Most European countries are safe to visit, but the State Department warns of increased caution due to terrorist threats. As of November 23, 2020, Russia has the highest level “Do Not Travel” warning in Europe due to COVID-19. Uber is safe in Europe, but in some places it is no longer allowed to operate. Countries like Italy, France, and the U.K. have recently received a new U.S. State Department travel advisory.
The European Union’s “safe list” applies to Europe’s border-free Schengen Zone, which includes non-E.U. countries such as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Most European countries no longer have any COVID-19 travel restrictions in place, with the latest big changes including Spain, Luxembourg, Netherlands, France, Malta, and Spain, Greece, Portugal, Italy, and more. Popular holiday destinations such as Spain, Greece, Portugal, Italy, and more are all considered safe to travel to right now, with only some Covid regulations in place at the borders.
Security and risk management experts generally agree that travel to most of Europe remains safe right now, but they also acknowledge several ways in which the ongoing pandemic may affect travel. An annual roundup by US travel insurance company Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) reveals the 15 safest countries to travel to in 2023, including 11 in Europe.
Russia, Ukraine, its neighbors, and Eastern European nations are generally considered less safe at this point. The 19th arrondissement is generally considered the least safe. The Swedish Foreign department advises against travel to Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia.
While most countries throughout Europe are considered very safe, Iceland, Ireland, Denmark, and Austria are considered some of the safest. The State Department is warning travelers to stay alert if they are heading to these popular destinations.
📹 Reasons Why Tourists Get Robbed in Europe
Traveling the world is fun, but there are people out there who want to ruin your fun by scamming you or robbing you while you …
Is Germany safe to travel?
Terrorist groups are planning attacks in Germany, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, and major sporting and cultural events. Schools, airports, and other public areas are also targeted. Travelers should be aware of their surroundings, follow local authorities’ instructions, monitor local media for breaking events, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter, review the Country Security Report for Germany, visit the CDC page for travel health information, prepare a contingency plan, and review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Do not travel to Europe.?
In the last year, the State Department issued more severe travel warnings for European citizens traveling to Germany due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Do-not-travel warnings were issued for Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia. The State Department advises US citizens to be aware of their surroundings, follow local authorities’ instructions, monitor local media for breaking events, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), review the State Department’s Country Security Report for Germany, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention online, prepare a contingency plan, and review the State Department’s Traveler’s Checklist.
Is Russia safe to visit?
Russian security services have arrested US citizens on false charges, denied fair treatment, and convicted them without credible evidence. They have also opened questionable investigations against US citizens engaged in religious activities. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has destabilized southwestern Russia, leading to martial law in border areas with Ukraine. Under martial law, authorities can set curfews, seize property, and restrict movement. U. S. citizens should avoid travel to these areas.
Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia’s interests”, targeting individuals for posting on social media or supporting anti-Russian groups. The current “LGBT propaganda” law bans discussion of LGBTQI+ related topics, and the Supreme Court labeled the “international LGBT movement” as extremist in November 2023.
Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Russia, targeting tourist areas, transport hubs, markets, government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, events, schools, and airports. U. S. government employees under Embassy security responsibility are not permitted to travel to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus.
Is it safe to travel to Italy?
Italy, a top tourist destination, is known for its beauty, history, and rich cultural heritage. Known as lo Stivale or “the Boot”, Italy is the fifth most visited country in the world. Its stunning natural and manmade sites, world-class wine and cuisine, and exquisite culture make it the “Beautiful Country”. Italy is home to Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, and Venice, and is the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci and pizza. It boasts the most UNESCO World Heritage sites and a free, 24/7 wine fountain.
To ensure a safe trip to Italy, travelers should be aware of the necessary documentation, health risks, COVID restrictions, general safety and security tips, local laws and customs, and the importance of travel insurance. AXA travel insurance offers comprehensive coverage to protect travelers from potential risks and ensure a safe journey.
Which country in Europe is safe to travel to?
The Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) ranks European countries as the safest and most peaceful in the world, with Iceland, Denmark, and Ireland taking the lead in 2023. Iceland, one of the few countries without a military army, has a low crime rate and the smallest police force in Europe. The Land of Fire and Ice has been at the top since 2008, and in 2013, an armed man was fatally shot by the police.
The Global Peace Index (GPI) evaluates the degree of peacefulness in 163 states by analyzing data from three main domains: Societal Safety and Security, Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and Militarization.
What is the most aggressive country in Europe?
In 2024, Ukraine is considered the most dangerous country in Europe due to its ongoing conflict with Russia. The country is currently an active war zone, requiring travelers to be cautious and informed about safety conditions. Other risky countries include Belarus and Russia, as well as Albania, Kosovo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, which face issues with crime and politics. Travelers should stay informed about safety conditions and stay informed about potential dangers when considering a visit to these countries.
Where not to go in Europe right now?
The travel advisory levels for Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Croatia are variable, with some recommending increased caution and others suggesting that normal precautions should be sufficient.
Is Italy or France safer?
In 1990, the murder rate in Italy was 34 per one million inhabitants, compared to 24 in France. In the 2021-2022 period, the rate declined to 5. 5 per million, with rates of 11 in France, eight in Germany, and 10 in the United Kingdom. Only Norway and Switzerland have a lower murder rate, while Latvia has the highest rate.
What are the 3 strongest countries in Europe?
In the 2023 edition of the PowerIndex, Russia is the highest-ranking European country, followed by the United Kingdom, France, and Italy. Russia’s military strength is reflected in its top position, while the UK’s second-place ranking demonstrates the varying levels of power and capability among the countries included in the index.
Is it safe to go to Russia?
The US government advises US citizens to avoid travel to Russia due to the destabilization caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In October 2022, the Russian government declared martial law in several border areas with Ukraine, including Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, and Krasnodar. Consultations at the US Embassy Moscow and Consulate General Vladivostok are suspended, and all consular services should be contacted at the Embassy Moscow.
What is the most criminal country in Europe?
