Is Portugal Safe? What to Know to Travel to Portugal in 2025

Portugal is a very safe country to travel to, and you can feel secure exploring the cities of Lisbon and Porto. Portuguese people are warm and friendly and make great hosts.

However, as with any country, it is important to be aware of any potential dangers and scams. If you follow some simple tips, you will find in this post – you should have a fun and safe trip.

It pays off to be aware, careful, and prepared!

Overview of a safety for a trip to Portugal

Portugal is an incredibly beautiful and diverse country at the south-western tip of Europe. From the beautiful cities of Lisbon and Porto, to the stunning natural sights found in the Alentejo, Lagos, and Douro Valley, there is something for everyone’s enjoyment in Portugal.

Portugal is a must-visit destination, and it’s safe to visit. However, it’s going to be an even safer and smoother experience, if you know all the traveling laws, what to watch out for (and what to skip entirely!). And also what to do when a crime was committed: whom to call. 

is Portugal dangerous for tourists?

Portugal has a very low crime rate compared to other countries. Violent crimes are uncommon and usually happen only in specific areas known for being unsafe. So, people wondering if Portugal is dangerous for tourists, have their answers in the low crime rates statistics.

In terms of safety, Portugal ranks 7 out of 163 countries in the 2024 Global Peace Index, and second out of 36 countries in Europe, just behind Iceland. The index measures the peacefulness of countries. The lower the score the more peaceful the country, and Portugal’s ranking is great!

How were these data collected? Numbeo collects data from over 1,500 people living in Portugal, which shows that most people feel very safe walking alone during daylight, and feel safe walking around alone at night, though they consider corruption and bribery to be a moderate problem.

Overall, Portugal is a safe country with low crime rates, making it an attractive option not only for tourists, but for homebuyers and investors as well.

Petty Theft and Mugging

Petty thefts, such as pick-pocketing, bag snatching, and scams, are prevalent in Portugal. These crimes occur in larger cities, especially those popular with tourists, like Lisbon, Porto, and Sintra.

Here is a list of places in Lisbon to be especially careful around.

To avoid becoming a victim of crime, travelers should be aware of their surroundings at all times and keep their belongings close.

Other precautions that should be taken when planning a trip to Portugal include parking in secure areas, such as hotel parking garages, opting for a hotel instead of a homestay or rented home, and avoiding leaving items in an unattended car.

Tourists should also be especially vigilant when using public transportation, especially on the popular Tram 28.

The scams you might encounter in Portugal are about the same as in any other European city. The only one that is specific to Portugal has to do with the confusing legal status of marihuana in Portugal. This leads to the next topic.

Are there any tourist scams in Portugal to be aware of?

Yes, there are a few scams to be aware of.  Here is a detailed list of popular scams in Portugal. Also, pot scam deserves a special mention.

IS WEED LEGAL IN PORTUGAL?

Cannabis in Portugal is decriminalized because of the decriminalization of all drugs in Portugal in 2001. However, that doesn’t mean that weed is legal! Confusing, isn’t it?

Medical use of cannabis-based medicines was legalized in 2018.

The non-medical use of marihuana is decriminalized, which means you won’t go to jail for weed (or any other type of drugs) or get in any serious trouble. The charge would typically vary from no charge at all to having to attend a rehabilitation program and maybe some fine. However, the use is not legal!

So, here comes a common scam.

MARIHUANA SCAM:

Here is how Marihuana or any other type of drugs scam work:

Fake drugs

You can often notice guys, mostly in Lisbon and Porto, who offer marijuana, hashish or cocaine as you walk past. Most people heard something about drugs being decriminalized in Portugal, so they might assume that this offer is legitimate. Especially since there are usually police officers presented not far away.

What they sell, though, is bay leaves and other harmless household ingredients.

And if you wonder why the police have done nothing about it, it is because these people are technically not selling drugs.

However, this has become such a nuisance to everybody that the government is expected to step in soon.

