turkey tourist scams

Living In Croatia
Croatian Recipes
Balkan Recipes

Home > 9 Pesky Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid In 2024

9 Pesky Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid In 2024

Written by our local expert Nicky

Nicky, originally from the UK, is now a local in Turkey. She moved to Marmaris, Türkiye for love 12 years ago and is now your Turkey travel planner.

In this blog post, we will shed light on some of the most notorious scams to avoid in Istanbul, so you can explore this enchanting city with confidence and peace of mind.

The biggest tourist scams in Istanbul, Turkey, range from missing change to extra additions to your bill and the famous “scenic” taxi route.

Turkey Travel Blog_Pesky Scams In Istanbul To Avoid

Istanbul is a huge city, with a population of over 15 million and countless tourists visiting at any one time. Packed with amazing historical sights and attractions , a beautiful blend of old and new, and of course, plenty of shopping, great nightlife , and fantastic food to be enjoyed, this is a city that everyone must visit at least once.

However, it’s hard to avoid the fact that a city this big is home to tourist scams. When visiting Türkiye’s largest city , you should be aware of the main Istanbul tourist scams. And that’s precisely what this post will help you with.

The regular risk of pickpocketing is increased in a city like Istanbul . Especially places like Sultanahmet and Taksim , where most tourists can be found milling around, distracted by the fantastic things they’re seeing, are vulnerable to this nuisance.

However, if you want your visit to Istanbul to be as incident-free as possible, it merely comes down to being aware of the potential scams that might come your way and, therefore, side-stepping them with ease.

Let’s take a look at 9 of the most common tourist scams in Istanbul.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

1. Great Shoe Cleaning Scammers

You might think you’re doing an older man a favor, but he has something else on his mind. Harsh but true.

You’re walking along, and the man in front of you drops one of his cleaning brushes . You shout after him, and he turns, shakes his head as if to say, “silly me,” and comes back to pick up his brush.

He then thanks you and says that he wants to clean your shoes. You assume he’s doing it as a thank you, but he’s not. He’s about to charge you for it, and once those shoes are clean, there’s nothing you can do about it.

Please don’t feel bad about it, though. This is one of the oldest tourist scams in Istanbul , a scam that’s as ancient as the city’s hills! Be aware of this “trick,” and don’t fall for it when exploring Istanbul’s historic streets.

2. The Great Carpet Shop Scam

It goes a little like this.

A rather attractive, usually young Turkish male will stop you and ask if you’re lost. He might say he’s trying to practice his English, too. You’ll engage in conversation with him because you’re polite, and he is utterly charming.

This is especially the case if you are a single female or a group of women, but he will turn on the charm toward couples too.

If he’s asked if you’re lost, he will offer to escort you to the tourist hotspot you’re trying to get to. On the way, you’ll end up walking past his brother/father/son/uncle’s carpet shop . He’ll say he’s just popping in to drop something off . You’ll be invited to come in as well and have some tea while you wait. He’ll tell you that it’s Turkish hospitality.

You will then find yourself in a room, with your tea in hand, being shown endless carpets. You’ll get the hard sell, which includes telling you they will happily ship your purchases back to whatever country you’re from.

You’ll kick yourself afterward, but it’s surprisingly easy to fall for this Istanbul tourist scam!

Brands We Use And Trust

3. the scenic route taxi scam.

This is common in most large cities, but it’s an absolutely classic tourist scam in Istanbul if you’re not savvy about it.

When you get into a taxi, ask the driver how much you can expect your journey to cost. He’s probably going to tell you that it’s a metered rate, but by asking him what you can expect to pay, he knows you already have a price in mind.

So, before you take a taxi, ask a local, e.g., your hotelier or a waiter in a restaurant, how much the price from A to B should be. When you get into the taxi, mention this to the driver.

Some drivers will take you on the “scenic route” through the city if you don’t do this. This will undoubtedly result in the taximeter doubling and even tripling the amount you should actually be paying.

If you’re traveling from Taksim, Besiktas, or anywhere away from Sultanahmet and you have to cross the Galata Bridge to get there; a taxi driver may also tell you that the bridge is closed and as such, they have to go the long way around to get you there.

While the bridge MAY, in fact, be closed, this is extremely rare. This bridge is one of the busiest in the city, and closing it would be big news. If you’re told this “alternative truth,” refuse the journey and find another, more honest taxi driver.

The good news is, after all, that there are more honest drivers in Istanbul than there are dishonest. As in so many other cases, it’s just the minority who give the rest a bad name.

4. Beware the Nightclub Hustle

Istanbul nightclub - scams to avoid in Istanbul

Traveling on your own can be a blast—until you run into the notorious nightclub hustle. Picture this: a seemingly friendly local strikes up a chat and oh-so-generously suggests a night out at a nearby watering hole.

“Sure,” you think, “what’s the harm?”

But here’s the catch: as you’re clinking glasses and sharing stories, your newfound pal and their entourage are racking up a tab quicker than a politician’s promises before an election. And when it’s time to hit the road, guess who’s left holding the eye-wateringly expensive bill?

That’s right, you.

And to thicken the plot, your ‘friends’ will have pulled a disappearing act worthy of Houdini himself.

You’ll be left not only abandoned but also expected to fork over the cash for those price-hiked beverages. The atmosphere can turn from friendly to frosty really quickly if you can’t pay up. To sidestep this swindle, keep your street smarts about you. If a random stranger is laying it on thick with the charm, it’s your cue to walk away. Remember, solo sipping doesn’t mean you can’t be sociable, but there’s a fine line between making friends and getting fleeced.

5. Where Is My Change?

This particular scam could happen to you anywhere in Istanbul, but it’s pretty standard in restaurants in Sultanahmet . It’s one of the most common Istanbul tourist scams you need to watch out for.

You’re enjoying delicious Turkish food overlooking the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia when a group of musicians comes over to serenade you. You might have had a few drinks, and you’re really feeling the love for Istanbul’s warm welcome . Then the bill comes.

But you’re still distracted.

If at all possible, try and pay with the exact change or pay by card. The reason is that if your bill was, for instance, 150 Lira and you give 200 Lira, expecting 50 Lira change , you might be sat waiting for quite a while.

You would then inquire about the whereabouts of your change, only to be told that you gave them the correct amount of money.

You know you didn’t. Cue an awkward exchange , and in some cases, no change returned.

Again, this isn’t the case with all restaurants, but it’s something to be wary of. Not giving the correct change, or not giving any change back at all, is one of the biggest tourist scams in Istanbul. Don’t get caught off guard!

6. The Tumbling Simit Seller Swindle

Simit scam in Istanbul - Scams to avoid in Turley

Stroll through the streets of Istanbul, and your senses are sure to be tickled by the delectable scent of simit, Turkey’s beloved sesame bread.

But beware the bread-seller’s performance, a ruse as old as the city’s cobblestones. In this act, a vendor laden with a stack of simits takes a dramatic tumble, clutching his leg and playing the part of the injured seller. It’s a scene meant to tug at your heartstrings—and your purse strings.

While you might feel the pull to play the good Samaritan, hold that thought. This “fall” is a well-rehearsed trap set to make you the day’s catch with a plea for compensation. If you’re ever the audience to this street theatre, the best move is to keep walking. Your helping hand is better reserved for genuine situations, not for those fishing for your sympathy—and your cash.

Pro scam tip: Swap the simit bread for anything – anytime you see someone fall about, proceed with caution.

7. I Thought This Was Free! It’s Not

One of the most recurrent Istanbul scams is adding things to your bill that you consumed because you thought they were on the house. Sometimes, you’ll find that those things were not free and cost quite a lot of Lira.

If anything comes to your table that you didn’t individually order, either ask about it or don’t eat it. Overall, meze usually is free, but not in every single restaurant. So, again, check. If you’re eating at an ocakbasi (a typical Turkish grill restaurant), water will be put on your table, and you might assume it’s there to drink free of charge. Yet, it’s not.

