Is Porto Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

As with any destination, there are always safety concerns to consider before planning a trip. But let’s clear one thing up right off the bat: Porto is safe for travelers.

That being said, it’s always important to practice common sense and awareness while traveling anywhere.

In this guide, we’ll talk about safety tips for solo travelers, female travelers, and expats. We’ll cover the safest areas in Porto and a few things to avoid (common scams included).

Is Porto Safe For Tourists?

Porto is a stunning Portuguese city with a rich history and a colorful vibrant atmosphere. It has so much culture packed into one city with a historic center, it’s the beautiful riverfront and an array of delicious food and wine.

With all of these things considered, it’s no wonder Porto is such a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. 

While Porto is overall considered to be a safe city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions in new places and be aware of your surroundings.

To keep yourself safe, follow some simple safety tips we discuss here so you can make the most of your trip to this incredible city.

Is Porto Safe To Travel Now?

Porto is safe to travel to now. Like in most countries, Covid-19 restrictions are not an issue anymore.

it’s always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines before planning a trip to Porto or any other destination.

You can visit the website of your country’s foreign affairs department or the World Health Organization to get the latest updates on travel restrictions and safety guidelines.

Why Is Porto “Dangerous”?

Why does Porto have a reputation for being dangerous?

Fortunately, Porto is not a dangerous city and doesn’t have a reputation for being an unsafe destination for tourists. 

Like the majority of cities in Portugal, Porto is generally considered a safe city for tourists and visitors.

Like any city, there may be certain areas or situations where one should exercise caution to ensure their safety, but overall, Porto is a safe destination for travelers.

However, it’s always a good idea to use your common sense by being aware of your surroundings and your personal belongings when in this city, especially in tourist hotspots. 

The Safest Areas In Porto

Porto is a safe city, but of course, there are areas that may be considered safer than others. Here are some of the safest areas in Porto:

• Ribeira: One of the most beautiful and popular areas of the city, Ribeira is home to the historic center of Porto and is a great choice to stay around during your trip to Porto. This area is always busy with tourists, there is a huge variety of restaurants, cafes and lots of shopping. It’s also a well-lit area making it relatively safe.
• Foz do Douro: If you’re looking for somewhere more upscale, Foz do Douro is the area for you. This is a coastal residential area that is known for some of the most beautiful beaches in Porto and its lively promenade. It’s also a safe area to enjoy some nightlight in Porto. 
• Boavista: This is a modern commercial and residential district located in the western part of the city. It’s a well-maintained area with lots of green spaces, shops, and restaurants, and it’s considered one of the safest areas in the city.
• Cedofeita: This is a trendy and vibrant area located in the heart of the city. It’s popular with students, artists, and young professionals, and it’s considered safe, especially during the daytime.

Things To Avoid In Porto

Like any popular tourist city, there are some scams that visitors should be aware of to avoid falling victim to.

Here are some common scams to avoid in Porto:

• Street scams
• Taxi scams
• Restaurant scams
• ATM scams
• Fake tickets and tours

Street Scams

This is one of the more common scams in Porto and involves a group of people distracting you on the street while someone else picks your pocket or steals some of your belongings. To avoid this, be aware of strangers approaching you and make sure your belongings are safe and secure.

Taxi Scams

Be wary of taxi drivers in Porto who will not turn on their meter, or claim their meter is broken. These taxi drivers will try to scam you to pay more for your trip. To avoid this, always use a licensed taxi or ask your accommodation to book a taxi for you.

Restaurant Scams

It can happen from time to time in Porto that restaurants do not display the prices on their menu and then overcharge you for your meal. Make sure you ask for prices before ordering to avoid this.

ATM Scams

In touristy areas, you’ll find ATMs charging enormous fees to withdraw money. I’d suggest you avoid Euronet ATM and stick to main bank ATMs. I always use my Revolut card to withdraw money safely abroad. Learn how to use Revolut abroad.

Fake Tickets and Tours

While in Porto, you should always buy your tickets from authorized vendors as some vendors are selling fake tickets or tours to attractions in Porto. The best way to avoid this is to book tours and activities in advance on GetYourGuide.

