The 10 Worst Cities For Pickpockets

Barcelona

With Spain's high unemployment rate and lack of legal deterrent for petty crimes, Barcelona has become the pickpocketing capital of the world.

The pedestrian walkway known as Las Ramblas is tourist mecca so be extra vigilant when you're in that area.

Madrid

Unsurprisingly, Spain's other major city, Madrid, also makes it's way onto this list.  Popular places in Madrid that pickpockets operate include the El Rasto flea market, the Prado Museum and along the crowded metro lines.

Rome

Rome, with it's tens of millions of visitors a year, is a pickpocket haven.  With it's vast amount of tourist attractions, there are many places to be distracted.  This distraction is what pickpockets prey on.

Prague

Prague has one of the highest rates of pickpocketing in Europe.  When visiting tourist attractions like the Charles Bridge or Prague Castle keep your guard up and be aware of your surroundings.

Paris

With over 30 million visitors a year, Paris pickpockets are hard at work on a daily basis.  Majestic sights like the Louvre and the Eiffel tower are prime targets for these industrious thieves.  Away from the sights, you're equally susceptible down below traveling the metro system.
Ask a backpacker
Trip planning made easy
The Euro Trip Kit is a great way to start planning your trip.
Inside you'll find a travel journal, adventure passport, language cards and a bunch of other great things to get you excited for your euro trip.
Inside The Kit

Florence

While you're admiring Michelangelo's iconic statue of David, pickpockets may be admiring your valuables.  Be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas.

Buenos Aires

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas like the subte (subway) or the colectivo (bus).  If you suddenly find yourself in the middle of a commotion or surrounded by people nudging you put your hands on your belongings because this is a pickpocket's most common approach.

Amsterdam

Because Amsterdam has an "anything goes" kind of attitude, it's very easy for travelers to relax their defenses.  This care free attitude creates a great atmosphere for pickpockets to operate in.

Athens

With an uncertain economy and influx of immigrants, Athens is another city to be extra protective of your valuables.  Hotspots like the metro and any of the many tourist sites like the Parthenon are prime spots for pickpockets.

Hanoi

Hanoi, ironically, is one of the safest places to travel except for the risk of have your pocket picked.  A more preferred method here is to just blatantly cut a hole in your bag and get everything out that way.
Ask a backpacker
Ask a backpacker
Questions about backpacking?  Our Facebook group is filled with backpackers just like you.
Ask questions, get advice, share some stories, and maybe even meet a travel buddy.  Come hang out with us.

Where To Next?

Budapest
Rome
Lisbon
London

More Travel Tips

14 Backpacking Tricks You Need To Know
10 Common Travel Scams
8 Travel Safety Tips
How To Hookup While Backpacking
Be Inspired
Travel Inspiration
Follow us on Facebook.  Our page is filled with travel tips and inspiration.
Get inspired for your next trip with backpack photos, videos, stories and memes.