Is Barcelona safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Spain

What the advice says

• The US State Department places Spain at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, a country-level advisory rather than one specific to Barcelona.
• The UK FCDO notes a high threat of terrorist attack affecting British nationals and foreign visitors broadly, and advises staying aware of surroundings and following local authorities' guidance.
• Demonstrations and political gatherings can occur with little warning in cities, and while most are peaceful, travelers are advised to move away if signs of disorder appear.
• Street crime such as pickpocketing by distraction techniques is a known risk, particularly around luggage handling at airports and during car rental pickups, so keeping valuables secure and split up is recommended.
• If a passport is lost or stolen, a police report alone is not enough to leave Spain; travelers must renew the passport or get an emergency travel document.
• Attacks and sexual assaults are described as rare but do occur, so solo travelers are advised not to split from companions, to keep drinks in sight to avoid spiking, and to save their accommodation location on a maps app.
• It is illegal to drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain, and there are fines for public alcohol or nitrous oxide use in some places, so checking local rules before drinking outdoors is worthwhile.