Is Madrid or Barcelona safer?

According to Numbeo, Madrid is generally safer than Barcelona, with a significantly lower crime index and a higher safety rating. Barcelona has a moderate crime index of 51.78 (on a 100-point scale), largely due to its well-known issues with pickpocketing, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Is Barcelona or Madrid better to go to?

If you want a laid-back vacation, great weather, or are drawn to Gaudí's architecture, choose Barcelona. On the other hand, if you prioritize value for money, want to learn or practice Spanish, and aim to see epic landmarks of Spain, Madrid might be your answer.

Is Barcelona or Madrid more friendly?

Madrid is known as a much more friendly place than Barcelona. The Madrid personality is said to be expressive and talkative, with a direct no-nonsense attitude that many can mistake for aggressiveness.

Is it safe to walk Barcelona night?

For night time, as mentioned by others it is a very safe city, walking around at night is not a problem and, in any case, 23:00 is not ``late'' here.

Is it safe for tourists in Barcelona?

Barcelona is generally safe, with low violent crime rates. Pickpocketing is the main concern, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Staying alert and taking precautions ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

MADRID or BARCELONA? Where should you go in Spain?

Are tourists unwelcome in Barcelona?

Tourism is hugely important to Spain and Barcelona is a top destination for visitors. But the crowds are growing so fast that many locals complain they're being squeezed out of their own cities. Here and in popular spots across southern Europe, residents are pushing back.

Is Madrid safe for tourists?

In short, Madrid is quite safe and one of the greatest cities in the world. However, it's important to watch out for common scams, pickpockets, and petty theft.

How to avoid pickpocketing in Barcelona?

Whenever it's possible, seat down: they can't pickpocket you when you are seating. If seating is not an option, lean on a wall so they can position themselves behind you. If that's not possible either, keep your hands on your pockets and your bag in front of you. Stay vigilant.

Are Las Ramblas safe at night?

Although it is a safe street, you may encounter pickpockets, swindlers, drug dealers,… Be careful with your belongings and be wary of anyone who approaches you. At night, you can walk through the Gothic Quarter and the Born, but it is not advisable to walk along the end of La Rambla closer to the Ciutat Vella.

Is it safe to wear a Rolex in Barcelona?

DO NOT WEAR WATCHES OR JEWELLERY IF TOU VISIT BARCELONA. THERE ARE ORGANISED CRIMINALS EVERYWHERE. Absolutely shocking crime levels and lack of police presence or interest in dealing with crime! We saw a number of people distressed due to bags, phones or watches being stolen!

When to avoid Madrid?

Madrid experiences extreme weather conditions that may make sightseeing uncomfortable. Winters (December–February) can be freezing, especially at night, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F). Summers (July–August) are scorching, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities unbearable.

Is Barcelona safer than Madrid?

Yes, Madrid is generally safer than Barcelona when looking at crime statistics, but both cities are typically safe for visitors as long as you take basic precautions. Barcelona is safe to visit, but pickpocketing is the biggest concern, especially in busy tourist areas like La Rambla and the metro.

Is Madrid safe to walk at night?

Madrid is incredibly safe. If you concider it being a night walks at 22:00-00:00 like me, you're in no expected danger. Maybe if you drink alcohol or in other ways forgot the basic things to look out for as a tourist.

How not to dress like a tourist in Barcelona?

You won't necessarily be turned away if you're dressed casually, however, an evening out in Barcelona generally means you should be looking good and well dressed. Avoid wearing casual shorts in the city, save them for the beach, wearing them elsewhere will generally label you as a tourist.

Are there any areas to avoid in Barcelona?

La Rambla and El Born

La Rambla becomes a stronghold for prostitution at night. To avoid this dodgy area, it's best to find houses for rent in Barcelona outside La Rambla and El Born. If you are out at night in El Born, near La Rambla, don't walk through small alleys, but rather through lit streets with more people.

Is Spain fed up with tourists?

As pressure mounts on cities like Barcelona and islands like Mallorca, locals are calling for sustainable travel in Spain—and tourists have a part to play. A viral X post from 2025 shows: in Barcelona, locals tape off hotel exits and spray tourists with water guns, fed up with overtourism.

What happens if you don't wear your Rolex?

If you take it off and set it aside, the watch will retain its “charge” for two days or more, depending on the model. However, if you haven't worn your Rolex for more than a couple of days and the watch has stopped, we recommend that you manually wind it when you set the time before putting it on.

Is it okay to wear flip-flops in Barcelona?

Skip the flip-flops when strolling the city.

But skip the flip-flops, even in beachy hubs such as Alicante or Barcelona, whenever you're not at the beach or the pool. Locals simply don't wear them while off the beach, so it will mark you as a tourist.

Should I bring jeans to Barcelona?

Locals love light jackets, jeans, and sneakers. I usually wear a light sweater or denim jacket. Don't pack sandals yet—it's not beach season.