In the 2023 crime index for Europe, Russia is ranked 56th. France is ranked 55th. The country with the lowest crime rate is Finland, with a score of 33. Belgium is in 49th place. The ranking is 14th for the United Kingdom and 48th for Sweden. 5.
📹 The DON’Ts of Visiting Europe
What American tourists should not do when they go to Europe. Here are some do’s and don’ts of visiting Europe, so you can have …
I just finished a two week solo backpacking tour through Europe. I am a man in my mid 30s I got left alone in Paris, Barcelona, and other common tourist cities, my secret? I keep my mouth shut (so people don’t know what language I speak natively), I keep all my tour guide/maps on my phone (so I don’t draw attention), I keep my AirPods in my ear (but turned off or low so people think I am a commuter), I walk with purpose, ignore anyone approaching me, and I try to dress like a local.
I will never forget getting on a train in Pisa with luggage that was heavy. These two “sweet” girls in their early 20’s helped me. I was thrilled! Went to sit down, looked in my purse, and my wallet was gone. I did not even feel them open up the zipper on my purse. They were working together and truly professionals. Someone found the wallet on the train and was calling my name while walking down the aisle to see if they could find me. All credit cards were there, but they took all the cash. “Only” 120 euros, so could have been worse.
We just did a two week trip to Italy and your articles on scams and pickpocketing were super helpful! We encountered the petition scam “to stop drugs” the flower scam, the begging nonnas, and some potential pickpocketers sizing us up in Venice. Because I had watched your articles I was able quickly identify those situations and get away from them. Your tips helped us have a fun and safe honeymoon without getting anything stolen. I really appreciate your articles!
Also a story: I was in Stockholm with my fiancé in a less than safe area and a local came up to us and told us that my fiancés purse is exposed he saw someone eyeing it and he wanted to make sure she secured her purse. I guess the moral here is secure your valuables, and for every person who is a robber in another country, there’s also a Good Samaritan looking out for tourists.
The one thing that I’ve noticed in these articles is the people who get robbed tend to ignore BASIC precautions. These warnings aren’t really that much different from what I was taught as I grew up in the inner city. My lesson here is always be ALERT. The location that you’re visiting probably has rough areas (or sketchy people) where there’s people ready to take advantage of you.
I’ve never been robbed on vacation in Europe, but I use my common sense ! Don’t wear expensive watch or jewelry, don’t have an expensive camera etc on show, if you have a bag keep it across your front not your back. Never have more than about $50-100 on you, keep the rest (and your passport, bank cards, tickets home etc ) in a safety deposit box at hotel.
We just returned from a two week trip and visited London & Paris. I have to say we both felt very safe and we just made sure to be aware of our surroundings. My husband normally wears sports shirts at home but I put him in plain shirts and I wrote plain clothes with scarves. Actually, a couple of times in paris both tourists and locals would start speaking to us in French- I guess we blended in! I will say the main area we kept high alert up was in the tube and metro. The tube especially be aware if you’re taking it from the airport, I noticed when we were waiting at Paddington station there were some people just standing on the platforms with no bags looking at others with no bags… kinda got the vibe they were working together. In paris the metros tend to get very cramp sometimes quickly, just make sure to have your hand on your personals and keep an eye on who is around you. Overall we had such wonderful stays in both cities and Mark need to thank you for your articles and hard work! Your articles were a BIG help in keeping us informed and safe in new cities.
I was in the Pigalle subway station in Paris with my brother, and all kinds of shady stuff was going on. Someone had supposedly dropped money at the top of the escalator and was blocking pedestrians, so they got all scrunched up. I started walking backwards on the escalator, to stay out of the crush. When me and my brother got to the top of the escalator there was a fist fight going on–also suspicious. I practically ran through the turnstile to get out of there, but my brother stood there gawking at the fight. I yelled at him “Get OUT OF THERE.” He seemed totally oblivious to all of it and stayed for a while. I was so angry I was speechless. Then five minutes later my brother said “My wallet!!” To me it was not just that he was unobservant, but also that he couldn’t sense anything I didn’t exactly know what was going on, but I knew it stunk, and that we’d better get out of there.
Visited Budapest last summer and was targeted by a pickpocket after visiting a money exchange. I didn’t notice him at first, but my hubby told me he had been following us for at least 5 minutes. He stared at him with a super angry face and the guy left. You need to acknowledge that you’ve noticed them and they will leave you alone.
I’ve traveled extensively all over Europe as a solo male American traveler. I don’t flash bling and dress very plainly. However, I’ve been targeted frequently, as I am of east asian descent and therefore stand out more as a tourist I guess. Definitely sucks to have your phone & wallet stolen constantly.
Also a tip to avoid getting your stuff stolen at the hotel is: NEVER put your purse/bag on your chair in the breakfast area to claim your seat and then leave it to go get food. I worked in the breakfast are of a hotel many years ago and would always warn people. A lot would actually be annoyed with me that I would bother them for such a silly thing, they think nothing can happen to them because they are in an area that is only accessible to hotel guests and staff 🤷♀️ But yeah, that is how my mom’s friend bag got stolen while they were in Barcelona. Even though I did warn my mom about this before due to having seen this risky behaviour during work. Her response was the same «But we were inside the hotel!» There can also be hotel guests that will take the opportunity for some easy cash when they see it 🤷♀️ Luckily I have never been succesfully pickpocketed myself (knock on wood) but the most pickpocket attempts I experienced or noticed were definately in Paris.
I was in Berlin last week, minding my own business, looking at books at a stall on Unter Den Linden, I was in a world of my own, some deaf girl came up with a petition, I signed it, she wanted 20 euro, give her 10, she seemed genuine, she come across as deaf. Second time I’ve been scammed, first time was in Rome. Be careful out there. Still love Berlin, going back in September, gotta take the rough with the smooth. 🙂 I did drop my jacket in Alexanderplatz last week with my phone and my passport in my pockets. Was the luckiest guy on earth, a fly flew into my eye, realised my jacket was gone, had only dropped it a couple of mins walk away, it was still there with my passport and phone still there. That fly saved me, don’t know what I would have done without my passport. Had to thank my guardian angel for that. 🙂
Great article and makes total sense. knocks wood I haven’t been robbed. But my mom and I were followed in a shop. We were in Germany and in a supermarket. We were speaking to each other in English. And these 2 young women (teens?) decided to follow us around the store very closely. At one point I stepped to the side to allow them to pass, and they didn’t. But as I was paying for our things I made sure to make eye contact with them and double checked my purse was zipped and locked. At that point, my mom had said, “We’ve been lazy. From now on, when we’re out in public, we speak German.”
