Barcelona is generally a safe city, however it's always important to be prepared if cases of emergency arise. Knowing who to contact and and having the available numbers is important for locals and visitors alike.
Emergency numbers
- 112: This is the general emergency number to call, which offers help in different languages. You can call this number from any line, including phones that do not have a local SIM card. This number can direct you to police, ambulance and fire services.
- 061: Connects directly with the ambulance services.
- 080: Connects directly with the fire brigade.
Reporting a crime
The region comprises three police forces; the Guàrdia Civil, Guàrdia Urbana, and Mossos d’Escuadra. You will most likely see the Guàrdia Civil in non urban areas such as the airport, dressed in green uniforms. The Guàrdia Urbana are the municipal police force of Barcelona, and are most likely to be seen around the city performing a range of duties, such as regulating traffic, monitoring public demonstrations, guarding civic buildings and so on. The Mossos d’Escuadra are the force that mainly deal with public safety and public order. If you need to report a tourist crime, visit the main station of the Mossos d’Escuadra (Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 76-80) and ask to complete a denuncia (report).
Although the Spanish police do not all speak English, the main office of the Mossos d’Escuadra usually has English speakers available to help you file a report. You can also make a report over the phone on +34 902 102 112, which is the tourist help line offering services in English, French, German and Italian. You can report any type of crime on this number, including lost property, damage, assault, robbery, break-ins or accidents, however you will normally be required to visit your local police station to confirm your complaint.
It's important to remember that denuncias should be made while you're still in Spain. They are also required for any insured items you wish to make a claim on.
Lost or stolen items
Despite Barcelona being regarded as a safe destination for tourists, it unfortunately attracts pick pockets simultaneously. Visitors to the city are often the most targeted, believed to be carrying round important possessions such as cash, passports, cameras, etc. Some simple yet effective measures can be taken to reduce the likeliness of being robbed, including making sure your bag is zipped or closed all the way, not leaving any items unattended, scattering your important documents and possessions in different compartments or places, etc. Barcelona generally experiences relatively high cases of petty theft, but most are non-violent. For more serious cases, visit our article on what to do if you're mugged in the city.
If you have lost a personal belonging, you can contact the Barcelona lost property office on 010 or +34 807 117 700, which comprises all the items that have been found and handed in to the police. You will need your ID, and serial numbers of any electronic devices. If you have lost a bank card, it is important you contact your bank to block the card immediately.
Other emergency numbers
- Maritime Sea Rescue: +34 900 202 202
- Red Cross: +34 900 100 333
- Crime victim support service: +34 900 150 909
- Emergency doctors: 1003 (this number is for non-urgent cases that require medical attention.)
- Emergency dentists: +34 961 496 199
Consulates in Barcelona
If you're in need of consular assistance in Barcelona, check our list of phone numbers for some of the consulates (English-speaking countries) located here.
Australian: Tel. 93 362 3792, Avinguda Diagonal, 433, 08036
Belgian: Tel. 93 467 7080, Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 680, 08010
British: Tel. 93 366 6200, Avinguda Diagonal, 477, 08036
Canadian: Tel. 93 270 3614, Plaça de Catalunya, 9, 08002
Dutch: Tel. 93 363 5420, Avinguda Diagonal, 601, 08028, note - appointments can only be made for the consulate through the Dutch Embassy in Madrid.
French: Tel. 93 270 3000, Ronda de la Universitat, 22b, 08007
German: Tel. 93 292 1000, Torre Mapfre, Calle de la Marina, 16, 08008
Irish: Tel. 93 491 5021, Gran Via de Carles III, 94, 08028
Swiss: Tel. 93 409 0650, Gran Via de Carles III, 94, 08028
USA: Tel. 93 280 2227, Passeig de la Reina Elisenda de Montcada, 23, 08034