Portugal remains one of the safest travel destinations in Europe and around the world, with the United States Department of State assigning it a Level 1 advisory, meaning listeners are advised to exercise normal precautions as of March 2025. However, travelers should be mindful of evolving local situations and seasonal risks. Since July 2025, wildfires have spread rapidly in the districts of Viseu, Guarda, Coimbra, and Castelo Branco. According to the Government of Canada, evacuation orders and warnings are in effect in some parts of these regions. If your plans include central or northern inland Portugal, stay informed about fire conditions and local advisories, and always follow the guidance of local authorities in case of an evacuation order.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is most common in tourist areas of cities like Lisbon and Porto, as well as busy public transport hubs and popular coastal destinations. Thieves may target trams—especially tram lines 15, 25, and 28 in Lisbon—along with restaurants, hotel lobbies, and beaches. To reduce the risk, listeners are encouraged to secure valuables, avoid displaying expensive items, limit carrying large sums of cash, and never leave belongings unattended—including in rental cars. Vehicle break-ins are frequently reported, particularly when valuables are visible and when using cars with rental company branding.

Violent crime is rare, but physical and sexual assaults have been reported, especially late at night near bars and nightclubs in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Stick to well-lit areas, stay with companions where possible, and remain aware of your surroundings, particularly after dark. For immediate help, the nationwide emergency number is 112, and there are dedicated tourist police stations in major cities and resort areas.

Driving in Portugal is generally safe, but the driving culture is described as assertive, with tailgating, speeding, and sudden lane changes not uncommon. City streets can be narrow and congested, while rural areas may pose hazards like poorly lit roads and unexpected animals. First-time visitors might consider using Portugal’s affordable and efficient public transport until they’re comfortable with local driving habits.

As of August 2025, the European Entry/Exit System, or EES, is about to come into force. Starting October 12, all non-EU nationals, including Australians, Americans, Britons, and Canadians, will need to register at borders with their fingerprints and photograph. This is expected to cause longer queues at entry points to Portugal and throughout the Schengen Area, and listeners are advised to allow extra time for international arrivals and departures.

On Portugal’s beaches, strong currents can be a risk, so only swim in patrolled locations and avoid swimming alone in remote areas. On Madeira Island, hiking is rewarding but requires caution: stick to marked trails, be prepared for sudden changes in weather, and carry adequate supplies.

Healthcare in Portugal is excellent, but comprehensive travel and health insurance is advisable. Scams involving bogus rentals and unsolicited help do occur, so remain skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true or strangers offering assistance without cause.

In summary, listeners can expect a safe and welcoming experience in Portugal by exercising standard precautions, staying informed on wildfire conditions if traveling inland this summer, and allowing extra time for upcoming changes to border protocols. For the most current updates and emergency information, check the official websites of your country’s foreign office or embassy as your departure date approaches.

Portugal currently holds a Level 1 travel advisory from the US Department of State as of March 2025, which means listeners are encouraged to exercise normal precautions when visiting the country. Portugal is consistently recognized as one of Europe’s safest destinations for travelers, with a low crime rate, welcoming residents, and robust infrastructure supporting tourism. However, even in such a safe environment, there are practical travel precautions to keep in mind.

This summer, mainland Portugal is experiencing high temperatures and an elevated risk of bushfires, especially during the peak season from June to September. The Australian Government’s Smartraveller service, updated as of August 13, 2025, emphasizes the unpredictability and potential for travel disruptions due to heatwaves or wildfires. Listeners should check local media and follow guidance from Portuguese authorities during these periods.

Routine criminal activity is generally limited to petty crime such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, particularly in tourist-heavy areas of Lisbon, Porto, beaches, and public transportation. The Government of Canada and several travel safety sites highlight the importance of vigilance in crowded places, tourist neighborhoods, and on trams—especially the famous tram 28 in Lisbon. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, use a money belt, be discrete with expensive jewelry, keep your belongings close, and pay extra attention in busy public venues. For those driving, keep car doors and windows locked, avoid leaving anything visible in the vehicle—even in the trunk—and try to park in secure locations.

