Tips for getting the most out of Barcelona

Flags indicate the sea conditions. Following them is important for your safety and helps lifeguards do their work.

Smoking is not allowed on Barcelona’s beaches.

Cigarette butts, plastics and bottles should go in bins, with waste separated properly. Keeping these spaces clean is something everyone shares responsibility for. 

Tents, fires and overnight stays are not permitted.

Use water only. Soaps and gels pollute the sea.

Avoid stepping on protected areas and do not feed animals. Follow the signs in place.

When you leave, the area should be as you first found it.

A polite approach, clear communication and a bit of patience make day-to-day interactions easier for everyone.

Keep noise down at night, especially in residential areas. The city is active, but it is also home to many people.

Streets and squares belong to everyone. Keep them clean and be mindful of others.

Drinking in the street or on the beach can disturb others and leave litter behind. Alcohol should be consumed in bars and restaurants. Sales are restricted to over 18s and are not allowed between 10 pm and 8 am. Organising or taking part in pub crawls is also prohibited.

Buying from unauthorised street vendors is illegal and affects both local businesses and the day-to-day life of the city.

Spitting, urinating or defecating in public spaces is not permitted.

Selling them is a criminal offence and using them in public spaces is subject to penalties.

For safety reasons, drones are not permitted in the city.

Watch your luggage, bags and personal items, especially in crowded areas and outdoors.

Keep wallets, money and documents in inner pockets or in bags with secure closures.

At beaches, terraces or open areas, do not leave belongings unattended. If you step away, ask someone you trust to keep an eye on them.

Keep bags closed and within sight on platforms, at stops and when travelling. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions or jostling in crowded spaces.

Do not leave items visible inside vehicles. Lock them at all times, even in supervised parking areas.

Outside event areas, keep your badge out of sight and avoid displaying any company identification.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions and keep your devices up to date with the latest security updates.

Report it to the police. Police stations are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In any emergency involving police, fire or medical assistance, call 112. It is free, available 24 hours a day and works even without credit or a SIM card.

You can be assisted in Catalan, Spanish, English, French, Italian and up to 50 languages on the number 112. Explain the situation calmly and follow instructions.

Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your phone, so you receive official warnings and guidance.

Check updates from the Barcelona City Council (@bcn_ajuntament), Civil Protection (@emergenciescat) and the Mossos d’Esquadra [Catalonia’s regional police force] (@mossos). Avoid rumours and avoid sharing unverified information.

Stay calm, move away from the affected area and follow official instructions at all times.

The city actively works against gender-based and sexual violence. Harassment or aggression has no place here.

At festivals and events, you will find punts lila, or purple points, spaces that offer information, prevention and support in cases of harassment or violence.

“NoCallem” is a local initiative to prevent and respond to harassment. If you feel uncomfortable in a club or nightlife setting, speak to staff. They are trained to respond and provide support.

In the event of an assault, go to a punt lila (purple point) or call 112. Act straight away.

Barcelona offers free psychological, legal and social support services. You are not alone. There are professionals available to listen and help.