Is Lisbon safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Portugal

What the advice says

• The US State Department places Portugal at Level 1, Exercise Normal Precautions, a rating dated March 3, 2025, and it applies at the country level rather than to Lisbon specifically.
• UK travel advice, also issued at the country level, notes that terrorist attacks in Portugal cannot be ruled out, in line with a broader global threat level affecting British nationals.
• Demonstrations, political gatherings, and strikes, including ones affecting airports, can occur with little notice, so checking local news before travel is worthwhile.
• Street crime such as pickpocketing is a risk on public transport and at crowded stops, and thieves sometimes work in teams using distraction techniques.
• Attacks including sexual assault are described as rare but do occur, with the highest risk late at night around nightlife areas; solo travelers should avoid walking back alone and keep track of friends in a group.
• Drink spiking is a noted risk, so travelers are advised to buy their own drinks and keep them in sight at all times.
• Beach safety warnings include rip tides and unpredictable waves, with a flag system in use at supervised beaches, so travelers should get local knowledge before swimming at unsupervised spots.