Portugal is a safe destination for travelers, with the country ranking seventh in the 2023 Global Peace Index alongside Iceland and New Zealand. Authorities take safety and security seriously, implementing measures to ensure a secure environment. The Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto are the three most popular tourist destinations. However, visitors should avoid beaches or coastal areas during severe weather warnings, look out for signs of cliff erosion and falling rocks, and avoid diving into unknown waters.
Portugal has a low crime rate, with violent crime being extremely rare. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common in major tourist areas. Strikes and public demonstrations are common, and Portugal appears to be in the top rankings of the safest countries in the world, alongside Iceland, New Zealand, and Canada.
Porto is considered the most dangerous city in Portugal, with over average levels of crime and surpassing Lisbon. The main tourist areas of Lisbon are very safe, with high-level police presence during the day and very few series crimes against tourists.
In summary, Portugal is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a low overall crime rate. However, travelers should be cautious when visiting beaches, coastal areas, and unfamiliar waters.
📹 Tourist Scams in Portugal
Are you heading to Portugal and worried about your safety or any travel scams? Well in general you do not have to worry too …
How safe is Portugal for tourists?
Portugal is ranked as the 3rd safest country globally by the Global Peace Index in 2020. However, travelers should be aware of the risk of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in Lisbon. To avoid these issues, keep personal items secure and visible at all times. Travelers should also be aware of the high pickpocketing rates in the city and follow common-sense guidelines while using public transportation or in crowded areas.
Is Portugal safer than Spain?
Portugal ranks third in the 2020 Global Peace Index, while Spain ranks 38th. Living in Portugal offers a sense of safety, unlike Spain, the US, or Japan. Both countries offer a variety of activities, but Portugal’s smaller size allows for peaceful countryside living within a 20-minute drive from major cities. Both countries offer entertainment and recreation options, but Portugal offers more in close proximity.
The criteria used to make a decision to relocate to a new country should be considered when planning to move to a different continent. The choice between Spain and Portugal is based on the criteria used to make the decision, which can be helpful even for those planning to move to a different continent.
Do they speak English in Portugal?
Portugal remains in the top 10 list of countries that speak English the best in the world, according to Human Resources Portugal. However, Coimbra, Braga, the Azores, Porto, Aveiro, Castelo Branco, Madeira, Faro, and Viseu have the highest level of spoken English, according to the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI). Lisbon, with its high level of startups and universities, fell four places on the list of Portuguese cities, losing 18 points. Porto won the award in 2019, 2020, and 2021, while Braga won in 2022.
Coimbra’s English proficiency (636 points) ranks it alongside other cities like Amsterdam, Vienna, and Copenhagen. Lisbon, with its universities, business schools, and hotels catering to mostly overseas tourists, lost 18 points, falling four places on the list.
Is Portugal the 3rd safest country in the world?
Portugal has risen to third place in the 2019 Global Peace Index, a move from its 18th place in 2013. The 13th Annual Global Peace Index report by the Institute for Economy and Peace in Sydney, Australia, reveals that Europe remains the most peaceful region globally, with Portugal improving in 12 of the 23 indicators used in the ranking.
Is Brazil or Portugal safer?
Portugal ranks 6th in the Global Peace Index, indicating a strong commitment to security. However, the country faces a higher crime rate than Brazil, which is a significant concern. Portugal’s crime rate has slightly increased in 2021, but violent and serious crime have decreased. However, domestic violence remains a significant issue. The disparity in safety and crime rates between Portugal and Brazil is significant, with larger districts reporting higher instances of violent and serious crimes, primarily robberies.
In contrast, Brazil has a more complex situation, with major cities like Rio de Janeiro experiencing a high number of murders. This disparity affects the quality of life and well-being experienced by individuals.
Lifestyle and entertainment options in Portugal and Brazil are similar, but with varying costs. Portugal’s entertainment activities are approximately 15 times more expensive than those in Brazil, which may influence the choice of those who enjoy cultural and leisure outings. Brazil, known for its happiest people, offers a lifestyle filled with parties, barbecues, and the Carnaval, reflecting its people’s love for celebration and socializing.
Where to avoid in Lisbon?
Metro stations near lively nightlife or tourist spots in Lisbon should be avoided, especially at night when things can get rowdy. Intendente and Anjos, two central neighborhoods in Lisbon, are considered unsafe due to their proximity to the Red Light district and popularity among students. For those looking for quieter neighborhoods, Chiado is recommended.
Bairro Portugal Novo, located in Olaias, is a notorious area with a history of drug and gun-related crimes. Despite this, Lisbon’s municipality is working on projects to improve safety in the area. Therefore, it is recommended to exercise caution near these stations.
Is Portugal safe for female tourists?
