Spain Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and unrest.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and target:

• Tourist locations
• Transportation centers like airports and train stations
• Markets and shopping malls
• Local government facilities
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship and educational institutions
• Parks
• Major sporting and cultural events

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Reconsider travel to Ceuta due to unrest.

High speed rail collision in Toledo

On 28 October, two high-speed trains collided between the towns of Mora and Orgaz, in the province of Toledo.

Significant disruption to rail services is expected.

If you need assistance or information about affected passengers, contact RENFE on +34 900 10 10 20.

If you are a British national and you or a family member have been affected by the accident and need consular support, call the nearest British embassy or consulate on +34 91 714 6300.

Before you travel

If you are planning to travel to Spain through France, check the travel advice for France before you start your journey.

If you are planning to travel to Spain through Gibraltar, check the travel advice for Gibraltar before you start your journey.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Spain

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Spain.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

In January 2023, one person was killed and others injured in a machete attack at 2 churches in Cadiz

Political situation

Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.

While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.

Risk level

Spain - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Spain due to the threat of terrorism.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common, especially in larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Thieves often target tourists, particularly during weekends, holidays and festivals.

Thieves work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings, such as asking for directions or informing you of a stain on your clothes.

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers may ask to see your passport, IDs or wallets. In this situation, politely ask to see their official identification badge to verify that the request is legitimate.

Thieves are especially active in crowded areas, such as:

• public transportation, including subway systems and bus and train stations
• airports, including car rental facilities
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
• beaches
• tourist attractions

Barcelona

Petty crime occurs frequently in crowded public areas, including beaches and public transportation. Thieves are very active in popular tourist destinations, including:

• El-Prat airport, including at car rental facilities and on the airport shuttle bus (the Aerobus)
• Güell park
• Las Ramblas, including in internet cafés
• Passeig de Gràcia
• Plaça de Catalunya
• Plaça Reial and surrounding streets of the old city (Ciutat Vella)
• Sagrada Família Basilica

Madrid

In Madrid, petty crime is common in the following areas:

• Madrid-Barajas airport, including car rental facilities
• Atocha train station
• Gran Vía
• Plaza Cibeles and Paseo del Prado
• Puerta del Sol area, Plaza Mayor and surrounding streets
• Retiro park

During your trip:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• carry a photocopy or digital copy of your passport identification page, driver’s licence, train or airline tickets and credit cards
• expect travel delays and additional expenses if your passport is stolen
• don’t leave luggage unattended at airport check-in or ticket counters, car rental desks or hotel lobbies

西班牙风险等级为蓝色（低风险）