Barcelona has a reputation for having high petty theft rates compared to other European cities. I received more warnings there about pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other thieves than any other place I’ve visited; I heard stories from hostel workers, other travelers, and even restaurant waiters. Tourists are the biggest targets, especially in the crowded hotspots such as Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, La Rambla, and late at night in the clubs. As a solo female traveler, I tend to be extra concerned about safety, but these warnings and tips apply to everyone regardless of age, gender, and whether or not you are alone.
1. When eating outside, NEVER leave your phone resting on the table
I was warned of a few different phone scams that target outdoor diners:
- Newspaper scam: someone comes up, starts talking to you, and places a newspaper or something similar on the table. Then they pick it back up when you’re distracted and take your phone with it.
- Menu scam: same as the newspaper scam except waiters are in on it and will put a menu down and then pick up your phone with the menu (I was warned by a waiter about this one when I had my phone on the table).
- Phone snatching: if you look away, someone may come up, quickly snatch your phone, and run away before you can notice.
2. Secure your bags and don’t leave your phone or wallet in your back pocket
For walking around the city, I recommend using a crossbody bag and leaving your hand on top of the zipper. When dining outdoors, do not leave your bag resting on hanging on a chair. Instead, secure the strap with your chair leg and place your bag underneath the table. Unless you are actively using your phone, it’s best to keep it out of sight (more advice from that same waiter).
3. Be extra careful when you are out late at night, especially in crowded bars and clubs
There is nothing a thief loves more than a drunk tourist who isn’t paying attention. I’ve heard the most stories about people getting their phones stolen in the nightlife scene. I also know someone who got jumped when he was walking home from the club by himself around 5am (the target being his phone and wallet). Stay aware of your surroundings, and if you’re solo traveling, try to find a group you can go out with.
4. Lock up your belongings in hostels
I was warned by my hostel to be extra careful about petty theft around the city. I’ve stayed in many hostels and this is the only time I was warned by the actual workers (this hostel had three different security points before we could access our rooms). I also heard that hostels in Barcelona get broken into more often than in other cities. Keep all your belongings secured with a padlock and/or luggage locks. Most hostels have lockers that are big enough for at least your valuables (shoutout to St. Christopher’s, whose locker could fit my extra large suitcase).
5. Don’t carry all of your cash and credit cards at once
This applies anywhere, and I always go by this rule when I travel. I carry one credit card and enough cash for one day. I leave my backup card and extra cash locked up either in a safe or locker. That way, in case something does happen, I still have access to money.
Having said all that, don’t let safety concerns deter you from visiting! Just be careful with your valuables and be aware of your surroundings. My time in Barcelona was completely fine and I didn’t have any issues with theft. However, all the warnings I got made me feel like I had to be extra vigilant the entire time, which got to be a little exhausting. Overall, I loved Barcelona and would definitely return.
