Lisbon Safety Guide
Is Lisbon Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Lisbon and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Lisbon crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Lisbon, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, Lisbon is remarkably safe during daylight hours. Basic awareness is all you need. The evening atmosphere stays pleasant, with most areas remaining safe for walking.
Robberies and Theft: low
Armed Robberies:
Assaults:
Corruption: moderate
Drug Issues: low
Beggars:
Vandalism: low
Theft from Cars: moderate
Car Theft: low
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Metro Ticket Scam (High Risk) - In Lisbon's metro system, some individuals may offer you "deal" tickets or entice you into purchasing from them, particularly at stations like Rossio and Cais do Sodré. Always purchase tickets from official machines or counters to ensure validity.
Taxi Overcharging (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxis often wait outside busy areas, such as the Lisbon Cathedral or popular tourist attractions, and may charge exorbitant flat rates instead of using the meter. Always use official taxis, which have a taxi sign and can be hailed from designated stands.
Pickpocketing in Tourist Areas (Medium Risk) - Areas like Praça do Comércio, particularly in crowded settings or during events, are hotspots for pickpockets who work in pairs to distract you while one steals your belongings. Keep your personal items secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Restaurant Menu Trick (Medium Risk) - Some restaurants, especially in touristy spots like Bairro Alto, may present separate prices or hidden charges not initially displayed on the menu. Always ask for a complete menu and verify prices before ordering to avoid unexpected charges.
Fake Charity Collectors (Low Risk) - You may encounter people posing as charity collectors at popular sites, such as the Belém Tower, asking for donations or signing up new members. If approached, politely decline and keep walking, as these requests may not be legitimate.
Counterfeit Ticker Sales for Attractions (Low Risk) - Scammers may attempt to sell fake tickets for attractions such as the Oceanário de Lisboa in busy areas like Alfama. Always purchase tickets directly from official websites or authorized sellers to ensure authenticity.
Taxi Overcharging (Medium Risk) - Unofficial taxis often wait outside busy areas, such as the Lisbon Cathedral or popular tourist attractions, and may charge exorbitant flat rates instead of using the meter. Always use official taxis, which have a taxi sign and can be hailed from designated stands.
Pickpocketing in Tourist Areas (Medium Risk) - Areas like Praça do Comércio, particularly in crowded settings or during events, are hotspots for pickpockets who work in pairs to distract you while one steals your belongings. Keep your personal items secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Restaurant Menu Trick (Medium Risk) - Some restaurants, especially in touristy spots like Bairro Alto, may present separate prices or hidden charges not initially displayed on the menu. Always ask for a complete menu and verify prices before ordering to avoid unexpected charges.
Fake Charity Collectors (Low Risk) - You may encounter people posing as charity collectors at popular sites, such as the Belém Tower, asking for donations or signing up new members. If approached, politely decline and keep walking, as these requests may not be legitimate.
Counterfeit Ticker Sales for Attractions (Low Risk) - Scammers may attempt to sell fake tickets for attractions such as the Oceanário de Lisboa in busy areas like Alfama. Always purchase tickets directly from official websites or authorized sellers to ensure authenticity.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
This is an amazing country with a unique atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and old trams that look like they did 100 years ago. The history is felt everywhere. The only downside is that in the historic center of Lisbon, at every turn, vendors are pushing souvenirs. You just walk by, and they ask you what you want. It feels a bit off, especially when you're traveling alone. But then again, you quickly learn to tune it out.
Overall, the little town of Sintra captured my heart more than Lisbon. It's a wonderful place that makes you not want to leave, creating that feeling that time has stood still and you are in a completely different dimension. »
In Portugal, you can purchase cigarettes from vending machines located in cafes and shops. To make a purchase, you need to ask the owner of the establishment to unlock the special electronic lock. 🥳 »
In Lisbon, the city authorities have preserved the historic Tram 28 route for tourists. The old yellow tram, over a century old, passes through the most picturesque neighborhoods of the city, including Alfama. Along the way, you can see the St. George's Castle, the Santa Luzia viewpoint with its adjacent church, the São Bento Palace, the basilica, and the Estrela Park.
Route 28 is incredibly popular not just among tourists, but also with pickpockets. »