Portugal Travel 2025: Safe Destination with Low Crime Risk Requires Standard Traveler Precautions

Portugal is currently considered a very safe destination for international travelers. The United States Department of State, as of March 2025, lists Portugal as a Level 1 country, which means travelers are advised to exercise normal precautions. This places Portugal alongside other low-risk countries such as Canada, Ireland, and Australia. According to CBS News, this is the lowest travel advisory level issued by the U.S. government, indicating there are no significant safety or security threats facing visitors at this time.

The Australian government’s Smartraveller platform echoes this sentiment, advising travelers to exercise normal safety precautions while in Portugal. Emergency contacts are easily accessible—listeners should dial 112 for fire, medical, or police emergencies.

However, petty crime remains a notable concern, particularly in major cities like Lisbon and Porto. The Government of Canada highlights that pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in crowded areas such as tourist attractions, public transportation, train stations, airports, hotel lobbies, restaurants (especially those with outdoor seating), and beaches. Particular vigilance is recommended on popular Lisbon trams, such as routes 15, 25, and 28. Thieves can also target vehicles, especially those displaying rental car stickers or foreign plates, so listeners should avoid leaving valuables in vehicles and seek secure parking wherever possible. While violent crime is rare, incidents of physical and sexual assault have occurred, mainly in nightlife areas of major cities and tourist hotspots.

For those planning to drive, the CDC recommends using official taxis or public transport, always wearing seatbelts, and not driving after consuming alcohol. Listeners should also ensure they are familiar with local traffic laws, carry the required permits such as an International Driving Permit alongside their home country license, and always have sufficient insurance coverage.

No visa is required for short tourist or business trips to Portugal lasting up to 90 days for most visitors, including U.S. citizens. Portugal’s health and emergency response infrastructure is robust, but travelers should consider normal precautions applicable to any popular tourist destination.

In summary, Portugal remains an inviting and low-risk location for travel in 2025. Travelers should be aware of petty crime, practice basic safety measures, and enjoy all that this European destination has to offer.