Moving To Spain? See the Safest Places to Live in Barcelona
Barcelona is Spain’s second-biggest city and one of the most popular destinations in Europe. As a foreigner, Barcelona may feel like a tiny village or a lively seaside town. It all depends on where you live. Each neighborhood or barrio has its own distinct style and character. You can be at the heart of the tourist action or feel a million miles away at one of the quiet seaside communities or residential quarters. These are the safest places to live in Barcelona, plus tips on what each barrio is like and how to stay safe in the city in general.
Everyday Safety in Barcelona
Overall, Barcelona is a very safe city. Like most large cities, Barcelona has pickpockets – lots of them. The large influx of tourism here means that popular sites and attractions are jam-packed with distracted visitors. This is a pickpocket’s dream!
However, as an expat living in Spain, your daily itinerary will be much different. While it’s still important to be vigilant, especially on public transit, chances are pickpockets won’t be a huge problem for you. Unsuspecting tourists are also sometimes taken for a literal ride by taxi drivers who are keen to overcharge. However, ex-pats who are starting to know Barcelona can tell the drivers exactly which way they want to go, avoiding the possibility of a wild goose chase.
Safest and Least Safe Neighborhoods in Barcelona
Like many cities, Barcelona’s safest areas tend to be the more affluent barrios. This includes Eixample and Poblenou.
No one barrio in Barcelona should be avoided at all costs. In general, all neighborhoods have plenty of safe areas to live in. However, parts of El Raval and the areas around the train station in the Sants barrio can be dodgy at night. The barrios of Barri Gotic and El Born have a lot of tiny streets that, while beguiling by day, can be deserted and dicey at night.
Las Ramblas, the main promenade through central Barcelona, is humming with activity 24 hours a day and – pickpockets and tourist scams aside – is considered safe. Late at night, the south end of the street may feel a little seedy, but is still relatively safe (and pretty easy to avoid if you prefer). While it’s not exactly residential in nature, some expats with unusual schedules (like those who work the night shift) appreciate that Las Ramblas is always busy. You can walk there just about any time of day and never feel like you’re on a deserted street. But for others, it’s just not worth the noise, nor the pickpocket population.
Barri Gotic, El Born, and El Raval are popular with bachelor and bachelorette parties. While this doesn’t have a strong impact on neighborhood safety, it definitely affects noise levels! Keep this in mind while house hunting – you might not want to be all that close to the wine bars!
Barcelona’s Main Barrios
Barceloneta:
Home to Barcelona’s closest beach to the city center, Barceloneta is popular with families. Once a fisherman’s neighborhood, there is still the small village feel here. You will notice laundry hanging from balconies and seniors chatting away all day on benches and in parks.
Sants:
A relaxed, welcoming neighborhood, accommodations in Sants have traditionally been a bit less expensive than in other barrios. It’s popular with families with young children and seniors alike, and there is a good mix of independent and chain shops. There is also a good variety of restaurants, bars, markets, and bakeries. The train station can be sketchy late at night.
Bogatell / Ciutadella:
Popular with families who want close access to the beach without giving up access to the city center, the areas of Bogatell and Ciutadella are lively on weekends. Both the Casino Barcelona and a long list of trendy nightclubs on the Barcelona beach are located here.
Eixample:
This barrio has posh shopping, modernist architecture, and busy streets. “Eixample” translates to “extension,” and it really does feel like a more modern extension of old Barcelona. Everything is just a bit more spacious, shiny, and new here.
El Born:
El Born offers a little bit of everything. It is close to the beach and has good nightlife with plenty of popular bars and restaurants. The streets of El Born can best be described as a labyrinth, and a lot of expats love the neighborhood’s cozy feel. However, it is best to check with a local friend or real estate agent to determine which small streets are best avoided after dark.
El Raval:
If you had to name one barrio as the least safe place to live in Barcelona, El Raval would probably be the one. But that does not tell the whole story. While there are definitely seedy sections that are best avoided, El Raval can also feel laid back, authentic, and full of personality. Sure, certain areas are not exactly the cleanest, and still, others are not exactly the homiest, with scores of stag parties passing through. But there is something about El Raval that a lot of people love.
Barri Gòtic:
Barcelona’s Gothic quarter is the heart of the old city and what many people call the “original” Barcelona. It is hugely popular with bachelor and bachelorette parties with a good balance of dining, shopping, and hotels. Despite the noise, it is still pretty, charming, and filled with quaint corners to explore. This is another neighborhood with tiny, winding streets. Check with your local friends or real estate agent to learn which might be best avoided after dark.
