Is Lisbon Safe? Notes From Researched Travelers

My wife Sarah and I, a couple of middle-aged remote workers from Florida (okay, I'm still clinging to 29 in my mind), deciding to trade our beach views for the rolling hills of Lisbon. As we packed our bags, our parents' voices echoed in our heads: "But isn't Europe dangerous? What about pickpockets? Or worse?"

Meanwhile, the TripAdvisor forums were buzzing with conflicting opinions. Some travelers raved about Lisbon's safety, while others shared hair-raising tales of close calls with petty crime. So, which is it? Is Lisbon a peaceful haven for tourists or a pickpocket's paradise?

We were determined to find out for ourselves. Armed with our laptops (gotta keep those remote jobs going) and an insatiable appetite for pastéis de nata, we embarked on a 6-night adventure in Portugal's capital. Our mission? To uncover the truth about Lisbon's safety and share our unfiltered experiences with fellow travelers.

In this article, I'll walk you through:

1. How we assessed Lisbon's safety before our trip (spoiler alert: it involves more than just a quick Google search)
2. Our honest, day-by-day experiences navigating the city's charming (and sometimes perplexing) streets
3. A no-holds-barred look at Lisbon's different neighborhoods, from the touristy Baixa to the nightlife hub of Bairro Alto

So, buckle up (or should I say, "apertar os cintos"?) as we dive into the real deal about safety in Lisbon. Trust me, by the end of this, you'll be itching to book your own Portuguese adventure – and you'll know exactly how to do it safely.

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we jetted off to Lisbon, Sarah and I put on our detective hats (metaphorically speaking – we left the actual hats at home) and dug into some serious research. Here's what we found:

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First stop on our safety investigation tour: the U.S. Department of State website. Now, I'll admit, navigating government websites isn't my idea of a thrilling Friday night, but this information is gold for travelers.

The State Department uses a 1-4 rating system for travel advisories:

1. Exercise normal precautions (white)
2. Exercise increased caution (yellow)
3. Reconsider travel (orange)
4. Do not travel (red)

As of July 2024, Portugal sits pretty with a Level 1 Travel Advisory ("Exercise Normal Precautions"). That's the travel equivalent of a green light, folks!

To put this in perspective, many popular European destinations like France and Germany often hover at Level 2 due to terrorism concerns. Portugal's Level 1 status had us doing a little happy dance in our living room.

State Department Check: PASS

02 - Latest News

Next up, we dove into recent news about Portugal. No, not the latest soccer scores or celebrity gossip (though I wouldn't say no to some Cristiano Ronaldo updates). We were on the hunt for any safety-related headlines.

The big news that caught our eye? On October 23, 2023, Portugal's Internal Security System raised the national terrorism threat level to 3, "significant," on a 5-step scale. This decision followed recent terrorist attacks in Europe and the Middle East.

Now, before you cancel your trip and hide under the covers, let's put this in context. Many European countries have been at similar alert levels for years. Portugal's move seemed more precautionary than reactionary.

We also stumbled upon some positive news. Portugal has been pouring money into its tourism infrastructure, with new hotels popping up and improvements to public transportation. This investment usually goes hand in hand with increased security measures.

While the terrorism alert gave us a moment's pause, the overall picture still looked promising. We decided to stay vigilant but not let fear dictate our travel plans.

Latest News Check: CAUTIOUS PASS

03 - Community Forums

Last but not least, we turned to the real experts: fellow travelers. TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads became our late-night reading material (move over, Stephen King).

The consensus? Overwhelmingly positive. Travelers from all walks of life – solo female adventurers, families with young kids, retirees on their dream trips – raved about feeling safe in Lisbon.

One TripAdvisor user wrote, "I felt safer walking around Lisbon at night than I do in my own neighborhood back home!" Another chimed in, "Keep your wits about you like in any big city, but don't let fear stop you from experiencing this amazing place."

The few negative experiences mostly involved pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation. But hey, that's solid advice for pretty much any major city in the world.

Community Forum Check: PASS

Armed with this information, Sarah and I felt confident booking our flights. Next stop: Lisbon!

