Barcelona,’ the city has become one of the busiest and most popular cruise ports in the Mediterranean—not only for those embarking on a cruise but as a port of call as well. As a result, it is a major tourist destination for both cruise passengers and those on land-based trips.
Unfortunately, this popularity can lead to some downsides for visitors.
Petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, is a common problem in the busy areas of the city (as it is in many other major cities around the world), especially in crowded places like railway and metro stations.
Since we’ve visited Barcelona many times, I’ve put together a few tips to help you stay safe during your visit (or any visit to a major city).
Please note, it’s not my intention to dissuade you from visiting Barcelona—it’s a fantastic city (one of my favorites). It’s full of wonderful sights and experiences. My goal is simply to provide some pointers to help you enjoy a safe and memorable trip.
- Stay Aware of Your Valuables
From the moment you arrive in the city, whether by air, rail, road, or ship, be mindful of where all your valuables are.
I recommend taking a licensed taxi directly to your accommodation, even if it’s not in the city center.
Never leave your bags unattended, especially backpacks, even for a second—whether at the baggage carousel or while loading them into a taxi. Petty criminals are always on the lookout for unattended bags to snatch and disappear into the crowd.
If you use the metro, local buses, or trams, avoid empty carriages, stay in well-lit areas of stations, and always be aware of your nearest exit.
- Use Your Hotel’s Safe
Upon arrival at your accommodation, immediately lock all valuables (passport, wallets, credit cards, keys, jewelry, tablets, cash, etc.) in the in-room safe. If there’s no in-room safe, use the safe deposit box at reception. If neither option is available, I personally wouldn’t recommend staying there.
- Carry Minimal Cash and Cards
When heading out to explore the city, don’t carry large amounts of cash—just enough to cover your planned expenses (many guides can give you an idea of the costs for food and drinks). If you must bring a credit card, take only one, and ensure you have your bank’s emergency contact numbers stored separately in a safe place. Leave all other cards in the safe.
- Don’t Carry Your Passport
Although some may tell you that Spanish authorities require you to carry your passport at all times, in reality, unless you’re specifically asked by police, you won’t need to show it. I never have. However, if you lose it or have it stolen, you won’t be boarding that ship!
There was a recent account of someone who had their passport stolen on a Saturday just as they arrived in the city, with the ship set to sail on Sunday. They had to wait until the US consulate opened on Monday to get a replacement, and then fly at their own expense to the next port of call to rejoin their family.
If you feel safer with your passport details on hand, take a paper copy instead.
- Be Cautious with Your Mobile Phone
Nowadays, our mobile phones are used for so much more than just calls—they store photos, act as maps, hold online tickets, and even process electronic payments. Many phones are valued between £600–£700 (approximately $750–$900 or €700–€800) and contain a wealth of personal data.
You don’t want to lose all of this. I suggest using a phone case with a wrist strap, so you can carry it securely and still use it.
The one above was purchased on amazon for approxiamately £17 ($22).
When in your accommodation, never leave your phone unattended—it’s a highly valuable item to criminals.
- Keep an Eye on Your Belongings in Restaurants
When enjoying a snack, drink, or meal in one of the city’s many great bars and restaurants, make sure any bags are not hung on the back of a chair but are within your sight at all times. A good tip is to place the bag under the table with the straps secured around a table or chair leg (or even your own leg!), making it difficult for a thief to grab and run.
Ensure all bag pockets and zippers are closed. Never leave your wallet or phone lying on the table—pickpockets are quick and can grab these off the table before you even realize it.
- Carry Bags the Local Way
In Barcelona, you’ll notice that locals carry their backpacks in front of them, rather than on their backs, to avoid pickpockets. If you need to carry a bag, make sure it’s securely held on your person, and that all zips, clasps, and pockets are closed.
- Avoid Crowds of Strangers
Pickpockets often work in teams, surrounding victims while one or more distract you with questions or by pretending to need directions, while another robs you.
A common tactic is to lean over you with a map while you’re eating, hiding your valuables so an accomplice can grab them. Another trick involves someone walking beside you, begging with a “baby” (often a doll), while their real arm is digging through your bag or pockets.
- Don’t Flash Valuables
Avoid wearing flashy jewelry, especially high-value items like a Rolex or an Apple watch. Thieves can spot these from a distance and will target you. Leave such valuables in the safe.
Try to blend in by dressing inconspicuously. Don’t wear sports jerseys or clothing that makes you stand out as a tourist. Ensure your pants/shorts have pockets that can be securely closed with zippers or buttons.
Gentlemen, please don’t walk around with a bulging wallet in your back pocket. This is a walking advertisement for thieves.
- If You Become a Victim, Stay Calm
If you find yourself the victim of a crime, shout for help and make loud noises, but avoid lashing out—this often deters attackers, as they’re opportunists who prefer to avoid attention.
Try not to retaliate, as the criminals may be armed, and it’s not worth risking your safety.
If you’re unlucky enough to become a victim, report the crime to the police for insurance purposes. This will require visiting a local station to obtain a police report and crime reference. It’s not always a quick process, especially if you’re not fluent in the local language, so take precautions to avoid the situation altogether.
Remember these tips, and you’ll have a fantastic time in Barcelona. We always look forward to visiting, especially since it usually means we’re about to board a cruise!
Take care, and enjoy your trip!