Gràcia:
If Gràcia feels a bit different from the rest of Barcelona, it is for a good reason. This neighborhood was actually an independent town until the late 19th century. It has a large population of seniors, many of whom are part of families that have lived in Gràcia for generations. Gràcia also has a growing population of millennials falling in love with the area’s bohemian, independent vibe. It is a safe, quirky, homey area.
Poblenou:
This affluent part of Barcelona is home to a new technological park and tech incubator (Barcelona Activa). The modern, Silicon Valley-Esque feel continues into the residential area with plenty of high-rise apartment buildings and a slick shopping plaza. Visually, it is pretty much the opposite of the city’s Gothic quarter, which expats will either love or hate. However, there is still a lot of personalities here. Former factories have been converted into art spaces and independent shops.
Housing in Barcelona
Finding an apartment while living abroad in Barcelona can be tricky because the city is very popular and has many different areas to live in. Whether you want to live in an old, historic area or a newer part of town, finding a place that fits your needs and how much you can pay isn’t always easy. A company we recommend, Homelike, has lots of apartments in Barcelona you can look at, for both short stays and longer ones. They even have options for people with pets or those who don’t want to pay a deposit right away.
Safety Considerations for Foreigners Living in Barcelona
Barcelona has its share of crime and safety concerns, like any urban area. Here are some factors to consider regarding safety in Barcelona:
- Violent crime rates in Barcelona are relatively low compared to other major cities. Severe incidents like assaults and homicides are infrequent, especially in tourist and residential areas.
- Petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, is one of the main safety concerns in Barcelona, especially in crowded tourist areas such as Las Ramblas, the metro, and public transportation. However, exercising common sense precautions such as keeping your belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
- Like any city, safety can vary depending on the neighborhood. While many areas in Barcelona are safe and welcoming, some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates or other safety concerns. Researching and choosing a neighborhood that aligns with your safety preferences and lifestyle is essential.
- Barcelona has occasionally experienced political demonstrations and protests related to regional issues like Catalonia’s push for independence. While these events are usually peaceful, they can sometimes lead to disruptions or clashes with authorities. It’s advisable to stay informed about local developments and avoid participating in demonstrations if you’re concerned about safety.
- Tourist areas in Barcelona tend to be more crowded and may attract more opportunistic criminals. Living in residential neighborhoods away from the tourist hotspots can offer a quieter and potentially safer environment.
- Barcelona has a visible police presence, including the Mossos d’Esquadra (the regional police force), local police, and national police. These authorities work to maintain public safety and respond to incidents promptly.
While Barcelona is generally safe to live in, it’s important to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. With awareness and common sense, many residents enjoy a high quality of life in this vibrant and dynamic city.
Life in Barcelona
Living in Barcelona offers numerous advantages, making it a highly desirable city for many people. Here are some of the pros of living in Barcelona:
- Barcelona is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique architecture, including the iconic works of Antoni Gaudí. Residents can access numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and cultural events annually.
- Its location on the Mediterranean coast provides residents with a wonderful climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. The city’s beaches, parks, and cafes encourage an outdoor lifestyle and offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
- The city boasts a diverse culinary scene, with countless restaurants, tapas bars, and markets offering delicious Catalan and international cuisine. From traditional paella and seafood dishes to innovative Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something to suit every taste bud.
- Barcelona consistently ranks high in quality of life surveys, thanks to its excellent healthcare system, efficient public transportation network, and overall safety. The city offers a good work-life balance, with a strong emphasis on leisure and recreation.
- It is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population, attracting expatriates and students worldwide. English is widely spoken, making it easy for newcomers to adjust and communicate.
- The city is a major economic hub with thriving tourism, technology, finance, and innovation industries. The city offers a range of job opportunities for professionals in various fields, as well as entrepreneurial support for those looking to start their businesses.
- Beyond its beautiful beaches, Barcelona is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, vineyards, and coastal areas. Residents can enjoy hiking, skiing, water sports, and other outdoor activities just a short drive from the city center.
- It hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and film to food and cultural traditions. Highlights include the Sonar music festival, Primavera Sound, and the Festa Major de Gràcia.
Overall, Barcelona offers a high quality of life, a rich cultural heritage, and a dynamic urban environment with plenty of safe neighborhoods that appeal to people from all walks of life.
Related:
- Spanish Health Insurance for Expats and Foreigners
- Best International Schools in Spain
- Hospitals in Spain for Expats
- Cost of Living in Spain