First Hand Experience in Lisbon

Alright, let's get to the good stuff – our boots-on-the-ground (or should I say, sandals-on-the-cobblestones) experience in Lisbon. We explored seven distinct neighborhoods, each with its own flavor and, you guessed it, safety vibe.

Baixa

Baixa is Lisbon's downtown area, rebuilt in a grid pattern after the devastating 1755 earthquake. It's tourist central, with grand plazas, shopping streets, and enough pastry shops to send your dentist into early retirement.

Our experience: We felt completely at ease wandering Baixa's wide avenues, both day and night. The area was well-lit and had a constant flow of people, even in the evening hours. We did notice a visible police presence, which was reassuring.

Highlight: Praça do Comércio, the grand square facing the Tagus River. We enjoyed a sunset drink at one of the square's cafes, people-watching and pinching ourselves that we were really here.

Safety tip: While Baixa felt very secure, it's also pickpocket central. Keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas or on the famous Tram 28.

Is Baixa Safe? YES, but stay alert in crowds.

Chiado

Adjacent to Baixa, Chiado is the elegant shopping and theater district. Think upscale boutiques, historic cafes, and streets that make you want to break out in spontaneous fado singing (resist the urge – trust me on this one).

Our experience: Chiado charmed our socks off (good thing we packed extras). We strolled its streets day and night, window shopping and cafe-hopping. The area felt very safe, with a mix of locals and tourists creating a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere.

Highlight: A late-night visit to Café A Brasileira, a historic cafe once frequented by famous Portuguese writers. We felt perfectly safe walking back to our hotel around midnight, with well-lit streets and other people still out and about.

Safety tip: As always, be aware of your surroundings, especially when dining at outdoor cafes. Keep bags on your lap or between your feet, not hanging on chair backs.

Is Chiado Safe? YES, very much so.

Alfama

Ah, Alfama – the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and a maze of narrow, winding streets that had us questioning our map-reading skills more than once. This is the place for stunning viewpoints, traditional fado music, and getting hopelessly (but happily) lost.

Our experience: During the day, Alfama was a joy to explore. We climbed its steep hills (hello, leg workout!), discovered hidden courtyards, and chatted with friendly locals. At night, the atmosphere changed. While not unsafe, the poorly lit, empty alleys did make us a bit uneasy.

Highlight: Catching a fado performance at a small, local tavern. The mournful music, combined with the historic surroundings, was unforgettable.

Safety tip: Stick to well-lit main streets at night, or better yet, take a guided evening tour to experience Alfama's nighttime charm safely.

Is Alfama Safe? YES during the day, CAUTIOUS at night.

Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is Lisbon's nightlife central. By day, it's a sleepy residential area. But as the sun sets, the streets come alive with bars, restaurants, and music spilling out onto the narrow lanes.

Our experience: We visited Bairro Alto both during the day and at night. The transformation was fascinating. Daytime Bairro Alto was quiet and unassuming. Nighttime Bairro Alto was a party in full swing.

We felt safe exploring the area, even late into the night. The crowds, while boisterous, were generally friendly and non-threatening. However, the sheer number of people and the prevalence of alcohol made us extra cautious with our belongings.

Highlight: Bar-hopping on Rua da Atalaia, sampling different petiscos (Portuguese tapas) and local wines. The lively atmosphere was infectious, and we found ourselves chatting with fellow travelers and locals alike.

Safety tip: If you're planning a night out in Bairro Alto, consider leaving valuables in your hotel safe. The crowded, energetic atmosphere can be a playground for pickpockets.

Is Bairro Alto Safe? YES, but stay alert and drink responsibly.

Belém

Belém is a bit of a trek from central Lisbon, but well worth the journey. This riverside district is home to some of Lisbon's most iconic monuments, as well as the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery (more on that deliciousness later).

Our experience: Belém felt like one of the safest areas we visited in Lisbon. Wide open spaces, lots of families and tour groups, and a generally relaxed vibe. We spent a full day here, exploring monuments and stuffing our faces with pastries, without a single safety concern.

Highlight: Visiting the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The intricate architecture left us awe-struck, and the surrounding gardens were perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Safety tip: Belém gets crowded with tourists, especially around major attractions. Keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas, particularly when taking photos or admiring views.

