Portugal Travel 2025: Essential Safety Tips for a Secure and Enjoyable Vacation in Europe's Safest Destination

As of June 2025, Portugal is widely recognized as a safe and welcoming destination for international travelers. The official guidance from major governments, including the United States Department of State, is to exercise normal precautions, meaning there are no extraordinary threats or heightened risks currently affecting visitors. The United Kingdom and Canadian authorities echo this assessment and point to Portugal’s strong record of public safety.

The most significant travel precaution in Portugal is the risk of petty crime, which includes pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles. These incidents are most common in highly trafficked areas such as Lisbon and Porto, especially in places popular with tourists like trams, buses, train stations, airports, hotel lobbies, outdoor restaurant seating, and beaches. Trams 15, 25, and 28 in Lisbon are known for pickpocket activity. Vehicle break-ins are frequent, and rental cars with visible company markings or foreign license plates are favorite targets for thieves. Listeners are advised to keep valuables secure, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and never leave belongings unattended in vehicles or public places, even for short periods. Travelers should also avoid isolated ATMs and be careful when using public transport or moving through crowded areas.

Violent crime remains rare in Portugal, though occasional burglaries of vacation homes and rental apartments have been reported, particularly in large cities and coastal regions. When choosing accommodations, ensure doors and windows are locked and that the property has adequate security measures. Assaults can occur, especially in nightlife venues in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, so travelers are advised to stay aware of their surroundings, travel in groups if possible, and only use official transportation options. Beachgoers should follow all posted safety warnings as Portuguese coastal waters can have strong currents and conditions may change rapidly.

Scams targeting tourists, such as unsolicited offers of accommodation, unofficial tour guides, or strangers providing unexpected “help,” have also been noted by European and Canadian travel advice sources. Always use legitimate services and verify bookings and reservations in advance.

For health and safety, Portugal’s public health infrastructure is strong and emergency services are reliable. Travel with comprehensive health and travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical needs, and dial 112 in case of emergency.

During summer, Portugal may experience periods of extreme heat and bushfires, particularly on the mainland. Stay updated on local weather conditions and follow guidance from authorities, especially if traveling to rural or forested regions. If you are staying in Portugal on visas or residence permits that expired during the COVID-19 pandemic, Portuguese authorities have extended their validity until June 30, 2025, but this only applies within Portugal and does not guarantee entry into other Schengen countries.

In summary, Portugal stands as one of Europe’s safest destinations, but listeners should remain vigilant against petty theft, scams, and extreme weather, and keep informed through official sources and local news during their travels for a safe and enjoyable visit. Safe travels to all considering a journey to Portugal.