If you’re a normal person that watches your surroundings you’re gonna be fine trust me. Ik this article might scare some people and make people paranoid but honestly it’s not that bad. When going to Mexico I acted like it was back home and guess what I never got robbed. Just don’t do anything stupid to make yourself stand out like Walter said
We decide on a “local” name when we travel and practice before. It’s easy to call a name loudly and get other person’s attention even if you don’t know many phrases. For example, Jack could become Jose and Jenn might become Juanita. Take the time to learn a few phrases too like please and thank you, no, help, and go away. When going through scanners send someone through first to collect your bags.
Hey Mark, great observations. What I’ve noticed from dealing with cruise ship folks in Alaska, tourists when they travel enter a separate reality when they travel. They would step off the ship and walk into traffic as if every car will just stop. You touched on this a little here. Maybe you can do a whole article on this strange state and how to be where you are when you are there.
Great tips. I take a taxi from the airport always, I think that I am worth it. I always ride the metros and buses after arriving but try to blend in with the locals. One way my friends were robbed on the Barcelona subway while entering the subway car, four people at the same time, snatch and grab. I always wear my purse across my body as most Europeans do. It helps being from a big city and knowing to pay attention to your surroundings. Two months in France and Spain last fall and never had a problem.
Exactly this! I’ve been abroad traveling around Europe for a little over a month. I tried to dress up a bit more while still being comfy. I brushed up on the various languages so that I could communicate a little bit, I keep my purse in front of me with my hand on the zipper, and I make a point of talking quietly. I’ve recently joined a group of other Americans, and several of them are annoyingly obvious. They don’t dress appropriately, they’re loud, they don’t pay attention to the separation between the bike and walking lanes… Some of them are better at the local language than me, but they all stick out from a distance. Most people don’t realize that I’m a foreigner until I open my mouth to ask a question. I’ve even had locals/other tourists approach me and ask me a question in the local language. Usually for directions. I love everyone and they’re nice people, but most of them seem really reluctant to adapt and oblivious to their surroundings.
I just came from Europe after a trip with my wife, where we visit France, Italy, Greece and Croatia. We took many precautions and nothing happened to us, but in Venice a group of tourists next to us in the train station were victims of pickpockets when we were boarding the train, and in Rome a tourist guide near the Colloseum was robbed too. Things like these happens all the time, and people are not aware of that.
I just went to Barcelona this past weekend to watch the Formula 1 race. As soon as we landed we jumped onto the metro to go to our airbnb. I was with my Daughter and nephew and we obviously had our luggage. We sat down on 3 of the 4 seats on one side of the metro, 3 of the 4 seats across from us were empty. Some guy wearing sunglasses sat right next to me instead of sitting across from us in the empty seats. The sunglasses and the fact that he sat right next to me instead of the empty seats across from us were definite red flags. He had earbuds in and was talking to someone on his phone…the next stop another shady guy got on the train and also stood very close to us. They were definitely together. The next stop the transit police got on and immediately went up to us and told us that the guy sitting next to me was a pick pocket. They stayed in our area on the metro for another 4 stops before they left. Not to long after that the guy sitting next to me got up and made another phone call and the next stop another one of his crew jumped on. So now there were 3 of them. I stood up in front of my Daughter and nephew and was expecting something to happen soon. Then at the next stop the guy that originally sat next to me sneezed 3 of the fakest sneezes that I have ever heard, and all 3 of them got off together and we could see them talking together on the platform as they got off. Just know that they usually work in groups, one might try to distract you while one tries to take your bag or something else.
Agree. People do dumb things when they travel. There are thieves everywhere. We had a fellow in Bruges trying to show us the sights. He kept offering to take our picture with my expensive camera. He would have raced off with it! We had a hard time getting rid of him as he was very persistent. Using your spider sense helps!
Just came back from España, France and Italia. Yep! I only went out with my cell phone. And I had my hand in my pocket all the time. No robbing here. To be honest, some tips you give at times made me super paranoid. No ripping off at restaurants either. Even very free Limoncellos in Italy after a fantastic outdoor meal too! Yes, free as in gratis!
Have spent a decade out of the US and only was robbed once. Cell phone in Santiago by a moto-scooter thief I never saw until he had my phone and was accelerating away. All good stuff in this article. 2 other things to mention: theft rates vary a great deal – so choose where you go. smaller cities and towns often have almost no “tourist theft” problems, so consider that as well.
The main reason why there are so many pick pockets in W.Europe is the leniency …. usually a slap on the wrist and they would come out again and again in couple of months if indeed they’d be jailed … crimes pay .. why there’re so many professional pick pockets there .. working in a group of 2 to 3 .. really a great earning for criminals .. As Asian tourists .. we stand out right away … why I only carried one credit card and a few paper notes in a plastic zip-lock bag .. and into my tight front pocket .. a wallet would stick out from the pants .. and it’s a goner probably .. and my wife wouldn’t carry purse .. what a pain in the ass to travel .. feeling you’re not safe
Biggest thing is to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are in an area where it is easy to be an target (such as a crowded train or bus terminal). I had someone try to pickpocket my wallet (front pocket) at the Versailles train station, and I was on alert because it was a “pinch point” for traffic exiting the station. All he got for his troubles was a broken thumb.
