Is Portugal Safe for Older Travellers? Your Questions Answered

Travel Tips & Practical Advice | SilverBuddy | October 2026 | Approximately 7-minute read

Portugal is a wonderful destination for travellers who enjoy discovering new places at their own pace. From Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods and scenic viewpoints to the peaceful coastal towns of Cascais and the Algarve, the country offers a rich mix of culture, scenery and memorable experiences.

But if you’re planning a trip later in life — or helping a parent or family member organise their holiday — you may have a few practical questions.

Is Portugal safe? How easy is it to get around? What happens if you need medical assistance? And can you enjoy the country comfortably if you don’t speak Portuguese?

The good news is that Portugal is generally a safe and welcoming destination. With a little preparation, you can enjoy its many attractions while travelling independently and confidently.

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions.

Is Portugal safe for older travellers?

Yes. Portugal is generally considered a safe destination for international visitors, including older travellers.

The country has a reputation for hospitality, a relatively low level of violent crime and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it appealing to people who prefer a slower pace of travel.

As with any popular tourist destination, however, it is sensible to take a few precautions.

What should you know about crime?

The main concern for tourists is usually petty theft, particularly pickpocketing in crowded areas.

In Lisbon, it’s worth taking extra care on busy public transport, around popular attractions and in heavily visited neighbourhoods such as Baixa and Alfama.

A few simple habits can help:

• Keep valuables in a secure, closed bag.
• Be particularly attentive in crowds and on public transport.
• Avoid leaving phones or wallets unattended at cafés.
• Carry only the cash and personal documents you need for the day.
• Use licensed taxis or established ride-hailing services.

These are ordinary travel precautions rather than reasons to avoid exploring Portugal.

What happens if you need medical assistance in Portugal?

Portugal has a public healthcare system, known as the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), alongside private hospitals and clinics.

Healthcare services are available throughout the country, although access to particular facilities and English-speaking medical professionals can vary by location.

Before travelling, it is important to understand how medical treatment would be covered, especially if you have an existing health condition.

Emergency numbers and pharmacies

The most important number to remember is 112, Portugal’s emergency telephone number for ambulance, police and fire services.

For non-emergency health advice on mainland Portugal, you can contact SNS 24 on 808 24 24 24.

Pharmacies are widely available and are usually identified by a green cross and the word farmácia.

If you take regular medication, bring enough for your trip, keep medicines in their original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription or a list of the generic names.

Healthcare for visitors from the United Kingdom

If you’re travelling from the UK, you may be eligible to use a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

These cards provide access to medically necessary state healthcare during a temporary stay in Portugal, according to the applicable conditions.

This may include treatment that becomes necessary during your visit and cannot reasonably wait until you return home.

However, a GHIC or EHIC does not replace travel insurance.

It does not generally cover private healthcare, medical repatriation or unexpected travel and accommodation costs.

Before leaving the UK, check that your card is valid and that your travel insurance provides suitable medical coverage, including any declared pre-existing conditions.

For official information, visit the UK Government’s healthcare advice for Portugal.

Healthcare for visitors from Germany

Travellers insured under Germany’s statutory health insurance system (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) will normally have access to a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

The EHIC, usually printed on the reverse of the German health insurance card, can be used to obtain medically necessary treatment through participating public healthcare providers during a temporary visit to Portugal.

Treatment is provided under the applicable Portuguese public healthcare rules, which means that certain costs or patient charges may still apply.

The EHIC does not normally cover private medical treatment, repatriation or every expense associated with an unexpected illness.

For that reason, German travellers should also consider additional international travel health insurance (Auslandsreisekrankenversicherung).

If you have private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung), check directly with your insurer whether your policy covers treatment in Portugal and whether you would need to pay medical bills upfront.

You can find further information about EHIC coverage through the European Commission’s official guidance.

Healthcare for visitors from the United States

For American travellers, medical insurance requires particular attention.

Most US health insurance plans do not automatically provide comprehensive medical coverage abroad.

Original Medicare generally does not cover healthcare received outside the United States, apart from limited exceptions. Certain Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans may provide additional international benefits, but coverage varies.

American visitors should therefore check their insurance carefully before travelling.

A comprehensive travel medical insurance policy can be particularly valuable, especially one that covers emergency treatment, hospitalisation and medical evacuation.

Some Portuguese healthcare providers may require payment upfront or proof of insurance, so it is important to understand how reimbursement works.

For older travellers, it is also worth checking whether the policy covers pre-existing medical conditions and any planned activities during the holiday.

For official information, consult the US Department of State’s Portugal travel advisory and Medicare’s guidance on healthcare abroad.

A simple health checklist before travelling

Regardless of your country of residence, a little preparation makes a difference.

• Check your travel medical insurance and its exclusions.
• Bring any health insurance cards and emergency contact details.
• Carry an adequate supply of prescribed medicines.
• Keep a list of important medical information available if needed.
• Research healthcare facilities near your accommodation.
• Consider discussing your travel plans with your doctor if you have medical concerns.

Being prepared helps you enjoy your holiday with greater peace of mind.

Is Portugal easy to get around for older visitors?

Portugal offers a variety of transport options, from trains and buses to taxis and ride-hailing services.

The best choice depends on your destination, personal preferences and how much walking you enjoy.

Public transport in Lisbon and Porto

Lisbon and Porto have established public transport networks, including metro services, buses and trams.

Intercity trains connect many of Portugal’s major destinations, making it possible to explore different regions without renting a car.

In Lisbon, visitors can use a navegante occasional card for eligible public transport tickets, while Porto uses the Andante system.

Some discounted fares are available to older passengers, but eligibility depends on the particular ticket, service and any applicable residency requirements. Visitors should check the current conditions rather than assume that all senior discounts apply to tourists.