Is Belém Safe? YES, very family-friendly.

Parque das Nações

Parque das Nações is Lisbon's modern face – a district redeveloped for the 1998 World Exposition. It's all sleek architecture, waterfront promenades, and futuristic attractions.

Our experience: This area felt incredibly safe, almost to the point of being too sanitized. We visited during the day and early evening, enjoying the riverside walks and modern art installations. The wide-open spaces and well-maintained facilities gave a sense of security.

Highlight: Taking a ride on the cable car for panoramic views of the Tagus River and the Vasco da Gama Bridge. We felt perfectly safe both in the cable car and walking around the area afterward.

Safety tip: While very safe, the area can be quiet in the evenings. If you're staying here, consider taking a taxi or ride-share back at night rather than walking from the metro.

Is Parque das Nações Safe? YES, one of the safest areas in Lisbon.

Príncipe Real

Our final stop was Príncipe Real, a trendy neighborhood known for its antique shops, hip restaurants, and beautiful garden. It's a bit off the usual tourist trail, which made it all the more intriguing for us.

Our experience: Príncipe Real had a laid-back, local vibe that we loved. We felt safe wandering its streets, popping into quirky shops, and lounging in the central garden. The area was quieter than more touristy neighborhoods, but never felt deserted or unsafe.

Highlight: Browsing the biweekly antique market in Príncipe Real Garden. The eclectic mix of items and friendly vendors made for a delightful morning.

Safety tip: As with any less touristy area, it's a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're out late at night.

Is Príncipe Real Safe? YES, with a local flavor.

Lisbon by Foot and Public Transport

Now, let's talk about getting around Lisbon. Spoiler alert: it involves a lot of walking uphill. (Note to self: next time, pack less pasta and more running shoes.)

Walking in Lisbon

Lisbon is a wonderfully walkable city... if you don't mind feeling like you're constantly training for a mountain trek. Those seven hills are no joke, folks.

We walked extensively throughout our stay and generally felt very safe doing so. The main areas of the city are well-lit, even at night, and we often saw police patrols in touristy areas.

However, there were a couple of instances where we felt a bit uneasy:

1. Late one night, we took a wrong turn in Alfama and ended up in a dimly lit, narrow alley. Nothing happened, but the deserted street and graffiti-covered walls had us quickening our pace.
2. On a crowded tram, Sarah felt someone bump into her suspiciously. She immediately checked her bag and found it partially unzipped. Fortunately, nothing was taken, but it was a stark reminder to stay vigilant.

Walking safety tips:

• Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Those cobblestone streets are charming but treacherous.
• Use well-lit, main streets at night, especially in older neighborhoods like Alfama.
• Be prepared for hills. If you're not up for the climb, consider using public transportation or ride-shares for uphill journeys.

Public Transportation in Lisbon

Lisbon's public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and generally safe. We used a mix of metro, buses, and the famous trams to get around.

Metro: The metro felt very safe and clean. Even late at night, there were always other passengers around. Stations were well-lit and had clear signage.

Buses: We used buses less frequently, but when we did, they felt safe and were a great way to see the city.

Trams: Ah, the iconic Lisbon trams. They're a fun way to travel, but also notorious for pickpockets, especially the popular Tram 28. We rode it once, holding onto our belongings for dear life, and enjoyed the experience without incident.

Public transport safety tips:

• Keep valuables close to your body, especially on crowded trams or during rush hour.
• Be aware of your surroundings when waiting at stations or stops, particularly at night.
• Consider purchasing a Viva Viagem card for easier and safer travel (no fumbling for change).

Uber and Taxis in Lisbon

We primarily walked or used public transport, but there were a few times we opted for Uber or taxis:

1. From the airport to our hotel (too much luggage to wrestle onto public transport)
2. Late night return from Bairro Alto after a night of bar-hopping
3. To reach Belém (we were feeling lazy and the pastéis were calling)

Both Uber and traditional taxis felt safe and reliable. Uber rides were generally cheaper and more convenient, as we didn't have to worry about language barriers or having the right change.

Taxi/Uber safety tips:

• Use official taxi ranks or reputable ride-sharing apps.
• Confirm the fare or ensure the meter is running before starting your journey.
• Share your ride details with a friend if traveling alone, especially at night.