The same goes for bars. You might have a bowl of nuts put on your table when you order a couple of beers. Assuming they’re free, you’ll munch along while enjoying your night, only to be charged 20 Lira for the pleasure.

Check your bill carefully when it arrives and question anything that doesn’t seem right.

8. The “Officer” Impersonator Ruse

Imagine you’re minding your own business, and out pops someone claiming to be the law, demanding to see your passport and wallet. Red alert! Real officers aren’t interested in a peek at your cash stash.

Hand it over, and you might as well say goodbye to your benjamins—or watch your would-be “protector of the peace” take off in a sprint that could give Olympians a run for their money. Here’s a golden rule for globetrotting: your wallet stays with you, period.

When it comes to identification, a photocopy of your passport should suffice for any genuine badge-wearing individual. So, if you find yourself facing a dubious “officer” with an outstretched hand, remember that the only running you should be doing is through the proper verification checks. Keep your wits—and your wallet—about you, and you’ll navigate clear of this con.

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

9. The Booze Bamboozle

The drink scam in Turkey - Scams to avoid

Let’s chat about a tipple trick that’s been making the rounds in Turkey, especially in tourist hotspots. Now, before we dive in, it’s essential to note that the majority of bars are as straight as an arrow and wouldn’t dream of duping you. However, with the Turkish Lira doing a bit of a nosedive, some establishments have turned to less-than-savory tactics to keep their spirits up and cash flowing.

So here’s the scoop: not all that glitters is gold, and not all that’s poured is pure. There’s been talk of some bars serving up fake alcohol. Yes, you heard that right. If your cocktail tastes more like paint thinner than a piña colada, don’t chalk it up to local flavor—send it back. And if the rumor mill churns out warnings about certain establishments, give them a wide berth.

The sneakier scheme you might encounter is the old watered-down whiskey waltz. Picture this: you order a drink, but the kick is missing. It’s like a soccer game without a ball. You’re not getting the full-strength beverage you paid for, and that’s a straight-up swindle. If your sip seems suspiciously subdued, it’s time to play detective. Flag down your server, state your case, and demand the real deal. After all, when you pay for a lion, you shouldn’t get a kitten.

Now you know about the biggest Istanbul tourist scams!

This is not an exhaustive list of potential tourist scams that may come your way in Istanbul. However, as you can see, you can avoid them all only by being informed, aware, and vigilant.

Most people you’ll encounter in Istanbul are friendly, charming, and welcoming and would be horrified to learn of anything happening to you in this way. It’s always the few that mess things up for the many!

Here are a few more scams in Turkey to watch out for.

Best Hotels In Cappadocia Turkey
Best Places To Visit In Turkey For Every Type Of Traveler
Incredible Black Sea Resorts
Hotels In Cappadocia Turkey
What To Pack For Turkey
5 Reasons To Visit Gallipoli, Turkey
How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia
Cappadocia Hot Air Ballon Ride Tips
Greek Island Day Trip From Southern Turkey
Turkish Hammam Tips To Know Before You Go

Comments (4)

Another scam that will happen on Istiklal – guy will walk up to you saying something in turkish. When you reply in english he’ll say “oh wow thought you were turkish! what are you up to? do you have a lighter? come to my friends’ bar with me let’s get a beer?” Or he’ll skip the turkish part if you don’t look turkish at all. They’re trying to get you to come to a buddy’s bar where they’ll strong arm you into paying 500$ for a couple beers

We used your site last year to plan our trip and found it so helpful. We found it again today after being scammed today in Istanbul by a shoeshiner. I just wanted to say thank you for helping people like us.

Can you give a link to popular group on social network exposing scamers in istanbul. I had an experience and have a photo of the guy and want to put him up for turists to void him on the Istikal Street. Thank you.

Oh I am sorry you had a bad experince. I hope you are ok. My favourite is this group https://web.facebook.com/groups/395098057757817 – it is called “ISTANBUL TRAVEL GUIDE”

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing

Sign In to Digit

Car Insurance
Two Wheeler/Bike Insurance
Commercial Vehicle Insurance
Taxi/Cab Insurance
Auto Rickshaw Insurance
Truck Insurance
Health Insurance
Super Top-up Health Insurance
Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
Corporate Health Insurance
Health Insurance Portability
International Travel Insurance
Shop Insurance
Home Insurance
Digit Life Insurance (clicking here will take you to Digit Life Website)

File a Claim

File health claim, file motor claim for garages, check health claim status, digit cashless garages, digit cashless hospitals, anywhere cashless hospitals, become digit posp, check pending challans, free credit score check, download digit policy, download digit app, marine open certificate issuance, grievance redressal procedure, irdai's call centre feedback survey.

हिंदी English

Our WhatsApp number cannot be used for calls. This is a chat only number.

More Products

International

Buy International Travel Insurance Policy Online

Popular Countries

Missed Call Facility

One-Day Adventure

Activities Covered

Terms and conditions apply*

{{travelCtrl.countriesList}} Edit

Most Popular (You can select more than one)

{{country}}

{{travelCtrl.startDate}} Edit

{{travelCtrl.endDate}} Edit

17 Common Tourist Scams in Turkey & How to Avoid Them

Some of the best places to visit in Turkey are its pristine beaches, cultural sites, shopping hotspots and cruise destinations. The key tourist attractions in this place cater to individuals with varied interests, especially those seeking adventure.

According to recent reports, nearly 44.6 million tourists travel to Turkey every year. Although most Turks are unbelievably honest, you will always find a few people with different intentions.

Instead of getting scared, it is best to be cautious to avoid falling for tourist scams in Turkey.

List of 17 Most Common Tourist Scams in Turkey

1. shoe shine scam.

One of the most common tourist scams in Istanbul, the shoe shine scam, is where a shoe polisher walking past you suddenly drops his brushes or box. As you help him pick the items up, he offers a free shoeshine.

You agree, and he polishes your shoes and chats innocently, distracting your thoughts. Finally, he provides you with an overpriced bill.

Common Around: Istanbul, Antalya and Cappadocia.

2. Fake Artefacts and Coins Scam

This popular tourist scam in Istanbul and other locations of Turkey is mostly found in historical and archaeological sites. Fraudsters will show you antique artefacts and coins, claiming them to be from the Byzantine era. They will insist you purchase these at a discounted rate.

Common Around: Istanbul, Antalya, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern and Cappadocia Underground Cities.

3. Turkish Carpets and Rug Scams

Turkish rugs and carpets are one of the common scams in Istanbul. Handmade Turkish carpets are a national symbol and popular souvenir, as tourists travelling here are eager to buy them.

However, scammers flood the market with fake and machine-made products claiming them to be originals and charging a lump sum.

Common Around: Grand Bazaar, Arasta Bazaar, and Sultanahmet are popular markets where these scams are common.

4. The Drink Scam

Probably one of the common tourist scams in Istanbul and surrounding areas, this scam is also very dangerous. A stranger approaches you suddenly and tries to be friendly with you. Then, they will invite you for a drink in a bar.

As you fall prey to this trap and end up drinking, they will serve you a bill of thousands of dollars.

Common Around: Bars, restaurants and eateries in and around Turkey.

5. Taxi Scam

Taxi scam is the biggest tourist scam in Istanbul, Turkey and many other places in the world. Taxi drivers pick up tourists from hotels or airports and claim huge amounts in bills. Often, if you produce cash, they deny having a change or neglect using a metre.

Common Around: Istanbul, Antalya, Dalaman and Konya.

6. Pickpocketing

This tourist scam in Turkey targets unsuspecting tourists in crowded streets and public transport. As you walk through a crowded area, you might suddenly get hit by another stranger who will pass by apologising. By then, this pickpocket has grabbed your valuables or cut your bags.

Common Around: Sultanahmet, Spice Bazaar in Istanbul, Taksim Square and the Grand Bazaar.