For outdoor enthusiasts, be prepared for sudden shifts in the weather when hiking in places like Madeira. Hiking safety recommendations include staying on marked trails, informing others of your plans, and carrying enough water, especially during summer heat. Beachgoers should respect local signage, be wary of strong currents, and swim with company rather than alone in remote areas, as Portuguese beaches, while beautiful, can experience sudden changes in tides.

Several local laws and customs are relevant for tourists. Public drinking is not permitted in certain areas like Lisbon’s parks, city streets, or beaches, and breaking this rule could lead to fines. It's forbidden to walk on protected sand dunes in the Algarve and Costa da Caparica. Police in Portugal may request identification at any time, so listeners are advised to carry their passport or at least a digital copy.

Health threats are minimal, with no unusual outbreaks reported in 2025. General health precautions apply, like keeping routine vaccinations up to date, using seatbelts, and being wary of traffic, as local drivers may be aggressive. Those using public transportation will find it safe and reliable, but drivers should note local habits such as sudden lane changes or speeding.

For non-European travelers, it's important to note that starting October 12, 2025, the new European Entry/Exit System (EES) comes into force. All non-EU nationals, including Australians and Americans, will need to register at borders, provide biometric data, and may face longer processing times at entry points.

In the unlikely event a crime occurs, major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, Cascais, and Portimão have tourist police stations, and the national emergency number is 112. The overall advice remains: exercise normal safety precautions, remain aware of your surroundings, and regularly check for updated travel advisories from your home country and local Portuguese authorities. With awareness and respect for local regulations, listeners can look forward to enjoying Portugal’s diverse landscapes, historic cities, and renowned hospitality with minimal risks.

Portugal remains one of the safest travel destinations in Europe, with the US Department of State issuing a Level 1 advisory as of March 2025, meaning listeners are encouraged to exercise normal precautions while visiting. Violent crime is rare, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching happens frequently, especially in tourist-heavy cities like Lisbon and Porto, and on public transport such as trams, trains, and buses. Thieves often target distracted tourists in crowded areas, including hotel lobbies, outdoor cafes, airports, and busy shopping streets. Listeners should keep valuables secured, avoid carrying unnecessary cash or expensive jewelry, and be especially vigilant when using ATMs or public transport. Rental cars are commonly broken into, so it is critical not to leave any belongings in vehicles, even temporarily.

Summer in Portugal, especially between June and September, is peak travel season and brings risks of high temperatures and bushfires, particularly in mainland regions. The Australian Government’s Smartraveller service highlights that these conditions can rapidly affect travel plans, and everyone should monitor local media and follow safety advice from authorities during heatwaves or fire events. Those trekking in the Madeira Islands should note the importance of preparing for changing weather, staying on marked trails, and informing others of hiking plans, as recommended by the US Embassy in Portugal.

Travelers should also note a few local laws that can catch out the unprepared. Public drinking is not permitted in parks, beaches, or city streets in certain municipalities like Lisbon, with fines reaching €200. Walking on protected sand dunes, especially in Algarve and Costa da Caparica, is prohibited and subject to fines. Police may request identification at any time, so carrying a passport or a digital copy is essential.

Portugal’s reputation for safety extends to solo and female travelers, ranking high for peacefulness and respect toward visitors. Most local residents are welcoming, but as with any destination, standard personal safety measures are advised: avoid isolated areas at night, travel in groups when possible, and be cautious with open drinks at bars or clubs. For transportation, public options are affordable and reliable, though driving can be challenging due to local habits like speeding and aggressive lane changes.

No unusual health threats are reported in 2025, though general travel health recommendations apply: keep up with routine vaccinations, wear seatbelts, and take extra caution when cycling or on motorcycles. All travelers, particularly those planning longer stays, should ensure their documents are secure and up to date, and be aware that residence permits for foreign nationals in Portugal are currently valid until mid-October 2025.

Ultimately, with common sense and awareness of the local context, listeners can enjoy Portugal’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities with minimal risks. The country welcomes tourists year-round and is open for travel with no extraordinary restrictions or health advisories at this time.

