7 Biggest Tourist Scams in Spain

I grew up in Spain and did nursing school there. I just wanted to point out what was mentioned in the video: some beggers have very obvious medical conditions, weird body shapes, etc. But Spain has a really good social and health care system. So most of the times they decide to NOT get treatment in order to get more money from tourists. The rest of the recommendations are also quite true :) but Spain is an amazing country otherwise, specially for tourists 🩷☀️

I have one. When in the Costa Blanca area, specifically on the Levante beach Benidorm (or anywhere else you see them), if you’re lounging on the beach, NEVER EVER EVER, buy a cocktail or drink from the guys walking around selling them. Not only are they NOT affiliated with any of the restaurants along the beach, but they prepare those drinks in the back alley, sometimes in a dirty van so they’re not seen. They give you the worst and cheapest alcohol, prepared in horribly filthy conditions with zero regard for hygiene. Avoid them at all costs.

Had a “tourist” couple approach us in Nice, said they were just robbed and needed money. We told them to go to the police. They didn’t like that.

Another very useful video blog for those less familiar with Spain. I’ve lived in Spain for 25+ years so would add a couple of minor points: Re ordering food. Yes, tapas is ideal for a light meal for one person, or ordering a couple or more tapas makes a meal for one more varied. And yes, ordering “una ración” of the same maybe far too much food & of course more expensive. However, there’s often the option of a happy medium of “una media ración” - half portion. Just ask the waiter. There’s usually portion sizes to suit everyone. Re the scams involving people claiming they need money to “get back to…” usually because of some concocted emergency, don’t be fooled! As you say, they are very convincing, smartly dressed, & well-versed. But they can also be found in airports, usually in the car parks next to the terminals. I’ve had them approach me at Malaga airport, always well presented. I politely told them I had no cash on me & walked on despite their pleading & sob story, but I can well believe others being taken in. Hope this helps!

Don’t give to beggars anywhere in the world

Scams are different everywhere and it's so great to know what's the scam of the day where you are to be smart and safe.

This is more of a tip for USA travelers: Don't go into a regular restaurant in Spain thinking about asking for "Tortilla Chips & Salsa". Just because Spain & Mexico share the same language, that does not mean that they share the same culture. Look for a Mexican restaurant; there may be a couple in Barcelona or Madrid. I actually overheard an American tourist, at a neighbouring table, asked a waiter this at a Barcelona restaurant.

10:29 Even in my hometown in South Carolina (a regional vacation spot), you have to dodge timeshare salesman in the summer tourist season. Truly an international experience!

We saw the "here's a gift for you" scam in several different Spanish cities and I also had to save my goodhearted boyfriend from one on our first day in Malaga. As for the "wrong clothes" thing: I see it all the time here in my hometown (Zurich, Switzerland). People who walk around in shorts when everybody else is wearing coats and long pants. It screams "I'm a tourist" from miles away.

I was just in Spain for a week and a half and honestly I felt very safe the whole time I was there. There’s definitely some beggars but that’s in every big city so I’m used to just ignoring them and I wore a crossbody bag the whole time to ensure all my valuables were in front of me and kept nothing of value in my pockets. Good call out on not eating at places on la rambla or plaza mayor, those are definitely tourist traps. Wouldn’t call tapa/racione a scam though…it’s basically the same as restaurants having dishes that come in different sizes (small/medium/large) like you have in USA/UK/Canada

Hey Mark, great video and very important tips

The weather warning is so true - take layers (I even include a thermal vest) and a pak a mac (they are now fairly stylish brands - not the old hoodie type pak a mac). My best keep warm item is pashmina - put it round my neck or body and feel warm instantly.

Guard your phone with everything you have in Barcelona.

This video was really useful and interesting! Thank you friend for sharing such valuable information.We’ve subscribed to the channel to stay updated on more helpful content like this. Great job and keep it up! 👍💛

I´ve been watching your videos for years despite not really traveling to those places but Im getting ready to go to Spain so yeayyyyyyyyy , your video is right on time!

The thing I noticed in Seville was the touristy places always charged for the bread even if you didn't touch it, but instantly dropped it off the bill when you queried it.

Regarding petitions: usually the belief here is that they want your address and send then some other members to your home. As they are europe wide organized it doesnt matter whether it is in a different country. Quite popular in Berlin by Sinti and Roma

Great video, Mark. I'm off to Madrid in July for 3 nights (going to see Metallica twice hehe) and I will definitely be keeping these tips in mind. Muchas gracias from Dublin! ;D

Everyone on Facebook need to see your videos! Because boy I tell you I have never seen some of the most uninformed people in my life in those travel group pages lol

I spent 3 days in Barcelona about 10 years ago, and nearly got pickpocketed every day... I spent the last half my last day on the Tourist Bus to keep safe, couldnt wait to leave. I was respectful, etc, but as a single guy, and clearly not a resident (reddish hair, Irish looks) i guess i really stood out Beautiful Place, terrible safety wise for solo tourists.