Sometimes they sell the real illegal drugs

If someone approaches tourists and offers drugs, remember that buying drugs is punishable, as was explained above.

DISCLAIMER: ALL THIS PROVIDED INFORMATION HAS THE ONLY PURPOSE; TO HELP YOU AVOID BEING SCAMMED AND, IN NO WAY OR FORM, ADVOCATE THE USE OF ANY DRUGS.

NEW 2021 law CHANGE TO MEDICAL CANNABIS-BASED MEDICINE

Since the April 2021, the Portuguese government has approved the first-ever cannabis-based medicine in the country. If you have medical conditions, you may buy the cannabis-based medicine in an approved pharmacy with a prescription from a doctor.

However, recreational use of marijuana is still not legal.

Portugal has decriminalized the possession of small amounts of drugs, including marijuana, meaning that possession for personal use will not result in incarceration. Instead, offenders will be required to attend educational or therapeutic programs.

Drug trafficking, however, is still a criminal offense and offenders can be fined, deported or face more serious punishments.

To summarize marijuana laws in Portugal.

• The act of producing, importing, or selling recreational hemp is forbidden in Portugal.  
• Possessing plants, substances, or preparations in amounts that don’t surpass what is needed for the average individual’s 10-day consumption is not considered an offense.

DISCLAIMER: ALL THIS PROVIDED INFORMATION HAS THE ONLY PURPOSE; TO HELP YOU AVOID BEING SCAMMED AND, IN NO WAY OR FORM, ADVOCATE THE USE OF ANY DRUGS.

Other tourists scams 

There are other scams in Portugal to be aware of. 

Here is a list of popular scams in Portugal:

• Sale of discounted tickets to attractions such as the Torre de Belem in Lisbon, which are not valid.
• Some restaurants may also attempt to overcharge for dishes, so it’s important to check reviews prior to dining.
• An accommodation scams, so, always book through reputable vendors!
• “The Rosemary Scam,” involving an older Roma woman offering a sprig of rosemary and then demanding payment.
• “The Slip-and-fall Scam” in which a Roma person will physically touch you while they or an accomplice pick your pocket.
• “The Petition Scam,” in which you are presented with a petition to sign as a distraction while someone else takes your belongings.
• Plus the marihuana and other drugs scam described above.

Finally, pick-pocketing is common in Portugal, especially in the major cities and tourist attractions. Pay special attention in these areas of Portugal.

How to stay safe traveling to Portugal

Portugal is such a fun country to travel to! However, to have a great trip to the country, it is important to be aware of some important rules.

By following listed in this post safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Stay in Safe Communities

Do research before booking your accommodation to make sure you are staying in a safe community.

You should always book your accommodation through reputable vendors and take normal security precautions to ensure your safety. What are these precautions?

Precautions to take in Portugal

You know, that “better safe than sorry” saying… Here are some basic safety tips, and I will also break it down to nighttime and solo traveler safety tips later in this post. Or, you can jump straight there.

basic safety tips

Basic safety tips list:

• Get travel insurance
• don’t leave your belongings unattended in public or on public transport
• dress conservatively and don’t look flashy or rich
• be alert and keep sight of your belongings at all times
• be vigilant on public transport, particularly the popular trams and at crowded bus and tram stops
• beware of thieves using distraction techniques such as pick-pocketing, handbag snatching and theft from cars and holiday properties in major tourist areas
• don’t show wads of cash when paying for stuff
• control how much cash you carry
• wear a money belt, be aware of distraction techniques
• learn some Portuguese phrases
• avoid homeless communities around large train stations
• report the loss or theft immediately to the local police and get a police report
• and use common sense when it comes to nightlife

Is Portugal safe for nightlife activities?

Yes, Portugal is generally safe for nightlife activities. The country has low rates of violent crime.