7. Currency Exchange Scam

One of the common tourist traps in Istanbul and other places in Turkey is the currency scam. As you visit the local shops in Turkey, a shopkeeper will invite you to have a look at his shop.

They will let you buy a product at a reasonable price. However, in reality, you will find them charging in Euros instead of Liras through the card machine.

Common Around: Most of the markets and local shops in Turkey.

8. Solo Traveller Scam

One of the popular tourist scams, Turkey also witnesses this dangerous fraudery mainly targeting solo travellers. A solo man or a woman is suddenly approached by a local who tries to be friendly. Then this person pretends to be in love with you, eventually scamming you.

These scams also extend to internet crime and fraud, where the scammer gets hold of your bank accounts and other personal details.

Common Around: Throughout Turkey.

9. Property/Hotel Scam

Many tourists travelling to Turkey are victims of such tourist scams in Turkey. These fraudsters fake hotel booking confirmations and track emails and hotel deals to scam customers.

They will ask you to pay in cash as you arrive at that place. As you rely on them and pay in cash, the next moment, they are unreachable.

10. Fake Policeman Scam

One of the popular Istanbul tourist scams is the fake policeman scam. You might experience a 'policeman' suddenly approaching you and asking for your wallet and passport. This is probably a scam where they will alter your passport or snatch money from you.

Common Around: Mainly the lonely alleys of the cities in Turkey.

11. Streetside Sellers Scam

One of the popular Istanbul street scams is when you are approached by people selling things in the tourist areas of Istanbul. These are random sellers in the street who do not have a proper stall and are likely to be selling roses and perfumes.

As soon as you purchase products, you will find them defective, and the sellers won't take them back.

Common Around: Tourist places in and around Istanbul.

12. Ticket Seller Scam

Avoid purchasing tickets for museums, tours, transport or popular tourist attractions from random people in the street. They might claim to sell the ticket at a discounted price. However, they are overcharging you or selling you a worthless ticket.

Common Around: Mostly in Istanbul and in museums and tourist attractions in Turkey.

13. Falling Simit Man Scam

Simit is a popular bread in Turkey, and you will find many people selling the same on the streets. In this scam, a person carrying a large plate of simit suddenly falls and pretends to be injured. As soon as you approach him to offer help, he will ask for money.

Common Around: Istanbul, Antalya, Dalaman and Konya

14. Photography Scam

In Turkey, you might suddenly find a stranger/local asking you to take your photograph. They will hand their camera to you. You click their picture and return it. Then, they will purposefully drop it and blame you for breaking their equipment, demanding you pay them.

Common Around: Istanbul and Antalya

15. Friendly ATM Helper Scam

One of the popular tourist scams in Turkey is the friendly ATM help scam. A person approaches you and tries to help you when they find you have an issue with the debit card.

However, their true intention is to note your credit or debit card details through a card skimmer, watch you enter your PIN details and empty your account later.

Common Around: Antalya, Istanbul and small ATM stores in Turkey.

16. Guessing Game Scam

As you walk down the streets of Turkey, you will find a person showing magic/games and a group of people surrounding him. One of the members guesses the magic or the correct answer, and he hands him a prize.

If you fall prey to such a situation, they will pick your pocket as you focus on the game.

Common Around: Antalya, Istanbul and Cappadocia

17. Distraction Scam

As you walk down the popular tourist spots and lonely alleys of the cities in Turkey, someone throws a white paste on your shoulder. You believe it is bird waste. Suddenly, a ‘friendly’ local offer to help you clean the waste. While they help you, they also pickpocket you.

Common Around: Antalya and Istanbul

How to Avoid Tourist Scams in Turkey?

It is essential to avail yourself of travel insurance to Turkey before you begin your journey. This will ensure your safety and also your finances if there is an unexpected occasion arising in a foreign country.

In case you lose your passport , get it replaced by the Indian embassy in Turkey.

Remember, old artefacts belong to the Republic of Turkey and will never be sold streetside. So, avoid such scammers politely.

Always avoid free shoe polishes and shines or someone approaching you and trying to be friendly.

Never take advice or suggestions from strangers about establishments/eateries worth trying out. You can find the best bars, cafés, and nightclubs on popular websites.

For a genuine Turkish carpet or a rug, it is ideal for searching the internet to find experienced and licenced dealers who have excellent reputations in dealing with such products.

Opt for licenced taxis or pre-paid taxi services. Moreover, research the route, the standard fares and your destination before opting for a taxi service.

Keep your wallet in the front pockets, wear your handbags close to you and within eyesight and carry backpacks on the front of your body.

Before paying for a product through your credit card, ensure the card machine is charging in Liras. To prevent confusion and scam, try to pay in cash.

Keep your debit/credit card in a secure place to avoid pickpocketing. Choose travel insurance with financial emergency cash cover that rescues you in emergencies.

Kindly refuse to take anyone's picture when anyone approaches you randomly with their mobile or camera.

Emergency Resources for Tourist Scams in Turkey

If you face any life-threatening or challenging situations when in Turkey, you can always contact the Turkey tourist police by dialling 0212 527 45 03.

Here are some more necessary contacts which are useful to have in case of any emergencies:

Police – 155

In case of medical treatment and ambulance assistance – 112

Loss of Children or Women – 183

Traffic – 154

Other Emergency Number – 112

Embassy of India, Ankara, Turkey - 00-90-312-4382195-98

These are some common tourist scams in Turkey that are also common in other foreign countries. However, Turkish authorities have tightened up the rules and regulations and enhanced communication for tourists. This has allowed tourists to contact emergency numbers as and when required.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

What Is Turkey Famous For

Turkey Visa for Indians

Turkish Citizenship for Indians

Medical Tourism In Turkey

Faqs about tourist scams in turkey, what should i do if i suspect a scam coming up.

Do not scare or get nervous if you suspect a scam coming up. Avoid their invitation right from the beginning. Once they understand you are not interested in striking up a conversation with them, they will never get rude or insult you as they are unable to trap you.

What is the other type of taxi scam prevalent in Turkey?

There are various forms of taxi scams prevalent in Turkey. In one such form, taxi drivers will say that they know the best route, drive you through traffic or the longest routes, and will compel you to pay a large amount of Liras. 

Is Istanbul in Turkey a safe place to visit?

Yes, Istanbul in Turkey is one of the safest places for tourism. You can avail of the Istanbul E-pass travel tips that will help you stay on budget and enjoy your trip in this place. When you visit this place, keep the local embassy and police station numbers handy in case you need them during an emergency.

How to prevent from falling prey to ticket scams in Turkey?

It is ideal for sticking to official ticketing offices when purchasing tickets. Moreover, if you use public transport in Turkey, only use the yellow ticket machines.

How to understand a man approaching you in Turkey and claiming as a policeman is true?

If you are unsure that a person asking for your passport is a police officer, ask for their ID too. Original policemen will never charge money from you on the street. Additionally, they will take you to a police station and fine you, but not on the streets.

Please try one more time!