Trains, trams, and buses are big targets for pick pockets. We got picked in Zaragoza Spain on the bus last time I was there about 20 years ago. Sister had her passport and credit card stolen and I lost a debit card. Generally speaking Europe is very safe but you need to be careful on public transportation, and while walking around in crowded places like De Wallen in Amsterdam or Las Ramblas in Barcelona among many others. Safety. Safety first then teamwork : ) Happy travels people
I had my wallet stolen from my suit jacket pocket on Brompton Road right in front of Harrods in London. One of the doormen saw the ‘bump’ that I didn’t even feel and started to blow his whistle for a Bobby. He ran into Hyde Park and they found and returned my wallet to me. All my credit cards were still there as well as my ID. I always use a money clip when I’m abroad so I had only maybe £10 or £20 in my wallet. My inside suit jacket pocket where my wallet was had 3 buttons and I always used them. So in just a second this guy was able to reach in to my tailored jacket, unbutton a three button pocket, and lift my wallet and I didn’t feel a thing!!
When we were in Paris, we had trouble operating the ticket machine at le metro. Two clean cut men, with ID on lanyards, wanted to help. I told them “Go away.” They persisted a little, but i was firm. My husband said “They just want to help.” I said “No one in Paris wants to help.” My husband saw my point. A little while later we saw the two men walking on the sidewalk, not wearing their fake ID. My husband was impressed that i recognized a scam. However i had read about it when I researched tourist scams in Paris.
My husband and I travel A LOT worldwide and have for over 20 years with no issues. However, last week, we were in London with our teenage niece. We were outside at a pub in Soho. My husband went inside to use the restroom and a guy approached my niece and I pushing newspapers in our face over our table saying something in a foreign language. We both vehemently said “no, not interested” but then he reached over table in my niece’s face, which I now believe was the distraction, as I went into protective mode and pushed him away and he then left. However, when my husband returned to the table he asked “where’s my phone?” At that time, after looking through all our belongings and inside the restroom, we realized that the guy used a diversion tactic to swipe the phone under the newspapers while we were looking at him and not what his hands were doing. It was a Galaxy 23+ phone so that dude just got a $1300 phone!! We filed a UK police report but they could care less and didn’t even want to do it, but we insisted for insurance purposes. We let the pub know and they appreciated it so they could alert other patrons. Luckily, we were able to get a new Samsung phone at the Samsung store on Bond Street, albeit with a UK number and then walked across street to get Vodafone daily data plan. When we got back to Chicago, T-Mobile was luckily great about replacing SIM and him getting his new number back. The whole experience just feels so violating though. It’s not even that the phone got stolen but how slick they are about it and you realize it could’ve been even worse.
The easiest way is just dont be loud and dont talk to those random people who sell bracelets etc… Because once they hear you talk loud in american english you are like a jackpot. I had a funny experience when we almost got robbed by 4 guys on night bus in lisbon. They really looked shady like no one i have seen in lisbon before. And they started with the typical questions “do you have a cigarette?” etc… but when i turned to one of my friends to tell him this is going to be a problem and they heard slavic language, they completely changed their tune, and literally stopped talking, looked out of the window and pretended not to be there at all 😁 From my experience in europe if you speak english or german, you are more likely to be a target, but when you speak some slavic language or arabic, they dont want to have any of that 😁
excellent article again Wolter! I travel for a long time now and got robbed at the airport of Barcelona, it was incredibly crowded, and my wallet got stolen from my trousers (yes, even from the front part) and in San José, Costa Rica, a long time ago: i hold my backpack not on my chest but on my back. Looking forward to your new articles!
worlter I love you, how you try and teach people basic common sense. Clothes are a massive big give away in Barcelona, ive lived here for 17 years almost and I always remember it being a city. Bingo, a city has issues like all cities in the world. Most of these people who come to Barcelona are from big cities, big cities have problems, and I am sure they wont dress like they do in Barcelona. Stay safe Wolter.
There is a couple (French/American) with a YouTube website mostly about Paris, who were articletaping at a restaurant and caught on article a woman (along with a man) at the next table sticking her hand into their bags, taking out his wallet and putting it back and they never noticed. Not until he was reviewing the footage the next day!!! The woman had managed to take just one credit card. That’s how smart and BOLD these thieves are.
For my recent 2 1/2 Week trip to London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin I almost exclusively used Apple Pay on my Apple Watch. Prior to my trip I got 100 pounds for London, and 150 Euros for Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Apple Pay works EVERYWHERE except at some mom and pop restaurants, and certain Taxis. Kept enough cash in my pocket, the bulk in a money belt. Safe and secure.
I was in Naples a few years ago, and while buying a ticket for the Metro at Garibaldi station, a 14 year old kid with slicked-back hair and a leather jacket told me that the machine was broken and that if I gave him my credit card, he’d help me buy it on another machine. Knowing that he was going to take my credit card or wallet and run, I just used the machine I was going to use (it was manual and had no English. A nice local taught me how to use it earlier in the day), and while the kid kept saying “no, il no funcione,” I got my ticket, and then just got on the Metro. There was a cop nearby and I think he was in on it. Anyways, the manual ticket machine usually works in Naples. The kid telling you it does not is trying to rob you.
I love your articles!!! I have seen them all and we have traveled to many countries …we’ve been able to see the scams and pick pockets before they target us. We’ve been able to get away from those situations and avoid many mishaps. Thank you for all your insight. I’m sure it’s helped many others too.
Part one, Get yourself a standard looking belt, but with internal zips for notes . Carry a very small wallet that only contains money for the day, front pocket. . If in a group get members to give you money in the hotel so when at a restaurant etc, only one is showing cash. Being paranoid, re credit cards, before you go sow a small pocket inside of your various trousers . Need the card, retrieve it out of sight, return it to your pocket in a WC. Ladies bag with strap and ware across the body in front of you, do not have any wallet etc . Don’t use a back pack for food etc. Local logo shopping bag, your local after all?
The biggest mistake i made was leaving my small medical bag out of sight above me while on the train from Amsterdam to Brussels. Someone ended up stealing it between Amsterdam and Rotterdam and was left scrambling to make arrangements to get a replacement alongside a bit sleep deprived. Learned from then on to keep said bag close to me under my seat or in my lap than above me.
