Travel safety

Is Spain safe to visit?

Spain travel photo — Spain · photo from the Waymark library

The whole country, including the islandsSafeChecked 22 October 2026 · FCDO updated 12 August 2026

Spain is one of the safest holiday countries for UK travellers. The FCDO advises against travel to nowhere in Spain, the Balearics or the Canaries. Most problems are petty theft, nightlife and heat, not serious crime.

Safe
Avoid
Essential only
Never travel

RatingSafe

Emergency number112

Official advice updated12 August 2026

Areas covered5 on this page

Spain gets more British visitors than any other country. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The FCDO does say terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Spain, as in much of Europe, so stay alert in crowded places.

Spain area by area

BarcelonaSafe
No warning, but Europe's pickpocket capital: La Rambla, the metro, Sagrada Família queues and the beach.
MadridSafe
No warning. Watch bags around Sol, Gran Vía and on the metro.
Costas, Mallorca and Ibiza resortsSafe
No warning. Drink spiking, falls from balconies and fake 'police' stops are the main issues.
Canary IslandsSafe
No warning. Strong Atlantic currents on some beaches: swim where there are lifeguards.
Rural Spain in summerSafe
No warning, but wildfires can close roads and force evacuations. Follow local alerts.

Pickpockets and distraction thefts

Thieves work in teams: one asks for directions or 'spots' bird mess on your shoulder while another takes your phone. Keep bags zipped and in front of you, and never put a phone on a café table.

Nightlife, balconies and drinks

The FCDO says attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do happen. Stick with friends, watch your drink, and save your hotel's location in your maps app. Every year British visitors are hurt falling from hotel balconies, so never climb between them.

Heat and wildfires

Inland Spain regularly passes 40°C in July and August. Drink water, avoid the midday sun and check the AEMET heat warnings. In summer, wildfires can spread fast; follow instructions from the emergency services.

Before you go

On motorways, ignore drivers who flag you down claiming a problem with your car. Stop only at a lit service station.
Carry a photocopy of your passport and leave the original in the hotel safe.
Emergency number: 112.

Official advice: FCDO travel advice for Spain

Stay and do

Ready to book Spain? Compare places to stay and things to do.

Hotels in Málaga Tours and tickets in Málaga

We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. It never affects our ratings.

See the safety filter on the map Spain travel guide Search flights

Questions people ask

Is Barcelona safe?

Yes for your safety, less so for your phone. Violent crime is rare, but pickpocketing is very common in the centre and on the metro.

Is it safe to go to Spain in summer?

Yes, but plan for the heat. Southern and inland cities often pass 40°C in July and August, and wildfires can break out in the countryside.

← All travel safety guides

Waymark summarises official UK government (FCDO) travel advice and other public sources to help you plan. It is not a substitute for that advice, which can change at short notice. Always read the latest FCDO page for your destination and check your insurance before you book. Content last checked 22 October 2026.