Is Portugal Safe to Visit in 2025? Safety Advice for Travel

When you look at Portugal on a map and see a very small country, you may wonder, “Is Portugal safe?” It is normal to be worried when you look at the levels of unemployment and poverty anywhere in Europe. But if we could pick one word to describe traveling in Portugal, it would be “easy.”

Portugal ranks among the safest countries in Europe. Crime rates are very low compared to the United Kingdom and Germany. According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, Portugal is the seventh safest country in the world.

But, exactly how safe is Portugal? Is it dangerous for foreigners to travel or live there? In this article, we will look at the recent statistics on Portugal safety, list some travel tips for you to practice, and the safest places you can visit.

Why is Portugal so safe?

Below, you can take a closer look at the statistics for Portugal’s safety, overall crime rates, and socio-economic landscape.

Low crime rate in Portugal

Are you asking yourself, “Is Portugal dangerous for tourists?” According to Numbeo, Portugal has one of the lowest rates of violent crime in Europe, and Lisbon is among the safest cities in the European Union.

Alongside the low crime rate in Portugal, the autonomous Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores, in particular, experience meager crime rates. For example, in Madeira, news items have sometimes been regarded as slightly comical as crime-worthy items are somewhat lacking. In one case, a man tried to enter a private hospital on the island accompanied by a swan, creating some puzzlement, given the island’s lack of swans.

While crime rates in Portugal are low, incidents of pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and theft from holiday properties are common in major tourist areas and on public transport. Thieves may target foreign-registered and hired cars and use threats or violence, but this is not a common occurrence, and Portugal is a very safe country overall. If you exercise caution and use common sense, you should not have many problems.

You can also get travel insurance when visiting Portugal to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances. If you have any problems, you can simply visit the nearest police station and complete a police report for the local authorities.

Stable socio-economic landscape in Portugal

Portugal’s safety ranking is high due to the country’s stable socio-economic landscape. The government is committed to providing its residents and citizens with opportunities and assistance, which is underlined by its consistent GDP growth, low unemployment rates (6.4 percent in 2024), and transparent governance.

These factors have contributed to a sense of security in the country, fostering a peaceful environment and allowing residents to enjoy Portugal’s quality of life.

Political stability in Portugal

Portugal is safe to travel and live in, due to its long-lasting stable political climate achieved by a well-established multi-party system and no disruptions when different parties assume power. The lasting peace traces back to the Carnation Revolution of 1974, followed shortly after by an enactment of the Portuguese Constitution.

Natural disaster preparedness in Portugal

But is Portugal a safe place to visit when it comes to natural disasters? You may be aware of the earthquake of 1755 that devastated Portugal. While there’s always a minimal risk of natural catastrophes, they are extremely rare. Wildfire dangers in rural areas and flooding have been the only forms of natural disasters in recent years, the most recent being wildfires in Northern and Central Portugal in September 2024, where more than 5,000 firefighters were prepared to respond quickly.

However, Portugal’s location means the country is susceptible to natural disasters, including occasional seismic activity and severe weather warnings. Mainland Portugal has invested in disaster management and serious injury mitigation strategies, such as fast response programs and fire protection, especially in the summer when wildfire risks are at their highest.

No recent terrorist attacks in Portugal

Is Portugal dangerous when it comes to terrorism? Portugal is not a high-risk country, as there have been no recent terror attacks. Still, they can happen, so the national terrorism alert is set to ‘significant’ (level 3 out of 5). Terrorists have targeted European cities, including transport hubs and areas visited by travelers, so heed official warnings seriously.

The Portuguese government has a public alert system on terrorism and informs the public of any threat-level changes online and through social media.

Compared to other European countries, Portugal is relatively safe when it comes to terrorist attacks, and there has been no attack since 2011.

Portugal Safety for Tourists

Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, a reputation supported by consistently low crime statistics. The Global Peace Index places the Portugal safety ranking among the top ten safest nations globally, reflecting a stable, low-violence environment.

Violent crime is rare, and gun-related incidents are especially uncommon due to strict firearm regulations and a generally non-confrontational culture. Most urban areas, including Lisbon and Porto, are safe to walk in even at night; however, as in any country, some petty crime does exist.