Driving In Porto

Driving in Porto can be a challenging experience due to the city’s narrow and winding roads, one-way streets, and heavy traffic.

It is essential to pay close attention to road signs and traffic signals and to be familiar with the city’s traffic patterns to avoid getting lost or driving in the wrong direction.

Porto’s historic center is particularly challenging for drivers due to its many narrow and winding streets, so it may be better to park outside the city center and explore on foot.

Additionally, be aware that parking in the city center can be difficult, and parking garages may be expensive.

However, exploring the suburbs and neighboring villages and towns around Porto by car is quite enjoyable for a tourist.

Choosing to book a bus tour to take you around the city would be an easier option if you are just staying within Porto city center. Alternatively, you could rent a car during your time in Porto if you wish you explore the surrounding areas.

Overall, while driving in Porto can be a convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings, it is essential to be patient and alert behind the wheel to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Porto For Solo Travelers

Porto is a fantastic destination for solo travelers looking to explore a vibrant, historic city with plenty to see and do.

As the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto is home to a rich cultural heritage, impressive architecture, and charming neighborhoods, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers who want to immerse themselves in local life.

Solo travelers can explore Porto’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through narrow streets lined with colorful buildings and quaint shops.

The city’s lively cafe culture and bustling nightlife offer plenty of opportunities to socialize and meet new people, while its museums and galleries provide insight into the city’s fascinating history and contemporary art scene.

Before your solo travels to Porto, make sure you buy a Portugal SIM card so you can stay connected and safe during your trip. 

Porto For Female Travelers

Porto is generally considered a safe destination for female travelers. While incidents of crime against women are relatively rare, it is still important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Staying in well-lit areas, and avoiding empty streets and alleys can all help to minimize the risk of encountering any problems.

It is also advisable to use licensed taxis, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be cautious of strangers who approach you on the street.

Porto For Digital Nomads And Expats

Porto is an excellent destination for digital nomads and expats looking for a European city that offers a high quality of life, a low cost of living, and plenty of opportunities for work and play.

The city boasts excellent food and wine, with plenty of affordable restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Portuguese dishes and local wines.

There is also a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to explore. In addition, Porto has a fast and reliable internet connection, making it easy for digital nomads and remote workers to stay connected and get their work done.

There are also several coworking spaces located throughout the city, providing a social and professional environment for those looking to connect with other like-minded professionals.

Overall, Porto is a fantastic destination for digital nomads and expats looking to live and work in a beautiful and dynamic city with a strong sense of community.

Extra Safety Tips

Now that we’ve covered a few essential safety tips for Porto, here are some additional recommendations to keep in mind:

Sure, here are some extra safety tips for Porto:

• Be cautious of beggars: Beggars can be found in some areas of Porto, particularly in tourist hotspots. While many are harmless, it is still advisable to be cautious and avoid engaging with them.
• Use caution when drinking alcohol: Portugal is known for its wine, but it’s important to drink responsibly and not leave your drink unattended. If you’re going out for a night on the town, make sure to keep an eye on your drink and don’t accept drinks from strangers.
• Keep emergency numbers handy: Make sure to keep emergency numbers, including the police, fire department, and ambulance, handy in case of an emergency.

Porto Travel Insurance

As a traveler, it’s always important to have adequate travel insurance. In case of an emergency or unexpected event, having insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

We recommend SafetyWing for comprehensive coverage in Porto and throughout your travels in Portugal.

Personally, I’ve been using SafetyWing for several years now, and I’ve had great experiences with them.

So do yourself a favor and don’t leave home without travel insurance – it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Final Thoughts On Safety In Porto

While Porto can be a safe destination for travelers, it’s important to exercise caution and common sense.

It was said multiple times, but always trust your gut and listen to any warnings from locals or fellow travelers.

And remember, safety isn’t just about avoiding danger – it’s also about respecting local culture and customs.

So have a fantastic time in Porto, but do so responsibly and respectfully.

Are you traveling to Porto soon? Read one of the following guides:

• Is Porto worth visiting
• How many days in Porto
• Hiking near Porto