Good medical care is available in Spain but you are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance covering medical costs before travelling. Be warned that doctors will generally require a cash payment for any treatment received.

All visitors must pay for prescribed medicine and any dental treatment required while in Spain. A reciprocal health agreement with EEA countries, means that treatment provided in Spanish Health Service hospitals and health centres (ambulatorios) and by Spanish Health Service Doctors is free to EEA citizens on presentation of a valid EHIC, (European Health Insurance Card, which replaces form E111 as of January 1, 2006), which must be obtained from a post office before travel. No vaccinations are required for entry into Spain.

A public hospital is located at:

Hospital Clinic I Provincial
Calle Villarroel 170
Tel: +34 93-2275-400

Personal Safety

The violent crime rate in Barcelona is generally low. The level of petty theft has increased in recent years, however, and you are advised to keep your personal belongings secure, especially in busy tourist areas and on public transport. If possible, make use of a hotel safe and leave non-essential valuables and money locked up.

Thieves tend to work in pairs or groups, so be aware of locals asking directions or generally trying to distract you. Be especially vigilant on Las Ramblas - it is a notorious pickpocketing target. Thieves openly target tourists and if anyone comes up to you offering a hand to shake, do not take it. All too often it is a ploy to get you to stand still while their other hand deftly picks your pocket.

If you hire a car, make sure the doors are locked and you don't leave belongings inside as rental cars can be easily identified. The Basque Terrorist group ETA remains active throughout Spain. In March 2001, ETA announced its intention to target tourist areas in its attacks. The UK Foreign Office advises that, although the threat to tourists remains very low, visitors "should be aware there is a risk, albeit very small".

The main police station is located at:

Via Laietana, 43
Tel: +34 93-457-0622 or
Tel: 091 (emergency)

Tourist Assistance: Tel: +34 93-344-1300