Download International Travel Insurance Policy Wordings

Click here for Policy wordings

Get our app

Motor Insurance
Bus Insurance
Tractor Insurance
Commercial Van Insurance
Passenger Carrying Vehicle Insurance
Heavy Vehicle Insurance
Goods Carrying Vehicle Insurance
Commercial Vehicle Third Party Insurance
E-Rickshaw Insurance
Electric Car Insurance
Pay As You Drive
Electric Bike Insurance
Types of Motor Insurance
Comprehensive vs Zero Depreciation
Comprehensive Health Insurance
Wellness Benefits
Diabetes Health Insurance
Family Floater VS Individual Health Insurance
Health Insurance for Parents
Health Insurance Plans for Family
How to Lower Your Health Insurance Premium
Indemnity Health Insurance
Individual Health Insurance
Health Insurance Premium Calculator
Health Insurance Tax Benefits
Health Insurance for Senior Citizen
Health Insurance in Bangalore
Corona Health Insurance
Health Insurance covering Critical Illness
Family Floater Health Insurance
Third Party Bike Insurance
Comprehensive Bike Insurance
Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance
NCB in Two Wheeler Insurance
IDV Value Calculator for Bike
Cashless Bike Insurance
Add-on Cover in Bike Insurance
Bike Insurance Calculator
Own Damage Bike Insurance
Comprehensive vs Third Party Bike Insurance
Compare Bike Insurance
Royal Enfield Classic Insurance
Best Scooty in India
How to Transport a Bike by Train
Difference between Torque & BHP in Bikes
Car Insurance Calculator
Third Party Car Insurance
Comprehensive Car Insurance
Zero Depreciation Car Insurance
NCB in Car Insurance
IDV Calculator for Car
Bumper to Bumper Car Insurance
Own Damage Car Insurance
Comprehensive vs Third Party Insurance
Compare Car Insurance
Find Vehicle Registration Details Online
CNG Car Insurance
Own Damage Insurance
Popular Car Insurance
Car Segment Guide
What is RPM in Cars
Property Insurance
Fire Insurance
Burglary Insurance
Building Insurance
Office Insurance
Bharat Griha Raksha Policy
Bharat Laghu Udyam Suraksha Policy
Bharat Sookshma Udyam Suraksha Policy
Home Insurance for Home Loan
Pet Insurance
Mobile Insurance
Home Insurance Premium Calculator
Top Low-Investment Franchise Businesses in India
Assessing Officer of Income Tax Department
Identity Theft & Frauds
What is Financial Planning
Management Liability Insurance
General Liability Insurance
Fidelity Insurance
Professional Liability Insurance
Workmen Compensation Insurance
Money Insurance Policy
Sign Board Insurance
Plate Glass Insurance
Erection All Risk Insurance
Contractors' All Risks Insurance
Directors' and Officers' Liability Insurance
Marine Cargo Insurance
Contractors' Plant and Machinery Insurance
What is Micro-enterprise
Difference Between Trademark and Patent
Different Types of Industries
Machinery Breakdown Insurance
Non-Creamy Layer Certificate
Income Tax Calculator
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Calculator
HRA Exemption Calculator
BMI Calculator
Bike Loan EMI Calculator
EPF Calculator
Atal Pension Yojana Calculator
Personal Loan EMI Calculator
ULIP Calculator
Vehicle Road Tax Calculator
Online GST Calculator
SIP Calculator
80D Deduction Calculator
Human Life Value Calculator
Ovulation Calculator
Invoice Generator
PDF to JPEG Converter
Rent Receipt Generator
What is Credit Score
What is Public Provident Fund
What is Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
Property Tax Guides
Road Tax Guides
How to Apply for Reissue of Passport
Income Tax Slabs in India
What is Atal Pension Yojana Scheme
Everything about EPF
Financial Planning for Women
Financial Planning for Salaried Employees
Everything about NPS
ULIP vs Mutual Funds
What is Basic Salary
What is Professional Tax
Everything about Annuity
What is UPI Reference Number
QR Code Guides
Investment Guides
Aadhaar Card Guides
Is KYC Mandatory for Buying Insurance
Everything about GST
GST Registration in India
Types of Insurance
Types of General Insurance
Government Holidays in India
Indian Passport Rank
Visa Free Countries for Indians
Visa on Arrival for Indians
PAN Card Guides
Business Insurance Guides
Best Business Ideas
What is Custom Duty
What is Debenture
What is Nominal Account
How to Drive a Car
PUC Certificate
Vehicle Registration Certificate
New Traffic Fines
Fine for Driving without Helmet
Types of Driving Licence in India
Driving Licence in Delhi
Driving Licence in Bangalore
Driving Licence in Jaipur
Bangalore Traffic Fines
Pune RTO Fine
RTO Ahmedabad
RTO Bangalore
RTO Lucknow
RTO Chennai
Reasons for Visa Rejection
Check UK Visa Application Status
Schengen Travel Insurance
Thailand Travel Insurance
USA Travel Insurance
Dubai Travel Insurance
What Is Bangkok Famous For?
Best Countries to Visit in August
Best Beaches in the Maldives
How to Get PR in Australia
Countries with Easy Work Visa Process
Foriegn Embassies in India
Indian Embassies in Foriegn Countries
Travel Insurance covering Adventure Activities
Lost Your Passport When Travelling
Apply for Schengen Visa from India
Minimise the Cost of Travel Insurance
How to Get International Driving License
India Travel Guides
Student Travel Insurance
Family Travel Insurance
Digit Insurance Reviews
Car Insurance Reviews
Bike Insurance Reviews
Commercial Vehicle Insurance Reviews
Travel Insurance Reviews
Health Insurance Reviews
Mobile Insurance Reviews
General Insurance Agent
Health Insurance Agent
Motor Insurance Agent
Everything about DigiLocker
Bank Branch Locator
IFSC Code Finder
Excise Duty on Fuel in India
Which Fuel is Used in Aeroplane
Deductions & Exemptions Under the New Tax Regime
Cooling System in Automobiles
Importance of Motorcycle Helmets

CIN: U66010PN2016PLC167410, IRDAI Reg. No. 158.

Go Digit General Insurance Limited (formerly known as Oben General Insurance Ltd.) - Registered Office Address - 1 to 6 floors, Ananta One (AR One), Pride Hotel Lane, Narveer Tanaji Wadi, City Survey No.1579, Shivaji Nagar, Pune-411005, Maharashtra | Corporate Office Address - Atlantis, 95, 4th B Cross Road, Koramangala Industrial Layout, 5th Block, Bengaluru-560095, Karnataka | Trade logo of Go Digit General Insurance Ltd. displayed above belongs to Go Digit lnfoworks Services Private Limited and is provided and used by Go Digit General Insurance Ltd. under license.

Do not miss this opportunity

Sign up to Save Properties

By creating an account you agree on Property Turkey Terms of use and Privacy Policy

Sign in to Save Properties

Do not have an account? Signup

Find Your Ideal Home & Investment

Price range.

tourism in turkey , moving to turkey , life in turkey , culture Updated : 18 November 2020 Created : 20 August 2015

Common tourist scams to avoid in turkey, tourism in turkey , moving to turkey , life in turkey , culture by: cameron deggin, by: cameron deggin.

In every country, scams exist, and the common tourist scams in Turkey are no exception. This unfortunate fact is more prominent because scammers rely on tourists' lack of local knowledge. We can all be the target of potential frauds, and spotting who is honest and who isn’t is challenging because of various tactics used. But we firmly believe in paying attention to gut instinct.

If something seems suspicious, too good to be true, or has red flags, these are warning signs, so avoid get-rich-quick schemes, back off to protect your hard-earned cash. Also remember, 99.9% of hard-working and friendly locals are eager to help tourists, so do not let a malicious 0.01% ruin a trip. Arming yourself with knowledge, before travelling, though, is the best way to prevent an unwanted and upsetting incident. So, let’s look at what travellers need to know.

Common Tourist Scams in Turkey

1: shoe shine scam.

Most often occurring in major cities like Istanbul, the shoe shiner drops his box or brushes, and if you pick the items up for him, he offers a free shoeshine. So, you take a seat, and as he shines your shoes, chats innocently and casually mention extras included. Finally, they give an over-priced bill, and if you refuse to pay, his street colleagues join in and demand cash. Do not accept free shoe shines.

2: Fake Coins and Artefacts

Typically occurring at the entrance to archaeological and historical sites, Saint John’s basilica in Aegean Selcuk was a common site where this happened. Scammers show antique coins dating from the Byzantine or Roman periods and insist on a bargain price of only 500 USD. Sadly, the metal coins with low-grade engravings are no older than a few months and crafted in a workshop. Also remember, any artefact over 100 years old belongs to the Republic of Turkey. Officials have arrested foreigners at airports with artefacts later confirmed as fake. Politely decline and walk away.