Listeners planning travel to Portugal as of late July 2025 can expect a welcoming and generally safe destination, but there are important travel precautions and recent advisories to note for a smooth trip. The U.S. Department of State continues to rate Portugal as Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, echoing similar guidance from countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia. This signals a low overall risk for travelers, but it’s important to stay alert to localized risks and ongoing events.

Petty theft is the most common crime targeting visitors, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto. Pickpocketing and bag snatching regularly happen in busy tourist areas, on public transportation like trams 15, 25, and 28 in Lisbon, at airports, in hotel lobbies, in restaurants, and on the beaches. Thieves also target rental cars, commonly breaking in to steal valuables, particularly from vehicles with rental stickers or foreign plates. Listeners are strongly encouraged to keep personal belongings secure, avoid showing signs of affluence, not leave any valuables in vehicles, and use hotel safes when possible. Car break-ins are frequent, so always keep car doors and windows locked and park in well-lit, secure locations. Avoid leaving anything inside the car, even in the trunk.

Violent crime is rare, but there have been reports of physical or sexual assaults, mostly in popular nightlife districts in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Travelers are advised to stay with friends, not accept drinks from strangers, keep beverages in sight, and maintain awareness of their surroundings, especially at night. Only use licensed taxis from official ranks or kiosks, never accept unsolicited rides.

Travelers should also be aware of ongoing natural hazards. As of late July 2025, wildfires have been active in Portugal, including the Algarve region, which is a popular tourist spot. If visiting during the summer, monitor local news and social media for wildfire updates. Obey local authority instructions and check safe routes in case roads close due to fire risk.

Identification is required by law; all visitors must carry ID at all times. There is no visa requirement for short stays for most western visitors, but passports must be valid for the duration of your stay. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 anywhere in the country.

Outside the cities, the scenic hiking trails on Madeira and elsewhere attract many, but it is vital to prepare adequately. Check weather updates, inform others of your plans, and follow marked routes to reduce risk of injury or getting lost.

Travel and medical insurance are strongly recommended. Policies should cover medical expenses, repatriation, and unexpected legal costs, since Portugal will hold visitors financially responsible for care and emergencies.

Travelers are advised to update themselves regularly on local developments, as advisories can change quickly following natural disasters or major incidents. The Embassy of Ireland, the U.S. Embassy, and national foreign travel sites like travel.gc.ca and Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs offer up-to-date alerts, social media feeds, and direct crisis support.

In summary, Portugal remains one of Europe’s safest and most enjoyable travel destinations in July 2025, with authorities worldwide recommending normal precautions. Keep aware of petty crime, avoid unnecessary risks, prepare for summer wildfires, and always follow local guidance for a secure and pleasant journey.

Listeners considering travel to Portugal in July 2025 should know that the country is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in Europe and currently holds a Level 1 advisory from both the U.S. Department of State and Australian authorities, meaning travelers are advised to exercise normal precautions. Violent crime remains rare across the country. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is a recurring issue, particularly in busy urban centers like Lisbon and Porto, as well as frequented tourist spots, public transit areas including trams and train stations, and crowded outdoor restaurants or beaches. Thieves commonly target tourists, so it’s essential to keep personal belongings, passports, and travel documents secure—ideally avoiding displays of wealth or carrying large sums of cash, and never leaving valuables unattended in vehicles, even in the trunk. Both the U.S. Embassy and the Government of Canada recommend choosing official taxis from designated stops and avoiding unlicensed offers, as well as being especially cautious at night and in poorly lit areas.

Portugal requires everyone to carry official identification at all times. While digital copies of passports are convenient, listeners are encouraged to keep the original handy, as police may request it. Drinking alcohol in public places like parks or beaches, unless within a licensed bar or restaurant, is prohibited and carries fines of up to €200. Fines are also imposed for walking on protected sand dunes along the coast, where access is clearly marked as forbidden, particularly in sensitive ecosystems of the Algarve and Costa da Caparica.

Health infrastructure in Portugal is considered excellent, but travel and health insurance are strongly recommended. Weather presents additional risks in summer—high temperatures and bushfires can disrupt travel plans, especially in mainland Portugal. Local authorities and global agencies urge travelers to monitor weather alerts, especially for heatwaves or wildfire outbreaks, and to heed all safety instructions. Coastal visitors should respect swimming advisories and be aware of strong tides and currents, as conditions can change rapidly.

