Tips For Your Safety in Lisbon
Portugal is the third safest country in the world and has a very low crime rate over all. However as in any capital or larger city when visiting Lisbon you do have to take care, think and use common sense. Below are our tips on Safety In Lisbon.
Be Aware of Pickpockets
Although Lisbon is considered one of the safest capital cities in Europe, over the last 10 years, the increase in visitor numbers has changed this. Pickpockets now unfortunately operate in Lisbon, especially in busy areas like Baixa, Chiado, Alfama, and on public transportation (especially the tourist trams).
It is important to keep your belongings close. Use crossbody bags that zip and keep them in front of you. Be aware of your environment. Lisboetas are a polite people; they do not push into you or block your path. If someone is deliberately in your way, there is a good chance they are aiming to pick your pockets. The pickpocketers are normally dressed smart or as someone you wouldn’t expect such as a young woman or another tourist holding maps or cameras to blend in, these are most likely not portuguese but eastern European.
It is important to keep your belongings close. Use crossbody bags that zip and keep them in front of you. Be aware of your environment. Lisboetas are a polite people; they do not push into you or block your path. If someone is deliberately in your way, there is a good chance they are aiming to pick your pockets. The pickpocketers are normally dressed smart or as someone you wouldn’t expect such as a young woman or another tourist holding maps or cameras to blend in, these are most likely not portuguese but eastern European.
Avoid Isolated Areas at Night
This not only applies to Lisbon but the world over. While most neighborhoods in Lisbon are safe, it’s best to avoid poorly lit or deserted streets late at night. Especially in areas like Cais do Sodré or Bairro Alto after the clubs close.
The main streets in Lisbon tend to be populated even at 4am in the morning, so staying on main roads tend not to be an issue if you are waiting for taxi. However be aware there is a large homeless population around Lux nightclub, Intendente and Martim Moniz, Alcântara also have a large population of rough sleepers. We do not recommend walking here alone at night.
The main streets in Lisbon tend to be populated even at 4am in the morning, so staying on main roads tend not to be an issue if you are waiting for taxi. However be aware there is a large homeless population around Lux nightclub, Intendente and Martim Moniz, Alcântara also have a large population of rough sleepers. We do not recommend walking here alone at night.
Use Licensed Taxis or Ride-Sharing Apps
If you need a ride, choose official taxis or trusted apps like Uber and Bolt to avoid scams. We highly recommend BOLT. The AIP team has been using BOLT for nearly a decade without any issues and we always felt very safe no matter the time of night.
When getting into a Lisbon taxi make sure they use their meter, it is illegal for them to drive customers without the meter running.
Never get into a car if they are not a licensed cab or you booked then via an app.
When getting into a Lisbon taxi make sure they use their meter, it is illegal for them to drive customers without the meter running.
Never get into a car if they are not a licensed cab or you booked then via an app.
Decline Street Offers and Petitions
Politely refuse if someone approaches with offers for drugs, petitions, or items like bracelets. These can be distractions for pickpocketing.
Other crimes tourist most likely will experience in Lisbon is the huge amount of scamming “drug dealers” approaching you in most touristy areas. They will offer you hash, weed and cocaine but sell nothing more than fake drugs.
The police are fully aware of these scammers but as they very rarely carry enough drugs to get over the personal allowance that Portugal permits and the”drgs” they sell are usually herbs the police have limited powers to stop them. However over the years these scammers have become more and more aggressive often forcing you to buy the “drgs” if you happen to touch the bag. The best thing to do is just simply to firmly decline any offers and walk away, always keepin mind your safety in Lisbon.
Other crimes tourist most likely will experience in Lisbon is the huge amount of scamming “drug dealers” approaching you in most touristy areas. They will offer you hash, weed and cocaine but sell nothing more than fake drugs.
The police are fully aware of these scammers but as they very rarely carry enough drugs to get over the personal allowance that Portugal permits and the”drgs” they sell are usually herbs the police have limited powers to stop them. However over the years these scammers have become more and more aggressive often forcing you to buy the “drgs” if you happen to touch the bag. The best thing to do is just simply to firmly decline any offers and walk away, always keepin mind your safety in Lisbon.
Stay Sober-Aware
Lisbon’s nightlife is vibrant, but keep an eye on your drink and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
There have been reports of drinks being spiked especially in the Pink Street, in fact a friend of our team thinks her drink was spiked back in 2015. This is not a new issue.
As the bars in Cais Do Sodre are so small and can get very busy, it is an easy spot for people to drop something in a drink as they sqeeze by. Always watch your drink, never leave your drink unattended and keep an awareness of the people around you.
There have been reports of drinks being spiked especially in the Pink Street, in fact a friend of our team thinks her drink was spiked back in 2015. This is not a new issue.
As the bars in Cais Do Sodre are so small and can get very busy, it is an easy spot for people to drop something in a drink as they sqeeze by. Always watch your drink, never leave your drink unattended and keep an awareness of the people around you.
Bouncers
Having one too many drinks can make you an easy target for robbery or encounters with aggressive bouncers. Although recent laws have tightened regulations on private security (including bouncers at bars and nightclubs), it’s wise to be cautious when dealing with them, be aware of you safety in Lisbon even when you are having fun.
Bouncers can sometimes be overly aggressive when handling situations in their clubs or bars. Unfortunately, the police often face challenges in finding evidence or witnesses in incidents involving the use of excessive force by security staff.
