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 225 experiences from female travelers

4.3 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.3 /5

Based on 138 experiences from local women

Portugal is currently ranked #26 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 225 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Mel

Portugal

Lisbon, Solo travel

I felt super safe as a solo traveller. Lisbon is a charming city stepped in culture and arts, especially architecture. A wide range of food options from cheap to Michelin star. Many galleries and historic attractions to keep you occupied.

Posted: February 21, 2025Experienced: February, 2025

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Anastasiia

Portugal

Continental Portugal, Group travel

I stayed in Portugal for over two months volunteering, during which I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture as well as explore the touristic side of the country. I absolutely loved my time there, as every corner of Portugal is beautiful. If you're unsure where to go, I highly recommend heading to the coast. The beaches and cliffs are breathtakingly beautiful, and if you're into hiking, the Fisherman's Trail and the 7 Suspended Valleys are must-dos. I stayed there during the winter, and during this season, there are barely any tourists, although you may still encounter a few. I primarily traveled by hitchhiking and buses, taking short weekend trips. My friend and I slept in hostels, hammocks outdoors, and were even hosted by a lovely Travel Lady in Lisbon. In my experience, Portugal is a very safe country, but I was traveling with a female friend, so your experience as a solo traveler may differ.

Posted: February 20, 2025

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Lila

France

Porto, Couple travel

First time in Portugal was amazing 🇵🇹 We only stayed in Porto for a few days, but loved every second of it. Here are a few pictures of the many places we visited on our trip. Sadly, by the end of our trip, Porto was surrounded by wildfires… I remember wishing that our flight back would be canceled, just so I could stay a bit longer, but it didn’t haha

Posted: February 19, 2025

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Sisito

Malta

Portugal, Couple travel

With my partner we had a weekend (from Friday morning untill Monday evening)in Portugal and managed to see some parts of Porto and Lisbon.. Overall our stay was amazing,the country have what to offer for sure❤️ jointed a pub crawl in Lisbon which is must dooo we had the time of our lives with total strangers.. Looking forward to visiting again and explore more parts of Portugal

Posted: February 19, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Clarisse

France

Porto, Couple travel

We felt safe in Porto. We did it in two and a half days. And honestly, that's enough. We ate very well for not too expensive, especially the brunches which were very nice. A very nice little city for a couple, we had booked accommodation on Airbnb for a low price.

Posted: February 15, 2025

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Kristina

Lithuania

Lagos, Couple travel

Lagos was a very nice town with a beautiful hiking trail going through it. We visited out of season so there were not so many activities available. We stayed for 2 days and it was just enough to go through the beautiful views in the city and around it.

Posted: February 14, 2025

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Rumeysa

Turkey

Lisbon, Solo travel

Lisbon was one of the safest cities among those I’ve traveled to. The only slightly unsettling part was the homeless people under the bridges at night, but that’s something you see in almost every European city. There weren’t any disturbing people in this city. During this solo trip, I stayed at Lost Inn Lisbon hostel, which is usually preferred by backpackers. It was incredibly clean, safe, and centrally located—a warm welcome, so to speak. I spent around 300-400 euros in a week, but I can confidently say that I tried all kinds of food and visited every place I wanted.

Posted: February 12, 2025

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Lisbon, Solo travel

I didn't feel very safe in Lisbon, Portugal. Personally, nothing happened to me, but I heard about what happened to others, and because of those stories, I didn’t feel 100% secure. Accommodation is expensive, but transportation is cheap, and you can get anywhere by metro, as everything is well connected. It’s not too expensive, the prices are okay, but there are a lot of tourists all year round. Lisbon is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, and despite feeling uneasy at times, it's generally safe if you stay alert and follow common-sense precautions. Aside from the great public transportation, which is a bonus for getting around easily, you should definitely visit the following places: Belém – Here you can visit the Tower of Belém, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Don’t forget to try the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts), which are especially popular in Belém. Alfama – One of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon, with narrow streets and picturesque views. Also, be sure to visit São Jorge Castle, where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city. Baixa and Chiado – The central districts of Lisbon are full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Baixa is great for shopping, and Chiado is known for its bookstores and galleries. Parque das Nações – A modern district with a beautiful park, an aquarium, and one of the most famous buildings, the Gare do Oriente (train station). Miradouros (viewpoints) – Lisbon has many spots offering spectacular views of the city and the Tagus River. Miradouro de Santa Catarina and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte are some of the most popular. LX Factory – This creative complex is located in an old industrial area, full of restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.

Posted: February 12, 2025Experienced: December, 2024

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Kalina

Poland

Porto, Couple travel

I felt safe in Porto, I loved the city and lifestyle I had there. It's very cozy, but modern as well. You can do a bunch of stuff- I, myself usually went surfing or cycling arounf the city. Highly recommend!

Posted: February 12, 2025

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Portugal, Solo travel

It is one of the best countries for solo travelling! I visited 8 cities/towns, and will definitely come back. People are amazing, food is delicious, it is very safe (especially compared to Spain), not super expensive.

Posted: February 9, 2025

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Is Portugal safe for women?

Safety index

4.3 /5

Based on 138 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 138 local experiences

Mel

Lisbon

Generally safe, I did not feel like I had to worry much. As with all travel, general travel sensibilities apply. Keep your belongings safe, beware of pickpockets. Avoid wandering dark alleys at night as a solo female traveller. Do not purchase goods from strangers who approach you from the streets or alleys.

Posted: February 20, 2025

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Ellen

Faro

Pretty safe, maybe a couple of catcals from drunk men here and there, but usually people just leave you alone :)) Most people are super friendly and chatty. Public transport can be a bit expensive (the bus), but is super safe

Posted: February 20, 2025

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Meet locals in Portugal

Debora

About Me

Hi I'm Debora, I love to travel and discover new cultures, languages and food. I'm originally from Switzerland but I lived in Ireland, Germany, Puerto Rico, UK and currently living in Portugal. I can host but also just meet up to take you around Lisbon. I love to visit places where I know locals that can show me what's real and beautiful. I also love to solo travel via hostels or co-living spaces where I can meet many cultures and make friends.

Speaking

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Anastasiia

About Me

I am an active and curious person, who loves traveling and learning new languages. I am always happy to meet new people and make friends!

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Portugal

Anastasiia

Beja

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I am an active and curious person, who loves traveling and learning new languages. I am always happy to meet new people and make friends!

Speaking

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Noga

Portugal

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I moved recently to the area of Ericeira to join a housing cooperative. I love dancing, cooking, nature and growing as a human in love and compassion. Im an activist in social and environmental change, mediator in NVC method and facilitator in the area of community building. I'm growing in my skills and experience in alternative and forest school ( and un-schooling for children) And have passion and experience in Permaculture and organic gardening