Recommended Safe Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a sample 3-day itinerary that balances safety with seeing Lisbon's highlights:

Day 1:

• Morning: Explore Baixa and Chiado. Start at Praça do Comércio and work your way up to the Santa Justa Lift.
• Afternoon: Take Tram 28 for a scenic ride (keep valuables secure!), ending in Alfama.
• Evening: Dinner in Chiado, followed by a stroll around the safe, well-lit streets.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit Belém. See Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
• Afternoon: Explore the LX Factory in Alcântara for a hip, industrial vibe.
• Evening: Sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, then dinner in Bairro Alto (stay aware in crowds).

Day 3:

• Morning: Relax in Príncipe Real, visit the gardens and quirky shops.
• Afternoon: Modern art at the Gulbenkian Museum.
• Evening: Farewell dinner at Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré.

Safety tip: This itinerary keeps you in well-populated areas and avoids late-night adventures in less familiar parts of the city.

Final Thoughts

After our week-long adventure, Sarah and I can confidently say: Yes, Lisbon is safe for travelers. In fact, we felt more at ease here than in many other European capitals we've visited.

That said, no city is without its risks. Here's our list of top safety tips for Lisbon:

1. Stay alert in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.
2. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially when using trams or visiting busy attractions.
3. Use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas, especially after dark.
4. Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking at night.
5. Be cautious of scams, including offers of drugs or suspiciously friendly strangers.
6. Use official taxi stands or reputable ride-sharing apps for late-night travel.
7. Learn basic Portuguese phrases to help in emergency situations.
8. Keep copies of important documents separate from originals.
9. Use caution when using public Wi-Fi networks and protect your personal information online.
10. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for navigating those tricky cobblestone streets.

Lisbon's charm lies not just in its stunning architecture and delicious food, but also in the general sense of safety and welcoming atmosphere we experienced. The Global Peace Index ranks Portugal as the 7th safest country globally, and our experience certainly aligned with this high rating.

However, it's worth noting the recent change in the terrorism threat level. While we didn't notice any impact on our day-to-day activities, it's always wise to stay informed about current events when traveling.

Compared to other European cities we've visited, Lisbon felt notably safe. The visible police presence, well-maintained public spaces, and friendly locals all contributed to this feeling. Of course, as with any unfamiliar city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

For families, solo travelers, or LGBTQ+ visitors, Lisbon offers a welcoming and secure environment. We saw plenty of families enjoying the city's attractions, solo travelers confidently exploring, and same-sex couples walking hand-in-hand without issue.

One aspect we particularly appreciated was the balanced approach to tourism. Unlike some cities where tourists can feel like targets, Lisbon seemed to have a harmonious blend of visitors and locals. This integration contributed to the overall sense of safety and community we experienced.

In conclusion, don't let safety concerns keep you from experiencing the magic of Lisbon. With its stunning views, rich history, and those oh-so-delicious pastéis de nata, it's a city that deserves a spot on every traveler's bucket list. Just pack your common sense along with your sunscreen, and you're in for an unforgettable (and safe) Portuguese adventure.

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah, a couple of 40-something remote workers from sunny Florida who've traded our beach chairs for passports. After spending two decades in the corporate world (West in hotel management and Sarah in tech), we decided life's too short not to see the world.

Now, we're on a mission to explore every corner of the globe, one city at a time. But we're not just your average tourists. Oh no, we're on a quest to uncover the safest spots and the tastiest bites in every place we visit.

West, a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration grad, spent years as the go-to guy for luxury travel experiences. Now, he's using that insider knowledge to help everyday travelers (like you!) have extraordinary adventures without breaking the bank.

Sarah, our tech wizard, makes sure we stay connected and secure no matter where we roam. She's also our resident foodie, always on the hunt for the next amazing meal.

Together, we're here to show you that safe travel doesn't have to be boring, and delicious food doesn't have to be expensive. Follow along on our journey, and we promise you'll learn how to travel smarter, eat better, and have more fun – all while staying safe and savvy.

Remember, life's an adventure – we're just here to help you enjoy it responsibly!