Crime Rates in Barcelona by Neighborhood

Wednesday, July 9, 2025 By BarcelonaFly

Barcelona is a beautiful city full of vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and amazing food.

But like any big city, it has its ups and downs when it comes to safety.

some neighborhoods are known for having more crime, especially petty theft and drug-related issues, while others feel much safer and more relaxed.

If you're planning to visit or live in barcelona, knowing which areas tend to have more or less crime can really help you feel more comfortable and make better choices about where to go or stay.

let's take a friendly stroll through the neighborhoods and get a feel for what's happening in terms of crime around the city.

1. Crime Hotspots: El Raval
2. Crime Challenges in La Mina
3. Pickpocketing in the Gothic Quarter
4. La Rambla: A Tourist Magnet with Risks
5. Petty Crime Around El Born
6. Crime in Ciutat Vella District
7. Nou Barris: Safety Concerns at Night
8. Safer Neighborhoods: Eixample, Gràcia, and Beyond
References
Images Sources

1. Crime Hotspots: El Raval

el raval is often talked about because its a reputation for more robberies and drug-related activity.

it's a neighborhood full of life and culture, but it also struggles with safety concerns, especially at night.

People who live or visit here often have to stay alert, especially in crowded spots.

despite this, el Raval is also known for its cool street art, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife, which keeps it lively and interesting.

It's a place with a lot of character, but definitely one where keeping an eye on your belongings is a good idea.

locals often say that if you stick to busier streets and avoid certain blocks after dark, you can still enjoy what the area offers.

2. Crime Challenges in La Mina

la mina, located on the outskirts near sant Adrià de besòs, is a neighborhood that faces bigger social challenges.

crime rates here tend to be higher, including burglaries and drug issues.

It's a community dealing with social exclusion, which affects safety and quality of life.

People living here often face tougher circumstances, and the local government has been working on programs to improve the area.

la mina might not be on the typical tourist map, but its an important part of the city's fabric.

for visitors, its best to approach with caution and avoid wandering into less familiar parts after dark.

3. Pickpocketing in the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter, or barri Gòtic, is one of Barcelona's most famous and oldest neighborhoods.

With its winding medieval streets and historic charm, it attracts tons of tourists.

Unfortunately, this also makes it a hotspot for pickpocketing and petty theft.

Tourists are often targeted, especially in crowded areas and during the evenings.

The best advice here is to keep your valuables close and be extra aware when you're in busy spots.

The gothic quarter's beauty and lively atmosphere are definitely worth a visit, but staying safe means being smart about your belongings.

4. La Rambla: A Tourist Magnet with Risks

La Rambla is probably one of the most iconic streets in Barcelona, famous for its lively markets, street performers, and buzzing atmosphere.

because its such a magnet for tourists, its also one of the top places for pickpockets and petty thieves.

The crowds make it easy for sneaky hands to strike without being noticed.

many locals recommend keeping your bag zipped and not flashing expensive gear here.

despite the risks, la rambla offers an unforgettable vibe that captures the heart of the city, so just stay alert and enjoy the scene.

5. Petty Crime Around El Born

el Born is right next to La Rambla and shares some of the same issues with petty crime.

it's a trendy area full of bars, restaurants, and boutiques, which makes it lively and attractive to visitors.

pickpocketing and small thefts happen, especially in busy spots and nightlife areas.

That said, El Born also feels quite safe during the day with a lot of locals hanging out.

like many tourist-friendly neighborhoods, the key is to stay aware, especially when it gets crowded or late at night.

6. Crime in Ciutat Vella District

Ciutat vella is the district that includes the Gothic Quarter, el Born, el raval, and Barceloneta.

Because it covers a lot of the historic city center, it naturally has a high tourist presence.

This also means higher rates of petty theft, burglaries, and other minor crimes.

The streets can get very busy, and some parts get sketchy after dark.

Locals recommend using common sense, stick to well-lit areas, avoid isolated streets, and keep your belongings secure.

Ciutat Vella is full of charm and history, but its one of those places where a bit of caution goes a long way.

7. Nou Barris: Safety Concerns at Night

Nou barris is more residential and a bit further from the main tourist areas.

it reports higher rates of burglaries, muggings, and even occasional car theft.

nighttime can be riskier here, so locals tend to be cautious after dark.

during the day, Nou barris feels quieter and more typical of a residential neighborhood.

It's not a popular spot for visitors, but its important to know that safety concerns exist here, especially later in the evening.

8. Safer Neighborhoods: Eixample, Gràcia, and Beyond

If you're looking for safer spots in Barcelona, neighborhoods like Eixample, Gràcia, Sarrià-Sant gervasi, Les corts, and El Poblenou are great options.

these areas tend to have lower crime rates, more community feel, and better police presence.

Eixample, for example, has wide, well-lit streets and a lively but safe atmosphere.

gràcia feels like a small town within the city, known for strong community ties and fewer crime reports.

sarrià-sant Gervasi is one of the wealthiest, quietest neighborhoods around, perfect if you want peace of mind.

Les corts offers a nice balance of city buzz during the day and calm nights, while El Poblenou is a transforming area with a safer vibe than it had in the past.

Overall, these neighborhoods are where many locals and families feel most comfortable.