When it comes to traveling to a new city, one of the first things that often comes to mind is safety. Especially when it’s about exploring a city at night, safety is of utmost importance.
Barcelona, being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, can raise concerns about its safety at night. In this article, we’ll explore whether Barcelona is dangerous at night and what measures you can take to ensure your safety.
Crime Rate in Barcelona
Barcelona is a big city and like any other big city, it has its fair share of crime. However, the overall crime rate in Barcelona has been decreasing over the years.
According to a report by Spain’s Interior Ministry, crime rates have decreased by almost 30% since 2006. The report also states that violent crimes are rare in Barcelona.
Tourist Scams
While violent crimes are rare in Barcelona, tourists should be aware of some common scams that occur in the city. One such scam involves someone approaching you and offering you something for free like a bracelet or a rose. Once you accept it, they will demand money from you and may even become aggressive if you refuse to pay.
Another scam involves pickpocketing. Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas such as La Rambla and the metro stations. It’s important to keep your belongings safe and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Areas to Avoid
As with any city, there are some areas in Barcelona that are best avoided at night. These include:
- El Raval – Although El Raval has undergone significant redevelopment over recent years, it still has some dark alleys that can be unsafe at night.
- Barri de Sant Martí – This area is known for its high crime rate.
- La Mina – This area is known for its drug-related crime and is best avoided altogether.
Safety Tips
To ensure your safety while exploring Barcelona at night, here are some tips to follow:
- Stick to well-lit areas and avoid poorly lit streets or alleys.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you and keep your valuables in a safe place.
- Be vigilant while using the metro and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Travel with a group of people or with a trusted friend if possible.
In Conclusion
Barcelona is generally a safe city, but like any other big city, it has its fair share of crime. By being aware of your surroundings and following the above-mentioned safety tips, you can ensure your safety while exploring Barcelona at night. So go ahead and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer!