Portugal Travel Safety 2025: Essential Tips for Secure and Enjoyable Vacation in One of Europes Safest Destinations

The current travel advisory for Portugal remains at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, as updated in March 2025 by the U.S. Department of State. This means visitors are not being warned of any severe threats but are encouraged to use routine safety measures while traveling. Portugal is widely recognized for its safety, especially in terms of violent crime, which remains rare. However, petty crime—such as pickpocketing and bag snatching—continues to be the most common issue, particularly in well-trafficked tourist areas like Lisbon, Porto, and coastal destinations. Tourists should stay alert in crowded spots, public transport hubs, popular tram lines like 15, 25, and 28 in Lisbon, hotel lobbies, restaurants with outdoor seating, and beaches. Thieves sometimes target rental vehicles, especially those displaying rental company stickers or foreign plates, so it is advised not to leave any valuables in your car and to park in secure areas when possible.

Travelers are advised never to carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewelry in public, and to keep passports and essential documents secured. If you become a victim of theft, tourist police stations are available in Lisbon, Porto, Cascais, and Praia da Rocha.

There are also important legal and cultural rules that could affect your visit. Drinking alcohol in parks, beaches, or streets within city limits, especially in Lisbon, is prohibited and can result in fines. Always consume alcohol in licensed venues like cafés or restaurants. Be aware that walking or playing on sand dunes is strictly forbidden in areas such as the Algarve and Costa da Caparica, as these dunes protect coastal ecosystems; fines are enforced for violations. Police can request identification at any time, and all tourists must be prepared to show a passport—carrying a photo of your passport on your phone is generally accepted by authorities in case you do not have the physical document on hand.

Home and vehicle break-ins, while not rampant, do occur, particularly in urban and tourist-heavy areas. Travelers should choose accommodations with good security, keep windows and doors locked, and never leave belongings unattended. When using ATMs, opt for those in busy, well-lit locations to avoid theft.

When hiking in Madeira, travelers should be mindful of changing conditions and take precautions, as the island’s trails—while spectacular—can present safety risks. Additionally, at nightlife venues, avoid leaving drinks unattended and never accept drinks from strangers; always use official taxis found at designated ranks.

In summary, while Portugal stands out as one of the safest destinations in Europe, using common sense and following local guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.