Greece, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a popular destination for travelers worldwide. However, like many tourist hotspots, it has its share of scams targeting unsuspecting visitors. Being aware of these common scams and knowing how to avoid them can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the most common scams in Greece and how to avoid them.
1. The Friendly Local Scam
Description: A seemingly friendly local strikes up a conversation, often offering to show you around or give you tips on the best places to visit. Eventually, they lead you to a restaurant or bar where you are presented with an exorbitant bill, or they might ask for money for their “services.”
How to Avoid: Be cautious of overly friendly strangers who offer unsolicited help. Politely decline their offers and do your research on reputable tours and guides.
2. Taxi Overcharging
Description: Overcharging taxis are a common scam in many parts of the world, including Greece. Some taxi drivers may take advantage of tourists by overcharging or taking unnecessarily long routes. They might also claim their meter is broken and demand a flat fee, often much higher than the actual fare.
How to Avoid: Always insist on using the meter and be familiar with the approximate fare to your destination. Consider using reputable ride-sharing apps where available, and if in doubt, ask your hotel for a trusted taxi service.
3. Fake Goods
Description: Street vendors may sell counterfeit goods, such as fake designer bags, watches, and electronics, claiming they are authentic. These items are often poor quality and not worth the money spent.
How to Avoid: Purchase goods only from reputable stores and avoid street vendors selling luxury items at suspiciously low prices. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
4. Pickpocketing
Description: Pickpocketing is common in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and busy streets. Thieves often work in groups and use distractions to steal wallets, phones, and other valuables. A common distraction involves throwing a white paste at you and offering to help clean it while pickpocketing you in the process.
How to Avoid: Keep your valuables secure and out of easy reach. Use a money belt or neck pouch, and be especially vigilant in crowded places. Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry and cameras.
5. Restaurant and Bar Scams
Description: Tourists are sometimes lured into restaurants or bars with attractive offers or friendly invitations. Once inside, they may be presented with a menu with no prices, leading to an exorbitant bill at the end of the meal. Some establishments might even charge for items you did not order.
How to Avoid: Always check the menu for prices before ordering and be wary of establishments that do not display their prices clearly. It’s also a good idea to read reviews online or ask for recommendations from trusted sources.
6. Fake Ticket Sellers
Description: Scammers might sell fake tickets for attractions, transportation, or events. These tickets are often overpriced and not valid.
How to Avoid: Purchase tickets only from official sources, such as the attraction’s website or authorized ticket vendors. Avoid buying tickets from street vendors or unofficial websites.
7. Picture Scam
Description: A common scam in Athens involves locals asking you to take their picture. They might hand you a camera or a mobile phone and ask for a quick photo. Once you return the camera, they intentionally drop it and accuse you of breaking it, demanding compensation.
How to Avoid: Politely decline requests to take photos for strangers unless you are certain they are honest tourists like yourself.
8. Bird Poop Scam
Description: Imagine strolling through Athens when suddenly you feel something wet on your clothes—a white paste. Almost immediately, a “friendly” local rushes to help, claiming that a bird has pooped on you. While they assist in cleaning the mess, they pickpocket you.
How to Avoid: Decline any unsolicited offers for help and keep your belongings secure in internal pockets.
9. Bar Scams
Description: Athens is known for its vibrant nightlife, but tourists should be cautious when befriending strangers at bars. A common scam involves two people making small talk and suggesting moving to another bar, where they are in cahoots with the establishment. After a few drinks, you’re handed an inflated bill—sometimes five to ten times higher than expected. In some cases, if you refuse to pay, bar security might escort you to an ATM to withdraw the necessary amount.
How to Avoid: Always suggest the venue yourself or check the prices on the menu as soon as you arrive.
10. Restaurant Bread & Water Scam
Description: In tourist-heavy areas, some restaurants charge for what appears to be complimentary bread and water. This scam preys on the assumption that such items are free, leading to surprise charges at the end of your meal.
How to Avoid: Always ask if there is a charge for bread and water before accepting them. Check the menu for any hidden fees and be prepared to decline items you do not want.
11. Fake Charity Collectors
Description: Scammers posing as charity workers might ask for donations for fake causes. They often use emotional appeals to get you to give money.
How to Avoid: Verify the legitimacy of the charity before donating. Only donate to well-known organizations and avoid giving money to individuals on the street.
12. ATM Skimming
Description: Scammers might install skimming devices on ATMs to steal your card information. They might also offer to help you with the ATM and then steal your card or money.
How to Avoid: Use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit areas. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and be cautious of anyone offering unsolicited help. Regularly monitor your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
13. Fake Hotel Booking Websites
Description: Scammers create fake hotel booking websites that look legitimate. They take your payment information and then disappear, leaving you without a reservation.
How to Avoid: Book hotels through reputable websites and read reviews. Verify the website’s legitimacy by checking for secure payment methods and contact information.
14. Street Performers and Artists
Description: Some street performers and artists might demand payment after you take a photo or watch their performance. They might use aggressive tactics to get you to pay.
How to Avoid: Always ask if there is a fee before taking a photo or watching a performance. If you’re not interested in paying, politely decline and walk away.
15. Fake Products
Description: Vendors might sell counterfeit goods, such as designer bags, watches, or electronics. These products are often of poor quality and not worth the price.
How to Avoid: Purchase goods only from reputable stores. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. If you’re looking for authentic products, buy from official retailers.
While scams can be a concern, they shouldn’t deter you from visiting Greece. By staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid falling victim to these common scams and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer. Always trust your instincts and seek help from local authorities if you find yourself in a difficult situation.
Greece is a land of history, culture, and beauty, and with the right precautions, your trip can be filled with wonderful memories and experiences. Safe travels!