PerkJolt
Which tourist scams should I watch for in Lisbon?
Short answer: Most trouble in Lisbon is petty theft and distraction tricks, not violence. The U.S. State Department rates Portugal "Exercise normal precautions" and calls it generally safe, but says to stay alert to petty theft in crowded tourist areas and on public transport (checked Oct 12, 2026). Know the five patterns below and you'll avoid nearly all of it.
The details
1. Pickpockets and "distraction" thefts. Crimes of opportunity are common, and they tend to happen at popular tourist sites, restaurants, and on public transportation. Pickpockets use the crowds getting on and off transit as cover. Avoid standing near the doors, because thieves often strike just as they open. (checked Oct 12, 2026) Canada's government singles out Lisbon trams 15, 25 and 28 for extra caution (checked Oct 12, 2026). Ireland's advice names the E15 and E28 trams (checked Oct 12, 2026).
2. The downtown "drug dealer" approach. Travelers may be approached by drug dealers in downtown Lisbon, especially near bars and restaurants, and some have reported criminals using drugs to assault or rob them. (checked Oct 12, 2026) Many of these approaches are widely reported to be a pretext for theft or fake product. Don't stop, don't buy, keep walking.
3. Spiked or "free" drinks. Use caution with open drinks at bars or clubs, and never leave your drink unattended. (checked Oct 12, 2026) Australia's Smartraveller adds that you shouldn't accept drinks from strangers (checked Oct 12, 2026).
4. ATM and payment-app tricks. Avoid ATMs in remote or poorly lit areas, and use indoor bank ATMs when you can. (checked Oct 12, 2026) Smartraveller also says to be wary of scams involving ATM cards and the "MB way" money-transfer app (checked Oct 12, 2026). Don't hand your phone or card to a "helpful" stranger.
5. Taxi and restaurant overcharging. We couldn't find an official Lisbon page with current taxi fares we trust, so we won't quote numbers. In general, taxis must run a meter. Use the official rank or a ride-hailing app, and agree on nothing off-meter. For restaurants, look at the menu prices before you sit, and check what any "free" bread, olives or cheese costs. Check Lisbon Airport's official site (aeroportolisboa.pt) for current airport taxi guidance.
Also worth knowing: Thefts from rental homes and online rental apartments have increased. (checked Oct 12, 2026) Canada notes that vehicle break-ins are frequent, and thieves target cars with rental stickers and foreign plates. (checked Oct 12, 2026)
Tips
- Wear your bag across your body and in front of you on trams, the metro and in crowds.
- Don't hang your bag on a chair back or leave it at your feet. Smartraveller advises against both in restaurants and cafes. (checked Oct 12, 2026)
- Leave spare cash, cards and documents in your hotel safe. The State Department recommends leaving extra cash, credit cards and personal documents at home or in a hotel safe. (checked Oct 12, 2026)
- Say a firm "não, obrigado" to street offers, petitions and strangers who touch you, then keep moving.
- If a "plainclothes officer" asks for your wallet or passport, don't hand it over. Ask to go to a police station instead.
- Never leave anything in a parked car, even in the trunk.
FAQ
Is Lisbon safe for tourists?
Yes, by most measures. The U.S. advisory for Portugal is at the lowest level, "Exercise normal precautions" (checked Oct 12, 2026). Canada says violent crime is rare but occurs (checked Oct 12, 2026). Your main risk is petty theft, so protect phones, wallets and bags.
Is Tram 28 really that bad for pickpockets?
It's the one most often flagged. Canada's travel advice lists trams 15, 25 and 28 for extra caution (checked Oct 12, 2026). If you want the ride, go early, keep your bag in front, and stay away from the doors. Otherwise, walk the route or take another line.
What number do I call if I'm robbed in Lisbon?
Dial 112 for police and ambulance (checked Oct 12, 2026). The U.S. Embassy can't investigate crimes, but Portugal's victim-support group, APAV, can help. Also report lost cards to your bank right away.
Want the whole trip planned? The PerkJolt Lisbon guide puts the routes, timing and points strategy in one place. Get the Lisbon guide
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See every question about Lisbon → /answers/lisbon/
Last verified: 2026-10-12. Taxi fares and the advisory level are the most likely to change. Check travel.state.gov for the advisory and Lisbon Airport's official site for taxi and ride-hail pickup rules.
Good to know before you go
. Confirm hours, fees, schedules and road or trail status on the official page before you book or go.
Sources
- https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/portugal.html
- https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal
- https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/portugal
- https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/overseas-travel/advice/portugal/