Tips on Lisbon Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

Lisbon Warnings and Dangers

Lisbon is the capital city and also largest city in Portugal. Despite its popular draw among tourists and the many visitors it attracts, it’s important to be aware of the warnings and dangers that are a part of a tourist trip to Lisbon.

Walking

The Lisbon sidewalks are marvelous with their pictures embedded in black stones on white pavement, but they are also dangerous. The surfaces tend to get slippery, especially if it rains. It also becomes slippery from all of the foot traffic. The sidewalks also tend to get dangerous because the cobblestones are not laid down well, and there are a lot of holes in the sidewalks. Unless you plan to take a taxi door to door, then wear sturdy shoes, since the mosaic stones are so loose. Lisbon is also a city that lives up to its Seven Hills moniker. The place is hilly, so make sure you’ve got your walking boots on before you come. Visitors may also want to condition themselves slightly for uphill walking before making a visit.

Thieves

Tram 28 is purely for tourists and passes Castelo Sao Jorge. This tram skirts the narrow streets of Alfama, the high view point of the river Tejo, and the historic district of Graça. Despite how attractive it is to visitors, this tram route attracts pick-pockets due to the ride’s crowded nature. Riders are advised to keep their eyes on their wallets and bags. While pickpocketing often happens on the trams, it’s not uncommon to find street thieves as well. Thieves can be on any corner, even at cafes and in public squares. Again, visitors are warned to watch their belongings.

Taxis

In Lisbon, most of the taxis are independelty operated. If, like most tourists, you´re taking a taxi from the airport to the hotels downtown, the price shouldn’t be more than between 15 and 19 euros. Tourists are warned to keep their eyes on the meter to make sure the taxi drivers don´t turn it off. Visitors should also keep their eyes on the scenery to make sure drivers don’t take a longer route. If the taxi driver charges an additional two euros, it is probably because you have put some luggage in the trunk. However, what is a scam is if the taxi driver charges you more than between the average price for the trip from the airport to downtown Lisbon. Of course, if you are going to Estoril or Cascais, the cost will be much higher because those destinations are much farther away.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Lisbon.