Portugal continues to be recognized as one of Europe’s safest destinations for travelers in 2025. The United States Department of State currently issues a Level 1 travel advisory for Portugal, advising visitors to exercise normal precautions. The Australian government's Smartraveller service and recent updates as of late May 2025 echo this assessment, indicating no new threats or major incidents impacting travelers. However, listeners should remain alert to certain common risks, particularly petty crime, which is most prevalent in popular tourist cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the primary concerns among visitors to Portuguese cities, especially in crowded public areas, at popular viewpoints, on public transport including trams 15, 25, and 28 in Lisbon, and at busy markets, restaurants, hotel lobbies, and beaches. Thieves often target tourists, so it’s wise to keep valuables secure, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and watch out for distractions that may be used as tricks to facilitate theft. Reports from government sources and traveler advisories consistently warn not to leave belongings unattended in vehicles, as break-ins are frequent, particularly in cars with rental markings or foreign plates. When using ATMs, choose well-lit and busy locations, and never carry large sums of cash.
Violent crime remains rare in Portugal, but isolated incidents of physical and sexual assaults can occur, particularly around nightlife districts in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. For personal safety, it’s recommended to travel in groups after dark, remain aware of your surroundings, and avoid accepting open drinks from strangers in bars or clubs. Official taxis or public transport are always the safest choices for getting around at night.
Rental accommodation security is another consideration—choose places with adequate safety measures, always lock doors and windows, and avoid ground floor units with easy street access when possible. For emergencies, Portugal operates a dedicated tourist police force in key cities like Lisbon, Porto, Cascais, and Portimão; the emergency number throughout Portugal is 112.
Listeners planning an extended stay should note that, for foreign nationals in Portugal, visas and residence permits expired after February 22, 2020, remain valid until June 30, 2025, but only within Portugal’s borders. This extension does not guarantee travel rights in other Schengen countries, so consult relevant authorities if planning regional trips.
Like much of Europe, Portugal continues to monitor health concerns including COVID-19. While cases have dropped significantly, travelers with pre-existing health risks should consult with healthcare providers before visiting and consider appropriate protections during travel.
Overall, Portugal’s welcoming atmosphere, rich cultural experiences, and low risk profile make it an inviting destination for 2025, provided travelers remain vigilant, especially regarding petty crime in tourist areas, and follow basic safety protocols throughout their stay.
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