Saturday, July 19, 2025
Spain’s global position as a leading holiday hotspot is under fresh scrutiny as Canada followed in the footsteps of New Zealand, the UK, Australia, the US and other countries in updating its travel advice to warn holidaymakers that they should be careful when visiting the country. These alerts are specifically stating that there is an increase in thefts, scams and civil unrest in touristy urban zones such as Madrid and Barcelona. Travelers are also being urged to stay away from large crowds, remain vigilant in crowded places and take extra care of valuables. The synchronized warnings are indicative of increased anxiety among of security threats as well as the heightened importance for travelers to be aware and be on guard throughout their trip.
Spain continues to rank among the world’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing millions with its vibrant culture, celebrated cities, and Mediterranean charm. But as visitor numbers climb in 2025, a growing list of nations—including Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States—have issued updated travel alerts urging citizens to exercise added caution. These coordinated advisories warn travelers to stay vigilant in response to rising safety concerns in urban centers and coastal regions, especially those popular with international tourists.
The advisories do not discourage travel altogether, but they do reflect a heightened focus on personal awareness, security measures, and preparation. Each country brings its own set of observations and recommendations. Below is a complete breakdown of what travelers from these nations need to know before heading to Spain.
Canada: Strong Emphasis on Travel Awareness and Theft Prevention
The Canadian government now advises its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Spain. This update stems largely from a spike in theft-related incidents in crowded areas. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and distraction-based scams, is a persistent problem in major cities and at heavily trafficked tourist locations.
Thieves often work in teams or pose as friendly strangers. Popular tactics include pointing out stains on clothing or requesting assistance with directions, only to distract and rob unsuspecting tourists. An emerging trend includes individuals impersonating plainclothes police officers who demand to inspect passports or wallets. Canadians are encouraged to request proper identification from anyone making such a demand.
The cities of Madrid and Barcelona are at the center of these concerns. In Madrid, areas such as Atocha station, Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and Retiro Park have seen an uptick in incidents. In Barcelona, high-risk areas include Las Ramblas, Plaça de Catalunya, Sagrada Família, Barceloneta Beach, and public transportation hubs like El-Prat airport and Sants station.
Canadians are urged to:
Keep essential documents and valuables secured at all times.Bring only minimal items to the beach or public venues.Store digital or paper copies of passports and travel documents in separate locations.Stay alert in crowds and avoid leaving personal belongings unattended.Use extra caution when driving, especially if approached by strangers during roadside incidents.New Zealand: Calls for Caution Amid Protests and Travel Disruptions
New Zealand’s updated travel guidance maintains Spain at level two on its advisory scale, encouraging travelers to exercise increased caution. The alert reflects concerns about organized protests, the threat of sudden disruptions in public areas, and theft targeting foreign visitors.
While Spain is still considered safe for tourism, New Zealand’s advisory points to recent public demonstrations that have led to the closure of transport systems and interruptions in key city services. These events may not be directly threatening but can lead to delays or unexpected changes in travel plans.
The New Zealand government recommends:
Avoiding political demonstrations and large public gatherings.Keeping a close watch on personal items in places like Barcelona and Madrid.Obtaining a comprehensive travel insurance plan that includes emergency evacuation options.Following local news and official instructions when disruptions occur.
New Zealand travelers are reminded that although violent incidents remain uncommon, the risks linked to crowded locations and opportunistic theft are very real.
United Kingdom: Pre-Trip Advice and Travel Preparedness
The United Kingdom has not altered Spain’s overall risk level but has issued supplementary guidance for British travelers. These recommendations focus on practical measures, especially for those planning to enter Spain through neighboring France or Gibraltar, both of which have their own evolving advisories.
British citizens are urged to:
Monitor travel conditions in all transit countries prior to departure.Purchase travel insurance that covers planned activities, health emergencies, and unexpected itinerary changes.Maintain copies of passports and key travel documents in a secure but separate location.Stay informed of current events, especially during periods of civil unrest or transportation strikes.
While Spain remains a favored destination for UK holidaymakers, the government encourages travelers to be prepared for minor disruptions and to avoid becoming targets in busy urban centers or popular nightlife districts.
Australia: Stay Informed Despite Low-Risk Classification
Australia has retained its advisory level suggesting travelers take normal safety precautions, but it echoes warnings issued by other nations regarding Spain’s elevated internal alert level. The Spanish government maintains a “high” national alert due to general security concerns, including spontaneous public protests and public safety incidents.
Australian officials have expressed concern over increased reports of petty theft in major tourist zones, including Barcelona, Madrid, and popular island getaways like Ibiza. Incidents of theft from parked vehicles—especially in coastal service areas—have also become more frequent.
