Safety

Safety in Portugal

Portugal is exceptionally safe by global standards. Violent crime is rare, and most safety concerns involve petty theft in tourist areas.

Safety Rankings

• Global Peace Index 2024: 7th safest country in the world
• Numbeo Safety Index 2026: Score of 67 (generally safe)
• One of Europe's lowest violent crime rates
• Homicide rate: 0.8 per 100,000 (very low)

Lisbon Safety

Lisbon is one of Europe's safest capitals:

• Safe to walk at night in most areas
• Petty theft (pickpocketing) in tourist zones is main concern
• Areas to be aware of: Cais do Sodré late at night, some parts of Mouraria/Martim Moniz
• Overall very safe for a major capital

Safest neighborhoods: Príncipe Real, Campo de Ourique, Estrela

Vibrant but safe: Baixa, Chiado, Alfama (during day)

Porto Safety

Porto is very safe with a small-town feel:

• 5.8% drop in crime recently
• Safe to walk at night in city center
• Campanhã area has some petty theft issues
• Overall lower crime than Lisbon

Safest neighborhoods: Foz, Boavista, central historic areas

Other Safe Regions

• Algarve: Very safe, tourist police presence
• Silver Coast: Low crime, relaxed atmosphere
• Madeira: Extremely safe, close-knit community
• Azores: Very safe, limited crime
• Central Portugal: Rural areas very safe

Main Safety Concerns

Petty theft:

• Pickpocketing in tourist areas (Baixa, Alfama, trams)
• Distraction theft
• Beach/café theft (don't leave belongings unattended)
• Car break-ins (don't leave valuables visible)

What to do:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use anti-theft bags in crowded areas
• Be aware in touristy spots
• Don't leave items in cars
• Use hotel safes

Emergency Numbers

• 112: General emergency (police, fire, ambulance)
• 808 24 24 24: SNS24 health line
• +351 21 312 1360: Tourist police (Lisbon)

Practical Tips

1. Portugal is very safe - don't over-worry
2. Use common sense as in any city
3. Locals are helpful if you need assistance
4. Police are generally professional and approachable
5. Healthcare is good if anything happens

Natural Hazards

• Wildfires: Summer months in rural/forest areas
• Earthquakes: Portugal is seismically active (rare major events)
• Atlantic storms: Winter weather on coasts
• Heat waves: Summer temperatures can be extreme, especially inland

Women's Safety

Portugal is generally very safe for women:

• Safe to walk alone at night in most areas
• Low rates of harassment compared to many countries
• Well-lit main streets
• Reliable public transport

LGBTQ+ Safety

Portugal is progressive on LGBTQ+ rights:

• Same-sex marriage legal since 2010
• Anti-discrimination protections
• Lisbon has active LGBTQ+ scene
• Generally accepting, especially in cities