Driving in Portugal means navigating well-built but often winding roads, with local drivers known for assertiveness and sometimes erratic driving habits. Rental vehicles are frequently targeted for break-ins, especially those with visible rental company stickers or foreign plates, so listeners are urged never to leave valuables in parked cars and to seek secure parking whenever possible. For new visitors, public transport is reliable and often the better choice in busy cities, allowing time to adjust to local driving norms.

Portugal has experienced occasional home and vacation rental burglaries, especially affecting properties rented through online platforms in large cities and coastal regions. Ensuring accommodations have modern security and keeping doors and windows locked at night is strongly advised. Nightlife in Portugal is vibrant, but listeners should take precautions in bars and clubs, such as not accepting open drinks from strangers and never leaving drinks unattended.

With natural hazards, scams, and the occasional extreme weather event a reality, listeners are encouraged to stay informed of local developments through media and official travel advice sources, as well as to know the local emergency number: 112, for police, medical, or fire emergencies. Hiking in areas like Madeira presents spectacular opportunities but also demands extra preparation—secure guidance, safety planning, and awareness of trail conditions.

Portugal remains a fantastic and generally secure travel destination when common-sense precautions are followed. By staying alert, respecting local laws, protecting valuables, and remaining attentive to official updates and weather warnings, listeners can explore Portugal’s history, scenery, and culture with confidence.

Listeners planning a trip to Portugal in July 2025 will find the country remains one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming destinations for tourists. The current U.S. Department of State travel advisory ranks Portugal at Level 1, which means travelers should exercise normal precautions. This status is echoed by both Australian and Canadian authorities. Portugal has consistently ranked among the top ten safest countries globally, and cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga, and Aveiro are all noted for their very low crime rates, hospitable communities, and a vibrant, inviting atmosphere.

However, visitors should be aware that petty crime, particularly pickpocketing and bag snatching, is still a concern in busy tourist centers, transportation hubs, and crowded areas such as outdoor restaurants, popular trams, and beaches, especially around Lisbon and Porto. To minimize risks, keep personal items close, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or showing expensive jewelry, always secure passports and travel documents, and select well-lit ATMs. When driving, do not leave valuables in cars, as break-ins frequently target rental vehicles displaying visible stickers or foreign plates.

Portuguese law requires everyone to carry identification at all times. While it is common for listeners to carry a digital photo of their passport for convenience, especially since police can request identification on the spot, having the original available is best if feasible. Drinking alcohol in public, such as in parks, streets, or beaches—especially in districts of Lisbon—is prohibited and subject to fines up to €200, with consumption only allowed in licensed establishments. Walking on protected sand dunes along the Portuguese coastline, particularly in regions like the Algarve and Costa da Caparica, is forbidden; clear signage is posted, and fines start at €25 to protect the local ecosystem.

Home and accommodation burglaries, while infrequent, do occur, especially in major cities and coastal spots—so always secure doors and windows, especially in vacation rentals. Vehicle theft and break-ins are also reported in tourist-heavy neighborhoods. Booking lodgings with good security and not advertising your absence are recommended precautions. When visiting night venues or festivals, never leave drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers, and always use official taxis from designated queues or kiosks.

As of July 2025, there are no unusual disease outbreaks or specific health risks in Portugal. Adhering to recommended vaccinations, buckling seatbelts, wearing helmets on two-wheeled vehicles, and avoiding rural roads at night remain wise habits. Travelers should remain alert to seasonal risks as high summer temperatures often lead to wildfires, particularly in rural inland areas as seen in previous years. Local authorities provide updates and guidance in the event of extreme heat or fire hazards—monitor local news and always heed official advice if incident alerts are issued.

Lisbon and Porto currently levy per-person, per-night local tourist taxes, so listeners should check with accommodations before booking and factor these fees into their travel budget.

