Solo female travel can be both exhilarating and a touch intimidating, right? If youre here, chances are youre either daydreaming of wandering through the vibrant streets of Barcelona or youre seriously considering making that dream a reality.

　　Perhaps youre wondering if Barcelona is the right pick, how safe it is, or where the best spots are to grab a bite or lay your head at night.

　　Ive got your back! Living in Spain has given me a treasure trove of tips, tricks, and memories.

　　So keep reading and youll not only discover why Barcelona is a gem for solo travelers, but youll also be armed with all the insights to make your trip unforgettable:

　　Table of Contents

　　Toggle Why is Barcelona a good choice for solo female travelersSolo female travelers safety in BarcelonaIs Barcelona budget-friendly for solo female travelers?Best places to visit in BarcelonaTips for solo female travelers in Barcelona Why is Barcelona a good choice for solo female travelers

　　Diverse and friendly community Barcelona has a bit of everything and that includes the people you’ll meet there diverse, open-minded, and always up for a good chat. Solo female travelers often find themselves quickly blending into the tapestry of the citys vibrant community.

　　The citys DNA is cosmopolitan, with people from all over the world calling it home, making it a hotspot of cultural exchanges. In addition, the locals love sharing their stories and hearing yours, which means youre never truly alone here.

　　Safety first Safety can be a concern when youre venturing out solo, especially as a woman. But Barcelona, with its well-lit streets and a reliable public transport system, doesnt have as much violent crime as US cities. However, petty theft is extremely common there, so ideally bring a bag with safety features like Baggallinis do.

　　The citys neighborhoods, especially popular ones like Eixample and Gràcia, are generally safe to stroll around, even in the early hours of the morning.

　　Of course, just like anywhere else, keeping your wits about you and staying aware of your surroundings is always a good idea.

　　I’ve got some more information on solo female safety in Barcelona below, so make sure you check that out to find out more, including my own experiences I’ve had when traveling by myself in the city.

　　Foodie heaven

　　If you love to eat, youre in for a ride! Barcelona isn’t just about tapas and paella (though theyre pretty amazing!).

　　Instead, the city offers a smorgasbord of international cuisines think sushi bars, vegan cafes, and even a sprinkle of Mexican taquerias. And the best part? Most places are solo-traveler friendly.

　　A few that I’d suggest you check out are:

　　For anyone interested in fusion dining, Brugarol Barcelona offers Japanese-inspired tapas. It’s not the absolute cheapest place in town, but the combination is a winner and the small, intimate setting (there are only 21 seats here) gives it a really cozy vibe. El Xampanyet is exactly the sort of traditional bar you’d expect to find in Spain, with tiled walls, a constant buzz of noise and, sometimes, standing room only. That’s ok though, as feel free to perch at the bar as you order some food (I recommend their anchovies). Make sure to try their homemade sparkling white wine too! Calle Verdi in Gràcia is a food hotspot these days. While you really can’t go wrong at any of the bars and restaurants along here, I love Amrit, a Syrian restaurant that’s really well priced with incredible food and an atmosphere that can’t be beaten. You can grab a seat at the bar, chat with the barista or chef, and savor every bite without the awkward table-for-one stares.

　　In fact, you really shouldn’t be worried about eating out alone in Spain, as the waiters (and other customers) truly don’t care. You’ll often find people alone at the bar in all cities throughout the country, no matter which meal of the day it is, chatting with the bartender like they’re old friends.

　　And if you don’t speak Spanish, don’t worry, the bartender will likely still try to speak with you, which can be a bit of an experience. Trust me, though, they’re not making fun of you; if anything, they’re probably doing everything they can to get you to try “just one more thing” and not to make more money, but to make sure you love Spanish food as much as they do!

　　Packed with culture

　　Barcelona is a hub for the arts and you can’t visit here without jumping headfirst into one of the many scenes it has on offer. With places like the Picasso Museum, MACBA, and countless indie art galleries dotted around the city, theres a never-ending array of cultural delights to dive into.

　　And dont even get me started on the music scene here. From flamenco shows in the Gothic Quarter to jazz nights in El Raval, your cultural cravings will definitely be satisfied!

　　Great for history buffs If youre the kind of person who loves to get lost in the pages of a history book, Barcelona is your dream come true. Without much effort at all, you can stumble upon remnants of almost any historical era of the last 2,000 years, whether it’s by walking the ancient alleyways of the Gothic Quarter (where you might just find yourself in places like Placa del Rei, the square where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella welcomed Christopher Columbus back from the New World) or by visiting the Roman ruins beneath the citys streets at the History Museum or almost any time period in between!

　　And that’s not even mentioning Gaudís architectural wonders, which are more than just a few sights on a “must visit” list they’re also remnants of a time when the city was brimming with modernist ideas.

　　Each cobblestone, every ancient facade has a story waiting to be heard. I’d particularly suggest taking a tour while you’re here (even the free tours are excellent!) so you can learn the history behind all the amazing things you’ll be seeing here.

