Is Lisbon Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city with a unique culture, and picturesque sights that will stay in your memory for years to come.

Lisbon, over the years and tumultuous history, slowly grew into a city people can’t wait to experience and its prosperity increased immensely, too.

Today, it is probably one of the most desired tourist destinations in Europe.

Located right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon boasts contemporary culture that is now more alive than it’s ever been, and it’s making its mark in today’s Europe.

Lisbon is well-loved and visited because it’s a city facing and using the ocean as an element that defines the city.

Walking around Lisbon, you’ll be amazed by its white-bleached limestone buildings, narrow alleyways, and a laid back, easy-going charm that makes it popular, especially among the younger tourists.

Warnings & Dangers in Lisbon

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Overall, Lisbon is very safe to travel to. Its crime rates are very low, and pickpockets are the biggest concern you'll have to deal with while on a holiday there. Have your wits with you and be vigilant at all times.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Transportation and taxi services are very reliable and safe in Lisbon. Watch out for pickpockets in public transportation and avoid entering empty metro carriages.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

There is a high risk of encountering a pickpocket since this is a top tourist destination. You should be extremely careful when it comes to your valuables, keep them safe in your accommodation or at least don't carry them all in one place. Be especially vigilant on public transportation.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There are no serious threats when it comes to natural disasters in Lisbon. Occasional floods have been a recurring natural disaster in the last century, followed by earthquakes, but those are unlikely to happen.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

When it comes to mugging, it is not common, though there is a certain degree of risk when it comes to this issue. You should avoid empty, deserted or poorly lit streets, and in such an occasion, hand over your possessions immediately and never resist.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Lisbon's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

As in any tourist destination, and especially a top tourist destination such as Lisbon, there is a heightened risk of getting scammed. Check every change twice, negotiate everything beforehand and never give your money before you receive the service you're paying for.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Lisbon is, in general, very safe for women traveling solo. Apart from a few precaution rules you should apply to minimize your chances of something going wrong, if you avoid poorly lit and deserted streets and follow your common sense, your trip should go smoothly.

So... How Safe Is Lisbon Really?

Lisbon is very safe to visit, and though it’s not without its dangers, some basic precaution rules might save your trip.

Violent crime rates are pretty low, including conflicts, gang-related crime or drug issues, and all violent crime is generally related to particular neighborhoods.

However, petty forms of crime will probably be your biggest concern while in Lisbon.

Also, you can be safer at night than in the majority of European countries, since, in Lisbon, there is a general lack of drunken people stumbling around the streets after a boozing party in the city.

As everywhere, some areas are best avoided at night.

Also, bear in mind that Lisbon is not a pickpockets-free city and that they tend to roam around the city and tourist-frequented areas.

Be careful with your valuables and keep them in a safe place.

The most usual places where they operate are crowded train stations, airports and shopping areas.

If you’re using the subway, make sure you sit next to someone and avoid empty carriages.

Pickpockets trying to steal any type of purse, luggage or shopping bag is a serious issue in Lisbon, and there is even a voice message reminding people of this in most metro and train stations.

How Does Lisbon Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

For many countries, visas are not required for any stays shorter than 90 days. Any longer than that, you might have to obtain a visa. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Currency

Euro is the official currency in Lisbon. Portugal is cheaper than most top destinations in Europe, but it's similar to Spain, so plan on spending between 50 and 70 euros a day including accommodation. ATMs are widely available and credit cards accepted in most establishments.

Weather

Lisbon is one of the warmest cities in Europe. It has a temperate moist forest climate, characterized by wet winters and dry summers. July is the hottest month in Algarve with an average temperature of 24°C and the coldest month is January at 12°C with as much as 12 hours of sunshine in August.

Airports

The busiest airport in Lisbon is Humberto Delgado Airport, sometimes referred to as Lisbon Airport and Portela Airport. It is located 7km from the city center of Lisbon, Portugal's capital.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Lisbon, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Lisbon Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Portugal - Safety by City