My parents just arrived in Madrid yesterday for a two week trip through Spain. Their hotel room wasn’t ready yet so they went to a local market. My parents are well aware of the scams and pickpockets and my father always wears a money belt. In that one hour, he didn’t get into his luggage to get his money belt as he hadn’t gone to get cash yet. After leaving the market as they went to an ATM, he realized his wallet was missing. He never even felt or noticed anything in the busy market, and with the commotion of just arriving in town, forgot to move his wallet to the front pocket. He was able to cancel his credit cards and they weren’t used anywhere yet, so hopefully it was just the cash and everything else is in the trash. It happens that quick.
I can’t tell you the amount of times Americans OPENLY GIVE ME their credit card when they want a tab open in my bar, its insane I don’t even need the effort to rob an American in our bar because they just give me they’re credit card without myself asking for it?. Clearly this is a security thing, but I do find it crazy how Americans are so trustworthy to strangers in a foreign country and you guys should NEVER, EVER openly give your credit card to a barman!
I’m from South America, so all of this comes pretty natural to me. I’ve been to europe several times, luckily never got stolen. My best advice is: don’t stand out. Keep in mind that thieves and pickpockets are always looking for the path of least resistance to their goal and have a special talent for identifying potential victims. None of it is random. If you’ve been a victim (or close to it) of this before it was probabbly because you looked more vulnerable than everyone else around you. Sad but true. In my case, I’m a white, black haired dude so I guess I blend in most places in europe. I also like to dress REALLY comfortable for walking around and sightseeing and I don’t tend to look like I have a lot of money or valuables on me 🤣. Lately in my travels I’ve seen quite a number of people trying to pull the whole travel-model-influencer thing, dressing up real fancy and spending countless minutes at a single, super touristy spot trying to get the glamour shot they want. Those ppl are making themselves targets. Also, needless to say, avoid the “classic” tourist look and outfit. Of course, try not having a lot of cash on you and keep it in a money belt under your clothes. As for the (pants) pockets, I straight up never put my wallet or phone there; front or back, I never use them, period. I keep those valuables in a sturdy fanny pack/bag (great gift from an ex gf) that I always use facing front accross my chest. Avoid using big, bulky backpacks and handbags/purses, those are super easy to pick or snatch.
We encountered a group of people on the Pont Alexandre offering to make and give my daughter a braided bracelet. I knew what was going on and kept telling them, “no” and shaking my head. I made it clear and actually felt bad that I was being rude to them until they refused to stop putting their hands on my kid. They pretended like they didn’t understand me. When one of the guys started to tie it onto her wrist (me still pulling at his arm and saying “no”), then they as a group acted all mad and offended when I didn’t want to pay them for it and was telling them to remove it. It felt threatening because they just wouldn’t stop and they came at us in a group. Same with the trinket sellers at the Tour Eiffel. They were swarming around my (then) 80-year-old mother. I get mad thinking about it years later. It seems to worsen every time we go back there. It’s really a bummer. I think some of these people are forced to meet a certain quota, so I do feel bad for them, but it feels threatening and that I won’t tolerate or reward them by buying things from them. I re-read this and realize how I must sound–entitled and whiny, but it annoys me still just thinking about it.
Great article!! helpful tips and most is common sense. I always keep my crossbody purse in front of me, I even separate license in another location. I heard that wearing backpacks in front vs behind is good strategy. I got pickpocketed when pregnant and busy with my toddler picking out shoes. I put my purse over the stroller and my wallet was taken. I was pickpocketed at the Alamo when my thin crossbody was more to my side than in front. In a crowd, as I was looking at glass display, I was unaware and someone stole my wallet. I learned my lesson.
“I wanna rob you just to shut you up” LOOOL One thing I’ve learned is to either sew or buy clothing with inner pockets. Only you have access to those and it’s easier to just pat that part to see if your passport or wallet is safely there. A bit tricky when you’re buying stuff in the street, but safer in the long run
I actually had someone sew a small pouch (sort of like a concealed carry pouch) that I can tuck away and it’s not visible (it goes through my belt). I did get stopped once in an airport because they thought it was a gun holster but I had to show them it wasn’t. I don’t even put my wallet in my front pocket because there are some crafty pickpockets out there that unless you’re wearing tight jeans, they can sneak in and get it (although a wallet chain or strap — that connects to a belt loop or a belt) may still be helpful regardless).
There is also the political side of this. In Spain, due to its history there is the idea that stealing small amounts of money should not be harshly punished… because it was the only way many people were able to survive in a post-civil war society. But that has resulted in rather permissive laws that pickpocketers (both local and from abroad) take advantage of. If laws were harsher (and were actually applied), there would be less robberies. But since tourist don’t vote, they have to make pressure collectively to make places like Barcelona safer for everyone.
Those are all valid points. However, there are definitely places/cities where more pickpocketing happens than others. I go through crowded Christmas markets and steets of Germany exactly the same way a I go through less crowded streets of Paris or Barcelona, and my chances of being robbed in Paris or Barcelona or even London are very very high. These cities are infamous for such things while Germany or Austria isn’t just like parts of USA are very safe for tourists too. Not that pick pockets don’t happen there but for an alert traveler like myself, the later places are way safer. In Paris, try taking the bus from outside the main train station and you’d come close to your luggage snatched from your hands while boarding the bus. I was alert that’s why I saved my carry on and backpack from this gang member who had almost grabbed my hand. It’s a shame that tourists lose their precious belongings in Paris and cannot enjoy the beauty of the city because they have to remain so alert all the time. Very sad indeed! Never need to worry in Germany (knock on wood). Someone in London pulled out a wool scarf I bought as a souvenir from Ireland. Unbelievable….I bet that was sold among similar scarves in Covent garden. Not a big deal? It’s an important accessory that keeps me warm plus I won’t go back to Ireland to buy it again. Even when you travel light, you could lose important things which are then hard to replace, and you need them because you are traveling light. I find it so annoying that the cities aren’t able to keep theft in control and tourists have to pay the price for it.