Bouncers can sometimes be overly aggressive when handling situations in their clubs or bars. Unfortunately, the police often face challenges in finding evidence or witnesses in incidents involving the use of excessive force by security staff.
Prepare for Tricky Pavements
Wear comfortable shoes with good grip. Lisbon’s cobblestone streets can be slippery, especially in wet weather.
The calçadas in Portugal can be lethal… well, almost.
The calçadas are usually a mix of black basalt and white limestone. Although they are beautiful, they are very slippery and offer very little grip. You will often see locals walking on the road rather than on the sidewalk/path because the road offers better grip. Heels are really not advisable in Lisbon unless you plan on getting taxis from one spot to another. Bring flat shoes, flat shoes, flat shoes — we cannot say this enough!
The calçadas in Portugal can be lethal… well, almost.
The calçadas are usually a mix of black basalt and white limestone. Although they are beautiful, they are very slippery and offer very little grip. You will often see locals walking on the road rather than on the sidewalk/path because the road offers better grip. Heels are really not advisable in Lisbon unless you plan on getting taxis from one spot to another. Bring flat shoes, flat shoes, flat shoes — we cannot say this enough!
Traffic
Be cautious in areas with heavy traffic, as Lisbon has a high rate of accidents due to its narrow roads, sharp corners, and drivers often speeding despite the road conditions. Although speed cameras are becoming more common and police are increasingly issuing on-the-spot fines for speeding and drunk driving, these offenses are still relatively frequent. As a pedestrian, it’s best to stay on the safe side and always keep a close eye out for cars approaching at high speeds.
Terrorism
While the fear of terrorism is a concern for many global travelers today, statistically, Portugal is at very low risk compared to most other major cities in Europe. The country has not experienced significant threats from extremist groups. Although vigilance is always advisable, Portugal’s low-risk status makes it a relatively safe destination in terms of terrorism.
Do Not Be Flashy
In Portugal, the minimum wage is still only around 850 euros per month, while the cost of living continues to rise. Flaunting wealth as a foreigner in Lisbon can attract unwanted attention from locals who are struggling to make ends meet.
While this doesn’t justify theft, owning something like a bike worth six months’ salary for the average Portuguese worker significantly increases the risk of it being targeted. To stay safe, avoid giving people a reason to single you out. Just be aware of the social impact in Lisbon to secure your safety in Lisbon.
While this doesn’t justify theft, owning something like a bike worth six months’ salary for the average Portuguese worker significantly increases the risk of it being targeted. To stay safe, avoid giving people a reason to single you out. Just be aware of the social impact in Lisbon to secure your safety in Lisbon.
The Police
In general, the police in Portugal are very helpful and professional, with a strong presence in tourist areas to reduce the risk of crime. If you do experience a crime during your stay, there is a police station near the Rossio metro station that specializes in assisting tourists.
The Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Rossio Square (Praça Dom Pedro IV), which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Rua São Julião 27,
1100-524 Lisboa, Portugal
This station is dedicated to helping tourists and is staffed with officers who are experienced in dealing with issues faced by visitors. It’s a great place to go if you need assistance with crime, lost property, or any other concerns during your visit.
Many officers on the streets and in other stations may not be fluent in English, which can make communication challenging, but they will do their best to help you. The police are here to secure your safety in Lisbon.
The Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Rossio Square (Praça Dom Pedro IV), which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Rua São Julião 27,
1100-524 Lisboa, Portugal
This station is dedicated to helping tourists and is staffed with officers who are experienced in dealing with issues faced by visitors. It’s a great place to go if you need assistance with crime, lost property, or any other concerns during your visit.
Many officers on the streets and in other stations may not be fluent in English, which can make communication challenging, but they will do their best to help you. The police are here to secure your safety in Lisbon.
Emergency Contacts
Save emergency numbers: 112 for police, fire, and medical services. Also, keep your accommodation’s address handy.
Here are the addresses for hospitals that are closest to the central tourist areas in Lisbon:
Hospital de São José
Located near the city center, close to popular tourist areas like Baixa and Alfama.
Address:
Rua José António Serrano, 1150-199 Lisboa, Portugal
Hospital da Cruz Vermelha
Located near the Marquês de Pombal area, which is close to Avenida da Liberdade and other central attractions.
Address:
Avenida Magalhães Lima, 4, 1050-164 Lisboa, Portugal
The nearest hospital to the city center of Lisbon is Hospital de Santa Maria, which is one of the largest and most well-known hospitals in the city. It’s located in the Campo Grande area.
Here’s the address:
Hospital de Santa Maria
Av. Prof. Egas Moniz,
1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal
Here are the addresses for hospitals that are closest to the central tourist areas in Lisbon:
Hospital de São José
Located near the city center, close to popular tourist areas like Baixa and Alfama.
Address:
Rua José António Serrano, 1150-199 Lisboa, Portugal
Hospital da Cruz Vermelha
Located near the Marquês de Pombal area, which is close to Avenida da Liberdade and other central attractions.
Address:
Avenida Magalhães Lima, 4, 1050-164 Lisboa, Portugal
The nearest hospital to the city center of Lisbon is Hospital de Santa Maria, which is one of the largest and most well-known hospitals in the city. It’s located in the Campo Grande area.
Here’s the address:
Hospital de Santa Maria
Av. Prof. Egas Moniz,
1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal
