Be Safe In Barcelona

The city of Barcelona is modern, safe and observes law and order well. However, it also has a busy tourist season that attracts pickpockets and scammers. This is likely to be the biggest concern for visitors to the city.

Safety at night

Barcelona has very little violent crime, or mugging, and it’s safe to wander around late at night or catch taxis. As always, women particularly, should remain vigilant and there are some narrow dark lanes in the seedier parts of the Las Ramblas area that should be avoided late at night.

Pickpockets and other scams

Pickpocketing is the most common complaint among visitors and Barcelona has a bad reputation for this. Pickpockets tend to prey on easy-target tourists who appear unguarded and succeed with a steady stream of inexperienced and naïve travellers who fall for all sorts of clever ruses. These range from flower sellers distracting victims to apparently well meaning passers-by who have spotted you in distress. Some scams are carefully constructed using street performances along Las Ramblas and the squares, to attract a crowd. The famous pea and three cup betting scam is another popular trick. Always be wary of these attractions and keep your belongings well stashed as you’ll hardly notice their light fingers.

Bag snatchers

Bag snatchers operate off the back of scooters and are commonly found in less busy areas, such as Mont Juïc, where they can get away easily.  They arrive undetected, snatch and cut and then disappear. The beach is another big target area and belongings should never be left unattended. Even items left in cars often get removed and some even maintain that you should always keep your doors locked and refuse help when driving.

Good health in Barcelona

There are few health concerns in Barcelona, other than sunstroke and dehydration in the summer. The ocean is safe to swim in and tap water is fit for drinking. The sanitation system is very good and poses no water-borne threats, nor are there any tropical diseases to worry about. EU citizens benefit from reciprocal healthcare arrangements from their own country but other nationalities should have travel insurance to cover hospital costs. Pharmacies are distinguished by the neon green crosses outside and several are open 24 hours in the city centre.

Emergency phone numbers

Police contact: 092
General Hospital: 93 274 61 00