Is Portugal Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Portugal is generally a safe country for solo female travelers. It has a lower crime rate compared to other European countries. Portuguese people are known for their hospitality and are always willing to help. As with any travel destination, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and follow common sense rules such as keeping your belongings secure. Even though the country is safe, I would still recommend you blend in with the locals as much as possible to not draw unnecessary attention to yourself.

Safety rating

4.6 /5

Based on 275 experiences from female travelers

4.3 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.4 /5

Based on 203 experiences from local women

Portugal is currently ranked #24 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.6 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Portugal?

Safety at night:Safe

Portugal, particularly its key cities like Lisbon and Porto, is generally a safe place to be at night. As a solo female traveler, walking alone shouldn't pose a significant issue. Portugal has a low rate of violent crime. However, some areas can be a bit sketchy at night particularly some outskirts and silent alleys, so it's advisable to stay in populated places where lighting is good. Also, be beware of pickpockets in tourist areas and in public transport like in any other major cities.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Portugal, such as buses, trams, metros, and trains, is generally safe for solo female travelers. They are often well-maintained and have clear routes. Nonetheless, as in any public space around the globe, you must stay alert and mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and major tourist destinations to prevent pickpockets.

Street harassment:Low

Portugal generally offers a safe and welcoming environment for solo female travelers. Street harassment is relatively low, with most locals respectful and helpful. In populated tourist areas, there can be incidents of cat-calling or unwanted attention, but these don't tend to be aggressive or overly intrusive. However, it's still wise to take general safety precautions, particularly after dark, in less crowded neighborhoods or when using public transportation.

Petty crimes:Low

Portugal generally presents a low risk for petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching. Mainly tourist hotspots, public transportation, and crowded areas may be targeted. Still, by maintaining a high level of vigilance and keeping your personal belongings secure, such incidents can often be prevented.

Is Portugal worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 275 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

3.8/5

Porto, Solo travel

I felt so safe! But honestly could’ve done 2 nights instead of 3 (unless you want to do the Douro valley tour). It was sooo crowded. Go to jardim de morro for sunset. If you’re solo traveling you can do a walking tour or wine tour to meet people.

Posted: August 14, 2025

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Lisbon, Solo travel

It was an amazing trip. The food is amazing, people are really friendly and open minded and the you can do almost everything over there☀️ I was in Lisbon for more than 2 months and it was one of the most fabulous cities I have ever been🥰

Posted: August 4, 2025

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Alexandrine

France

Lisbon, Solo travel

Lisbon was a truly pleasant experience. It’s a city with a soul, one that has witnessed many things but still welcomes every visitor as one of its own. I felt deeply safe, even at night.

Posted: July 26, 2025

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Lucie

France

Porto, Solo travel

Porto is an amazing place, with a lot of colors and musics. I saw, and gave money, a lot of musicians on the streets. The transports were cleaned. It seems to be like a good safe place, I didn't have to deal with any big problems. And never felt unsafe !

Posted: July 25, 2025Experienced: June, 2025

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Eve-Marie

France

Lisbon, Group travel

The place where we were staying was a little bit out of lisbon and it wasn’t very safe but the city as such was extraordinary. The people were adorable, the city was beautiful and the food was excellent!!!

Posted: July 16, 2025

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Is Portugal safe for women?

Safety index

4.4 /5

Based on 203 local experiences

Crime index

1.8 /5

Based on 203 local experiences

Lisbon

Lisbon is a safe city overall. You can enjoy the night without problems, but is always necessary to pay attention to pickpockets (they are not Portuguese, they travel here from other countries). You can party with no problems.

Posted: August 11, 2025

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