3: Solo Male Traveller

The scammer approaches the solo male traveller to strike up a conversation. That person fakes an interest in shared hobbies such as football and suggests heading into a bar for drinks. Usually, women join them, and when the solo foreigner asks for his bill, it amounts to an outrageous amount like 1500 euros for four glasses and a bowl of peanuts. If you refuse to pay, heavy-hander bouncers suddenly appear to gain money forcibly and walk you to nearby bank machines. So be careful who you drink with, and who pretends to be a friend. Be aware they will still target travellers on the 4th or 5th occasion of meeting them.

4: Turkish Rug Scams and Fake Carpets

The handmade Turkish carpet is a national symbol and a popular holiday souvenir. Sometimes, they sell for thousands of pounds, depending on their size, age, and where they are from. Unfortunately, though, phoney scammers flood the Turkish market with Chinese fakes from machine factories. The most common version is the silk carpet sold as a Herke original. Some travellers paid thousands of dollars more than what the Chinese rug is worth. Even if a vendor produces a certificate, most of the time, it is means nothing. For a genuine Turkish carpet, research the internet to find licensed and experienced dealers with an excellent reputation—more about buying Turkish rugs and kilims.

5: The Common Currency Exchange

This often happens when buying items worth a lot of money, like jewellery, or leather, and is deliberately aimed to steal money. For example, you find something you want to buy, bargain about the price and finally, agree at 2000 Turkish lira. You hand over your credit card and the amount deducted is 2000 Euros. Always bargain and buy in the same currency, otherwise, know the current exchange rate. Also check the amount charged when entering PINs. Be wary when spending vast amounts of money and have your wits about you.

6: Restaurant Bills for Tourists

This happened to our group in a restaurant under Galata Bridge. Maybe it was an innocent mistake but something to watch out for, especially for unsuspecting large groups drinking alcohol. We asked for our bill, and two expensive fish dishes that we never ate were on there. Always check items listed on bills and ask to see the manager if there is any discrepancy. They lost out because once we discovered they were not a legitimate restaurant; we went elsewhere, and warned others.

7: Tricked by Taxi Drivers

In places like Istanbul, thousands of taxi drivers earn an honest living but the odd bogus one ruins their reputation. Common complaints include distracting the passenger so they can claim you gave them 5 lira instead of 50 lira. Sometimes they have no change or neglect to use the meter or agree on a set price before setting off. So, insist on a fixed price or they switch the meter on. Monitor money and if the cab driver claims he has no change, go into a nearby shop for change. Find out about the best Taxi apps in Turkey.

8: Romance and Online Dating Sites

Years ago, the common Turkish love rat swindle against women looking for love broke many hearts. Targeting divorced women on holiday, the Turkish man, strike up a relationship, pretends to love them and in later stages, invents fictitious stories of sick relatives and unpaid hospital bills. Hence, they would send money via Western Union or other money transfers. While these stories have decreased, the latest hoaxes focus on internet crime and fraud, and typically appear on online dating sites. Known as romance scams, women will also ask for money for plane tickets from lonely men, and once sent, they disappear. Many a duped person via text message or online dating scams, ends up heartbroken, so don’t send money to someone you haven’t met.

9: Real Estate Scam

This one doesn’t happen quickly, but over many months, by people posing as friends. Many people arriving in Turkey see how cheap the property is and want to get their feet on the housing ladder. They mention it to a few friendly locals, who seem convincing and reputable, but are just after cash. Because of lack of local knowledge, you rely on them and trust their advice, but after paying the money, do not own a property. The good news is this scam is easy to avoid. Always use a licensed estate agent, a legit solicitor, use notarised contracts and always send money to business accounts, not personal. Read about how to avoid a property scam .

Turkey Tourism Complaint Centre

Being scammed is a horrible experience that targets trust. Thankfully, thanks to the internet, avoiding scamming situations is easy. Turkish authorities also tightened up regulations and increased communication methods for tourists to report fraudsters. If a hotel carried out the fraudulent activity, report them to the Hotel Association of which they must be a member to operate. Likewise, for a travel agency. If the scam artist was a street vendor or shop, call the gendarme, Zabita or local police. Also check out the website ALO 176, mostly set up to handle with tourist swindles and where to file complaints and get advice about common tourist scams in Turkey.

About Us: We are Property Turkey, an investment and lifestyle agent for anyone looking to invest in the country. Our Blog about Turkey is full of advice for anyone who wants to travel, own a home, or live here permanently. From the shores of the Mediterranean to the rolling green plateaus of the North-east, check out our expert local knowledge in our blog, or follow us on Facebook to stay updated with news and developments from Turkey.

Subscribe To Our Media

Property enquiry.

Smartly priced seafront Homes Istanbul

Tourist SCAMS in Turkey and how to AVOID them

Tourist Scams in Turkey 2023 and how to avoid them

Turkey is a popular destination both for all-inclusive holiday makers and for solo adventure tourists. But like everywhere, where there are tourists, there will be people trying to take advantage and scam them.

Common Tourist Scams in Turkey

Taxi scam in turkey, istanbul scam in old city, bar tourist scam in istanbul turkey, tour guide scam in turkey, restaurant scam in istanbul, turkey, shoe shiner scam in istanbul, turkey, is turkey a safe country to travel.

After hearing there are so many types of scams in Turkey you must be wondering – am I going to be scammed every step of the way? Is it even safe to travel to Turkey? And I say “Yes, Turkey is just as safe for traveling, as Europe, for example”. I first travelled here, solo, in 2017 and was living in Turkey as a resident with my husband, who is also a foreigner here. So we are both foreigners and we find Turkey a very safe place to live.

So that’s the main thought I want you to take away after reading this article. But tourist scams happen even in the wealthiest and safest countries . So I collected all of my experiences, and my friends, and also other stories I read in expat groups. But don’t let these stories discourage you from travelling. Instead use this knowledge to feel more confident when travelling abroad.

Most of the common scams in Turkey happen in central areas of the city, where there are many tourists. For example, in Istanbul it’s Old city (square between Haya Sofia and Blue Mosque, and also around it). Those areas are of course a must see. But I personally recommend not staying in a hotel there. Instead visit it once and stay in a hotel somewhere else. My favorite place to stay in Istanbul is Kadikoy, especially Moda.

Just a heads up : some of the links on this blog may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission. But don’t worry, this doesn’t affect the price you pay and you may even get exclusive discounts and deals. By using these links, you’re supporting my blog and helping me to continue creating the content you enjoy. Thanks for your support!

Most common tourist scam around the world is taxi. And Turkey is no exeption.

Traffic in Istanbul is bad, it’s a very big city, road rage is common. Outside Istanbul it’s better, we did road trips and here in Antalya we had no problems with taxis at all.

Taxi scam is one of the most common, especially in Istanbul. In fact, when I was living there I tried avoiding taking taxis at all cost, especially in the city centre.

When you arrive at the airport , NEVER take the first taxi offered to you. Most cities have comfortable Havabus or an official airport taxi. It goes by the meter, but there is also a table with approximate prices.
In the city you will also see if taxi is official or not. Official taxi in Turkey is yellow with license plate number on the side.
NEVER agree on a fixed price. Always go by the meter. The taxi driver may tell you one price, and then at the end he will pretend you misheard him and name the price that will be much higher.
Always be aware of how much money you are giving to a driver. He may pretend you gave him a smaller banknote and don’t give you change. Or he will say that he doesn’t have change. Also check the change you’re getting. My friend recently got a fake 50TL in Istanbul from a driver.
Be aware of the route, make sure the taxi driver is taking the short one (suggested by Google). Once I had to take a taxi from the street in Beyoglu (central area in Istanbul). I had little time to get to the last ferry across Bosphorus (1AM). The driver most likely knew that and took me across the bridge, where tha boat piers were already closed. He knew the only one open is on the opposite side, but drove me to the wrong one, so I will be late and he can drive me all the way home (1,5 hour trip!). But because I was living in Istanbul at the time and knew where I need to go, I could stop him and got on a boat just in time.