Portugal is a safe destination for solo female travelers due to its low crime rates, excellent public transport, and friendly locals. The country is known for its stunning beaches, fairytale palaces, and hilly coastlines. This guide to Portugal solo female travel explores must-see places, activities, and safety concerns for female travelers. The best time to visit Portugal is between June and September, when temperatures reach around 29°C (84°F).
The Atlantic sea breeze may be stronger than it seems, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Portugal is also known for its beautiful beaches, fairytale palaces, and hilly coastlines. The best time to visit Portugal depends on your interests and preferences.
What are the don’ts of Portugal?
In Portugal, etiquette is important, including referring to others by their titles, not speaking Spanish to a Portuguese person, not calling at mealtimes, avoiding stretching in public, and not spit on the ground or littering. These practices are considered bad etiquette and can be seen in various cultural settings, such as the use of the first name, the use of titles, and the respect for others’ privacy.
What should I be careful of in Portugal?
To protect yourself from terrorism, keep your belongings visible, avoid distraction techniques, and leave spare cash and valuables in safe places. Stay aware of your surroundings and stay informed about UK Counter Terrorism Policing’s information on staying safe abroad and how to reduce your risk in the event of a terrorist attack. Terrorism in Portugal is also a concern, and it is essential to be vigilant and prepared for potential attacks.
Is it safe to walk in Lisbon at night?
Lisbon’s main tourist areas, Baixa, Alfama, and Bairro Alto, are generally safe to walk around at night, highlighting the importance of being aware of your surroundings, not flashing valuables, and staying in well-lit, populated areas.
Are Portuguese people friendly to tourists?
Portugal is known for its warm and welcoming culture, making it a popular destination for visitors and expatriates alike. The country’s hospitable and helpful nature extends across urban and rural areas, offering a sense of belonging for those from abroad. Portugal’s embrace of diversity and inclusivity fosters a vibrant multicultural community. The key to a smooth transition is adapting to the local culture and learning the language. Portugal offers a warm welcome and a quality of life that many dream of, making it an excellent choice for foreigners looking for a new home.
📹 12 Things NOT to do in Portugal
To Support Dave: paypal.me/daveinportugal What not to do in Portugal! Learn the etiquette before you get here! -Some guy …
In Portugal, I once ordered a steak, eggs, rice and fries for 9 euro, sat down, and then asked the restaurant explicitly how much the bread cost when the server tried to give it to me. And then I asked for whatever drink cost less than 1 euro (a diluted orange-flavoured drink apparently fit the bill). I only had 10 euros cash and ordered a 9 euro item on the menu. The server referred to the owner/manager who then gave me the bread for free. The price of non-alcoholic drinks or extras was not listed on the menu.
Just to make some things more clear and help out: -1st tip about the entries on the table: if you dont want to pay them, dont touch them, you only pay for what you eat. -about the haxiche guys: just say “não obrigado” (no thank you) and they dont insist and leave you alone, if you buy from them 1 time, they might remember your face and always ask you.
I once got anti-scammed by a taxi driver. normally and as per google maps there was a way to go down and then left and then up again. it cost like 7 €. Once a taxi driver went a route unknown to me and not the regular route (probably crossing some closed roads etc) so that i was faster there and it only cost 4 €.
Saying that the couvert costs €10 and is often more than the dishes is a gross exaggeration. Depending on the kind of restaurant, the couvert is often just a few euros. In fancier places it will be more expensive but so are the dishes. At all times, it should be clear that nobody has to touch the couvert and you can ask for it to be sent back.
About the “entradas” (entry dishes): by law, you may refuse them (or just not touch them), in which case the restaurant should not charge for them. But be aware that if you touch one piece of it, you may be charged the whole thing (even if it is an array of totally different things, like several types of bread, olives, ham, cheeses, etc.), because the restaurant may have a fixed price for the whole “couvert” and not a separate price for each individual item.
Waiving the rental car insurance for use of a VISA card may give the attendant carte blanche for “surprise scratches” when returning the vehicle. It happened to us in Porto with Hertz. We paid the bill and dealt with it upon returning home. Apart from that we had a fantastic time in their beautiful country.
Guys, fish in Portugal priced by the gram includes larger fish FROM THE SEA. Fish priced per fish e.g. Dourada, ribalo etc (with the exception of sardines) are factory farmed and easy to spot as they are all the same (same) size.I avoid facrory-farmed fish because of the crap they feed them. Been living in the East Algarve for 20 years now.