Portugal’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and outstanding safety reputation continue to make it a standout choice. Exercising sensible precautions, vigilance with belongings, and respect for local regulations will help visitors enjoy a secure and memorable Portuguese adventure this season. Always consult the latest official guidance and travel advisories before departure, as the situation can change rapidly.

Travelers considering Portugal in mid-2025 will find the country continues to be rated as a generally safe destination. Both the US State Department and Australian Smartraveller currently advise exercising normal safety precautions when visiting Portugal, with no elevated alerts or extraordinary advisories in place. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching remains the most common issue for tourists, especially in busy urban centers like Lisbon and Porto, in crowded public spaces, on public transportation, and at popular tourist sites according to the Canadian government and several travel safety resources. Visitors are strongly urged to safeguard passports and valuables, stay attentive in busy areas, avoid poorly lit streets at night, and never leave belongings unattended in vehicles, as vehicle break-ins are reported with some frequency.

Travelers should also pay attention to specific local laws and regulations. Carrying an official ID at all times is required by Portuguese law, as police can request identification on the spot; a digital photo of your passport is widely accepted if you don’t want to carry the original. Drinking alcohol in public locations, including city parks, beaches, and streets, is prohibited in several districts, particularly in Lisbon, and can result in fines up to €200. There are also fines for walking on protected sand dunes on the coast, with clear signage posted in many beach areas. Noise restrictions are enforced, especially late at night, and taking photographs of military facilities is strictly forbidden.

Summer in Portugal often brings very high temperatures and occasional bushfires, particularly in inland and rural regions. Local authorities may issue alerts regarding heat and fire risk, and travelers are advised to monitor Portuguese news outlets and heed official instructions. The Australian government’s July 2025 update emphasizes the importance of paying attention to these risks.

Tourists should budget for city “tourist taxes,” which vary by region. Lisbon currently charges €4.00 per person per night, capped at seven nights, while Porto charges €3.00 per night, also for a maximum of seven nights. Check with accommodations for specifics, as exemptions do exist, especially for young children or specific circumstances.

Women travelers are advised to remain alert, particularly in less populated areas at night, though violent crime is very rare. Pickpocketing, tourist scams, and bag snatching are the primary risks, not personal safety. Emergency services are accessed by dialing 112.

Beachgoers should follow safety guidelines regarding currents and tides, particularly on the Atlantic coast. Swimming alone in remote locations is discouraged, and listen for posted beach safety instructions. For those hiking on Madeira or other islands, ensure you are informed about trail conditions and prepared for sudden weather changes.

Travelers are encouraged to have adequate health and travel insurance. Portugal’s healthcare is considered excellent, but ensure you are prepared for emergencies. For scams, only book accommodations and activities through reputable sources and remain cautious when approached by strangers offering unprompted assistance.

As of July 2025, the overall assessment is that travelers can enjoy Portugal’s culture, food, and coastlines by staying aware of their surroundings, respecting local rules, and keeping up-to-date with ongoing weather and safety reports.

Portugal continues to be recognized as one of Europe’s safest travel destinations in 2025, with the latest U.S. State Department advisory and other national advisories recommending that visitors exercise normal safety precautions. Despite its reputation for safety, travelers should remain mindful of specific precautions, especially in popular tourist areas such as Lisbon, Porto, and coastal destinations like the Algarve and Madeira. According to the Government of Canada, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in tourist hotspots, public transit, restaurants, hotel lobbies, and beaches. Thieves often target tourists, particularly in crowded places and on popular trams in Lisbon. Travelers are advised to keep valuables secure, avoid showing signs of affluence, refrain from carrying large sums of cash, and use extra caution at night or in low-lit areas.

Travelers are also urged not to leave personal items unattended in vehicles—rental cars, in particular, are frequent targets for break-ins. It is recommended to avoid vehicles displaying rental company stickers and to opt for secure parking, especially overnight. Violent crime is rare but not unheard of: assaults have occurred around busy nightlife zones in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, so it is wiser to travel in groups and remain vigilant, particularly in bars and clubs. The Australian government notes that Portugal’s emergency number is 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Summer in Portugal often brings high temperatures and bushfires, especially on mainland Portugal, as reported by the Australian government and the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs. Listeners planning a summer visit should stay informed about current conditions, monitor official channels, and heed any local authority instructions regarding wildfire risks. In areas near active wildfires, always follow evacuation instructions and local safety warnings.

