And Barcelona’s locals bear this out. While they acknowledge there’s been a growing problem in their city – especially around drug trafficking gangs – they also point out it’s probably no worse than in any other major city in Europe. Perhaps most crucially, with a visible and competent police force, Barcelona’s residents don’t feel unsafe.
“You just apply common sense,” advises local guide, Alejandro Beltrán Ferrara, who was born and bred in the central Vila de Gràcia neighbourhood. That means no obvious rich pickings on display, keep to the main areas, and avoid the metro at peak times when pickpocketing is at its worst. Las Ramblas is, of course, the pickpocketing heart of the city, so it’s best not to flaunt valuables and keep a close eye on your wallet.
The locals do take these kinds of precautions themselves and, especially at night, avoid areas that are dark and known hotspots for crime. The central neighbourhood of Raval (all winding alleyways and hidden corners) is one where few venture after dark. Most of the rest of the Ciutat Vella (Old City) is probably best avoided at night, including the Gothic Quarter, El Born and La Barceloneta. The rest of Barcelona, though, is well-lit and busy and, even at night, there are lots of people about, taxis abound (and are affordable) and you can hail them as they pass.
“I’ve never experienced any problems,” says Anna Barrow, who left sleepy Dorset for Barcelona 12 years ago. “And nor have my friends, whether English or Spanish. As a woman, it’s not daunting to be out at night because there are always so many people about. You are never completely on your own.”
So, is Barcelona a place to exercise the same common sense you would in any metropolis? Certainly. But Europe’s most crime-ridden city? Absolutely not – just remember not to flash that Rolex.