On the note of pickpocketing- be very alert in the tourist busy area. I was in Lisbon Alfama area. I felt a sudden bump from behind, turned around right away. Two women pretended to be tourists quickly passing by. I looked down. My purse was half open and my wallet was half way out. I took my phone to grab pictures of them. They turned away and pretended to sight seeing and taking pictures. They must spotted me and my wallet when I bought ice cream a few stores back.
fake apartment rental was a massive issue a couple of years ago, when it was almost impossible to rent anything here. at the peak of the crisis there were about as many scams as real apartments. the number of offers has increased significantly, especially this year, but anyone, especially moving here, should still be cautious abou this.
3:44 Someone did this to me in Spain (Madrid?) at the airport 8 years ago! I almost believed her–she was crying. I called my bf who said it was a scam… She said she flew into the wrong airport and needed $ to get the bus to the other one for her connection… so I asked to see the boarding pass. She seemd confused and took 3 mins and showed me on in her email. Almost believed her… But then saw the ticket was dated for the year prior! I told her and in 0.1 secs she stopped crying and spun 160° around, and speed walked to another sucker. I was shook 😮
I’ve been in Lisbon recently. Uber drivers I’ve met were brilliant, to the point where one told me a cheaper and easy way to come back from visiting „Jesus”, than taking an uber back to the main square (but uber also was good value for the distance traveler – much better than in UK). Had a good chat with the drivers as well. And a heroina/cocaina scammer made my gf stomach hurt… from laughter – he was so bad at being a scammer. 😂 Overall a brilliant short city break.
The couvert thing is actually very commun in pretty much all restaurants. A few years ago the law in Portugal changed regardin of the couverts (or other itens) that are brought to the table but you never asked for. If you never asked for something, by law, you have no obligation to pay for it. As a portuguese myself i can say that even the law states that, we all pay for it, if we don’t want to pay for it we just don’t eat it, but still make sure if it doesn’t come in the bill. The only situation I would see myself making a fuss about that was if the price was outrageous (scam).
We’ve been all over Portugal and the only scam we experienced was false advertising of a hotel in Quarteira, Algarve. We paid $950 for four nights at a hotel with an ocean view, and turned out the hallway to our room smelled like bug spray, the room was like a dorm room, and the towels were rags. We left and lost the money.
livro de reclamações – complaints book, is a very serious thing, a place can be closed due to the severity of the complaint, or if there is several minor complaints about the same thing and the problem wasnt fixed, specially if the complaint is about health and safety. Dont use it just because you have a case of grumpy while hungry.
I’ve been going to Portugal several times a year for a long time and it has been illegal to bring out a couvert without it being asked for from the menu for a good few years now. I’ve only seen the fish sold by weight in awful tourist spots like Albufeira, so go inland and avoid the tourist traps and cities or go to the east of the Algarve or head north towards the Alentejo and score some excellent wine and wild meat in the mountains like boar and venison.
We had soooo many scams in Barcelona when I worked there. They just assumed( incorrectly) that none of us were fluent in Spanish ( sometimes Catalan) but guessed WRONG. The worst was at a very nice restaurant, ordered some type of soup and what we thought was rice was actually a bowl of ALIVE maggots . My fluent friend complained and then in Spanish they threatened to throw her in jail?! It was really scary. She switched to Spanish and told them off and we got out quick no money back, just a bowl of lies ( haha) and then!!! Outside there was a man who all of a sudden fell over. Everyone thought heart attack looked bad. Then the owner ran out and in Spanish yelled,” ok Lazarus, you can get up now, you’re not getting any money from us.” We all went home and literally hid in our appts for three days. It was crazyville. But we had many incredible experiences as well. But trust me learn some of the language is possible
Lisbon local here — the haxixe, cocaína guys talk to everyone, even with locals, regardless of their age. I was walking with my grandma around Baixa one time and they had the audacity to offer her as well 😂Obviously, it’s fake all drugs, it’s usually Knorr chicken cubes or bay leaves they are attempting to sell. But they’re usually chill, just walk away and say nothing or just say “no, thank you” and you’ll be fine.
It’s not fair to say so. I am kind of a new migrant living in Portugal for a few years now, Portuguese people are pretty honest all in all, you can always refuse or ask the servers to take those side dishes off without hassle, price in tourist areas is always dear all over world, pickpocketing business is targeting to tourists that’s a common sense regardless of countries. Speaking of which, security in Portugal is by far the safest in Europe, many of the nasty things happening in the crowds are not done by locals except for their driving manner I would say😂
I think Lissabon is a great place. We had a blast. Sintra is also nice to visit and the little wooden tram is worth every penny. Constantly being on the lookout of getting scammed must be very tiring and must take the fun away of your trip. I think Portugal has a very open society, and besides the tuktukcams I think it’s a great place. Taxi’s are a great way to go around. And when you want to visit the statueof Christ, for Godsake DO take a tuktuk. After the ferry that is.