A handy article for travellers might be some useful phrases in the various languages – ‘Help Police’, ‘Hands Off!’ ‘No!’, ‘Get lost!’ ”Where is the restroom/toilet’. One that works in a lot of places better than ‘Police!’ is ‘Fire! Fire!’ – some places you never want to see the Police, (or get involved with someone injured, so ‘Ambulance’ does not work too well either) but most places people want to rubberneck at a possible fire, and crowds looking around for something is not what criminals want, they want people to just walk along and ignore whatever is going on around around them.
Air tags 😉😉 happened once (ok it was a test and an old wallet with no ID or credit cards in it but still) as soon as I’ve received a message on my phone that the wallet in my backpack has started moving away… I just chased it, until I met a guy. I asked for it back or I would’ve called the police. I was so chuffed I purchased more for my real wallet, my MBT, and my backpack 😅
Its because they are rife with rampant criminals!!!! Why keep shaming and blaming the victims? Thats like questioning why is your wife and daughter getting raped? Maybe they cant dress revealing, and maybe they shouldn’t go out at night!!!! Lets just blame the victims, instead of addressing the ciminals. People that make excuses for criminals really pisses me off.
When I travel abroad, especially to very touristed places (Venice, for example), I keep my most difficult to replace things in my money belt (passport, credit card, etc.). Then my next most important stuff like my camera goes in my day bag with me. I put key rings on the zippers to keep it closed unless I open it myself, and I keep the bag hanging to where it’s in front of me, not behind me, always in my sight and usually with my hand on it. IF I put it down while I’m out eating or something, it gets set between my feet. Never ever put stuff down if you can’t afford to part with it. I feel like the majority of the time, you won’t need these precautions, but if that one time happens, it would be pretty awful to be trying to replace your passport or all your money while you’re on vacation.
EXACTLY RIGHT!!! In crowded touristy areas or crowded events, I would tend to put my wallet in my front pockets to better safeguard my cash, cards or docs!!! Also, whenever possible, I’ll wear clothing with zippers…In fact, for ALL of my sweatpants, I pay a lil more by having my tailor add zippers to them to better secure my things, esp cash & keys!!!
A few ago we went on a Baltic capital cruise. When we were walking around St. Petersburg a little kid around the age of 3 ran into our group. Our tour guide shoved the child out of the way. The Gypsies were around to pick us clean. Most of us were wearing jackets and had our valuables buttoned up under our jackets.
we were in Prague in 2019, the moment we got off the train, straight we go to an atm, a well dressed man wearing a coat offered to break our bill, later on when we tried to pay the bill at the restaurant, we were told that the notes are old Bulgarian bills that aren’t in circulation anymore. It wasn’t a small amount so better not have anyone change ur notes for u
In Lisbon near the legal arch we were walking one evening to go find a restaurant. When my wife heard her shoulder bag clasp click open. She looked down and push a Indian girls hand away / out of her bag. When I noticed what had happened there were actually 2 girls pick pocketing. I walked after them and they headed off and weaved into the crowd !
Sad you don’t know my mother in law, because she is the example of “how to not behave on holidays”, my father in law is a doctor, the are relatively wealthy and my mother in law likes to show it, nice cars, a lot of cash, expensive bags, expensive watches, a lot of cash with her … And it’s worse when on holidays, she always tries to show “how rich she is” and even to buy 2 scoops of ice cream, she gives a 200€ notes to the cashier, and then loudly apologizes “sorry it’s the smallest I have” . Of course it’s the best way to attract all the human garbage around. And she lets her belongings liying everywhere, and doesn’t look to her purse, she speaks loudly (she speaks only French) and she drinks a lot when abroad … Et voilà, she was already robbed a few times but it’s never her fault, it’s just bad luck …
The craziest robbery I’ve ever heard of happened to someone in our tour group at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy, in 1998. It was extremely crowded and a lady with a baby bumped into a man and woman who were a part of our tour group. The lady with a baby bumped into the lady on the tour and asked if she could hold the baby (which was all wrapped up). It happened so quickly and before the couple could response the lady was already holding the baby. Just as fast as it happened, the lady disappeared into the crowd. The man and woman stood there, shocked at what had just happened. They realized that she was not holding a baby, just a bundle of blankets and that their fanny pack had been taken from them as well as a bag they were carrying. It is a memory that I will never forget and is a good example of the lengths people go to pick a tourist’s pocket
I’m pretty street smart. Got my passport nicked in San Jose, Costa Rica once. Went out to eat dinner. Was only 2 or 3 people in the place I ate at. Was either my waitress or cute chica that tried chatting with me. They were good. Didn’t feel a thing. Had to go to embassy. Missed my flight. Got lucky and the guy at the airport actually bumped someone else off the plane and put me on it. Now I’ll carry $50 on me. And a credit card. That’s it. It also helps looking like every guy on every wanted poster in every place in the world. Being big and ugly has its benefits at times.
I was in Paris back in 2019 and found the French quite friendly compared to what you hear about. However, there was one thing they did on the metro that drove me crazy and that was stand in the door on the trains. On the metro there were a lot of locals of African descent, a lot of tourists and locales of white European descent. The last group seemed the smallest in number of the three groups when I was there in June-July. A number, and not a small number, would just stand in the door and block it. One guy stood in the door for five stops taking up a third of the doorway impeding those entering and exiting. For two stops another guy stood next to him taking up two-thirds of the doorway. This happened quite often. Just wondering, could they have been a part of a pickpocket ring?
I was chloroformed and robbed on a train in the South of France. Fortunately they missed my passport, a $20 bill and my open-ended return ticket to the US. The cash got me back to Spain and my employers advanced me some cash until I got on my feet. I doubt they would have given me airfare had I chosen to not fulfill my contract in Spain 😂
12.07.2024 – was targeted for the first time when studying abroad in Germany. I was buying NRW day ticket in Aachen hbf. A woman asked me whether she could help me buy the tickets. I just told her “piss off you gonna take my stuff 100%” then she said “I’m just gonna go to the other side” and ran away. Nothing was lost. And I witnessed someone getting pickpocketed in Brussels the day after. Someone at the other side of the street was forcing someone to take stuff from the backpack.
