BEWARE: 5 Destinations Where Travelers Are Most Likely to Get Pickpocketed

Take note of these locations around Europe.
by Ina Louise Manto | November 03, 2022

Years of staying indoors and dreaming about picturesque destinations are finally going to stop as global travel is open again. With borders and health protocols eased, you might’ve been seeing peers going places this year.

It’s easy to get caught in gram-worthy views when visiting your dream destinations but don’t let your guard down – you still have to be mindful of your surroundings now that everyone is out and about again. Nobody wants to turn their dream holiday into a nightmare! If you’re planning to go international for the holidays, you might want to check out these popular destinations where you’re likely to get pickpocketed:

 

Top 5 destinations where you’re likely to get pickpocketed

According to a study on TripAdvisor’s pickpocket reviews conducted by money.co.uk, here are the top 5 destinations where you should protect your belongings more than ever:

5. Sacré-Coeur in Paris, France

France is one of the most-visited countries in the world, and there’s no wonder why another one of its destinations made it to the top of this list. Also known as The Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre, this Catholic church has a total of 984 reviews.

 

4. Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic

Known as the second oldest bridge in the Czech Republic, Charles Bridge has been standing over the Vltava River since the 15^th century. You might get too caught up staring at its picturesque views as well as its nearby medieval buildings – this spot has 1,081 reviews of pickpockets.

3. Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy

Here’s to living out your Lizzie McGuire dreams and making that wish come true by throwing a coin at this historical fountain. With over 2,200 reviews of pickpockets, make sure it’s just your coins and not your precious belongings that you’re not throwing away.

 

2. Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

Ah, the city of love. You might already have your OOTDs planned and lined up for that photoshoot around Eiffel Tower, but keep your eyes peeled because this location has 2,569 reviews. Reviewers advise being alert especially when walking up from the metro station to the tower.

 

1. Las Ramblas in Barcelona, Spain

Nestled right in the heart of Barcelona, Las Ramblas is one of the city’s top tourist spots and the top destination with the most mentions of pickpockets. It garnered 3,271 reviews and has a reputation for pickpockets, especially during peak season, which is from June to August.

 

Top 10 pickpocket hotspots

Based on the study, France has the most locations that made it to the top 10 pickpocket hotspots:

1. Las Ramblas in Barcelona, Spain – 3,271 reviews
2. Eiffel Tower in Paris, France  – 2,569 reviews
3. Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy – 2,206 reviews
4. Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic – 1,081 reviews
5. Sacré-Coeur in Paris, France – 914 reviews
6. Colosseum in Rome, Italy – 666 reviews
7. Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic – 646 reviews
8. Louvre in Paris, France – 598 reviews
9. Notre-Dame de Paris in Paris, France – 408 reviews
10. Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain – 407 reviews

 

Colon Street in Cebu has the 3^rd highest pickpocket review

Further study results revealed that the country’s oldest and shortest national road has the third highest percentage of pickpocket reviews on TripAdvisor. Colon Street has 11.65%, with 72 mentions of pickpockets. During its heyday, the street used to house several shops and even movie theaters.

 

How to avoid being pickpocketed

TripAdvisor shares some tips on keeping your valuables safe:

1. Your back pockets are the easiest target – never keep your valuables here.
2. Be on guard and be aware of distraction tactics. These can be in the form of squirting something on you, dropping an item near you, or simply getting jostled.
3. Be aware that pickpockets also work in groups. They can be children or even the elderly – me mindful of strangers.
4. Stay alert in passageways and confined spaces, especially in train doorways.
5. Pack lightly, especially for day tours or when you’re walking around. You’re more likely to get pickpocketed when you bring something bulky.

Stay safe and alert, but don’t forget to enjoy!

 

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