Good news: Bilbao has significantly less pickpocketing than Barcelona or Madrid. The city sees fewer tourists, there's no organized pickpocket culture, and the compact size means less anonymity for thieves. Still, petty theft exists. Here are 10 practical rules to stay safe.

Bilbao's Pickpocket Reality

Let's put it in perspective: Bilbao receives about 1 million tourists annually vs. Barcelona's 12 million. This alone makes Bilbao far less attractive for professional pickpockets. Most theft here is opportunistic—an unattended bag, a phone left on a bar counter. Follow basic rules and you'll be fine.

The 10 Rules That Work

• ✓1. In pintxo bars, keep your bag on your lap or the bar in front of you—never on the floor or hung on chair backs
• ✓2. Don't leave your phone on the bar counter while eating—it's the most common theft
• ✓3. Use inside jacket pockets for wallet and phone in crowded situations
• ✓4. Backpacks go in front in crowded metro or events
• ✓5. During Aste Nagusia (August festival), be extra vigilant—crowds attract opportunists
• ✓6. At the Guggenheim, watch your belongings while taking photos
• ✓7. Beach at Getxo: don't leave valuables unattended while swimming
• ✓8. In nightclubs, use coat check for bags if available
• ✓9. Split your money—keep some in the hotel safe
• ✓10. Trust your instincts: if someone crowds you unnecessarily, step away

Metro Safety

Bilbao's metro (designed by Norman Foster) is modern, clean, and safe. Unlike Barcelona's metro, there's no significant pickpocket problem. Still, during rush hour or events, keep bags closed and in front. The glass 'Fosterito' entrances mean good visibility.

Pintxo Bar Tips

Pintxo bars are social, crowded, and wonderful—but also where most opportunistic theft happens. You're standing, eating with your hands, and your attention is on the food. Keep your bag where you can feel it, don't flash expensive phones, and don't leave anything unattended.

Tourist Hotspots

The Guggenheim area, Casco Viejo, and the funicular to Artxanda are where tourists concentrate. These areas are safe, but photographers often forget their bags while framing shots. Quick grab-and-run theft is the main risk.

If You're Targeted

If you notice suspicious behavior or feel crowded, step away calmly. If something is stolen, report to the Ertzaintza (Basque police). There's a station near Casco Viejo. For emergencies, call 112. Get a police report for insurance claims.

Conclusion

Bilbao is one of Spain's safest cities for tourists. Pickpocketing is opportunistic, not organized. Follow these simple rules—especially in pintxo bars—and you'll have a worry-free visit. Enjoy the city's incredible food and culture without paranoia.