How Safe is Spain for Solo Female Travelers?

1. Plan out your trip details ahead of time

Know your sightseeing destinations, guide companies, tours, dining destinations, activities and travel arrangements ahead of time. The more prepared you are heading into an unfamiliar destination, the easier it is to avoid surprises and unforeseen situations.  Make sure to read reviews of your accommodations, especially the ‘bad reviews’ to ensure that this location and property is safe for a solo female traveler.  And remember, you don’t have to plan everything in advance; leave yourself open to spontaneity and new adventures. 

2. Connect with your hotel concierge (or lodging host)

Local hosts will be able to help you find trustworthy activities, so it’s a good idea to connect with them prior to and during your trip to make sure you’re choosing the right activities for your solo trip.  I also recommend telling your concierge or host that you are traveling solo, so they can make sure their suggestions are of the highest quality.

3. Always keep track of your cash and identification

Spain has so many places to see and things to do, from hiking the Camino de Santiago, to lounging on the beach in Ibiza to Michelin-starred restaurants in San Sebastian. You want to make sure you keep your money and identification safe. I recommend leaving your passport in the safe at the hotel, and carrying your driver’s license with you for identification. I also recommend bringing 2 ATM cards and multiple credit cards. You can leave 1 ATM card and a credit card in the safe at your accommodation, and carry one of each with you. This is a great way to ensure that you will always have access to funds if you lose your wallet or are pickup-pocketed. I also recommend an RFID wallet to carry your credit cards. Check out these wallets below:

1. • Fossil RFID Wallet https://amzn.to/3gfGMrt
   • TravelAmbo https://amzn.to/3AvIknZ
   • Boststanten https://amzn.to/3tI7uMA

4. Use Uber/Lyft or Licensed Taxi Service

People tend to get into trouble (no matter where they are) if they’re not careful about their transportations choices. There are plenty of safe and reputable local transportation options available in Spain, including rideshare apps and licensed taxi services. Late in the evenings, it’s common to ask the restaurant or bar to call a cab for you, which will keep you from standing on a corner, trying to flag one down.

If you’re not sure which to use, consult a concierge or host.  Some cities in Spain have Uber, and some have an app called Cabify.  There’s also a ride share service called BlahBlah Car for shared rides between different cities.  I’ve used both and felt safe every time; that being said, use your 6th sense, and if it doesn’t feel right, don’t get in the car.

5. Public Transportation

Public Transportation is efficient, easy to use and on-time most of the time. Whether you wish to travel by bus, train or metro, I find the staff helpful and accommodating. Do note that the smaller the town, the less English will be spoken, so remember google translate is your friend. Just make sure that you are aware of your surroundings and always have your belongings with you when traveling on public transport, including going to the restrooms on buses or trains. Additionally, I recommend carrying your purse or bag in front of you when traveling on the bigger city metros.

6. Renting a Car

I love renting a car in Spain, as it gives me the freedom to stop where I want, take a road less traveled and visit areas not accessible by train or bus. I find the roads to be well maintained and safe to travel even at night. That being said, I do not drive late at night in Spain or any country for that matter. Just remember to hide your belongings, and make sure to park in well lighted garages and streets.