Petty theft, particularly pickpocketing, is the most frequently reported crime, especially in tourist-heavy areas, public transportation, and major attractions. This type of criminal activity is generally non-violent and opportunistic. It is essential to maintain vigilance rather than fear. The police presence in urban centers is visible and generally effective, and crime prevention strategies have been steadily improved to keep up with rising tourism and urban development.

Portugal’s low incarceration rate and high levels of social cohesion contribute to a calm civic atmosphere. Social welfare systems, accessible healthcare, and inclusive education policies have helped reduce the inequalities that often fuel criminal behavior elsewhere. Additionally, drug decriminalization policies introduced in the early 2000s have shifted the focus from punishment to rehabilitation, resulting in a significant reduction in drug-related crimes and improved public safety outcomes.

For foreigners considering relocation, crime is rarely a deal-breaker. Whether in cities like Coimbra, coastal areas like Cascais, or the rural interior, most residents report feeling safe in their neighborhoods. Digital nomads, retirees, and families consistently rate safety as one of Portugal’s top lifestyle advantages. This is particularly relevant when compared with larger Western countries, where urban crime rates are often significantly higher.

While no country is entirely free of crime, the crime rate in Portugal stands out for its low risk of violent incidents, strong sense of public safety, and policies that focus on prevention rather than punishment. For expats or investors evaluating long-term stability, these features enhance the country’s appeal beyond just property prices and climate.

Nightlife safety in Portugal

Portugal nightlife is vibrant, diverse, and, by European standards, remarkably safe. Whether you’re in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto, Porto’s Galerias de Paris, or resort towns like Lagos and Albufeira, the country offers a dynamic late-night scene that generally avoids the aggressive atmosphere often found in other tourist-heavy destinations.

Street safety remains high, even late at night. Violent confrontations, brawls, and harassment are rare, and Portugal lacks the strong “lad culture” or binge-drinking mentality that can lead to conflicts, especially in or around train stations. People typically go out to enjoy music, conversation, and food—not to cause trouble.

Local law enforcement maintains a discreet yet effective presence in nightlife districts, and security at venues is professional and well-regulated. Entry checks are common at clubs, especially in Porto, Lisbon, and the Algarve.

For solo travelers, particularly women, Portugal is considered one of the more comfortable places for personal safety in Europe to enjoy a night out. However, common-sense precautions still apply: be aware of your surroundings, watch your drink, stick to well-lit public places, and avoid leaving your phone or bag unattended. Taxi and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are readily available and safe options for late-night public transport.

An important cultural note: nightlife in Portugal starts late. Dinner can extend late into the evening, and clubs often don’t become crowded until after 1 AM. As a result, people are on the streets until the early hours, and this higher density of people tends to deter crime. The presence of both locals and tourists in nightlife areas adds to the social stability that is sometimes lacking in purely tourist-driven destinations.

Overall, Portugal offers a nightlife experience that balances fun with safety, especially for those who are mindful, moderate, and culturally respectful. It’s neither lawless nor overly policed, and it’s not intimidating. This makes it one of the rare places where going out doesn’t have to feel like a calculated risk, and there will almost always be people walking around.

Travel Safety Tips for Visitors

Living in Portugal as an expat is a reality for many internationals, and the safety aspect is a key attraction. Although Portuguese society is known to be a fairly peaceful country, you should always exercise the normal safety precautions when visiting any foreign country.

Popular tourist destinations are still home countries to the native citizens who have local customs and local laws that need to be respected and obeyed. To gain a comprehensive understanding of safety in Portugal, let’s look at the key elements that contribute to its overall security.

General safety in Portugal

Although Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, it’s best to always exercise caution to ensure a stress-free experience when visiting or living here. Here are some important safety tips:

• Make sure you’re up to speed with local laws in Portugal for tourists and regulations, including customs and traffic rules, laws on illegal drugs, and travel advice from local authorities.
• Stay aware of your surroundings. Always remain alert and mindful, especially in tourist areas and crowded places like public transport during rush hour. This awareness can help you avoid potential pickpocketing or petty theft. Keep your belongings secure, and avoid walking in quiet or poorly lit streets at night.
• Be alert to scams. Scams can happen in any country, whether it is the place you are renting that may not be legitimate or you encounter strangers offering unsolicited assistance, so keep alert.
• Make sure you have valid travel and health insurance. Portugal’s healthcare is excellent and can provide top-quality medical treatment, but it’s important to be well-prepared.
• If you are visiting the coast, be cautious of strong currents, follow beach safety guidelines, and avoid swimming alone in remote areas. Tides and weather conditions can turn quickly.

