Safety During la Mercè in Barcelona

No one can quantify this. So here is my opinion, right or wrong: If I can go and feel comfortable and have a good time, I will go. If I am going to worry, then I will choose another place. Now you will get a bunch of "I was there last week and I "felt" safe" and a few, warnings to stay away from crowds and the occasional "Spain is safer than Martha's Island" comments. Listen to it all, understand its all pretty meaningless, and go where you will have a good time.

There was a pronounced police presence on the streets of both Madrid (in May) and Barcelona (over the last two weeks) this summer. Not related to any particular event as far as I could tell, but there. I noticed it especially in major squares (such as Placa Catalunya in Barcelona) and streets with lots of people (such as the Ramblas).

I doubt that this was attempt to reduce pickpocketing, but I did wonder whether the number of visible policemen might reduce the incidence of petty theft. I certainly didn't see anything suspicious, but of course experienced pickpockets are good at going unobserved.

Barcelona had a very large number of tourists while I was there, and of course the locals themselves tend to be out in cafes a lot, adding to the perception of crowds. It would appear to be fertile ground for pickpockets, and I kept my bag across my body and one hand on the zippered top at all times. It stayed in my lap when I was sitting in restaurants or cafes.

I am in the same boat as you, a first time visitor in the Fall. I asked the same question... we have decided to avoid large gatherings but instead explore quaint towns and use the Spain trains (where it's a little more secure). There are no guarantees anywhere, but this is how we're doing it. Hope you have a great time!

We were at La Merce last year and loved it. I went to the fire run and just kept personal space distance at all times. I loved La Merce and would go back again this year gladly. There are so many activities, free museums, music.

I am in Barcelona now and went to the light show last night. We got there early and did see a few police on patrol and in cars but no huge presence. I felt safe even with the crowds as they were large but I had expected more people. Maybe because it was Thursday.

I wear a money belt and just keep $10 or so in my pocket. I have my iphone in a zippered short pocket. I don't take it out without being aware of who's around. That being said at Parc Guell this morning I took pics of people with their camera and they took pics of me with mine. This happened a few times and I met some nice people that way.

Spain is a magical, friendly country with a wonderful way of life. I think the disparity of rich to poor is different here because anyone can sit in a cafe or have a beer for less than 2 euros.