Portugal is the westernmost country in Europe, bordered by Spain on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. It is blessed with pristine beaches, incredible landscapes, and beautiful weather, making it one of the most desired destinations for travelers from all over the world.
But even with all this beauty, is Portugal safe? And more importantly, is Portugal safe for solo female travelers? Thankfully, whether you are traveling with your family and friends or by yourself, Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe.
In this article, you’ll find out why Portugal is ranked the 7th safest country in the world. You’ll also learn more about:
- Why Portugal is so safe
- Safety as a solo female traveler
- Portugal is a safe place to live
- Criminality in Portugal
- Safety in Lisbon
Is Portugal a safe country to visit?
The short answer is yes, Portugal is one of the safest nations you can visit. According to numerous international safety rankings, Portugal is much safer than other popular destinations such as the US, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and France.
However, no country is absolutely crime-free, and there are known to be instances of pickpocketing (especially in larger cities) and non-violent crimes such as burglary.
But even when those outlying instances are considered, Portugal consistently ranks high on global safety indexes and is known for its low crime rates.
Generally, it is a good idea to be vigilant and use common sense. Don’t leave your belongings unattended at the beach and don’t leave valuables inside your car.
If you are still in doubt about how to keep your belongings from going missing, we have a top 20 travel tips list for Portugal that every visitor should know.
Why is Portugal so safe?
Portugal’s reputation as one of the safest countries in the world stems from a combination of factors. For example, it has a well-trained and armed police force. They maintain a visible yet non-intimidating presence in cities and tourist areas, which helps deter crime. Gun ownership is strictly regulated in Portugal.
Another major factor that is often cited for Portugal’s low crime rates is the country’s decriminalization of drugs in 2001. By treating drug use as a public health issue rather than a criminal one, Portugal has reduced drug-related crime, improved public health outcomes, and alleviated strain on law enforcement.
The Portuguese people also have a strong sense of community and a welcoming, peaceful culture. This creates strong social cohesion, and everybody is willing to help, whether a neighbor or a stranger.
In simpler terms, the Portuguese love their peace and tranquility and won’t stand for anything that disrupts it.
Is Portugal safe to travel alone?
If you travel alone to Portugal, you will not encounter too many problems, as the Portuguese are generally hospitable.
However, as in other tourist places, people may try to scam you. Beware of groups of teenagers acting strangely or trying to distract you and people offering help with your luggage.
Is Portugal safe for a solo female traveler?
Women often encounter unique challenges, particularly when traveling alone. Despite these challenges, Portugal is widely regarded as a safe destination for female travelers.
To enhance your sense of security, it is advisable to take certain precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and keeping your belongings close.
While the overall atmosphere in Portugal is welcoming, it’s worth noting that there can be instances where some men on the streets make inappropriate remarks towards women.
Fortunately, according to Portuguese law, this behavior is now classified as a crime, reflecting the country’s efforts to protect individuals and create a safer environment.
With these considerations in mind, many women have positive experiences traveling solo in Portugal. By staying informed and prepared, you can look forward to a fulfilling and enjoyable solo journey in this beautiful country.
Is Portugal a safe place to live in?
As Portugal is one of the fastest countries to visit as a tourist, it is also one of the safest in which to live.
Portugal enjoys a stable political environment for citizens and residents. Its democratic government and lack of significant political or civil unrest contribute to the country’s overall safety and minimize disruptions that might affect residents or travelers.
While Portugal is not one of Europe’s wealthiest countries, its citizens enjoy a high quality of life, with access to good healthcare, education, and social services. This reduces economic disparities and associated crime rates.
Essentially, Portugal’s safety is a result of a balanced mix of effective governance, cultural harmony, and proactive community-focused policies. This combination ensures a secure and pleasant environment for both residents and visitors.
Criminality in Portugal
In terms of both violent and petty crimes, Lisbon and Porto are probably the cities where they occur the most, especially pickpocketing and scam tricks.
The Azores and Madeira have some of the lowest frequencies of crimes in Portugal. If you are ever a victim of a crime, please report to the nearest police department.
The national telephone emergency number is 112. This number is used throughout the entire European Union.
Safety in Lisbon
The most significant concern in Portugal’s capital is pickpocketing. So, try to guard pouches or purses as well as you can and avoid walking in poorly lit streets at night.
If, unfortunately, you are robbed as a tourist, please report to the Tourism Police in Lisbon for crimes like pickpocketing, loss of items, etc. It is located at Praça dos Restauradores, in Palácio Foz, 1250-187 Lisboa.
Safety in Porto
Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is generally very safe for residents and tourists. The most common issue in Porto is petty theft, particularly in busy tourist areas like Ribeira, São Bento Station, and markets. Pickpocketing can occur, but incidents are rare and can be avoided with basic precautions.
Violent crime is extremely rare in Porto, and visitors are unlikely to encounter it as the city center and popular tourist locations have a noticeable police presence, particularly during festivals or large events.
Walking around central Porto at night is generally safe, though, like in any city, it’s wise to stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated streets. Scams targeting tourists are not widespread in Porto, but be cautious of overly persistent street vendors or unsolicited assistance at ATMs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Portugal
Is Portugal safe from terrorism?
Portugal is a very safe country with respect to terrorist threats. However, it is totally impossible to predict where and when terrorist acts will be perpetuated. However, the likelihood of this happening is low compared to other popular tourist destinations like France, Germany, London, and Spain. Nevertheless, please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity or movement to the authorities.
Is the water in Portugal safe to drink?
This a common question people ask in Portugal. The answer is simple. The tap water in Portugal is safe to drink. However, it is common to find people in Portugal buying bottled water to drink. This is only due to personal preference and not because the tap water is not safe to drink.
Is Portugal safe for American and EU tourists?
Portugal is safe for visitors from most, if not all, countries. However, tourists from America might want to be careful when driving in Portugal because the roads are very narrow. Also, as a rule, it is better to work in groups, especially at night.
Are there natural disasters in Portugal?
You might have heard about the Lisbon earthquake of 1755, which almost destroyed the whole city and neighboring areas. To date, that is the most devastating natural disaster to have happened in Portugal.
With that, Portugal is less prone to natural disasters. However, there are frequent wildfires and forest fires in the north of Portugal.
Flooding is another occurrence in Portugal, and recently, there was a cyclone, too. That said, always be updated with the weather news for any destination you travel to.
Some Safety Tips
- Avoid using automatic teller machines (ATMs) in isolated or poorly lit areas.
- Always book your accommodation through reputable vendors
- Do not go around with lots of cash
- Avoid dark streets and alleys
