Updated September 19, 2023

Under normal circumstances, Madrid is a safe destination—but it’s also a huge city! We asked some locals about safety in Madrid. They helped us put together this guide on everything from COVID to tips for solo travelers. 

COVID Update: When will it be safe to travel to Spain? 

These days, one of the most popular questions about traveling to Spain concerns COVID-19: Can Americans travel to Spain? 

The short answer: Yes! 

Here’s what to know: 

• Proof of vaccination is not required. 
• Travelers are not required to take a COVID test before travel.  
• Everyone age six and older must wear on public transportation. 

Safety in Madrid

Madrid, Spain’s capital city, is packed with incredible tapas bars, iconic boulevards, and classic works of art. Like most places to visit in Spain, Madrid is considered a safe destination. 

Still, Madrid is a big city. With over three million metropolitan residents, it’s the largest city in Spain. That means there are some safety considerations to keep in mind.

Locals say as long as you follow a few common-sense safety guidelines, you’ll find that Spain is a safe place to visit.

Common scams in Madrid 

Although Madrid is a safe city, local note that visitors should be beware of certain scams. These can include: 

• Menus without prices: Restaurants are required by law to display their prices. If they don’t, you might end up overpaying for your meal. 
• The football (soccer) trick: In a city known for soccer, it may not seem unusual to see a group of people kicking a ball around on the street. But if they invite you to play, be cautious. Scammers have been known to use this as a lure to pick pockets or steal discarded bags. 
• Taxi scammers: Although transportation in Spain is largely safe, use caution when hailing a taxi in Madrid. Only take licensed cabs. If the driver says their meter is broken, it's likely a scam.
• “Free” gifts: If someone approaches you with a “gift”—it may be a rose, bracelet, flower pin, or another kind of charm—refuse. If you accept, the scammer will loudly and aggressively demand payment.

Although cities like Madrid and Barcelona are safe, scams can happen. Keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings. Use extra caution in big crowds or around tourist hubs. 

Is Madrid safe for solo travelers? 

Solo travelers rejoice! Spain is safe for solo travel, and its captivating capital city is no exception. That being said, there are a few things that anyone traveling alone should keep in mind: 

• Stay with the crowd after dark: Save your solo exploration for the daytime. Although Madrid is safe, anyone traveling alone should avoid wandering too far from the central city.
• Watch your drink: If someone buys you a drink, be sure you see it made. This rule applies everywhere 
• Know how you’re going to get home: In Madrid, the party can last until the early morning. Know how to get back to your hostel or hotel so you don’t get lost.
• Eat at the markets: If you feel awkward eating at a restaurant, wander through one of Madrid’s many markets for a meal. (But if you do eat out, remember that dinner in Spain doesn’t start until late!)

Important Spanish phrases to know 

No matter where you stay in Spain, it’s a good idea to learn a few words and phrases. Saying hello and thank you goes a long way, even if that’s all you know! Locals note these are some good basics to learn: 

• Por favor—Please
• Gracias—Thank you
• De nada—You’re welcome
• Buenos dias—Good morning
• Disculpe...Excuse me—
• Dónde está...—Where is…? 

Emergency numbers to know

Although you probably won't need them, here are some good emergency numbers to keep on hand—just in case. 

Emergency - 112 

Police - 091 

Health emergencies - 061

U.S. Embassy Madrid (34) 91-587-2200

Website - U.S. Embassy Madrid