Spain remains one of Europe's safest destinations for travelers, with the U.S. Embassy maintaining a Level 2 Travel Advisory to exercise increased caution due to terrorism and civil unrest, as stated in their February 6, 2026 alert. The U.S. State Department echoes this, advising listeners to avoid demonstrations, stay aware of surroundings, and follow local authorities, while the UK FCDO and Australia's Smartraveller highlight similar risks from petty crime and potential protests in major cities. Right now, severe weather poses the most immediate threat, as heavy rains and flash floods from Storm Leonardo have battered Andalusia in the southwest and Galicia in the northwest since February 2, 2026, according to Canada's Travel.gc.ca advisory. Approaching Storm Marta brings high winds and more heavy rain to Andalusia until at least February 9, so listeners planning trips there should monitor Spain's meteorological agency for updates, avoid riverside areas prone to flooding and landslides, and heed evacuation orders from local authorities. Coastal regions face additional dangers like cliff erosion and strong currents—steer clear of beaches during severe weather warnings and never dive into unknown waters. Transportation disruptions add urgency to your plans, with Spain's rail unions confirming a nationwide 72-hour Renfe strike from February 9 to 11, 2026, halting all services including high-speed AVE lines between Madrid, Seville, Valencia, and Barcelona, per VisaHQ news. The U.S. Embassy in Madrid warns of broader travel interruptions, so book alternatives early, use licensed taxis or apps like Uber and Cabify, and carry mandatory road items like two red warning triangles, a reflective jacket, spare tire, repair kit, and snow chains if venturing into winter-affected mountains. Petty crime tops concerns in tourist hubs, with pickpocketing and bag snatching rampant in Madrid's Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Atocha Station, or Barcelona's Las Ramblas, Sagrada Família, and Plaça Catalunya, as detailed by Travel.gc.ca and Roamight's 2026 safety tips. Thieves deploy distractions like fake stains, directions pleas, or bogus police checks—counter this by carrying minimal valuables in crossbody bags or hidden pouches, keeping a passport copy handy, and staying extra vigilant during weekends, holidays, and festivals. On roads, theft from rental cars spikes in coastal highway service areas, so use secure parking, lock doors, and accept help only from uniformed National Police or Civil Guard officers. Terrorism stays at Spain's level 4 alert on a 5-point scale, per Roamight, urging vigilance in crowded public spots without halting normal travel. Protests can flare unexpectedly, so monitor local media, skip gathering areas, and be ready to adjust itineraries. Health-wise, no COVID-19 entry rules apply, and tap water is safe nationwide, but wear masks in crowded indoor spots like airports if feeling unwell, and never leave drinks unattended to dodge spiking risks. Entry remains straightforward for short stays up to 90 days—no tourist visa needed for most nationalities, though U.S. travelers and others from visa-exempt countries will require an ETIAS electronic authorization starting late 2026, valid for three years or until passport expiry, as explained by Genuine Andalusia and ETIAS.com. Customs may check return tickets and funds proof, and kids traveling need standard documentation. To travel smart, secure comprehensive insurance as urged by the U.S. State Department and GOV.UK, leverage SATE tourist assistance in cities for English help, and stay connected via eSIMs for real-time alerts. Spain's robust police presence, reliable public transport outside strikes, and efficient emergency systems keep risks low for prepared listeners—focus on these steps, respect local customs, and dive into its vibrant culture with confidence. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
