Is Salamanca Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Salamanca is the capital of Salamanca province, situated in western-central Spain

Salamanca truly is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.

You can breathe culture and history everywhere.

However, nowadays there is too much party: bars are full every night of the week (more rarely so during the period of exams), they are plenty and they constantly try to out-market the others.

However, Salamanca is worldwide known by its university so if you do come here, follow the ethical rules and enjoy the city and its people.

It’s a very cheap place and most of the interesting aspects of it are concentrated in its very center.

Warnings & Dangers in Salamanca

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Salamanca is overall safe to travel to, with somewhat low crime rates where pickpockets are the biggest issue. However, it is advised that you remain vigilant at all times, especially when crossing the streets.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Transportation in Salamanca is very safe and reliable, even though taxi drivers might try to overcharge their services or demand a tip. Also, be careful on public transport, as it's the place where pickpockets operate.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpocketing exists in Salamanca and you should remain vigilant and make sure not to flash your belongings in crowded places such as bus or train stations, or public transport. Be careful and keep your valuables close by your side.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

There are no known natural disasters in Salamanca, and in Spain altogether, so you can relax when it comes to nature while you're here.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

It is not likely you will get mugged or kidnapped in Salamanca. Crime rates are generally not too high and violent crime against tourists is unlikely. Still, don't let your guard down and stay away from dark and deserted areas of bigger cities.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

There have been recent terrorist attacks in Spain, on 17/18 August 2017, when during 2 terrorist-related incidents, vehicles were driven directly at pedestrians, resulting in injuries and loss of life. You should remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

There is the issue of scams in Salamanca, just like in any other country, and the most common ones are credit card and ATM scams. Be careful when picking up your many from ATMs. Always negotiate everything in advance, double check your change and never pay anything upfront. Never accept drinks from strange people or leave your drink unattended.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women traveling alone should have no problems in Salamanca. You should use your common sense, and be careful at night, avoid desert and poorly lit streets, and finding yourself alone with strange people in abandoned areas. Apart from that, you should have no safety problems in Salamanca.

So... How Safe Is Salamanca Really?

Salamanca is considered to be one of the safest cities in Spain, but in reality, it does have some dangers that you should be aware of.

It’s considered to be the safest mostly because, in Salamanca, violent crime is for the most part unheard of.

Even though violent crime is non-existent, it is recommended that you take some basic precautions measures since it is known to be crawling with pickpockets, especially around popular tourist landmarks.

Salamanca, like all other cities, has some safer and less safe neighborhoods.

Neighborhoods beyond the river line, on the outskirts of town, are not-so-good, and they aren’t recommended to foreign visitors.

The closer to the city center – Plaza Mayor that you can get, the housing gets more expensive, but also more crowded any time and safer.

However, while here, take into account that some central streets might be noisy on party nights.

Also, be well prepared for people trying to scam you.

This can happen with taxi drivers trying to trick you into paying a fixed price from an airport to a city, even though they have a visible fare table.

They may also demand a tip.

Be wary of so-called ‘trileros’ playing the “shell game”.

They will probably rip you off you if you play.

How Does Salamanca Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Most countries do not need a visa to enter Spain for any stays shorter than 90 days. Any longer than that, you will have to obtain a visa. Also, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned date of return. However, if you are not sure about your visa status, contact your local Spanish embassy for further details.

Currency

Euro is the official currency in Salamanca. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and credit cards accepted in most establishments such as hotels and restaurants. Allow yourself a budget of around 150e per day, including accommodation.

Weather

Salamanca has a warm and temperate climate. The rain in Salamanca falls mostly in the winter, with relatively little precipitation in the summer.

Airports

Salamanca Airport is the airport serving the province of Salamanca in the autonomous community of Castile and León. It is located some 15 km from Salamanca city.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Salamanca, since it covers not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Salamanca Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Spain - Safety by City