14 European Places Known for Pickpockets and Scams
Millions of visitors come to Europe each year to enjoy its history, art, and culture. However, a few spots have earned a reputation for their opportunistic pickpockets and clumsy scams—despite the sheer charm of the place. An unwary traveler can lose money or worse, possessions and what was a dream vacation becomes a nightmare.
The good news? They are not hard to avoid, with a little preparation and street smartness, you can enjoy your European adventure without becoming the victim. Knowing where scams are common puts you one step ahead, so your belongings and your peace of mind will remain intact.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is known for Gaudí’s architecture, vibrant beaches, and pickpockets. Unfortunately, Las Ramblas is a magnet for petty thieves. It is easy to be a tourist distracted by street performers or busy snapping selfies. Many pickpockets will bump into you ‘accidentally’, while the other takes your wallet. Don’t carry valuables in your back pocket and keep your bag zipped tight.
Rome, Italy
The Colosseum isn’t the only thing that makes the Eternal City a hotspot for scams. Friendship bracelet sellers at famous sites like the Trevi Fountain will tie a bracelet on your wrist and demand payment. Another place pickpockets like to be is on overcrowded public buses, especially near Termini Station. Be aware, and if someone seems too friendly, maybe it’s time to back off.
Paris, France
Dream destinations like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre should be a red flag when the adjacent streets are lined with ‘petition scams’. Perhaps someone will ask you to sign a petition for a fake cause, while their partner picks your pocket. Another classic trick? The gold ring scam, where someone finds a ring and asks you for money for it. Always be aware of what is around you, and don’t accept unsolicited offers.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Old Town Square is a common pitfall for fake currency exchange scams. You may get “unbeatable” rates from vendors who hand you worthless bills. Use official district exchange offices or ATMs. Charles Bridge is also full of pickpockets, so you may want to use a money belt or anti-theft bag.
Naples, Italy
Naples is famous for pizza and chaotic charm, and also for its expert bag snatchers and motorbike riding thieves. One more common ploy is when something gets spilled on you, a helpful local diverts your attention while your things vanish. Keep bags close and think about cross-body styles that are harder to grab.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Pickpockets in Amsterdam work primarily in the Red Light District and bustling trams. Thieves are fast here, and they’ll go for bags left hanging on chairs or phones in back pockets. Locals say that it’s wise not to ever lose sight of your belongings, whether in a crowded coffee shop or nightclub.
Budapest, Hungary
Some visitors to Budapest have fallen for the infamous menu scam. You’re in a seemingly charming café when the bill arrives and prices can be outrageously inflated. Typically, it’s just a matter of having accomplices acting as friendly locals. Do research beforehand and find restaurants you know you can go to in advance to avoid surprises.
Florence, Italy
Florence’s beautiful piazzas and art museums come with a downside: Scam artists as fake officials. They may tell you that you’ve broken a rule and ask for a fine on the spot. Real officers have IDs and don’t ask for cash.
Athens, Greece
The Acropolis is a place where tourists who flock there may be bombarded with overly helpful strangers who insist on helping you with directions and then scam you. In a busy area, you can be sure that pickpockets work in teams, distracting themselves to steal your things. Lock up your valuables and don’t hand your phone to strangers asking for directions.
Lisbon, Portugal
Petty thieves have a thing for Lisbon’s charming trams. Tram 28 is a favorite because of its scenic route, but it’s also a pickpocket haven. Classic ways to grab wallets or phones are crowded stops and sudden jostles. Have a secure hidden pouch to keep essentials.
Venice, Italy
Venice is a city of canals, a labyrinth of canals, and it draws millions of tourists, and pickpockets. Overpriced gondola rides are a classic scam, where tourists are quoted one price but charged another mid-ride. Always agree on costs in writing and don’t get taken in by overly eager tour guides promising shortcuts.
London, England
London has its own problems. Pickpockets can just blend in with the crowd in places where there are a lot of people, such as Oxford Street or Camden Market. There are also fake charity workers asking for donations. Politely refuse and move on.
Madrid, Spain
Pickpockets are everywhere in Madrid’s squares and plazas. On Sol and Gran Vía, thieves feed on distraction. Don’t get a spilled liquid trick, and don’t leave your bag unattended, for even one second.
Istanbul, Turkey
The sights of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market are fascinating but don’t get so caught up in them that you miss the scams. Unsuspecting tourists are exposed to fake goods and inflated prices. However staying alert when shopping in busy areas, and sticking to secure bags will help you to avoid pickpocket.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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