Many stations offer lifts or step-free access, although accessibility can vary and certain facilities may occasionally be unavailable.

If you prefer greater convenience, taxis and ride-hailing services can be useful alternatives.

What about Lisbon’s famous hills?

Lisbon’s hills are part of its charm, offering some of the most beautiful viewpoints in Europe.

However, the city’s historic cobbled streets can be uneven, steep or slippery, particularly after rain.

There is no need to avoid these areas entirely. Instead, consider planning shorter routes, allowing time for breaks and choosing transport for steeper sections.

Lisbon’s historic lifts and funiculars are well-known landmarks, but their operating status can change due to inspections, maintenance or safety restrictions. Always check current information before relying on them for your journey.

A well-planned day might combine a short walk through a historic neighbourhood, a scenic viewpoint, lunch at a traditional restaurant and a comfortable ride back to your accommodation.

The key is to explore at a pace that feels enjoyable rather than exhausting.

Are there easier places to explore?

Certainly.

Cascais offers pleasant seaside areas, cafés and coastal scenery, with relatively level routes in parts of the town.

Belém, in Lisbon, is another option for travellers who prefer combining cultural attractions with a more relaxed walking itinerary, although distances between landmarks can still be considerable.

In the Algarve, many resort areas and waterfront promenades offer opportunities for leisurely sightseeing, while some historic towns and beaches involve steps or hills.

Accessibility varies significantly between individual streets, attractions and accommodation, so it’s always worth checking specific routes in advance.

What if you don’t speak Portuguese?

You don’t need to speak fluent Portuguese to enjoy a holiday here.

English is commonly spoken in many tourist areas, particularly in hotels, restaurants and major attractions.

Nevertheless, communication can become more challenging in smaller towns or during everyday activities outside the main tourist centres.

Learning a few basic phrases can make your experience more enjoyable:

• Bom dia — Good morning
• Boa tarde — Good afternoon
• Por favor — Please
• Obrigado / Obrigada — Thank you
• Desculpe — Excuse me / Sorry

A translation app can also be helpful for simple conversations.

And if you’d prefer some local company while discovering Portugal, travelling with someone who knows the area can make the experience feel more relaxed and personal.

Can you travel independently and still enjoy some company?

Absolutely.

Travelling independently doesn’t necessarily mean spending every moment alone.

Some people enjoy exploring new destinations by themselves but appreciate having company for particular activities.

You might want someone to join you for an afternoon in Alfama, a visit to a museum, a scenic walk along the waterfront or simply a relaxed coffee in a traditional Portuguese café.

Others may prefer local company when discovering an unfamiliar neighbourhood or planning a day around their own interests.

This is where personal travel companionship can offer a different kind of experience.

How can a personal travel companion enhance your holiday?

A personal travel companion offers friendly company and practical support during agreed travel activities.

Unlike a conventional group tour, personal companionship focuses on individual preferences, flexibility and human connection.

For example, a companion might join you for sightseeing, help you discover local attractions, share knowledge of the destination or provide everyday assistance within the scope of the agreed service.

Depending on their experience, languages and the arrangements made in advance, individual companions may also be able to help with straightforward local communication or navigating unfamiliar surroundings.

Discover Portugal with SilverBuddy

SilverBuddy connects travellers with independent personal travel companions in Portugal.

Whether you’re visiting Lisbon for the first time, exploring Cascais or looking forward to discovering new places, SilverBuddy helps you find someone who can share part of your journey.

The experience is tailored around your interests, preferences and the activities agreed with your companion.

For some travellers, that might mean discovering historic streets and cultural attractions.

For others, it might simply mean enjoying a conversation over coffee, exploring a local market or spending a relaxed afternoon by the sea.

The idea is simple: more freedom to enjoy the experiences that matter to you, with good company whenever you choose.

SilverBuddy provides travel companionship rather than medical care, nursing, personal care or emergency assistance. Any particular skills, languages or additional assistance should be discussed and agreed in advance with the companion.

Frequently asked questions

Is Portugal suitable for older people travelling alone?

Yes. Portugal can be an excellent destination for independent older travellers. Choosing suitable accommodation, planning realistic itineraries and taking normal travel precautions can make the experience more comfortable.

Can I visit Lisbon without walking long distances?

Yes. It is possible to organise sightseeing around shorter walks, taxis, public transport and carefully selected attractions. However, some historic areas have unavoidable hills, steps or uneven paving.

Will I need private medical insurance?

That depends on your country of residence and existing health coverage. UK and eligible European travellers may have access to medically necessary public healthcare through GHIC or EHIC arrangements, while American visitors generally need to pay particular attention to overseas medical coverage. Additional travel insurance is advisable.

Can I book a personal travel companion for just a few hours?

SilverBuddy allows travellers to enquire about companionship for particular activities or periods of time. Available arrangements depend on the selected companion and the booking conditions.

Does a SilverBuddy companion provide medical or personal care?

No. SilverBuddy is designed for travel companionship and agreed practical activities, not medical treatment, nursing, personal care or emergency response services.

Enjoy Portugal at Your Own Pace

Portugal offers countless opportunities for memorable travel experiences, whether you prefer cultural discoveries, coastal scenery, relaxed afternoons or lively city neighbourhoods.

With sensible preparation, suitable insurance and an itinerary that reflects your preferences, there is every reason to approach your holiday with confidence.

And if you’d enjoy having someone by your side for part of the journey, SilverBuddy can help you explore the possibilities.

Discover Portugal with a personal travel companion.

Visit SilverBuddy to learn more and find a companion who shares your interests.

Travel freely, with joy.

Travel information and healthcare arrangements may change. Always consult official government guidance, your insurance provider and relevant transport operators before travelling. SilverBuddy does not provide medical or insurance advice.