General Safety in Seville
Seville is generally a safe city for tourists, with a vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals. Most visitors experience trouble-free stays, especially in well-traveled areas like the Barrio Santa Cruz and around the Cathedral. However, like any major European city, petty theft does occur. Keep valuables out of sight, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or cameras, and use hotel safes for passports and extra cash. Pickpocketing is most common in crowded areas such as Plaza de España, the train station (Santa Justa), and on public buses during peak hours. Stay alert on the Metro and local buses, particularly lines 3 and C1, where thieves often work in coordinated groups.
Common Scams to Avoid
Taxi overcharging is the most frequent tourist complaint in Seville. Always insist on the meter (taxímetro) or use official white taxis from designated stands—expect around €8–12 for a trip from the airport to the city center. A popular scam involves fake police asking to check your wallet for counterfeit bills; legitimate officers will never do this. Avoid street vendors near the Cathedral offering "friendship bracelets"—they'll demand inflated payment afterward. Restaurant bill padding occasionally happens; always check your receipt before paying.
Areas to Avoid and Emergency Contacts
The neighborhoods of Tres Barrios and Polígono Sur are best avoided after dark. Stick to the historic center and riverside promenade (Triana). For emergencies, call 112 for police, ambulance, or fire. The tourist police (Policía Turística) can be reached at +34 954 480 650. Pharmacies (farmacias) are plentiful—look for the green cross symbol and staff can often help with minor medical issues.