However, besides  the basic safety tips in Portugal, nighttime requires some additional care, like not walking alone in deserted areas at nigh and other nightlife safety tips I am explaining below.

So, while it is safe to go clubbing or bar hopping in Lisbon (read my post on activities in Lisbon you should participate in) and in most Portuguese cities, it is always best to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Be especially vigilant in popular tourist areas (click for the full list)

Ultimately, Portugal is a safe country to visit and enjoy a night out, as long as you take the precautions.

how to stay safe at night going out

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to poor decisions, and you should also be aware of scam artists offering fake drugs, explained above.

Additionally, crime rates increase at night, so it is important to take precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas and only walking on tourist streets with higher amounts of people.

You should also know the way to your destination before you start walking and, if it’s very late, consider taking an Uber or taxi to your accommodation (read my rideshare in Portugal post)

Lastly, leave your valuables in a secure place. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable nightlife experience in Portugal.

To sum up nighttime safety tips:

1. Keep your valuables in a safe place
2. Know the way to your destination before you start walking
3. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
4. Don’t accept snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk
5. Don’t leave your food or drinks unattended or
6. Don’t leave with a stranger
7. Walk on tourist streets with higher amounts of people

Is Portugal safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Portugal is safe for solo travelers and is a great destination for men or women, who decide to travel there alone. It is ranked in the top 10 countries of the Global Peace Index, which makes it one of the safest countries to visit in Europe and worldwide, as I have already mentioned above.

That said, it is still important to take basic precautions when traveling in Portugal. Read the previous section for the list of safety tips.

Read my related post about solo traveling, to help you have even better trip when you travel alone.

Is Portugal safe for solo female travellers?

OK, so I’ve explained why the country is safe for people, traveling solo. But what about solo female travelers, as they have specific needs?

I highly recommend Portugal for a solo female traveller, from my own experience. I felt safe, traveling in Portugal, and I enjoyed an easy and reliable access to public transportation and safe hotels!

You will be pleasantly surprised how the local older ladies and gentlemen will help you without being asked! I know this, because they always help me without being asked to do that, which is not typical in other areas of the world. That many won’t speak English won’t be a problem; they are very good at explaining everything without a common language!:)

Are there any specific safety concerns for women travelers in Portugal?

Yes, and they are the common concerns.

Also, all nightlife safety tips I already highlighted, should also be used during the daytime as well by solo female travelers, as they always need extra safety mindfulness.

In conclusion, Portugal is a great place for solo travelers, as long as you take the precautions. With its low crime rates and friendly locals, Portugal is a safe and enjoyable place for solo travelers, male and female alike.

Walking precautions in Portugal

Portugal is the only country that comes to my mind that has an additional “concern” for people walking, while it also makes the country exceptionally beautiful!

Slippery Portuguese pavement calcada

First thing I noticed about the country on my first visit of Portugal was it’s beautiful pavement “calçada”. In fact, I never stopped noticing how great it makes everything look!

But, not only it is beautiful, it also uneven and slippery. It is often sloping and very narrow in the older part of the town areas. 

Plan to bring walking shoes with very good traction. I didn’t have them on one of my trips, and I was constantly on a verge of falling off of the sidewalks into a busy traffic road. Don’t be like me!:) Cross only at pedestrian crosswalks, and look both ways and that vehicles have stopped before crossing.

Weather related precautions

I’m sure you know the drill, but here is just a reminder. Avoid swimming in the sea when there are no lifeguards on duty.

Take precautions against the strong sun, especially in summer. The best thing is to wear long sleeves shirts and pants. But since almost no one does that, and many people use sunblock lotions, it’s very important to buy safe sunblock lotions, without unwanted additives. To understand which ingredients are safe to have in sunblock lotions you should buy, visit my packing for travel page.

Stay Informed of Current Events

Staying informed of current events is essential for protecting yourself while visiting a country. It allows you to be aware of any potential demonstrations, strikes, or mass gatherings, which can quickly turn violent, as well as disruptions to traffic or public transportation.

