Is Lisbon Safe? Pickpockets, Scams and Tips from Locals

“Is Lisbon safe?” The short answer from our groups, and from the numbers, is yes. Portugal is consistently ranked one of the safest countries in the world (7th on the Global Peace Index), and violent crime against visitors is rare. Like any busy European capital, though, Lisbon has pickpockets and a few well-known tourist traps. Here’s what to watch for.

Quick answer: Lisbon is very safe, including for solo and female travellers and families. The main risk is pickpocketing in crowded spots like tram 28, viewpoints and the Baixa. Keep valuables zipped away, ignore the men whispering “hashish?”, and use common sense at night.

Pickpockets: the main thing to watch

Pickpockets work where tourists are packed together and distracted. The hotspots our members mention most:

• Tram 28, especially when it’s crowded at the stops in Baixa, Graça and Alfama
• the Santa Justa lift queue
• busy viewpoints (miradouros) at sunset
• Rossio, Rua Augusta and the metro at rush hour
• the airport metro and busy trains to Sintra and Cascais

How to avoid it: use a crossbody bag with a zip worn in front, keep your phone out of back pockets, don’t hang bags on chairs at outdoor cafés, and be wary of anyone crowding you when you get on a tram.

The “hashish?” sellers

Walk through the Baixa, Rossio or Bairro Alto and someone will probably mutter “hashish, cocaine?” at you. It’s a scam aimed at tourists. What they sell is usually bay leaves, flour or crushed painkillers. They’re harmless if you just say no and keep walking. Don’t engage or argue.

Other things to know

• Tuk tuk and taxi prices: agree the tuk tuk price before you set off, and make sure taxi meters are running. See our Uber vs Bolt vs taxi guide.
• Restaurant “couvert”: the bread and olives put on your table aren’t free. It’s normal, not a scam, but you can send them back. More in money in Portugal.
• ATMs: avoid the tourist Euronet machines and always pay in euros.
• Slippery pavements: honestly one of Lisbon’s biggest hazards! The polished stone calçada is very slippery when wet. Wear shoes with grip.
• Hills and stairs: take your time, especially with kids or luggage.

Is Lisbon safe at night?

Generally yes. Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are busy and lively until late, and central areas are well lit. As anywhere, stick to busier streets late at night, keep an eye on your drinks, and take an Uber, Bolt or taxi home rather than walking long distances through quiet areas.

Solo and female travellers

Lisbon is a popular and comfortable city for solo travellers, including women travelling alone. Members’ usual advice: choose accommodation in a central, busy area (see where to stay in Lisbon), use ride apps at night, and share your trip with someone.

Beaches and the sea

The Atlantic is colder and stronger than the Mediterranean. Swim at lifeguarded beaches and follow the flags: red means no swimming, yellow means paddling only. In summer, very hot days and wildfire warnings in rural areas are worth keeping an eye on.

If something goes wrong

• Emergency number: 112 (police, ambulance, fire).
• Tourist police: Lisbon has a dedicated tourist police station (Esquadra de Turismo) in the Palácio Foz on Praça dos Restauradores. Officers speak several languages and can help with theft reports for insurance.
• Lost passport: contact your embassy in Lisbon.
• Travel insurance: get some before you go, and keep a copy of your passport on your phone.

The rest of the essentials are in our free Portugal trip checklist.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.