Portugal is a top destination for travelers from all over the world, and this includes solo travelers. Portugal is a safe destination for solo female travelers, and it is one of my favorite countries to visit.
To keep you safe during your trip, I’ve compiled the following information:
- Overall safety in Portugal for solo female travelers.
- Crime rates in the country and the efficiency of local law enforcement
- Precautions to avoid pickpocketing and petty theft
- Best practices for staying safe while navigating the city at night.
Keep reading for all the essential knowledge for a safe and memorable trip to Portugal.
Published: December 20, 2023
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Portugal as a Safe Destination for Solo Female Travelers
Portugal’s charm extends far beyond its historic streets and stories.
The country is widely recognized for its friendly and safe environment, particularly for women traveling alone.
Whether you’re visiting for the history, food, beaches, or nightlife, Portugal welcomes solo female travelers with open arms.
Crime Rates and Police in Portugal
Portugal, particularly the capital city of Lisbon, consistently ranks as one of the safest European destinations for solo female travelers. The Global Peace Index, which ranks 163 countries on their levels of peace, often places Portugal near the top of the list, highlighting its low crime rates and high level of security.
In Portugal, a proactive approach to community policing contributes to the feeling of safety. Tourist-heavy and central areas in cities are typically well-lit and regularly patrolled, giving travelers the peace of mind they need to enjoy their visit.
Regarding crime statistics, the rates for major crimes in Portugal are relatively low, especially compared to other major cities worldwide. The most common issues travelers face are petty theft incidents, particularly pickpocketing, which is a concern in many tourist destinations worldwide. However, with reasonable precautions and situational awareness, the risk of falling victim to these petty crimes can be greatly minimized in Portugal.
Tips on Protecting Your Belongings from Pickpockets
While the risk of pickpocketing in Portugal is not high, it’s an issue that travelers should be mindful of, especially in areas where tourists congregate.
Consider using anti-theft bags or purses with secure, zipped compartments to protect your belongings. Wearing your backpack on the front of your body or keeping your hand on your purse in crowded areas can deter thieves.
Always be aware of your surroundings and cautious of distractions that may be orchestrated to divert your attention. Never leave your belongings unattended, particularly in public places such as cafes, restaurants, or public transportation. Additionally, be wary of overly friendly strangers who might be working to distract you.
You should also limit the amount of cash and valuables you carry. Leave excess cash, credit cards, and important documents, such as your passport, in a secure location like a hotel safe. This limits your loss should you become a target of pickpockets in Portugal.
Strategies for Safe Night-time Exploration
Portugal’s nightlife is vibrant and often essential to the solo travel experience.
To stay safe during night-time activities, solo female travelers must plan ahead. Always stay in well-lit, populated areas and preferably stick to familiar streets.
If venturing out to less familiar areas, do so with a group or use reputable transportation options like licensed taxis or rideshare services.
Take note of the locations of emergency services and busy establishments that are open late, as these can be good spots for finding help if needed. Share your plans and location with someone you trust, whether that’s someone back home or the staff at the place you’re staying.
Refrain from wearing flashy jewelry or displaying valuables, which can attract unwanted attention. Keep your mobile phone charged and within reach at all times for quick access to maps or in case you need to call 112 in an emergency.
Lastly, trust your instincts. If a situation or an area doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to leave or seek help. Many Portuguese are friendly and willing to assist if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation.
With these tips, you can confidently enjoy Portugal’s nightlife.
Ready for a Solo Adventure in Portugal?
Overall, Portugal is a place where solo female travelers can enjoy a safe and enriching trip.
Crime rates in Portugal are relatively low. You just need to be vigilant about personal belongings, especially in crowded places, to prevent pickpocketing and petty theft.
Now you know you can have a fun and safe adventure no matter where you go in the country; keep the advice in this article in mind.
Ready to plan your solo trip to Portugal? Here are the resources I use to plan all my amazing trips:
- Top travel credit cards
- SafetyWing for travel insurance
- Flytographer for professional photoshoots all over the world
- Daily Drop for daily travel tips and tricks in one fun, short newsletter
- Daily Drop Pro for miles and points bookings (learn more in my guide)
- Booking.com for a huge variety of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more
- HostelWorld for the best hostels around the world
- Vrbo for vacation homes and rentals
- Going for cheap flight alerts
- Skyscanner for the cheapest flights
- Amazon for travel and packing must-haves
- Priority Pass for airport lounge access
- TripAdvisor for the top hotels around the world
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Safety in Portugal for Solo Female Travellers FAQs
How safe is Portugal for solo female travelers?
Portugal is generally considered a safe country for solo female travelers. The locals are known for being friendly and helpful, while the low crime rates contribute to a sense of security. However, it’s always important to exercise common sense and remain vigilant, especially in tourist-heavy areas where pickpocketing might occur.
What are the top safety tips for solo female travelers in Portugal?
Some top safety tips for solo female travelers in Portugal include staying aware of your surroundings, safeguarding your belongings, avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas at night, and keeping family or friends informed about your travel itinerary. Additionally, it’s recommended to learn a few phrases in Portuguese, carry the contact information for local emergency services, and dress modestly to blend in with the local culture.
What emergency numbers should travelers have on hand in Portugal?
In an emergency in Portugal, the primary number to call is 112 for general emergencies, which connects callers to police, fire, and ambulance services. You should save these numbers on your phone before you travel and familiarize yourself with the non-emergency numbers for local police stations in the areas you’ll be visiting.