Spain Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Spain.
Healthcare System
Spain has a high-quality public healthcare system (Sanidad Pública) and excellent private facilities. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its UK replacement (GHIC) for access to public care. Non-EU travelers must have private travel health insurance.
Hospitals
For emergencies, go to the 'Urgencias' department of any public hospital. Private hospitals often have shorter wait times for non-emergencies and may have more English-speaking staff. It's advisable to know the location of a hospital or health center ('Centro de Salud') near your accommodation.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies ('Farmacias') are widespread, identified by a green cross. Pharmacists are highly trained and can provide advice and over-the-counter medications for minor ailments. Many common medications available over-the-counter in other countries may require a prescription in Spain.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is not legally required but is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for all non-EU travelers and advisable for EU travelers to cover private care and repatriation. Proof of insurance may be requested at border control.
Healthcare Tips
- Always carry your insurance card/policy details and the EHIC/GHIC if applicable.
- For non-emergencies, visit a 'Centro de Salud' (health center) for a lower cost than a hospital emergency room.
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
The most common issue for tourists. Thieves work in crowded areas, using distraction techniques to steal wallets, phones, and bags.
Rental cars and cars with foreign plates are targeted, if luggage is visible inside.
Summer temperatures, in central and southern Spain, can exceed 40°C (104°F), leading to serious health risks.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
A stranger (or their accomplice) spills a substance on you, offers to help clean it, and pickpockets you during the 'assistance'.
In tourist zones, friendly individuals invite you to a 'local' bar for a drink or offer a 'free' rose/gift. You are then presented with an exorbitant bill or distracted for theft.
Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers ask to see your passport and wallet to 'check for counterfeit bills,' then steal cash or cards.
Thieves install skimming devices on ATMs and may distract you during the transaction or shoulder-surf to get your PIN.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General
- Make digital copies of your passport, ID, and insurance documents. Keep them separate from the originals.
- Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases for emergencies (e.g., 'Ayuda' for help).
Transportation
- Be vigilant on metros and buses, when doors are opening/closing.
- Only use licensed taxis (with official light and meter) or reputable ride-sharing apps.
- When driving, be aware of narrow streets in historic centers and strict parking regulations.
Nightlife
- Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night.
- Watch your drink at all times to avoid spiking.
- Know how you're getting back to your accommodation; save a taxi number or use a trusted app.
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Spain is generally safe for women traveling alone or in groups. The culture is outgoing, and it's common to see women socializing independently. However, standard global precautions apply to avoid unwanted attention and petty crime.
- Confident body language and avoiding eye contact with harassers can deter casual street harassment ('piropos').
- Solo female travelers report feeling safe in major cities, but it's wise to avoid empty streets and parks late at night.
- Consider staying in well-reviewed accommodations in central areas.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Spain has some of the most progressive LGBTQ+ rights laws in the world, including same-sex marriage (since 2005), adoption rights, and strong anti-discrimination protections.
- No special precautions are needed beyond general safety. LGBTQ+ travelers can feel comfortable being open.
- Madrid Pride (Orgullo) is one of the largest in the world.
- As always, be aware of your surroundings, as isolated incidents of harassment, while rare, can occur.
Travel Insurance
Important for covering medical emergencies, which can be very expensive without EU coverage (EHIC/GHIC). Also essential for trip cancellation, lost baggage, and coverage for activities like hiking or water sports.
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