Go, but pay attention.
No major changes since yesterday.
Governments, one trip
What they're telling their own citizens about Spain
The real score
The breakdown
See it from your perspective
Go, but pay attention.
The general Sketch Score, unweighted for any specific traveler.
Don't fall for it
Scams to know
Magic Trick Distraction
Scammers tie a string around your finger to distract you while an accomplice steals your wallet. Walk away if someone attempts this.
Liquid Spillage Scam
Strangers throw a milky or unpleasant liquid on you and offer to help clean it up. Immediately walk away, as this is a ruse to pickpocket you.
Martial Arts Touts
Touts approach East Asian visitors and perform martial arts moves, such as kicking your leg, to distract you while they steal your belongings.
False Police Check
Individuals pose as police officers and ask to check your wallet for identification. Do not hand over your wallet or cash.
Unwanted Physical Contact
Women may approach male travelers and use unwanted physical contact to distract them while an accomplice steals their valuables.
Subway Door Pinning
A group of men blocks the entrance and exit of a subway car, pinning you against the doors to simulate crowding while they empty your pockets.
Staying healthy
What to watch out for, health-wise
Active notices
- • Global Measles
Tap water safe to drink: Yes
Vaccines
Required: Yellow Fever
Recommended: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, Rabies
Source: CDC Travelers' Health →Getting in
What you'll need at the border
The visa policy of the Schengen Area is a component within the wider area of freedom, security and justice policy of the European Union. It applies to the Schengen Area and Cyprus, but not to EU member state Ireland. The visa policy allows nationals of certain countries to enter the Schengen Area via air, land or sea without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Nationals of certain other countries are required to have a visa to enter and, in some cases, transit through the Schenge
Source: Wikipedia →Real, not invented
Terrorism
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
Source: UK FCDO →Real, not invented
Cultural & legal notes
Dress code
In some parts of Spain it’s illegal to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You could be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets. For security reasons, some public authorities in Spain do not allow the burka or niqab to be worn in their buildings. If you visit town council buildings wearing a burka or niqab, you may be asked to remove it while inside.
Source: UK FCDO →Right now
In the news the last few days
Real talk
What travelers actually say
Travelers in Spain face specific environmental risks rather than urban crime threats according to the provided discussions. When hiking or trekking, the primary dangers involve unpredictable Mediterranean weather shifts, difficult terrain, and dehydration. Safety relies on thorough route planning, carrying appropriate gear like GPS and first aid kits, and avoiding solo excursions by hiking with a buddy or group. While some travelers express concern regarding historical terrorism reports, the actual advice provided focuses exclusively on physical preparedness for outdoor activities. There is no consensus or data provided regarding urban crime, scams, or safety in cities like Madrid, Malaga, or Seville.
“The first and most crucial safety tip for beginners is to know the trail and plan your route ahead of time.
— r/travel
“Hiking or trekking with a buddy or joining a group can increase your safety and provide additional support in case of an emergency.
— r/travel
“Spain has a Mediterranean climate, which can change quickly, especially in mountainous areas. Always prepare for rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.
— r/travel
Pack this, know this
The little things that trip people up
Plug & voltage
C / F · 230V
Driving side
right
Emergency
police: 112 / ambulance: 112 / fire: 112
Tipping
Tipping, or "propina" in Spanish is not mandatory nor considered customary in Spain. As a result, you may find that waiters are not as attentive or courteous as you may be used to since they don't work for tips.
Cash vs. Card
€500 banknotes are not accepted in many stores—always have alternative banknotes.
Zoom in
10 Spain cities on SKETCH.WORLD
Real, resident-submitted Numbeo crime data at the city level — the same national picture above, with crime swapped for what people who actually live there report.
Show the receipts (8 sources)
- us-state — observed 2026-09-09
- uk-fcdo — observed 2026-09-09
- ca-gac — observed 2026-09-09
- worldbank-political — observed 2026-09-09
- worldbank-policeTrust — observed 2026-09-09
- cdc-health — observed 2026-09-09
- reddit — observed 2026-09-09
- lgbtq-legal-wikipedia — observed 2026-09-09