Medical information to know in Portugal

When visiting Portugal or any other foreign country, it is essential to consider any general safety requirements. You should also assess your need for medical and travel insurance according to visa requirements and do research on your destination’s healthcare system and crime rate. In the section below, we will cover these topics to help you prepare for the journey ahead when you travel to Portugal.

Healthcare facilities

The Portuguese healthcare system ranks 23rd in the world according to Numbeo’s 2025 Healthcare Index by Country. A significant contributor to its success is the abundance of multilingual medical professionals. They provide excellent service to patients and ensure effective communication and care in public and private facilities across the country.

Portugal has a top-quality selection of medical facilities from Lisbon to Porto and regions in between, including Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central and Hospital de Santa Maria in Lisbon.

Travel insurance

Having comprehensive travel insurance that covers you, your loved ones, and your essential belongings during your time in Portugal plays a vital role in ensuring you are covered against unexpected emergencies.

This type of coverage can help you pay for medical expenses and provide emergency services should something unexpected occur during your journey. It may also protect against loss if there’s ever the need to cancel or interrupt plans.

Various excellent travel insurance options are available for secure travel in Portugal. These include AXA Assistance USA, Cat 70 GoReady (formerly known as April), Europ Assistance, MondialCare, the GlobeHopper Senior Plan, Allianz, and AXA’s Schengen Travel Insurance. Each option offers robust medical coverage, ensuring healthcare costs and liabilities are covered.

They also consider potential transportation delays, providing additional coverage for a worry-free travel experience.

Vaccinations and health precautions

Before visiting Portugal, consult your doctor to make sure that you are aware of which vaccinations and health measures must be taken. Taking these precautions will help you prepare for your trip.

Women’s safety in Portugal

Portugal is generally very safe for women travelers. The culture is welcoming, and incidents of violent crime are low compared to many other countries. However, normal safety precautions are advisable.

To minimize any safety risk, women should be cautious in less populated areas, especially at night, and be mindful of their belongings in crowded tourist spots. It’s also wise to have a plan for transportation at night, such as booking a reliable taxi service or using reputable ride-sharing apps.

LGBT safety

Portugal is considered one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world. The LGBT community is embraced in Portugal, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto, where numerous LGBT-friendly venues and events exist. While public displays of affection might not attract attention in the major tourist cities, LGBT expats and tourists should be aware that more conservative views may be encountered in rural areas.

Regional safety

When navigating even the safest regions in Portugal, it’s smart to keep informed on the general safety precautions. As in all European countries and countries across the world, respecting the local culture and heeding official warnings at transport hubs and tourist destinations is vital for your safety.

Expat safety in Portugal

Portugal is known as being a welcoming country for expats, with many communities of foreigners living harmoniously in various regions. The low crime rate in Portugal and friendly locals contribute to a sense of security among expats.

Additionally, while English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, learning basic Portuguese can greatly enhance interactions and help understand local norms and practices.

Driving safely in Portugal

Driving in Portugal can be a pleasant experience, thanks to well-maintained roads and scenic routes. New drivers in Portugal should be aware of some challenges. Traffic in cities like Lisbon and Porto can be heavy, and narrow streets in older towns can be tricky to navigate. You should also check Portuguese driver’s license regulations to ensure you are driving legally.

Drivers in Portugal are known for being fast, so staying alert and cautious is key, especially on highways. Rural areas may have poorly lit roads, and animals on the road can be a hazard. It’s also important to be aware of Portugal’s strict laws against drinking and driving.

Wrapping Up: Safety in Portugal

Is Portugal a safe country? Well, we’ve answered that in detail. Portugal is one of Europe’s safest destinations to visit. By following basic safety measures, you’re unlikely to encounter any issues and be able to enjoy your time in a country that offers gorgeous scenery and captivating history.

Portugal is an excellent place for travelers who want a memorable experience with peace of mind within their surroundings. And, should you be thinking of extending your stay, perhaps even relocating, you’ll find Portugal to be one of the most wonderful places to live!