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Some scams

Southern Europe

Tourist scams in Portugal

Portugal is relatively safe, but pickpocketing is the most common crime against visitors. Other risks include theft from rental cars, street scams in Lisbon, and poor value at some ATMs, exchange counters and music venues.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketing and bag theftThieves take money, documents or bags while visitors are distracted or squeezed into crowds. Some blend in by looking and acting like other tourists. Crowded metro carriages in Lisbon are a particular risk.Tourist areas, metro and railway stations, shopping areas, queues and crowded buses or trains. 3Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonTheft from rental carsThieves steal belongings from rental cars. This is listed among the most common crimes against tourists in Lisbon.Lisbon 2Read
  3. 3 Cards and ATMsCommonHigh ATM fees and poor exchange ratesSome areas have many Euronet ATMs. These charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates. This is a cost trap rather than a claim that the machines steal card details.Euronet ATMs in some tourist areas. 3Read
  4. 4 Changing moneyCommonPoor rates at tourist exchange countersExchange counters appear wherever tourists gather. Those closest to attractions typically offer worse rates, so you receive fewer euros for your money.Currency exchange counters near tourist attractions. 1Read
  5. 5 Fake officialsOccasionalDrug offer followed by a fake police fineTwo people work together. One offers drugs. The second pretends to be a police officer and demands a fine, threatening jail if you refuse.Lisbon 1Read
  6. 6 On the streetOccasionalA stranger asks to borrow moneyA stranger asks to borrow money and promises to repay it within a few hours. The promise is used to persuade you to hand over cash.Lisbon 2Read
  7. 7 TheftOccasionalLate-night muggingSomeone uses threats or force to take your belongings. Certain parts of Lisbon carry a greater mugging risk late at night.Lisbon 3Read
  8. 8 Food and drinkOccasionalUnexpectedly expensive fado mealsFood and drinks at fado bars cost more than at normal restaurants. Their quality may not match the price because you are also paying for the music experience. A higher price alone does not mean fraud.Lisbon 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Chiado Plaza, LisbonYoung visitors are often approached by people on the street. Decline unwanted offers and keep moving.
  • Bairro Alto, LisbonThere is a late-night mugging warning. Fado bars here can also cost more than ordinary restaurants.
  • Cais do Sodre, LisbonThere is a warning about mugging late at night.
  • Alfama, LisbonFado bars are common here. Food and drinks can be expensive because the price includes the music experience.

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Keep money and documents in an inside pocket or money belt.
  • Keep bags closed and visible on public transport and in queues.
  • Take valuables out of rental cars and leave nothing tempting on display.
  • Keep a secure copy of important documents separately.

Cards and ATMs

  • Read every ATM fee screen before accepting.
  • Compare Euronet charges with another machine.
  • Choose euros if an ATM offers currency conversion.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details available.

Money

  • Compare the final euro amount before exchanging cash.
  • Ask about charges before handing money over.
  • Do not lend money to strangers who promise quick repayment.

Nights out

  • Plan how you will get home before going out.
  • Avoid quiet alleys and the named Lisbon mugging areas late at night.
  • Avoid walking alone around Braga's city centre at night.
  • Check the full meal and music price before ordering at a fado bar.

Police and officials

  • Treat a drug offer followed by a sudden demand for a police fine as a scam warning.
  • Move away from threatening street encounters when safe.
  • Approach police for help; officers in tourist areas may speak English or other foreign languages.
  • Save 112 for emergencies.

Taxis

  • Use a taxi stand or call for a ride.
  • Check that the taxi has a meter.
  • Agree the price before a trip beyond city limits, where fares are often negotiated.

What travellers say about Portugal

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Portugal safe for a first visit?

Portugal is relatively safe. Pickpocketing is the main concern for visitors. Watch your belongings in crowds and take care late at night.

Where should I watch for pickpockets?

Be alert in metro and railway stations, shopping areas, queues and crowded buses or trains. Keep bags closed and money in an inside pocket.

Can I leave bags in a rental car?

Theft from rental cars is a common tourist crime in Lisbon. Take valuables with you and leave no bags visible.

What if someone offers drugs and another person demands a police fine?

This is a described Lisbon scam involving two people. Avoid the initial offer and walk away if safe. Call 112 if you are threatened or cannot leave.

Should I lend money to a stranger who promises to repay me?

Decline. In Lisbon, scammers may ask to borrow money and promise repayment within a few hours.

Which ATM charges should I watch for?

Euronet ATMs can charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates. Read the screens carefully, compare machines and check your own bank's charges.

Are exchange counters near attractions good value?

They typically offer worse rates. Compare the final number of euros you will receive after all charges before handing over cash.

Why can a fado restaurant bill be high?

You are paying for the music experience as well as the meal. Food and drinks may cost more than at ordinary restaurants. Check the full price before ordering.

Where should I take extra care at night?

There are late-night mugging warnings for Bairro Alto, alleys and Cais do Sodre in Lisbon. Avoid walking alone in Braga's city centre at night.

Who should I contact after a theft?

Report it to police: PSP in major urban areas or GNR outside them. Block stolen cards promptly. Call 112 if there is immediate danger or injury.

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