Traffic in Istanbul is crazy, and it must be a very stressful job. Cars coming from all sides and rules are broken. Similar situation I saw in Tbilisi (Georgia) and in big cities in Asia (Like Bangkok).

But in Istanbul and other big cities in Turkey public transport is very efficient. Metro, tram, Ferry – they are modern, clean and comfortable, easy to use. And ferry is a very enjoyable ride, I totally recommend. Buy an IstanbulKart to save up on fees.

This scam in Istanbul, Turkey happens to tourists when they are visiting the famous Blue Mosque and Haya Sofia. These two mosques are must see for every tourist, also many hotels are located here. During high season the square between the mosques is very crowded, which makes it a perfect spot for scammers in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia. Istanbul tourist scam in Old city

I personally experienced this scam at least twice. You are resting on the bench, enjoying a view on Blue Mosque or Haija Sofia, or maybe even walking from one Mosque to the other. A man approaches you and says “Mosque is closed today”. But Mosques are open for visitors all the time, except for prayer times (you will have to wait a bit until the prayer is finished and then it’s possible to go inside again).

Just Ignore those scammers. Don’t even look at them, don’t engage at all. They can be persistent, but when they see you dont bite at all, they will eventually move on to their next victim.

To avoid being scammed in Istanbul, consider joining an organized tour or hire a local guide .

As a rule, whenever you are in a very touristy part of any city in the world, if someone approaches you out of nowhere and that person is super friendly, try not to engage. It doesn’t mean you can’t make friends while travelling. Or that everyone is out there to get you. Or everyone who offers help is a scammer.

For example, on my first ever trip to Istanbul, next to the airport I wanted to buy a transportation card from a machine to get on the bus to the city. The machine wouldn’t take my money and I had no other small banknotes. So the man next in line (I think he was Turkish) just put his own money into the machine, gave me the card and walked away without expecting in return.

Bar scam happens often to tourists in a particular area of Istanbul, Taksim square and Istiklal street. They are areas where there are a lot of bars frequented by tourists.

The targets are usually foreigners, one man or two men who go out to a bar. Often the scam begins with a man approaching and speaking Turkish to you. Then you say you do not understand and they switch to English, and say that they thought you are Turkish.

For the scammer the main goal is to build trust , so that you don’t think they are targeting you as a tourist. You would think that they just want to chat with someone in the bar.

But something that I personally noticed about Turkish people is that normally they go out in a group. It will be three, maybe four people together as friends. And there will be at least one or two women in that group.

But if you are approached by just one man who is alone in the bar, or maybe he will say he’s waiting for his friends, but now he’s alone. That should make you more suspicious towards that person. If that person offers to have a drink or two with you, and tell you that they know a better place, with better drinks, better atmosphere, better music, more beautiful women etc – It is best to refuse the offer .

Because what happens next, is that you will be ordering more drinks, and your new friend will be ordering more drinks. Maybe women will join you, and they will also order more and more drinks. And the total bill that you will see in the end will be quite high. The drinks themselves will be double/triple more expensive.

You will end up paying for the whole group, because your new friends will disappear and the women are expecting you to pay for them.

The best approach is not to get too drunk when you are going out by yourself and don’t trust a stranger right away when they approach you. Because usually that doesn’t really happen with Turkish people. They socialize within their own group and if you do meet someone, they are usually not alone.

This particular scam happened to us recently on a short trip to Side, Antalya. We had just arrived in the Old City and were looking around to see what we could explore. Immediately, a friendly man approached us and started talking. He said, “Oh, I know a place with an amazing view. Let’s go, I’ll show you.” He started walking, and we felt it would be rude to refuse, so we followed him.

Tour Guide scam in Turkey (Side, Antalya)

As time went on, it became harder and harder to tell him we wanted to explore on our own. We understood he was a guide and would likely ask for money, but he didn’t say anything about it right away, making it uncomfortable to refuse.

After about 10 to 15 minutes of walking and telling us historical facts, the tour guide finally asked for money. We felt tricked and pushed into it, which made us not want to pay him anything.

So the best approach with this kind of scam it Turkey is to ask right away if the person who approached you is a tour guide and if he will be asking for money, and how much. Then you can decide right away if you want the service and if you are ok with paying for it.

So now let’s talk about the scam that can happen in restaurants in Turkey. These days with the inflation, the prices in the restaurants are changing quite rapidly. We noticed, that they can change even every two weeks.

In the expat group on facebook I read about a scam that happened to people when they went to a restaurant in the Old City. They were given menus, they ordered, they had their meals, and then the actual bill was triple the price of what they were expecting.

So they asked for the menu to be brought again. And they saw that the prices are tripled from what they saw in the first menu. The manager explained it that they by mistake were given the old menu. And because the inflation now is so high, the prices are indeed triple from what they saw in the beginning. But that was simply not true.

And the person that was writing about this scam in Turkey said that the tripled prices were not reasonable at all.

So my recommendation, if you are going out for a dinner in a very touristy area, in Istanbul or Antalya, or other touristy cities in Turkey it might be useful to take a quick picture of the menu before they are taken away. So you know what kind of prices you are offered. And if at the end the prices change, you just don’t agree to it and pay the exact amount that was in the menu in the beginning.

Shoe Shiner scam is quite infamous in Turkey. It usually happens in Istanbul, in crowded areas, in touristy areas like Taksim and Istiklal street.

Shoe shiner, an old guy, is walking in front of you. And then suddenly he drops his brush, and it seems he is not noticing it. So out of the kindness of your heart you are picking it up, bringing it to him. He is so grateful, he wants to shine your shoes.

And you just don’t find it in yourself to refuse him. Then he does his job and asks a lot of money for it, something like a 100 Euro. And of course you were not expecting this. So you don’t really want to pay him. But he starts saying that he has grandchildren, he’s very sick, he really needs money to make you pity him and pay that money.

So my recommendation would be the same as before, when somebody approaches you – just ignore them. If you see someone dropped a brush, you pretend like you don’t notice it and just walk straight past it.

Turkey is a great country for travelers. It is in fact very safe , even for solo female travelers (I travelled and lived in Turkey many times solo!). For a fraction of a price that you would pay in Europe you are getting beautiful beaches, breathtaking views and gorgeous mountains.

They only common scam that almost every tourist experience is taxi scam, and everything else doesn’t happen very often.

So don’t let the scams in Turkey discourage you from traveling. If you start searching, there will be a list of scams in every country, even in your home country! Use the knowledge about scams to have the best travel experience!

Read More: Traveling in Turkey: Your Ultimate Guide to Must-See Destinations and Insider Tips

Do you want more FREE Travel Guides from me once a week? Subscribe to my Newsletter and you will be the first to know about the best destinations and hidden gems!

Ikamet: Turkey residence permit for 1 year. How I got it in Antalya

To stay in Turkey for a year, you need to get a Turkish residency permit – Ikamet. It is relatively easy to do. I got a tourist residency permit. Which means I am not allowed to work or start a business in Turkey.

The Ultimate Guide to Izmir, Turkey. Things to see, where to stay, public transport and taxi

Izmir, Turkey: Where to stay, Things to see, Public transport

Izmir is the 3rd biggest city in Turkey with over 3 million people living there. It is about 1 hour flight from Istanbul. Izmir does not have a beach, but there are so many things to see and to do, that you can easily spend a week there, exploring the city.

New Istanbul Airport: personal review and practical information

New Istanbul Airport: Travel Guide and Personal Review

New Airport in Istanbul has a name which is simple and clear: Istanbul Airport (name in Turkish: İstanbul Havalimanı). It was opened at the end of 2018 and replaced Ataturk Airport completely in 2019. In this Istanbul Airport Guide you will find essential information: airport map, where to find ATMs and money exchanges, how to…

3 DAYS IN ISTANBUL: Best things to do if you have never been there before

3 DAYS IN ISTANBUL, TURKIYE: Best things to do if you have never been there before

First of all: 3 days are nowhere near enough for Istanbul if this is your first time. But you have to work with what you got and make the best of it, so here you will find advice from someone who both was a tourist once and a resident. I will not give you in-depth historical references here, we’ve got Wikipedia for that.

