Portugal Travel Safety 2025: Top Tips for a Secure and Enjoyable European Vacation with Low Crime Risks

The U.S. Department of State currently lists Portugal at a Level 1 travel advisory, which means listeners are advised to exercise normal precautions when visiting the country. This advisory was reaffirmed in early March 2025, signaling a stable and generally safe environment for international travelers. According to the latest review by Australia's Smartraveller, the risk level also remains low, with the advice to exercise normal safety precautions during your trip.

Portugal is widely recognized as one of the safest destinations in Europe, with low rates of violent crime. However, petty crime does occur, particularly in major urban centers such as Lisbon and Porto. According to the Government of Canada and other official sources, travelers should be especially vigilant in crowded tourist hot spots, on public transport, at train and bus stations, airports, outdoor cafes, beaches, and hotel lobbies. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most common issues, so it’s recommended to keep personal belongings secure, avoid displaying valuables, and not carry large amounts of cash.

If you plan on using public transportation in Lisbon, extra caution is advised on trams 15, 25, and 28, as these are popular routes for tourists and therefore attractive to opportunistic thieves. Vehicle break-ins are also frequent, especially in rental cars or vehicles with foreign license plates. Always lock your car, avoid leaving belongings inside, and park in secure areas.

While violent crime is rare, there have been incidents of home burglaries in larger cities and coastal vacation areas, including short-term rentals. When booking accommodation, choose properties with adequate security and ensure doors and windows are locked when you leave or at night.

When it comes to personal safety, Portugal's main tourist regions, such as the Algarve, Cascais, Sintra, Aveiro, Braga, and the islands of the Azores and Madeira, are considered very secure. The 2024 Annual Internal Security Report indicated a 7.6 percent decrease in Lisbon’s crime rate over the past year, which helps reinforce the country’s positive safety reputation.

Travelers should also take standard road safety precautions. If renting a car, ensure you have the proper documentation, consider obtaining an International Driving Permit, and always wear a seatbelt. Avoid using your phone while driving and refrain from traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or rural areas.

Medical emergencies can be addressed by calling 112, which covers police, fire, and ambulance services throughout Portugal.

No recent major events, natural disasters, or health crises have affected travel in Portugal as of May 2025. Nevertheless, always check for updates before departure and during your stay, especially as advisories can change rapidly due to unforeseen circumstances.

In summary, Portugal remains a welcoming and safe European destination for travelers in 2025. Taking general precautions against petty crime and following standard travel safety practices will help ensure a trouble-free and enjoyable visit.