Crime in Spain which affects tourists

A frequently asked question especially by American tourists  is  about street crime such as pickpocketing in Spain. Although it does exist, street crime is not a big problem in Spain and many people will be safer on holiday in Spain than they would be if they had stayed at home.  You will be please to know that according to official statistics of crimes per 100 000 people crime is Spain is fairly low compared to other countries. For example a person is 10.5 times more likely to be a victim of homicide in the USA (rate ~6.3) than in Spain (rate ~0.6), based on the homicide rates per 100,000 people.

It seems that the worst place to go in Spain for pickpocketing is Barcelona. So if you are worried about crime maybe skip Barcelona. By taking some simple precautions you can reduce the risk of being a victim of crime. Here are some suggestions.

• Stay aware of your surroundings – Avoid being distracted by your phone or maps in busy areas.
• Use anti-theft bags – Crossbody bags with zippers and locks are best. more info
• Don’t display valuables – Keep jewelry, watches, and expensive cameras out of sight.
• Carry limited cash – Use cards or apps, and avoid pulling out large bills in public.
• Be cautious on public transport – Especially in metro stations and busy buses.
• Ignore distractions – Pickpockets often work in pairs; one may try to talk to you while the other steals.
• Secure your accommodation – Use safes for passports and valuables when not in use.
•  Don't leave stuff vivible in a car – Never leave anything worth stealing in a parked car in plain sight.
•  Don't leave anyting unattended – Don't hang up your coat or go to the toilet with your bag unattended.
• Know emergency numbers – In Spain, dial 112 for police, medical, or fire emergencies.

Hot Tip: By the way: A popular trick in Barcelona right now is the "bird poop trick". Somone squirts some yoghurt on you. Then somone comes to help with a tissue and manages to rob you.

I have lived in Spain for many years and have hardly ever had a problem. One time I felt that my wife and I were being surrounded in a busy tourist place. I started to shout at the people surrounding us. In a split second 5 scruffy looking under cover cops appeared and difused the situation. If something happens in a busy place like Las Rambla don't be embarrassed to shout, there are probably undercover cops around to protect tourists and the pickpockets will run away. 

Relative Risks of Different Cities.

City	Pickpocketing Level	Tourist Hotspots
Barcelona	Very High	Las Ramblas, Gothic Quarter, Metro
Madrid	Moderate	Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, Metro
Seville	Low to Moderate	Plaza de España, Cathedral area
Granada	Low	Plaza Nueva, Bus station,  Almanjáyar Area
Valencia	Moderate	City center, public transport
Malaga	Moderate	City center, nightlife areas
Bilbao	Low	Old Town, public transport
San Sebastian	Low	Beach areas, crowded events
Alicante	Moderate	City center, tourist-heavy areas
Cordoba	Low	Historic center, tourist sites
Toledo	Low	Old Town, major attractions
Salamanca	Low	University area, city center
Zaragoza	Moderate	City center, public transport
Palma de Mallorca	Moderate to High	Nightlife areas, specific neighborhoods
Santiago de Compostela	Low	Pilgrimage routes, city center

 

Extra note: It is not considered a crime but it is a good idea to know about gypsy women offering you rosemary. This is very popular in Granada. Click here for more info.

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Last Modified on May 2nd, 2025
Created on May 2nd, 2025
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