Some of the world’s most picture-postcard cities, famous landmarks and idyllic destinations attract millions of holidaymakers every year.
But large numbers of visitors can also attract unwanted consequences – including pickpockets and scams.
Many of the world’s biggest tourist hotspots struggle with theft, affecting both locals and visitors alike.
Some destinations, however, fare far worse when it comes to pickpocketing.
Research from price comparison website Compare the Market has revealed the worst offenders – here’s a rundown of the hotspots…
In first place as the worst city for pickpocketing is the French capital, Paris
Known as the City of Love, hordes of tourists head there for weekend getaways to take in the iconic sights.
But despite the romantic scenes and stellar gastronomy, Paris is also the city where you’re most likely to fall victim to pickpockets.
Areas that are typically popular with tourists, including the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre, are hotspots for opportunistic theft.
Las Vegas is the second biggest hotspot for pickpocketing and scams on the list
Las Vegas, known for its gaudy lights and vibrant casinos, is the second-highest ranked destination on the list.
Scams and pickpocketing are rife in this city, perhaps unsurprising given its reputation as a gambling paradise.
The city scored 47.69 out of 100 for concerns about being mugged or robbed, showing many travellers felt far from safe in the region.
3. New York City, US
New York City came in third place in the analysis, taking home the bronze medal
One of the biggest tourist destinations in the US, it’s hardly surprising that New York ranks highly on the list.
The Big Apple has a rating of 49.68/100 for worries about being mugged or robbed – although it should be noted that international tourists are more concerned about scams.
Losing belongings is also a key concern here, as well as things being stolen.
4. Rome, Italy
Rome, known for its stunning sights such as the Trevi fountain, took the fourth spot
Rome is the fourth biggest hotspot for pickpocketing and scams, according to the research.
Key tourist attractions in the city are rife with theft, with the Italian capital filled with crowds, pickpockets and a sometimes overwhelming atmosphere.
High-risk hotspots include Roma Termini station, the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Spanish Steps.
5. Los Angeles, US
Los Angeles takes fifth place on the ranking
Los Angeles scored 15.2 out of 100 on the pickpocketing and scam index, making it the fifth biggest hotspot overall.
It has a reputation for petty crime, despite its swish exterior appearance.
Nightlife areas and crowded tourist spots such as Hollywood Boulevard are particular areas in which you should be careful.
6. London, UK
London is the only UK city to make the overall list of pickpocket and scam hotspots
In London, pickpocketing is extremely common, with popular tactics including preying on shoppers, operating in teams to distract targets and using crowded areas to hide what they are doing.
London’s ‘pickpocket vigilante’ Diego Galdino has experienced some terrifying encounters on the streets of the capital.
He spoke to the Daily Mail about how he stops thieves in their tracks, the cunning distraction techniques you must watch out for, and the worst hotspots where your valuables are most at risk.
7. Athens, Greece
Unsurprising given its popularity among tourists, Athens came in seventh place
Tourist hotspot Athens is known for its ancient history and great food – but unfortunately is not immune from pickpocketing and scams.
‘Pickpockets are everywhere, not only in Athens. Just be careful…’ one Facebook user wrote, while another added: ‘I know someone who recently came back from Athens and had their wallet stolen – just keep extra vigilant.’
With such an influx of tourists and visitors, the ancient site of the Acropolis becomes a hotbed for thieving hands – so visitors should remain alert.
8. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia, Bulgaria joins the list in eighth place
With a score of 29.19 out of 100, Sofia in Bulgaria ranked eighth in the study.
Scams in particular are a worry here – especially taxis overcharging and currency exchange traps.
You should pay particular attention around Sofia Central Station, the Central Bus Station, and Lions’ Bridge, though, as these can feel less secure, especially at night.
9. Barcelona, Spain
Next up is Barcelona, taking position number nine
Pickpockets often blend into the crowds on Barcelona’s Las Ramblas, one of the busiest streets in the city, as well as Plaza Catalunya, Barrio Gotico and Carrer Montcada.
According to Barcelona police, pickpocketing accounted for 48.1 per cent of crimes committed in Barcelona in 2023.
Online travel guide Barcelona Yellow says: ‘It’s recommended that Barcelona tourists exercise caution if wearing expensive watches near luxury hotels and shopping areas – and also outside popular night clubs in upmarket areas.
‘A rise in criminal gangs targeting high end personal accessories has been noted in recent years. If you are travelling by car, don’t leave items of value in plain sight on highway stops or when leaving the car in underground parking lots.’
10. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Joining the ranking is Amsterdam, home to bikes and cobbled streets
Rounding out the list is Amsterdam, which, like many major European cities, faces pickpockets every year.
High-risk areas include Dam Square, Central Station, the Rijksmuseum and parts of the Red Light District at night.
In order to stay safe, be aware of distraction techniques, crowded-area exploitation and coordinated team operations.