Thank you I have travel to a few places in Europe was recently in Paris am aware and do keep safe one thing I lost my favorite jacket in Barcelona airport bathroom the door was very high and I forgot it when I remember and went back to get it was gone that’s the only mishap I thank the angels for protecting me🙏
You are 100% bang on with this article and your comments. Just one added item. Being situationally aware (situation awareness) is so so important. It’s also something you can learn and practice at home. All it is is being in the moment..don’t daydream in crowds!!! Look around, see what and who is around you. If you notice someone who is ‘checking you out’ smile at them and say hello in the local language. Nothing puts a pickpocket off more than being ID’d. And if they were not up to anything the smile and greeting could make their day. Balance being situationally aware without being paranoid. Travel is so so fun, just don’t make yourself an obvious easy target.
I’m an expert on minimalist packing, no backpack or carry-on, just two secure, stable tote bags, one over my shoulder and the other one in my hand plus a bigger cross-body bag. If/when not possible to find any locker for storing I put a leg through the handles if I sit down somewhere and never assume there’s a safe place, eg under a table, inside the chair by the wall for the luggage. Also extremely careful with zippers, both on luggage, hoodies, clothes, always keeping them retracted… I think it’s easier than losing something
Great website.. Really appreciate all the pointers and things to be aware of… I’m getting ready to go to Italy for a couple weeks (new traveler in this area) and find I have an extra 2 days to spend in either Naples or Florence (These 2 areas because of other family stuff going on). Where to spend the extra time? Recommendations?
These aren’t the reasons tourists get robbed — the reasons tourists get robbed is that criminals are allowed to operate in the cities, with almost zero law enforcement &/or stiff penalties to deter rampant crime. The onus shouldn’t be on tourists to protect themselves but rather on the authorities & law enforcement being proactive to stamp out crime & protect the public.
A common scam: Someone approaches you at an ATM cash machine to help you avoid local bank fees. Their true intention is to scan your debit or credit card with the card skimmer in their pocket and watch you enter your pin number so they can drain your account later. Another version of this popular scam is when your card has trouble at an ATM machine and they approach and want to help you sort it out. Make sure to always cover the number pad with your other hand while entering your pin code. While it´s best to refuse any help when at an ATM machine, it´s even better if you can travel with credit cards that have no foreign currency fees and cash that can be exchanged in a local bank
Since having my wallet removed from a zippered front pants pocket when entering a crowded train in Nice, I have always kept everything,(cash, cards, phone, passport) either in a “neck wallet “or money belt under my shirt. A bit inconvenient but tough (albeit not impossible) for pickpockets to get at, even if they know you are wearing it. If I am carrying my camera, I keep it in a daypack when not in use, with the zipper locked with a smalll luggage lock and with the strap around my neck and not just hanging on my shoulder. Again, a bit inconvenient but better than having someone make off with an expensive camera and lens. I cannot believe how many tourists I see with phones poking out of their back pockets, wearing unsecured backpacks that are readily accessible to anyone behind them, and cameras and bags just hanging off their shoulders.
I laughed when you said the Magic Fanny Pack and that people feel nothing bad will happen on vacation. I am the opposite. I am hyper vigilant on vacation. I am this way in US cities as well as European ones. BUT I work in NYC. I am on the mean streets of Manhattan on weekdays. I am often way too lax with my stuff while out and about because I have the Magic Commuter Protection. I am not a tourist so I’m safe, right? I have to remember to make sure I have my eye and my hands on my stuff while eating lunch in a crowded park.
I always thought the most fun part of going to another country is to try and live life exactly like the locals: eat where they eat, stay in Airbnb to live like they live, try to speak the language they speak, dress as they do. I think that’s the best part of traveling is trying to see how people live in other parts of the worls
Haha, I got robbed in Barcelona too! 😂 I was so careful for my whole 3 weeks in Europe. One day before we were going to leave, we were trying to catch a train at 2am in the Barcelona train station. There was NO ONE around, so i let my crossbody bag hang by my side as I leaned on the escalator (I was tired) for literally 20 seconds. My boyfriend was running ahead to see if the train was coming. A guy came out of nowhere and grabbed my camera from my crossbody. It was so quick. Thankfully we had just downloaded all our vacation pics that morning. I can laugh now, but I felt violated. Ive now traveled all over the world as a solo female, and never had issues again. I learned to never let my guard down. ALWAYS have your crossbody in front of you with your arm over it. Always.
I’m with you, Mark. My dad is retired DOD. He always taught me (probably my brother too) to carry my wallet in my front pocket. Is it visually pleasing? Hell no. But even here in the Washington, DC area of Virginia we have pick pockets. And I can say that hasn’t happened to me yet. Though I do need to work on being aware of my surroundings a bit more. Having ADD and bipolar I sometimes lose focus. No bueno … I know. I’ll also turn 42 in December. So, I’m not sure about the age thing. But I am glad my employer relaxed the dress code where I work to business casual. It used to be coat, tie, and trousers for gents. I stood out on the metro in a suit and tie. I don’t so much now. In college I had some of my bipolar meds stolen. I discovered it because before my dad would send the 90 supply to me … he’d count them (he told me this) to have a basic idea of when I’d need more. I had clearance from my school (Johnson & Wales) to have my meds with me (renewed at the beginning of each school year). So, I do my best to ensure that doesn’t happen again. There’s more to this. I won’t share here. But if you wanna know … let me know.
I lived in Europe for a long time and something I heard about a lot were passports/wallets disappearing from the pocket on the back of the backpack. And ladies, if you have a purse you sling over your shoulder, don’t let it hang on your hip. keep it in front of you. I almost lost one because someone slashed (without success) one of the straps.
I’m European and have been to Paris twice. I’ve been to France often but always on trips in the countryside in my own car. People in the countryside are friendly and welcoming. But the problem is always the language. Afortunately I was educated in a country where learning 3 foreign langages was mandatory so, for me, the language isn’t a problem. I can enjoy the small delights of life and the fabulous food. Lucky me and poor Brits and Americans.
