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Spain
- Foreign travelers primarily face risks of pickpocketing and theft, particularly in crowded tourist areas and in major cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
- Be aware of potential political protests, especially in regions like Catalonia, which may disrupt transport and local services. Avoid large gatherings and stay informed of local developments.
- Spain experiences occasional floods and wildfires. Stay informed and prepared for natural events by adhering to local advisories, particularly between September and November.
- While Spain has an efficient public transport network, anticipate potential disruptions due to strikes or social unrest. Use local apps like Moovit or Citymapper for real-time updates and plan for alternate routes.
Risk Factors
- Although petty street crime is common, the overall risk of crime is low. The risk increases during summer months when tourist numbers peak.
- Petty theft (i.e., pickpocketing and bag-snatching) in Spain commonly occurs in crowded areas like transport hubs, tourist attractions, bars, and restaurants, with thieves targeting cash, mobile phones, and passports.
- There has been a rise in reports of sexual assault, largely attributed to the widespread availability of liquid ecstasy. Younger travelers such as exchange students are the most common victims.
- There has been an increase in thefts targeting rental cars across Spain. Remain suspicious of strangers; “highway robbers” are known to signal drivers to pull over by indicating there’s a problem with the vehicle. Such tactics often end in robbery. Avoid leaving valuables visible in the car and park in secure areas.
- In Barcelona, crime hotspots include Las Ramblas, Plaza Catalunya, Barrio Gotico, and the major transport hubs of Sants and Franca.
- In Madrid, exercise caution in Plaza Mayor, La Latina, the Rastro flea market, Puerta del Sol on Calle Gran Via, and near the Prado Museum due to a higher risk of petty crime. Avoid solo travel at night in El Retiro.
- Spain’s public transport system is extensive but can face occasional strikes. Use local apps like Moovit or Citymapper for real-time updates on public transportation.
- Taxis are known to be reliable and safe. Reputable taxi companies include Radio Taxi or Tele Taxi. Do not accept unsolicited rides from unlicensed or unofficial drivers.
- Ride-sharing services (i.e., Uber or Cabify) are a good alternative in major cities such as Barcelona and Madrid.
- Protests occur frequently though largely remain peaceful. Transportation related strikes are known to disrupt travel. Avoid large gatherings and stay informed to remain abreast of planned actions.
- Demonstrations over Catalonian independence have occasionally turned violent. Escalation may pose an incidental risk to foreign travelers in the vicinity of demonstrations. In Barcelona, bypass all gatherings, especially at Plaça de Catalunya, Plaça de la Universitat, and the Parliament of Catalonia.
- Reliable sources suggest that terrorist organizations continue to plan attacks in Europe, to include Spain. The last major attack occurred in 2017 when militants affiliated with the Islamic State drove a vehicle into crowds on Las Ramblas in Barcelona killing 15 individuals.
- While credible risks remain, authorities have been adept at disrupting potential terror cells.
- Flooding can occur, particularly in Valencia and the Balearic Islands from September to November. Southern Spain is particularly affected by torrential rains, flooding, and landslides. Adhere to local advisories for your area.
- Major earthquakes are rare; however, between 1,200 and 1,400 tremors are recorded annually, usually causing little or no damage.
- Forest fires are increasingly common in summer months due to high temperatures, sometimes leading to deaths and evacuations. Follow local fire safety guidelines and evacuate if advised.