and wallets is among the biggest crimes impacting travelers. Paris is ranked as one of the pickpocketing capitals in Europe.
9. Nantes, France – 59.2 High
Nantes is another French city where crime has increased greatly in recent years (78.16).
The city’s biggest concerns are drug trafficking (67.13) and theft (65.24). The latter mostly happens in crowded areas or on public transportation. It includes pickpocketing, burglaries and luggage/car thefts.
8. Grenoble, France – 59.8 High
Similar to the other two French cities on this list, Grenoble is experiencing a significant spike in drug trafficking and use (71.21) and problems with home robberies and theft (68.88).
Pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and burglary are common in crowded areas where tourists are mostly present.
7. Liege, Belgium – 60.6 (High)
Liège is the third most populous city in Belgium after Brussels and Antwerp, and it’s also the most dangerous place in the country.
This commercial and cultural hub is currently dealing with an increase in property crime and theft (69.2).
Strong-armed robberies have become a common occurrence. Walking alone at night or leaving the city center is not advisable.
6. Naples, Italy – 62.6 (High)
The robbery of properties and theft are the most common crimes travelers will find in Naples (69.03). Another crime on the rise is drug trafficking (66.76) and car theft (66.69).
Petty theft is the most common crime visitors face. It mainly happens around tourist sights and on public transport.
5. Montpellier, France – 62.7 (High)
Data show that crime has massively increased over the last five years in Montpellier (83.96, very high). Interestingly, concerns about being verbally abused rank the highest (71.24), Followed by worries about getting attacked (64.56).
Mugging and robberies have also become a great concern among locals and visitors (63.89).
4. Birmingham, United Kingdom – 63.5 (High)
One of the most common crimes you come across in Birmingham is theft (68.78). People are also concerned about getting attacked in the street (62.04) or falling victim to an armed robbery (64.46).
Birmingham ranks as the most dangerous major city in the West Midlands, with 145 crimes per 1000 inhabitants, according to a 2022 report.
3. Coventry, United Kingdom – 64.9 (High)
Coventry’s overall crime rate is higher than in cities like Belfast, Camden, Tower Hamlets, Bristol or London.
Crime stats have jumped over the last five years (72.37). As in other major European cities on this ranking, burglary and theft are Coventry’s biggest concerns (69.71).
Housebreaking is also an issue (63.02).
2. Marseille, France – 65.9 (High)
Marseille has made the news multiple times over the last few years due to a rise in crime (71.59).
Drug trafficking seems to be the worst issue authorities are facing now (74.52). Vandalism and theft are crimes the population is experiencing the most (73.99).
Criminality in Marseille has surpassed that in Paris, Lyon, Grenoble and Bordeaux.
1. Bradford, United Kingdom – 68.1 (High)
The most dangerous city in Europe, according to data collected over the last few years, is Bradford, in West Yorkshire.
Drug trafficking is the crime that has led this city to earn the infamous first spot (80.00, very high).
Other major crimes that residents are facing include theft (74.32) and car break-ins (71.49).
Bottom Line
If visiting any of these cities, practice common-sense security precautions, be aware of your surroundings, avoid secluded or high-risk areas, and opt for pay parking.