Madrid: a safe city to live in and visit

Madrid is one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals, known for its culture, history, and dynamic urban life. Beyond being a popular tourist destination, Madrid stands out as one of the safest cities on the continent, making it attractive both for visitors and for those looking to settle in the city. 

Below are the official data that support this reputation, as well as the areas and times when it’s safe to enjoy the Spanish capital.

Crime index: Madrid in the national context

According to official data from Spain’s Ministry of the Interior, the crime rate in Madrid during the first half of 2023 was 60.2 criminal offenses per 1,000 inhabitants. 

Although this figure represents a slight increase compared to the previous year, Madrid remains one of Europe’s safest major capitals in terms of crime. This rise is largely linked to the increase in cybercrime, while conventional offenses—such as minor theft—continue to be the most common, particularly in tourist areas and on public transportation.

Despite the petty theft that occurs in the busiest areas, violent crime is infrequent, reinforcing the perception of safety in the city. This makes Madrid appealing not only to tourists but also to those moving to the city in search of quality of life.

Safety in Madrid’s neighborhoods

Madrid is a diverse city with neighborhoods offering different lifestyles. 

Some of them—such as Salamanca, Chamberí, and Retiro—are known for their residential, calm, and safe atmosphere. These neighborhoods are especially recommended for families and for those who value peace and quiet, without sacrificing access to big-city amenities.

In more central and touristy areas, such as Sol, Gran Vía, and La Latina, larger crowds are common and, with them, a slight increase in minor offenses like pickpocketing. However, the municipal police and other security forces maintain a visible presence in these areas—especially during peak hours and on weekends—which helps keep the environment safe.

Walking at night: Is Madrid safe?

One of the most frequent questions from visitors is whether it’s safe to walk the streets of Madrid at night. The answer is a resounding yes.

According to security reports, many areas of Madrid are safe for walking at night, particularly well-lit neighborhoods like Salamanca, Chamberí, and Retiro. Areas with more nightlife, such as Malasaña and Chueca, are also perceived as safe by residents and visitors thanks to the constant police presence and lighting on the main streets.

In general, the city center and residential areas enjoy good safety levels, although—as in any city—it’s always advisable to stay alert in lesser-known or sparsely traveled areas. Overall, the perception of night-time safety is high, allowing you to enjoy Madrid at any hour.

Pickpocketing and public transport

While Madrid has a low rate of violent crime, minor theft remains the most common offense, especially in crowded places like metro stations, markets, and tourist areas. Public transport—though very safe—is one of the spaces where pickpockets may operate more frequently, particularly during rush hours.

Even so, the presence of surveillance cameras in metro stations and the constant oversight by the authorities make Madrid’s transport system one of the safest in Europe. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber or Cabify are also safe alternatives for getting around the city, even late at night.

Madrid: a safe city to enjoy

Madrid’s appeal lies not only in its cultural heritage, fine dining, and vibrant nightlife, but also in the peace of mind it offers in terms of safety. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or moving permanently, you can feel secure getting around its streets.

Official data from the Ministry of the Interior show that Madrid has a low incidence of serious crime. Local authorities work continuously to improve safety in the busiest areas and maintain an active presence on the streets, giving residents and visitors the confidence to enjoy urban life without worries.