　　Good level of English in tourist areas Worried about language barriers? Don’t worry in most touristy spots in Barcelona, youll find that people speak a decent level of English.

　　Whether its the waiter at a café or the friendly person at the information desk, theyll often switch to English if they see you struggling with Spanish or Catalan.

　　Of course, a hola or gracias from your end always goes a long way in winning hearts though!

　　Solo female travelers safety in Barcelona

　　As mentioned above, Barcelona has traditionally been known for its welcoming vibe and remains a favored destination for many solo female travelers. That said, like any cosmopolitan city, it has its share of challenges.

　　The main issue to be wary of is pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like La Rambla or during major events. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:

　　Bag Awareness: I’d suggest wearing a cross-body bag while you’re here and always ensure that it’s zipped or securely closed. Be particularly cautious in crowded areas or on public transport. Stay Alert in Crowds: Tourist-heavy locations are often prime spots for pickpockets. When in a crowd, be extra aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Be Careful of Random People Approaching You: Its a sad reality, but one worth noting. Sometimes, individuals might approach you with a random question, a sob story, or even by offering unsolicited help. While it might seem innocent or friendly at first, its often a distraction tactic used by pickpockets. Stay alert, safeguard your belongings, and maintain a healthy skepticism in such situations. Blend In: Sometimes, the best way to avoid unwanted attention is to blend in. Dressing like the locals can help, through things like not wearing beachwear in the city center (fun fact: it’s actually illegal in Spain to wear your swimsuit away from the beach without something else covering you!), avoiding athleisure wear or baggy sportswear and sticking to shoes like simple white sneakers when sightseeing rather than anything more over the top. I’d also recommend not displaying flashy jewelry or cameras. Remember, being prepared doesnt mean being paranoid. Its about making sure that you can fully enjoy the city with minimal disruptions.

　　Keep in mind that the vast majority of tourists have no issues at all when in Barcelona. It also seems like things are improving, despite Barcelona’s less-than-stellar pickpocketing reputation for example, the stats show that, in 2022, there was a 14.6% drop in reported crime compared to 2019 (i.e. pre-pandemic).

　　Significantly, that same data shows that theft has dropped by 26.6% in that same period. While, of course, this doesn’t mean that the problem is solved, it should give you some reassurance that you should be careful, but not overly concerned.

　　I will say, from my own perspective, that I’ve traveled through and around Barcelona plenty of times by myself and fingers crossed have never had any issues. I’m always very careful with my bag, especially in the metro, but wearing a cross body bag at my front has seemed to work.

　　I also never hang my bag on the chair behind me at a restaurant or randomly put it on the floor it’s always in my lap or, if it is on the floor, it’s with the strap wrapped around my leg or the chair leg. It may sound like overkill, but there are enough stories going around about this happening to other people in Barcelona, so I don’t want to add another one to the list.

　　Perhaps more importantly, I’ve never felt unsafe when walking around the city, including at night. There are some areas I’d suggest avoiding parts of El Raval can be pretty dodgy once the sun sets but by keeping your wits about you and sticking to well lit areas, like any city, you shouldn’t have any problems.

　　Is Barcelona budget-friendly for solo female travelers?

　　Barcelona can be pretty accommodating for those looking to experience the city without splurging too much.

　　For instance, a leisurely walk through historic neighborhoods like El Born offers a deep dive into the citys past without costing a dime.

　　In terms of accommodation, Barcelona offers a range from hostels to mid-range guest houses that wont strain your wallet. More on this below!

　　For foodies, the local markets are a must-visit. Places like La Boqueria offer fresh produce and meals at reasonable prices.These are some of my favorite places to visit in Barcelona.

　　On the cultural front, many of the citys museums and galleries offer specific days or times when entrance fees are reduced or even waived. With a bit of planning and research, navigating Barcelona on a budget is definitely feasible.

　　Best places to visit in Barcelona While there are accommodation options all over Barcelona and while most areas are generally fine, there are some parts of the city that I’d tend to recommend over others for solo female travelers:

　　Eixample

　　Eixample, with its grid-like layout and broad avenues, stands as one of the more modern districts in Barcelona. It’s known for its beautiful modernist architecture, including iconic works by Antoni Gaudí like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera.The area is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to navigate to other parts of the city.

　　Hostal Girona is a gorgeous little guest house (no, it’s not a hostel, despite the name!) that’s very centrally located. I love the traditional style of the tiled floors in the rooms, which make sense when you realize that you’ll be staying in a 19th century building when you’re here. If you want something slightly more luxurious, take a look at The Mirror Barcelona. This four-star hotel comes with a rooftop pool and, as a pretty good perk (well, I think it is, but it will depend on your preferences), is actually adults only!

　　Gràcia

　　Gràcia has a distinct village-like charm, often capturing the hearts of those who wander its narrow streets. Whats notable about Gràcia is its strong sense of community, which can be especially comforting for solo travelers.

　　Here, youll find random quaint squares where locals hang out, dine, and socialize. The area is quieter than some other parts of the city, yet it remains lively with its unique boutiques, artisanal shops, and a surprisingly huge range of dining options.