ISTANBULKART: ISTANBUL PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION CARD: price, where to buy, get refund

ISTANBULKART: Istanbul Public Transportation Card: price in 2023, where to buy, get refund

Istanbulkart is the most convenient way to pay for all kinds of public transportation in Istanbul. It helps locals and tourists save money and avoid taxi scams in Istanbul, Turkey. How and where to buy this card, how much it costs and how to use Istanbulkart? I will try to give you all the information…

How Much Lira for a Week in Turkey 2023: Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling on a budget it’s essential to have an idea of how much Lira is needed for a week in Turkey.

Istanbul, Turkey in May. What to see, Prices for tourists

Istanbul remains the most popular for tourists city in Turkey. People love and hate it here, some people dream of living in Istanbul, while others vouch to never step foot here again. It’s a city that stirs strong emotions in people, with its vibrant culture, rich history, and bustling energy.

Best Boutique Hotels in Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi)

For first-timers, a Boutique Hotel in Old Town of Antalya is one of the best choices. Also known as Kaleici, it is a captivating neighborhood that showcases the rich history and vibrant culture of Antalya, Turkey. With its cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to this picturesque area.

Izmir, Turkey: Where to stay, Things to see, Public transport

The Ultimate Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide: Top Things to See

From towering skyscrapers to historical landmarks, and from bustling markets to serene natural beauty, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Kuala Lumpur. In this travel guide, we’ll explore some of the top tourist attractions that you won’t want to miss on your next trip to this amazing city.

What Are Common Scams Targeting Tourists In Turkey?

Imagine yourself exploring the vibrant streets of Turkey, embracing the rich culture, captivating history, and delectable cuisine. However, amidst the excitement and awe, it is essential to be aware of common scams that often target unsuspecting tourists. From fake tour guides to overpriced souvenirs, this article sheds light on the prevalent scams in Turkey, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this beautiful country with confidence and avoid any unfortunate surprises.

Table of Contents

1. Taxi Scams

1.1. overcharging.

One common taxi scam in Turkey is overcharging. Some dishonest taxi drivers may try to take advantage of tourists by charging them inflated prices for their rides. They may not use the meter or manipulate it to show a higher fare. This can result in tourists paying significantly more for their taxi rides than they should.

To avoid falling for this scam, it is important to always insist on using the meter and to be aware of the average prices for taxi rides in the area. If a driver refuses to use the meter or demands an unusually high fare, it is best to find another taxi or negotiate a fair price before getting in the car.

1.2. Taking Longer Routes

Another taxi scam to be cautious of is when drivers take longer routes than necessary. This is done to increase the fare and make more money from unsuspecting tourists. It is especially common in areas where tourists are less familiar with the local streets and landmarks.

To protect yourself from this scam, it is advisable to have a map or GPS device handy to track the route. If you notice the taxi driver deviating from the most direct path, politely question the route or ask them to follow a specific route you know. If they continue to take a longer route, consider speaking up or finding an alternative means of transportation .

1.3. Broken Meters

Another dishonest practice by some taxi drivers is using broken meters. They may claim that the meter is not working and then charge an arbitrary amount for the ride. This allows them to overcharge tourists without any method of verifying the fare.

To avoid falling victim to this scam, always check the meter before getting into a taxi. If the meter appears broken or the driver claims it is not working, it is best to refuse the ride and find another taxi. It is also helpful to take note of the taxi’s identification number, which can be found on the windshield, in case you need to report any issues.

2. Currency Exchange Scams

2.1. false exchange rates.

Currency exchange scams often involve offering tourists unfavorable exchange rates. Some exchange offices may advertise attractive rates, but once you arrive, they will give you a much lower rate than what was advertised. This allows them to profit by taking advantage of tourists’ lack of familiarity with local currency values.

To protect yourself from this scam, it is recommended to research the current exchange rates and compare them with the rates offered by different exchange offices. It is best to exchange your money at reputable banks or exchange offices that clearly display their rates and fees.

2.2. Sleight of Hand

Another common currency exchange scam is sleight of hand. In this scam, the exchange office employee may quickly switch bills or count fewer bills than what they claim to have given you. They rely on distraction and slight of hand techniques to deceive tourists and make them believe they have received less money.

To avoid falling for this scam, it is advisable to carefully count your money before leaving the exchange office. If you suspect any discrepancies, calmly and assertively address the issue, and if necessary, involve local authorities or nearby witnesses.

2.3. Unofficial Exchanges

Unofficial currency exchanges operate outside of established institutions and may offer higher rates or more convenience. However, there is a significant risk of falling victim to a scam. These unauthorized exchanges often involve counterfeit currency or other fraudulent practices, putting tourists at risk of financial loss.

To avoid being scammed by unofficial exchanges, it is best to only use authorized banks and exchange offices. They offer security and are more likely to provide fair rates. It’s important to remember that the convenience or potential gains from using unofficial exchanges are not worth the risk of losing your money.

3. Carpet and Jewelry Scams

3.1. overpriced items.

Some scams targeting tourists in Turkey involve the sale of overpriced carpets and jewelry. These items are often marketed as authentic and of high value, but in reality, they may be mass-produced or of poor quality. Unscrupulous sellers will inflate prices to take advantage of tourists’ desire for unique souvenirs.

To avoid falling for this scam, it is important to research market prices and know the true value of the items you are interested in purchasing. Also, be cautious if a seller seems overly pushy or offers discounts that seem too good to be true. Consider purchasing from reputable stores that are recommended by locals or fellow travelers.

3.2. Fake Certificates

In addition to overpriced items, some sellers may provide fake certificates of authenticity for carpets and jewelry. These certificates are meant to create the illusion of genuine, valuable items when they are, in fact, counterfeit or of low quality. This scam can lead tourists to pay a hefty price for items that have no real value.

To protect yourself from this scam, it is essential to be cautious when a seller offers certificates of authenticity. Research authentic certificates for the specific item you are interested in and look for telltale signs of forgery or counterfeit documents. It’s always best to purchase from reputable sellers who are transparent about the origins and quality of their products.

3.3. Pressure Sales Tactics

Another common scam employed by carpet and jewelry sellers is the use of pressure sales tactics. They may create a sense of urgency or employ aggressive techniques to convince tourists to make a purchase. This can lead tourists to make impulsive decisions and ultimately overpay for items they may not even want.

To avoid falling victim to this scam, it is important to maintain a confident and assertive demeanor when dealing with aggressive sellers. Take your time to consider your options, compare prices, and trust your instincts. Remember that you have the right to walk away if the sales tactics become too pushy or uncomfortable.

4. Guided Tour Scams

4.1. hidden fees.

Some guided tour operators in Turkey may advertise low prices, but once the tour begins, they may add hidden fees for various services or activities. These fees can significantly inflate the overall cost of the tour and catch tourists off guard.

To protect yourself from this scam, it is crucial to thoroughly read and understand the tour’s terms and conditions before booking. Look for any mention of additional fees or charges that may be added during the tour. Consider choosing reputable tour operators with transparent pricing and positive reviews from other travelers.

4.2. Incomplete Itineraries

Another potential scam in guided tours is an incomplete itinerary. Some operators may promise to take you to specific attractions or landmarks, but then omit certain stops or rush through them. This leaves tourists feeling disappointed and cheated out of the full experience they were promised.

To avoid falling for this scam, research the attractions and landmarks included in the tour beforehand. If something is missing or not addressed in the itinerary, ask the tour operator for clarification. Consider reading reviews or seeking recommendations from fellow travelers who have taken the same tour to ensure that the itinerary is comprehensive and fulfilled as promised.

