Safety in Madrid

Hi Barbara,

I think you'll be surprised by how safe the city is. I was first in Madrid several years ago with two other young women. We got into the train station at night and had to find our hostel in the dark. It wasn't a smart situation to get ourselves into, but we actually noted that we were surprised how safe the streets seemed.

On my most recent trip, in May, one thing that added a feeling of security was choosing a hotel with a ground-floor entrance and large, windowed lobby. It's nice to know that the hotel staff are within eyesight as you walk out of your hotel, pull out your map on the sidewalk, and look like a vulnerable, stupid tourist. :-) Likewise, when you're leaving a sight, pull out your map or guidebook before you've exited the palace/museum/etc. The less time you can spend standing around on the streets looking like an easy target, the better.

And as in most big cities, know the trouble areas to avoid at night. Within the historic center, I believe the area north of Gran Via and Puerta del Sol is known to be a little rougher. I felt extremely safe on the small back lanes, but I probably wouldn't hang around there after dark. There are lots of atmospheric cobblestone streets with tapas bars, but at night it might be best to stick to the plazas and larger avenues of the old town.

Most importantly, be extra aware of your surroundings on the metro. That was where I had heard of most thefts and where a friend had her camera lifted. The Madrid metro system is awesome -- cheap and ubiquitous -- but just make sure you're wearing your money belt, perhaps shift your daypack to the front of your body, and when you get off the train, move confidently toward an exit.

Have a wonderful time! Try not to worry too much. Madrid is a great (and safe) city!

I have made 4 trips in the past year to Madrid and one more in a few weeks. The only issue as regards safety was on the subway...a group of females, traveling together, made a distraction while one of them put her hand in my trouser pockets to take what she thought was my money clip (It was only a glass case)...I slaped her hand and screamed out "Get your hand out of my pocket!". She did, the door opened I departed the subway. Just be careful on the underground. A friend and I were out at 2 am one morning and felt completely safe...there seemed to be more people on the street at that time than in the daylight!

Have a great trip!!

We just returned from Portugal/Spain last night. We spent 10 days in PT and 11 in Spain. Our last three nights were spent in Madrid. We stayed at The Hotel Plaza Mayor Hotel (suggested by Rick) which is a super location for all of the main sights. The staff is helpful and the neighborhood very safe. We walked at night and even went to the flea market Sunday with no problems. We are careful like many travelers, we watch what we carry, and don't go into dark ally ways. If in doubt follow the crowd that looks as lost as you are. Ask questions and mark your route on a map. Rick Steves' map in his 2009 guide book is a good one. Public transportation is good. I wouldn't suggest driving unless your name is Andretti. Use Plaza Mayor as a central point and go from there. U.S. dollars are not accepted and you'll get your best exchange at the Madrid airport.
Small cafes and shops seldom accept VISA or Master cards. One Euro is worth about .55 cents. You'll have a good time. Try the Museo of Jamon (ham) for a guick breakfast or lunch, and there are great bakeries everywhere. I think I'm getting hungry!

Barbara,

I think that the poster above means that one euro equals about $1.55 or .67 euros equals $1.00.

Regarding safety; with the usual precautions you should have no trouble in Madrid.

Barbara,

Most cities in Europe are reasonably safe, however it's a good idea to follow Rick's advice and wear a Money Belt! Be aware of those around you, and especially any "distractions" when you're in crowded conditions (Metro).

Happy travels!