If you’re thinking about swapping drizzle for pastel de nata and Atlantic sunsets, the big question is usually: “Is Portugal a safe country in 2026?” In short: yes, very much so. Portugal still combines low crime, political calm and a laid‑back lifestyle in a way that a lot of other countries envy.
What makes Portugal a safe country?
Portugal’s safety reputation isn’t a fluke; it sits on a few solid pillars. First, there’s the relatively low level of violent crime. Petty theft exists, of course, but serious incidents are much rarer than in many larger countries. Then you’ve got a fairly calm political scene, without constant protests or upheaval, and good relations with neighbouring states.
Add to that:
- A culture where daily life leans more towards community and routine than confrontation
- Functional public services, from healthcare to public transport and emergency response
- A general sense that big‑ticket crises (civil unrest, large‑scale violence) simply aren’t part of everyday life.
How safe is Portugal in 2026?
When you strip away the dreamy Instagram photos, the numbers still look solid.
Global Peace Index 2025 – Portugal in 7th place
The Global Peace Index looks at everything from crime and political tension to militarisation and international relations.
In the 2025 edition, Portugal comes in 7th worldwide, which is seriously impressive for a country of its size.
World Population Review – safest countries in the world 2026
Over on World Population Review’s Safest Countries in the World 2026 index, Portugal is also 7th. This ranking pulls together data from sources such as the Global Peace Index, the Global Terrorism Index, Travel Safe Abroad, and perception-based surveys.
Portugal’s top‑10 position reflects both hard numbers on crime, conflict and terrorism and how safe people actually feel there.
Numbeo Safety Index by Country 2026
Then there’s Numbeo’s Safety Index by Country 2026, which leans heavily on how people feel day to day. Here, Portugal ranks 38th with a score of 67, while the UAE is 1st with 86.
A score of 67 still sits in the “generally safe” camp. It just tells you that, like anywhere, there are parts of big cities where people feel less comfortable at night.
Is Portugal safe for tourists in 2026?
If you’re just popping over for a week of beaches, wine and tiled backstreets, you’re in luck. Portugal remains one of Europe’s most reassuring destinations. and regularly features among the safest countries to visit worldwide.
The main things you’re dealing with as a visitor are the usual low‑level annoyances:
- Pickpocketing in crowded spots (trams, metro, busy squares, markets)
- Bag‑snatching or theft of phones and bags left on chairs or beach towels
- The classic tourist overcharging in very touristy bars and restaurants
Is Lisbon safe in 2026?
Lisbon is usually where people start to second‑guess things: big capital, nightlife, tourists everywhere. Despite that, recent rankings place Lisbon among the world’s top 10 safest cities in 2026, which lines up well with how it feels on the ground: lively, yes; edgy, not so much. Plus, Lisbon is recognised as a good bet for solo travellers (including solo women), as it's friendly, walkable and not overly aggressive.
A few realities to keep in mind and suggestions for keeping safe in Lisbon:
- Historic districts like Baixa, Chiado, Alfama and Belém are busy but generally safe, with pickpocketing as the main concern.
- Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré and the riverfront are the main nightlife zones: noisy, sociable, and mostly fine if you keep your wits about you.
Is Portugal safe to live, work and retire in?
This is where it gets interesting for you if you're thinking of a longer leap in Portugal. For living, working or retiring, the country’s safety is a huge plus, right alongside the sunshine and the food. It's no surprise that many young families and remote workers choose to settle here.
Plus, thanks to Portugal coming out at number one in International Living's 2026 ranking for the best places to retire in 2026, retirees are seriously considering the country as an option for putting their feet up.
Expats and locals tend to highlight:
- Feeling comfortable walking around neighbourhoods at different times of day
- Very little exposure to aggressive behaviour in everyday situations
- A welcoming attitude in many communities, especially in towns and city neighbourhoods used to international residents
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