　　I mentioned Calle Verdi above, which is in Gràcia and really is one of the best places to eat out while in Barcelona, with the street being lined with bars and restaurants. Try to get a small plate at a few different places, so you can work your way down the street and experience the overall vibe of the area.

　　If you want just one though (in addition to Amrit, as recommended earlier), check out La Bicicleta, which has great tapas and a really fun vibe although you should try to book a spot in advance.

　　Nearby, Bodega Quimet is also a very traditional spot. It’s only tapas, not full meals, but it’s the kind of place where you can order a few plates and a glass of red wine while sitting at the bar, watching the world go by around you.

　　Gràcia is also home to Park Güell, Gaudís famous public park with colorful mosaics and panoramic views of the city.

　　El Born

　　Located in the heart of the old city, El Born is rich in history and character. With its medieval streets and alleys, it offers an authentically historical Barcelona experience.

　　The area is home to several cultural landmarks, including the Picasso Museum and the Gothic Santa Maria del Mar church. By night, El Born transforms into a lively hub with its myriad bars, restaurants, and tapas joints.

　　While its bustling, the neighborhood remains relatively safe for solo female travelers, though, like any urban area, basic safety precautions are always advised. Accommodation options range from cozy hostels to upscale boutique hotels, catering to varying budgetary needs.

　　My absolute favorite hotel in El Born is Factory Gardens Barcelona. The decor in the rooms is incredible, with tiled floors and large artwork that can make you feel like you’re staying somewhere far more expensive than it actually is. Plus, there’s a rooftop garden here, which can be a really nice escape from the city below.

　　For a super budget-friendly hostel in this area, take a look at Safestay Barcelona Gothic. It’s got both smaller and larger dorm options, including some that are female-only, which can be a relief.

　　Tips for solo female travelers in Barcelona

　　Understand local customs While Barcelona is very cosmopolitan, its still beneficial to be aware of Spanish customs and traditions. For instance, the Spanish tend to eat later in the evening, with the earliest time for dinner often being 9 pm. Similarly, keep in mind that lunch usually doesn’t start here until at least 2pm, although you’ll find places opening up around 1:30pm just don’t expect to find any actual Spaniards eating there at that time.

　　Shops might also close in the afternoon (although, despite the stereotype, this isn’t actually because they’re all having a siesta). In addition, many stores are closed on Sunday.

　　Being aware of such customs can help in planning your trip to ensure you make the most of your experience.

　　Learn basic Spanish phrases While many in the tourist-centric parts of Barcelona speak English, its still handy to know a few basic Spanish phrases. Not only is it a sign of respect, but it can also enhance your experience.

　　Simple phrases like hola (hello), gracias (thank you), and por favor (please) can go a long way.

　　Join group activities Barcelona offers a ton of group activities, like walking tours or cooking classes. These can be a fantastic way to meet other travelers and even some locals.

　　Not only will you learn something new, but it can also provide a sense of security and camaraderie in a foreign city.

　　Trust your instincts Like anywhere, it’s always a good idea to trust your gut. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is.

　　Whether its an area of the city, a person, or a situation, prioritize your safety and comfort. Your instincts are powerful tools, especially when navigating unfamiliar terrain.

　　Dont go with any preconceived notions on the Catalan independence movement Politics, especially regional issues like the Catalan independence movement, can be a sensitive topic. Its essential to approach discussions around it with an open mind.

　　While you might come across both pro-independence and unionist sentiments, avoid making generalizations or assumptions. Listen, ask questions if youre genuinely curious, and respect diverse viewpoints.

　　Its an opportunity to understand a communitys pulse and you’ll find the locals more than willing to explain the (incredibly interesting!) intricacies of the debate to you.

　　Learn a few words of Catalan to really impress the locals (although you dont have to) While Spanish is widely spoken, Catalan is the co-official language of the region. Barcelona locals will certainly appreciate your effort if you sprinkle a few Catalan words into your conversations.

　　Phrases like Bon dia (Good morning) or Gràcies (Thank you) can earn you some warm smiles. Its a small gesture that can create a deeper connection, even if youre just passing through.

　　Take advantage of free visiting times at many museums on Sundays Want to soak up some culture without denting your wallet? Many of Barcelonas renowned museums offer free entrance on Sundays, particularly in the late afternoon.

　　This includes institutions like the Picasso Museum and the Barcelona History Museum. Its a perfect way to immerse yourself in art and history, especially if youre traveling on a budget.

　　Remember that Barcelona is popular with solo female travelers for a reason Despite the potential challenges and precautions to bear in mind, thousands of solo female travelers visit and fall in love with Barcelona every year. The majority have smooth, enjoyable experiences, creating memories they cherish.

　　The citys vibrant atmosphere, rich culture, and welcoming locals create an environment that many find empowering and enriching.

　　So while its vital to stay informed and cautious, dont forget to embrace the magic of the city. After all, Barcelona remains a beloved destination for a good reason.

　　About the author: Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire visitors to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Now living in Valencia, Annas made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!