By monitoring local media and following the instructions of local authorities, you can avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, ensuring your safety and security while traveling.

Let’s look at other questions you might have about Portugal’s safety.

Are there any particular areas of Portugal that are less safe than others?

Yes there are. In comparison to the rest of Portugal, some areas should be approached with caution, especially at night.

Lisbon areas to be careful when Exploring

Below are the areas of Lisbon to be more watchful for your surroundings, when you explore them.

Areas of Lisbon to be more cautious about

• The usual (like in every country) bus and train stations, especially Sete Rios bus station.
• Oriente, Santa Apolonia, Entrecampos, Marques do Pombal, Rossio metro stations in Lisbon.
• Popular tram route 28 and 15 tram can be prime targets for thieves.
• Belem (the touristy part)
• Martim Moniz
• Baixa (downtown)
• Bairro Alta (the party place)
• Alfama

All these areas are completely safe for walking, but require some extra vigilance just in case.

Lisbon also tends to have more crime than the rest of Portugal, though the towns of Mafra, Fatima, Sintra, and Cascais have their share of thefts and scams.

In Madeira, thefts mostly occur in the Old Town and Santa Catarina Park areas of Funchal.

Do not avoid the areas altogether during the day, as they are fun areas to explore, and the most favorited by tourists. Just be mindful and aware. 

Are there any public transport safety considerations in Portugal?

When visiting Portugal, there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind when using public transport. Trams and metro are generally safe, but there is an increased risk of pick-pocketing in crowded areas and on popular tourist trams such as numbers 15 and 28.

Bus travel is more complicated in smaller towns but is reliable and affordable. It is advised that people avoid travelling late at night where possible and take a taxi instead.

Portugal’s train network is safe, with some of the least expensive fares in Europe. However, some of the older trains can be rickety, so it is important to check before boarding.

Car break-ins can also happen, so it is advised to avoid leaving any valuable items in the car and to park in well-lit areas. Overall, Portugal transportation is safe and reliable. Don’t forget to use Navegante card in Lisbon to simplify your trip and reduce the fare.

ATM in Portugal

When traveling to Portugal, it is important to know how to use ATM in Portugal and be aware of the potential risks of using ATMs.

Although Portugal is a safe country, it is wise to be cautious when using ATMs, particularly in isolated or poorly lit areas. It is recommended to only use ATMs during the day in heavily populated urban centers or at banks, where you can be easily noticed by others.

You should also avoid carrying large amounts of cash and try to pay with debit or credit cards where possible. 

Below are ATM safety tips, applicable to any country, Portugal included:

Here are some tips on ATM safety in Portugal:

– Only use ATMs located inside banks during operating hours for added security. ATMs on streets or in inconspicuous locations are more risky.

– Be aware of your surroundings when withdrawing cash and shield your PIN from potential onlookers. Consider using your body to block view of your keypad.

– Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas, even during daylight hours. Stick to well-traveled and populated locations.

– Beware of scams involving “helpful” strangers around ATMs who may try to distract you or unsettle your transaction. Bank employees will not ask to assistance with withdrawals.

– Be cautious of attached skimming devices or hidden cameras that could capture your PIN. Give the machine a quick scan for any loose items or wires before inserting your card.

– Only ever use an ATM where there is no sign of tampering like cracks or peeling on the card slot cover. This could indicate compromised security.

– Consider signing up for alerts from your bank notifying you of withdrawals so you can quickly report suspicious activity.

– Photograph anyone following you after an ATM visit in case of theft and provide images to local police.

Staying aware and avoiding lonely ATMs after dark goes a long way in protecting yourself from potential scams and card cloning in Portugal. Trust your intuition and find a safe location if you feel uneasy.

So, I believe I’ve covered all the topics you could be wondering about safety of your Portuguese trip. By following tips from this post, you can help to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable visit to wonderful Portugal.

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