Portugal also enforces several local laws that travelers should be aware of. Drinking alcohol outdoors in public spaces—such as parks and beaches within city limits, particularly in Lisbon—is prohibited and may result in fines. Always consume alcohol in licensed venues like restaurants and cafés. Obey signage on sand dunes in the Algarve and Costa da Caparica, as walking or playing on these protected dunes is strictly forbidden and subject to fines. Police may request identification at any time, so it is prudent to carry your passport or a digital copy on your phone, which is widely accepted in the event of a check.

Health care in Portugal is rated as high quality, but comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Make sure insurance covers medical emergencies and any activities you plan to undertake. For travelers planning to hike in the Madeira region, be prepared for quick weather changes—conditions can change rapidly and trails, though beautiful, may be hazardous.

Finally, scam awareness is important. Be cautious of unsolicited assistance, ensure rentals are legitimate, and report unfamiliar or suspicious activity to the police or to dedicated tourist police stations located in Lisbon, Porto, Cascais, and Praia da Rocha. If you are a victim of crime, report it promptly and obtain a police report, which is often needed for insurance and embassy support.

By staying informed, alert, and respectful of local customs and laws, you can enjoy Portugal’s rich culture, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality with minimal risk in 2025.

Portugal remains a very popular and generally safe travel destination for visitors in 2025, with the U.S. Department of State and other major agencies maintaining their advisory at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions as of March 2025. This is the lowest alert level, indicating low overall risk for travelers. Government sources such as the Australian Smartraveller and the Canadian government also echo this guidance, advising visitors to exercise normal safety precautions and remain aware of their surroundings.

Despite its strong reputation for safety, listeners should note that petty crime, particularly pickpocketing and bag snatching, happens regularly in major tourist areas including Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Thieves frequently target crowded spots like trams, buses, train stations, hotel lobbies, restaurants with outdoor seating, and even beaches. In Lisbon, trams 15, 25, and 28 are known hotspots for pickpockets. For safety, listeners are urged to avoid displaying signs of wealth, keep valuables secure, use caution with ATMs especially in dimly lit areas, and avoid leaving belongings unattended in vehicles or public spaces. Car break-ins are particularly common, especially in rentals, so it’s recommended not to leave anything of value in your car and to choose accommodation with strong security measures.

Violent crime in Portugal is rare, but occasional incidents do occur, particularly in nightlife districts and some tourist-heavy areas. The authorities recommend travelers stay in groups at night, use official taxis rather than accepting unsolicited rides, and always keep doors and windows locked in accommodations, especially ground floor rentals or those easily accessed from the street.

On the legal side, there are unique local laws listeners should be mindful of. Public drinking is not allowed in many public spaces in cities like Lisbon and can result in fines. Protecting Portugal’s sand dunes is strictly enforced, especially along the coast, with fines imposed for walking on or damaging them. Carrying identification is legally required, and police may conduct spot checks—having a digital copy of your passport on your phone can be helpful, though the original is preferred.

Driving in Portugal is generally safe but can pose challenges due to local habits such as tailgating or unpredictable lane changes. Visitors new to the roads may want to take advantage of Portugal’s reliable and affordable public transport, at least until they feel comfortable with the local driving style.

Hiking is a major draw, especially on Madeira Island, but listeners should prepare for rapidly changing weather and sometimes difficult terrain. Always inform someone of your plans and stick to marked trails for safety.

There have been no recent incidents, health scares, or large-scale civil unrest reported in 2025 that would affect travel to Portugal. The country’s travel and infrastructure services are operating normally, and no special COVID-19 or contagious illness restrictions are in effect at this time. However, travelers are still advised to keep insurance up to date and monitor local news for any developments.

In summary, Portugal in 2025 is widely regarded as one of Europe’s safest destinations, welcoming millions of visitors each year with minimal risk. By staying alert, respecting local laws, and taking basic safety steps, listeners can look forward to an enjoyable and secure stay in this vibrant and beautiful country.

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.