15 Must-Know Tips to Avoid Pickpocketing in Barcelona

I’ll be honest, pickpocketing in Barcelona is a very real issue and it’s something you definitely need to be aware of when visiting. 

I haven’t personally witnessed it happen (yet), but I’ve heard plenty of pickpocketing stories from local friends and longtime residents. 

The city unfortunately has gotten a bad reputation for petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas like La Rambla, Barcelona Cathedral, or Barceloneta Beach.

That said, I do think that with some basic safety precautions, you can easily avoid pickpockets and still have a great time exploring the city.

From what I’ve heard and experienced, pickpocketing in Barcelona is generally not violent and they usually go for low-hanging fruit and easy targets. 

I still feel very safe living here, but I’m always careful with my bag and phone when I’m out and about.

Of course, safety in Barcelona is never guaranteed but a little awareness really does go a long way.

Don’t come to Barcelona without a phone leash—seriously! 

Phones are one of the most commonly stolen items, and having yours tethered to your bag or belt loop makes a huge difference. 

I clip mine to an inside zipper in my belt bag so I can still use it for photos or directions without worrying someone will grab it out of my hand. 

It’s one of the simplest ways to prevent theft in Barcelona—and it costs less than 10 bucks!

Anti-theft zippers are small add-ons that can make your bag way more secure. 

I bought a pack before I moved here and attached them to my belt bag or backpack for extra protection. 

They latch closed and make it harder for anyone to unzip your bag without you noticing. 

It’s an easy and affordable way to add an extra layer of security to your bag.

Always wear a crossbody purse or belt bag when exploring the city. 

It keeps your belongings in front of you and makes it harder for anyone to grab something without your knowledge. 

I use this belt bag that has an RFID-blocking pocket and fits snugly against my body. 

It’s convenient and helps me feel a lot more secure when walking around.

This is a habit that will serve you well while visiting Barcelona. 

When you’re walking through a crowded area, riding the metro, or standing in line, keep one hand on your bag. 

It signals awareness and makes it much harder for someone to steal from you. 

I do this automatically now, especially in places like La Rambla or the metro.

Pickpockets often work in teams and use distractions like street performers, loud noises, or someone bumping into you to throw you off. 

I’ve even heard of people pretending to help wipe off a stain or bird poop on your clothes while someone else steals your stuff. 

If something feels off or chaotic, that’s usually your cue to be extra alert. 

Hold your bag tightly and move away from the distraction if you can.

Areas like La Rambla, the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona Cathedral, El Born, Sagrada Familia, and Barceloneta Beach are common pickpocketing zones. 

These places are always full of tourists, and unfortunately, that’s exactly what thieves are looking for. 

I always keep my bag in front of me and try to avoid taking out my phone or wallet in these areas unless absolutely necessary. 

A little awareness goes a long way here.

Barcelona’s beaches are a fun place to hang out, but also a prime location for theft. 

Thieves use spotters who look for unattended bags and signal to someone nearby who swoops in and takes it. 

If you’re going for a swim, take turns with a friend and never leave your things unattended.

It might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many tourists I see that still do this. 

Wallets and phones in back pockets are the easiest things to grab without you noticing.

I’d recommend not keeping anything in your pockets and instead using a crossbody purse or belt bag. 

Or if you do put your phone or wallet in your front pocket, make sure they are secured with a phone leash or wallet chain.  I had a friend whose phone got stolen from her coat pocket.

Public transportation in Barcelona is one of the most active spots for pickpockets in Barcelona, including the metro, buses, and trains. 

They often stand near the doors so they can grab something and jump off quickly. 

Be especially careful when getting on or off crowded trains and always wear your backpack in front of you. 

And if someone offers to help with your luggage, stay alert because a lot of times it’s just a distraction and they’ll end up stealing something from you.

Some thieves will try to engage you in conversation or pretend to ask for help in order to distract you. 

I once had two women ask me for directions to the Barcelona Cathedral while in the Gothic Quarter, and it didn’t feel right. 

It’s best to just say “no gracias” and keep walking. Always keep a hand on your bag in these moments.

Pickpockets don’t always look shady so always keep your guard up and don’t underestimate potential thieves. 

Some are well-dressed, polite, and completely blend in with the crowd. 

That’s part of what makes them so effective. 

Never assume someone isn’t a threat just because they don’t fit a certain stereotype.

Wearing flashy or expensive accessories like watches, jewelry, or handbags can make you more of a target. 

I’ve heard of people being followed after leaving luxury hotels or shops, especially in the more touristy areas. 

It’s better to leave your nice items at home or locked up in your hotel safe. 

Go for low-key accessories that won’t draw extra attention.

One of the best things you can do is leave your passport, backup credit cards, and some emergency cash locked in the hotel safe. 

I made the mistake of carrying everything with me in Mexico City once and lost it all when my wallet was stolen. 

Now I always have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. Don’t carry more than you need for the day.

Unfortunately theft can start as early as the airport, so it’s smart to be on alert from the moment you land. 

I’d highly recommend tossing an Apple AirTag into your checked bag just in case something goes missing. 

It also gives me peace of mind if my luggage is delayed or lost by the airline. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of stress.

Even in nicer restaurants or hotel bars, theft can still happen, so you never want to leave your bag on the back of your chair while dining.

I’ve heard of thieves working in pairs who distract the table while another quietly takes a bag from the back of a chair. 

Always keep your bag on your lap or looped around your leg. It only takes a second for it to disappear.

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Barcelona pickpockets:

I hope this guide helped you feel more prepared and less nervous about pickpocketing in Barcelona. 

I know it might sound a little scary, but it’s really not as bad as it seems–and I don’t feel unsafe living here. 

I truly believe that if you come prepared and follow these tips, you’ll more than likely have a great time exploring the city. 

Of course, safety is never guaranteed, but a little awareness makes a big difference. 

And seriously, don’t come without a phone leash!

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