Crime has risen steadily in Spain the past six years, with Madrid and Barcelona showing the highest crime rates. All crimes increase during the summer months when foreign tourists arrive and Spaniards themselves are on vacation. Most crimes in Madrid occur in Puerta del Sol, the central tourist area, including the Gran Via and Plaza Mayor. In Barcelona, most crimes occur in the tourist area of Las Ramblas and at the train station. Rather than lone criminals preying on tourists, the trend in the last two years has been for two or more person gangs to assault individuals or groups of people, often in daylight. To avoid becoming a victim, use common sense precautions and remain alert.
