Our guide on the European cities where travelers fear pickpockets and scammers for your next trip.
While Europe is a relatively safe travel destination, some cities are notorious for pickpockets and tourist scams due to their popularity among visitors. Knowing the risks and being prepared can help you avoid falling victim.
By staying vigilant and being prepared, you can enjoy your European adventure while minimizing the risk of falling victim to pickpockets or scammers.
Here’s a list of European cities where travelers fear pickpockets and scammers the most, along with tips to stay safe.
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General Tips to Avoid Pickpockets and Scammers
Use Anti-Theft Bags: Bags with hidden zippers and slash-proof material deter thieves.
Keep Valuables Hidden: Use money belts or interior pockets for cash and important documents.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid distractions and pay attention in crowded areas.
Avoid Flashing Valuables: Expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronics can make you a target.
Research Local Scams: Understand common scams in the destination before traveling.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.
Highlighting pickpocket concerns can spark debate. Some argue that such warnings unfairly stigmatize entire cities or countries, potentially hurting their tourism industries. Others see it as a necessary reality check to keep travelers informed.
There’s also tension between personal responsibility and local accountability. Critics say tourists should be more careful, while others believe cities with high theft rates should invest more in prevention and enforcement.
Finally, there’s the cultural perception issue. In some places, theft is treated as an unfortunate but accepted part of the travel experience, while in others, it’s seen as a serious crime that should never be normalized. These differing attitudes shape how both locals and visitors respond to the problem.
European Cities Where Travelers Fear Pickpockets
1. Barcelona, Spain
Why:
Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and its crowded attractions like Las Ramblas, La Sagrada Familia, and Park Güell are prime hunting grounds for pickpockets.
Common Scams:
Distracted pickpocketing in busy areas.
Fake petitions or surveys used to distract tourists.
Overpriced “friendship bracelets” forced onto unsuspecting travelers.
How to Stay Safe:
Use anti-theft bags and keep them zipped.
Avoid putting valuables in back pockets.
Politely decline interactions with street vendors or petitioners.
2. Paris, France
Why:
The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Sacré-Cœur are often crowded, making it easy for pickpockets to blend in.
Common Scams:
The “gold ring” trick, where someone pretends to find a ring and insists you buy it.
Fake monks asking for donations.
Scammers near Montmartre offering unsolicited “free” art.
How to Stay Safe:
Stay alert in tourist-heavy areas.
Keep cash and valuables hidden in money belts or inside pockets.
Ignore anyone offering you unsolicited items.
3. Rome, Italy
Why:
Major attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain are magnets for tourists—and scammers.
Common Scams:
Fake gladiators charging for photos.
Overpriced souvenirs sold aggressively.
Pickpockets on crowded public transport like buses and the Metro.
How to Stay Safe:
Keep your distance from costumed street performers.
Be cautious on public transport, especially during peak hours.
Avoid carrying large sums of cash.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Why:
The Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle are often packed with visitors, making them hotspots for scams.
Common Scams:
Currency exchange scams with incorrect rates or counterfeit bills.
Taxi drivers overcharging tourists.
“Helpful” locals pointing you to the wrong direction or charging for assistance.
How to Stay Safe:
Use ATMs or official currency exchange offices.
Book taxis through reputable apps like Bolt or Uber.
Verify prices before making purchases or using services.
5. Venice, Italy
Why:
Venice’s maze-like streets and heavy tourist traffic make it easy for scammers to operate unnoticed.
Common Scams:
Fake gondola rides or overcharging gondoliers.
Expensive “tourist menus” in restaurants.
Pickpockets on water buses (vaporetto).
How to Stay Safe:
Agree on a price before boarding gondolas.
Check restaurant menus for hidden fees before ordering.
Keep belongings secure while on public transportation.
6. Budapest, Hungary
Why:
Budapest’s nightlife and tourist attractions like Buda Castle and Széchenyi Thermal Bath attract scammers targeting tourists.
Common Scams:
Overpriced or fake cab fares.
Friendly locals inviting tourists to bars with inflated drink prices.
Pickpockets in crowded public areas.
How to Stay Safe:
Use official taxi services or rideshare apps.
Avoid unsolicited invitations to bars or clubs.
Stay alert in busy areas and markets.
7. Florence, Italy
Why:
The Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Florence Cathedral see dense tourist traffic, which attracts pickpockets.
Common Scams:
Overpriced trinkets sold by street vendors.
Distracting performers or beggars while accomplices pickpocket.
Scammers offering “free” jewelry or flowers and then demanding payment.
How to Stay Safe:
Keep a firm grip on your belongings.
Avoid engaging with street vendors offering unsolicited items.
Stay alert in tourist-heavy areas.
8. Lisbon, Portugal
Why:
Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28 and popular areas like Alfama and Belém are often crowded, creating opportunities for pickpockets.
Common Scams:
Pickpockets on crowded trams and buses.
Overcharging tuk-tuk rides.
Fake drug dealers targeting tourists.
How to Stay Safe:
Avoid carrying valuables in backpacks.
Use reputable transportation services.
Politely decline unsolicited offers or interactions.
9. Athens, Greece
Why:
The Acropolis and Plaka neighborhood attract millions of tourists, making them prime spots for scams.
Common Scams:
Overcharging restaurants, especially for seafood.
Taxi drivers taking longer routes or not using meters.
Fake tour guides offering unofficial services.
How to Stay Safe:
Verify prices at restaurants and taxis.
Book tours through legitimate companies.
Avoid giving attention to pushy salespeople.
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Why:
Amsterdam’s Red Light District, museums, and crowded public transport are common areas for scams and pickpockets.
Common Scams:
Bike rental scams with hidden fees.
Pickpockets in busy areas like Dam Square.
Fake ticket sellers for attractions.
How to Stay Safe:
Rent bikes from reputable companies.
Purchase tickets online or at official locations.
Keep personal items close and secure.
Final Thoughts
Pickpocketing and travel scams are a reality in many of Europe’s most popular destinations. While these cities remain incredible places to visit, awareness and preparation are essential to ensure your trip isn’t spoiled by theft.
By learning the common tactics used by scammers, keeping your belongings secure, and staying aware in busy areas, you can explore confidently without constant worry. Safety doesn’t mean paranoia—it means smart habits that become second nature.
Travel should be about creating memories, not dealing with stolen passports or phones. With the right precautions, you can enjoy these cities to the fullest while minimizing your risk.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.