The 10 worst cities for pickpockets

Travel website TripAdvisor has come up with a list of the ten worst cities for pickpocketing and advice on how to beat the thieves.

1. Barcelona, Spain

Pickpocketing in Barcelona is almost a generally practiced and accepted sport. Las Ramblas, the famous wide, pedestrian walkway full of life, music, and people at all hours of the day and night, is the perfect place to get your purse poached.

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2. Rome, Italy

With its ancient buildings and astounding historical and cultural attractions, Rome is full of tourists admiring outdoor attractions like the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, making it easy for pickpockets to lift a camera or purse.

Free things to do in Rome

3. Prague, Czech Republic

One of Prague's most romantic sites, Charles Bridge is lined with baroque-style statues and thousands of tourists who crowd its ancient stones each year, making it perfect for pickpocketing.

Before taking in the view of the Vltava River and the Prague Castle beyond, be sure your valuables are strapped down.

Hotel safety tips

4. Madrid, Spain

Back in Spain again, El Rastro flea market and the crowded metro are often cited as spots where pickpockets operate. Travellers should also have their wits about them that in the city's many museums, where distracted tourists are often preyed upon.

4. Paris, France

From the base of the Eiffel Tower to the steps of Sacré-Coeur, the City of Light draws enormous crowds. Trouble is often found below ground, in the city's metro system, where travellers should be especially cautious.

6. Florence, Italy

It's certainly easy to be distracted by the majestic beauty and awe-inspiring works of art all around Florence. When you're admiring Michelangelo's David, or its replica in the busy Piazza della Signoria, be aware that others may be admiring your wallet.

Some of the best museums in Italy for art lovers

7. Buenos Aires, Argentina

A common scam in this vibrant and culturally rich city involves you being suddenly covered in "bird droppings" (likely mustard), while a "friendly" local (likely a thief) happens to be standing by with napkins to help you clean up (and clean you out).

8. Amsterdam, Netherlands

With so many fun things to see and do amongst the friendly and laid-back atmosphere of this city, it's easy to drop your guard and let the pickpockets take advantage.

Free things to do in Amsterdam

9. Athens, Greece

As mentioned before, it's the outdoor attractions that can often be the worst places for thieves. When visiting the Parthenon, or anything else in this magnificent historic city, keep the bags close to the vest while your eyes admire the rest.

10. Hanoi, Vietnam

The capital of Vietnam has its charming Old Quarter, littered with monuments and colonial architecture, making it a beautiful and unique place to visit, but also a place to stay alert for mischief.

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Top 5 tips to avoid being pickpocketed...

1. Never keep your wallet or valuables in your rear pocket, even if it is buttoned down – it's by far the easiest target.

2. Beware of the distraction tactic in crowds – dropping something near you, squirting something on you, or simply jostling you.

3. Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups and can be difficult to spot. Be cautious with any strangers – sometimes people who don't look like they'd be a threat, such as children or the elderly, can be part of larger operations.

4. Stay alert in confined spaces and near passageways. Try to avoid standing near the doorways of trains as groups of pickpockets can rush at you when the doors open.

5. Before you set off on a trip, only take what you need, leaving the rest on the hotel room safe. The smaller the bulge of your purse or wallet, the less likely pickpockets are to covet it.

Browse our huge range of holidays, including adventurous touring trips, relaxing beachfront getaways and luxury resorts in incredible destinations around the world. Find out more here