On another website a couple of tourists had stuff stolen, but they were ok with that because “It’s important not to be paranoid all the time.” Made me laugh. They will get robbed again, for sure. You’re a tourist in a busy area – you’re a target. It’s not even personal. Look after your stuff ALL THE TIME and you’ll be ok.
Great article, thank you! I originally come from a country with a very high crime rate, mostly violent; as a result I’m very aware of my surroundings and of the typical scams. Against that backdrop, we’re going on a med cruise and to Rome later this year: as a photographer it’s unavoidable to have a bunch of expensive gear with me but I’m considering leaving my (obvious) camera backpack at home and buying one of those low key Pacsafe anti-theft backpacks to hold a camera cube instead. Thoughts? Am I being OTT?
A suggestion: when you get your U.S. passport, get along with it a U.S. passport card. When going out for the day, leave your passport in the safe at your hotel and take the passport card which is the size of a credit card. Most European countries think it is a national I.D. card like they have to have. It is nice not having to carry your passport book everywhere.
The biggest reason why tourists get robbed in Europe is weak and uninterested politicians. The vast majority of criminals are from certain well known groups. More law enforcement and much higher penalties do work. Expulsion from the EU after a very long jail sentence is one of the things such criminals fear most.
In 2017, in a hostel in Galway Ireland, a female 4 bed dorm room, in the middle of the night, one of the girls took a bracelet off my wrist while I was sleeping, I didn’t know it was missing till hours later when I was in a different town. I drove back to galway to make a police report. The police just blew me off. I was so passed there were 3 suspect 2 were still registered at the hostel, 1 had left extremely early. Before anyone else woke up.
In the last year ive been to Paris, Rome, Venice, and London. I was never once bothered or witnessed anything sketchy. Maybe it helps that im a 6’3 30 year old. But all you have to do is use common sense. Ive seen some tourists walking around with wallets or purses dangling behind them. Phones in back pocket. All while they’re distracted taking pictures or chatting. People are way too gullible and don’t use common sense
Wallet in front pocket has been SOP since moving to South America 9 years ago… and yeah, keep it slim, not the George Costanza Special. Also try to keep smaller amounts of cash in another pocket to pay for simple items – water, cafe, street food. Bling – more SA wisdom – “Don’t be the low hanging Mango”.
I use a Pacsafe crossbody bag, my first line of defence. In it I have a purse/wallet with the money I will need for the day, and only one of my credit cards, but this is my second precaution: I have that purse on a strong lanyard attached to the inside of my bag. When I take my purse out to pay for something I never run the risk of accidently being distracted and putting my purse down on a counter or table, and if someone were able to reach into my bag for my purse, they would not be able to take it and spring away.
I never ever lock up my stuff in the hotel room safe because I do not trust the hotel staff. My passport and extra money go in money belt is always attached to my body under my clothes. I also never place my passport in my backpack while on the plane. It is in the jacket or shirt I am wearing. I started doing this after I saw a guy almost lose his family’s passports while seated in his seat. He got off the plane and got halfway to immigration before noticing he left all the passports on the plane. When he tried to reenter the plane, he was stopped the flight crew. After some arguing, the pilot found the passports on the airplane floor.
Lets comment on the fannypack thing. Don’t use them, if anything is a dead gve away that you are a tourist that is the thing. Also I would add that people should remember where you leave your stuff. I woke up once, in a youth hostel, when sleeping in a dorm due to shouting. The bloke moved from a private room to a dorm. The moron lost his wallet, started shouting, swearing etc etc, Turned out later he left it in the private room in the bedside table drawer. I think he got kicked out the next day.
Public transport is ideal for tourists. You don’t need to know how to get to your destination, just where to get off. And they are cheap because the state – i.e. the local population – pays most. It’s just that the same people are there as on the trains and buses in your home town and there are always a few rip-offs among them. If you behave as you would on public transport at home, then as little will happen to you as if you were on public transport at home.
A great way to discourage pickpocketers etc. Is to just look absolutely unapproachable. I enjoy walking and looking at the sights. But I look very unfriendly. And that is intentional. Of course being 6’2″ and being so broad that I have to scoot behind my wife a little when we are walking on the sidewalk to let other pass comfortably…doesn’t hurt.
When I travel, I am always focused and I reject all “assistance” from strangers. I disagree also with what you are pointing out. People are in their happiest moments when they are on vacation, even if they are loud or not it doesn’t matter, let them be as long as they are focused on theirs surroundings.
Here is another trick they used on us. Wife, i and 20 year old grandaughter board metro in paris. Guy gets between me and the other two and just stops near the door. I try to go around him and he happens to block me with his back turned to me. So i am thinking he doesnt realize i am trying to get past him. So as i am occupied with this guy, another young girl moves in a takes the wallet, takes the cash and tosses it on the floor. My wife sees the wallet and the guy is moving asmway. As i am looking at the wallet to give it to the guy leaving, i realize it is mine, but they are out the door as they are shutting. They time it perfectly based on the aural alarm when the doors are going to close. A $100 lesson to always watch my wallet.
Brit just returned from a week in Paris. Simple answer is use a small male/female handbag and keep it to your front. Put padlocks on cases and backpacks and any valuables at the bottom. Be extra vigilantes on entry to metro and whilst on busy metro. Had two attempts, one on busy metro and had wallet in side trouser leg zipped pocket. Pick pocketed looked ‘normal’ and hardly felt a thing. Got off one metro and jumped on a other and wallet fell out of unzipped pocket and returned to me by a lovely French girl. On returning home man was waiting at RER entrance and was waiting for me and my wife to enter first. Indicated for him to go first which he did and surprise surprise his ticket didn’t work!! He continued to wait so I was immediately suspicious. My wife went through first as as I entered the turnstile he tried to quickly unzip my backback zip (whilst on my back) which luckily a) contained nothing of value and b) was padlocked. I used a small carry bag and put nothing in my pockets. Ergo I had no other issues so long as you keep it front & centre especially on busy metro. Walked late at night in Paris with no issues but there is a number of homeless so just be vigilante. That aside, have a wonderful journey 😊