Australian tourists are advised to:
Remain aware of their surroundings in public and transit areas.Keep car doors locked and windows closed when driving.Avoid leaving valuables in parked cars, especially rental vehicles.Take local authority advice seriously and respect travel-related regulations.
Although Spain remains a low-risk destination for Australians, caution is still advised, particularly in areas where past incidents have targeted tourists.
United States: Public Demonstrations and Large-Crowd Concerns
The U.S. State Department currently advises American travelers to exercise increased caution while visiting Spain, especially due to the unpredictability of public demonstrations and large gatherings. Though these events are usually peaceful, they can escalate quickly or result in transportation shutdowns.
There is also a wider concern regarding the potential for sudden safety incidents at crowded tourist attractions, transportation centers, shopping districts, and entertainment venues. Travelers are advised to remain especially alert during public holidays, sporting events, and festivals—periods that often coincide with surges in street activity and opportunistic theft.
Key guidance for U.S. travelers includes:
Avoiding protest areas and busy city squares when demonstrations are announced.Monitoring local news for transportation updates and local disruptions.Not carrying large sums of money or displaying expensive accessories in public.Following the instructions of Spanish authorities during public disturbances or travel delays.
The United States emphasizes that Spain remains a desirable and welcoming destination but stresses the importance of vigilance in areas known for tourist congestion.
Spain Travel Advisory Comparison Table (2025)CountryAdvisory LevelKey ConcernsHigh-Risk Areas NotedCanadaExercise a high degree of cautionRise in pickpocketing, passport theft, scams involving fake police, theft from vehiclesMadrid: Atocha Station, Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Retiro ParkBarcelona: Las Ramblas, Sagrada Família, Plaça de Catalunya, Barceloneta BeachNew ZealandExercise increased caution (Level 2 of 4)Threat of protests, pickpocketing, disrupted transport, risk in busy tourist zonesBarcelona and Madrid broadly flagged as zones with higher rates of petty theft and protest activityUnited KingdomNo change in general risk level; precautionary guidanceEmphasizes safety in transit through France/Gibraltar, and personal security in Spain’s urban areasNo specific areas listed, but general warnings for large city centers, hotel zones, and transport hubsAustraliaExercise normal safety precautionsHigh internal alert level in Spain; threat of demonstrations; common scams in cities and highwaysBarcelona, Madrid, Ibiza, major tourist cities, coastal highway rest stopsUnited StatesExercise increased cautionPublic demonstrations, large crowds, sudden disruptions in tourist zones, especially during events/holidaysTourist attractions, parks, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, airports, train stations, major festivals
Shared International Travel Concerns: What Every Visitor Should Know
Across all five countries issuing travel alerts, the overarching message is consistent: travelers should remain alert, informed, and prepared. While Spain’s overall security environment is stable, specific threats—particularly in urban and high-traffic tourist areas—warrant extra caution.
Key tourist zones flagged by multiple countries include:
In Madrid: Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor, Retiro Park, Puerta del Sol, and Atocha station.In Barcelona: Las Ramblas, Sagrada Família, Plaça de Catalunya, and Barceloneta Beach.Other sites: Airport terminals, hotel lobbies, subway systems, and coastal rest stops.
Common safety tips for international visitors:
Carry only essentials when visiting beaches or crowded landmarks.Avoid engaging with strangers offering help or asking for directions unless necessary.Politely decline unsolicited assistance during roadside incidents—report to the Civil Guard instead.Secure digital backups of passports, health insurance cards, and travel itineraries.Stay informed through official channels and local media during your trip.
Why the Caution in 2025?
The travel alerts come at a time when Spain is experiencing a renewed tourism surge following global pandemic slowdowns. With more travelers returning to its world-renowned beaches and cities, opportunistic criminal behavior has increased, particularly in destinations popular with first-time visitors. The rise in civil demonstrations has added to the unpredictable nature of navigating major cities during peak seasons.
By aligning on common messaging, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, Australia, and the US signal that increased coordination among international agencies is key to protecting travelers and maintaining confidence in overseas travel. Spain’s beauty and cultural richness remain unchanged—but being cautious can ensure a more relaxed and secure experience.
Spain is a country of extraordinary landscapes, unmatched food, and unforgettable history. While current travel alerts serve as reminders to stay alert and aware, they are not intended to deter tourism. The objective is to prepare visitors with the right information so they can confidently explore one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.
Canada joins New Zealand, the UK, Australia, the US and others in warning its citizens about travel to Spain because of growing issues of thefts, fraud and crowd safety. Tourists are advised to stay away from crowded places and be extra vigilant with their personal belongings.
A little extra caution can go a long way. Whether you’re admiring Gaudí’s architecture, dining in Madrid’s plazas, or soaking in the sun on the southern coast, a well-informed traveler is a safer traveler. With the right mindset and practical precautions, Spain continues to be a dream destination waiting to be explored.
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