4.3. Pushy Tour Guides

Pushy tour guides can negatively impact the overall experience of a guided tour. They may pressure tourists to buy unnecessary souvenirs or participate in additional activities to earn extra commissions. This can create a stressful environment and ruin the enjoyment of the tour.

To mitigate the risk of encountering pushy tour guides, consider choosing tours operated by reputable companies with positive customer reviews. Additionally, it is helpful to set clear boundaries with the guide from the beginning. Communicate your preferences and make it known that you are not interested in any high-pressure sales tactics.

5. Restaurant Scams

5.1. menu manipulation.

Restaurant scams often involve manipulating menus to deceive tourists into paying higher prices. Some establishments may have multiple versions of the menu, with inflated prices for tourists. They may also omit prices for certain items, only revealing the high cost at the time of payment.

To avoid falling for menu manipulation scams, it is advisable to research restaurants and read reviews from other customers. If possible, ask locals for recommendations to ensure you are dining at establishments with fair pricing and quality food . Also, be sure to carefully read the menu, paying attention to prices and any additional charges mentioned.

5.2. Fake Service Charges

Another common restaurant scam is the addition of fake service charges to the bill. Some establishments may include a service charge that is neither customary nor disclosed upfront. This allows them to charge more for the meal without the customer’s knowledge or consent.

To protect yourself from this scam, it is important to check the bill carefully before paying. If you notice any unexpected charges, question the server or speak to the manager about it. Being aware of common tipping practices in the country can also help you identify fraudulent service charges.

5.3. Bait and Switch

Bait and switch scams can occur in restaurants when a dish or ingredient is advertised, but then a lower quality or different alternative is served. This deceptive practice aims to entice tourists with attractive descriptions, only to disappoint them with a subpar product.

To avoid falling for this scam, it is advisable to manage your expectations and read reviews or seek recommendations from locals or experienced travelers. If a particular dish is advertised prominently, don’t hesitate to ask the server for more information about the ingredients or preparation. If the dish doesn’t meet your expectations, consider discussing it with the restaurant staff or trying a different establishment next time.

6. Street Vendor Scams

6.1. counterfeit goods.

Street vendors selling counterfeit goods is a prevalent scam in tourist areas. These vendors may offer items such as designer clothing, accessories, or even electronic devices at extremely low prices. However, these products are usually poor imitations or outright fakes.

To protect yourself from this scam, be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Remember that genuine designer items at significantly reduced prices are unlikely to be found at street markets . Research the authentic features of the items you are interested in purchasing and familiarize yourself with the prices to avoid being tricked by counterfeit goods.

6.2. Pickpocketing Distractions

Pickpocketing is an unfortunate reality in many tourist destinations, and Turkey is no exception. Some street vendors may work together with pickpocketers to create distractions, such as overly enthusiastic sales pitches or sudden commotions. While tourists are focused on the spectacle, their belongings may be stolen without them even realizing it.

To minimize the risk of falling victim to this scam, always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Use bags with secure closures and distribute your valuables across multiple pockets or compartments. Avoid engaging too deeply with street vendors if you feel uncomfortable or suspect foul play.

6.3. Aggressive Selling

Aggressive selling tactics are frequently employed by street vendors to pressure tourists into buying their products. They may become persistent, follow you closely, or even grab your arm in an attempt to make a sale. This can create an uncomfortable and intimidating experience for tourists.

To avoid being overwhelmed by aggressive street vendors, it is essential to remain confident and assertive. Politely but firmly decline their offers and continue walking. Avoid making eye contact or engaging in lengthy conversations that might encourage them. If necessary, seek assistance from local authorities or nearby business owners to ensure your safety .

7. Public Transportation Scams

7.1. ticket overcharging.

Ticket overcharging is a common public transportation scam in Turkey. Some ticket sellers or even fellow travelers may try to charge tourists higher fares for public transportation than what is actually required. This can happen on buses, trams, or other forms of public transit.

To protect yourself from this scam, always research the standard fare rates for public transportation in Turkey. It is also advisable to carry small bills or change to avoid giving larger amounts of money that could be pocketed by dishonest sellers. If someone tries to overcharge you, calmly assert that you know the correct fare amount or seek assistance from a transportation official.

7.2. Fake Tickets

In addition to ticket overcharging, tourists should be aware of the risk of purchasing fake tickets for public transportation. Scammers may sell counterfeit tickets or passes that appear genuine but are actually invalid. This can result in wasted money and inconvenience when attempting to use public transportation.

To minimize the risk of falling for this scam, it is advisable to purchase tickets from authorized vendors or ticket booths. Avoid buying tickets from individuals who approach you directly or sellers who are not affiliated with the transportation authority. Look for security features on the tickets, such as holograms, that indicate their authenticity.

7.3. Unauthorized Guides

In popular tourist areas, unauthorized individuals may approach tourists, posing as official tour guides or transportation assistants. They may offer to guide tourists through crowded areas or help them navigate public transportation. However, their intentions may not be genuine, and they may demand payment for their services or try to pickpocket unsuspecting tourists.

To avoid falling for this scam, it is best to rely on authorized guides or transportation staff. If someone approaches you claiming to be an official guide, ask for identification or seek assistance from uniformed personnel. Avoid sharing personal information or valuables with unauthorized individuals and use your own judgment when deciding who to trust.

8. Hotel Scams

8.1. double booking.

Double booking is a scam in which a hotel accepts reservations for the same room from multiple guests. When all the guests arrive, the hotel claims that there has been a mistake and that the room is no longer available. This leaves tourists stranded without accommodation and in need of last-minute alternatives.

To protect yourself from this scam, it is advisable to book your hotel through reputable websites or directly with the hotel. Keep a copy of your reservation confirmation and ensure that the hotel has received it before your arrival. If you encounter any issues at check-in, remain calm and insist on resolving the situation or finding suitable alternative accommodation.

8.2. Hidden Fees

Hidden fees can be an unwelcome surprise for tourists staying in hotels. Some establishments may add unexpected charges, such as resort fees or fees for amenities that were thought to be included in the room rate. This can lead to a substantial increase in the overall cost of the stay.

To avoid falling victim to hidden fees, it is important to carefully read the terms and conditions of the hotel reservation before booking. Look for any mention of additional charges or fees that may be imposed during your stay. If in doubt, contact the hotel directly to confirm the total cost and inquire about any potential hidden fees.

8.3. Fake Ratings

Some hotels may artificially inflate their online ratings by posting fake positive reviews or suppressing negative ones. This can mislead tourists into booking accommodations that do not live up to their expectations or standards.

To minimize the risk of falling for this scam, it is recommended to read a variety of reviews from different sources when researching hotels. Look for consistent patterns in reviews and check whether the hotel responds to customer feedback. Consider booking accommodations that have a substantial number of recent, detailed, and genuine reviews to ensure that you make an informed decision.

9. Fake Police Scams

9.1. fake id checks.

Scammers posing as police officers may approach tourists and ask to see their identification, passports, or other documents. These fake police officers can exploit tourists by demanding bribes, threatening fines, or even stealing personal information.

To protect yourself from this scam, always ask for proper identification from anyone claiming to be a police officer. Genuine officers should have identifiable uniforms and badges. If you are unsure about the legitimacy of the situation, calmly and firmly request to go to the nearest police station to address the issue. Do not hand over your identification or personal documents unless you are confident that you are dealing with a legitimate law enforcement officer.

9.2. False Fines

Fake police officers may accuse tourists of committing a violation or offense and demand an immediate fine. They may claim that the fine can be resolved by paying them directly, without providing any official documentation or receipt.

To avoid falling for this scam, it is important to know and understand the local laws and regulations . Familiarize yourself with the proper procedures for handling fines, such as paying at an official police station or through established legal channels. If someone claiming to be a police officer approaches you with a fine, ask for official documentation and insist on following proper procedures.

9.3. Impersonation

Impersonating police officers allows scammers to exploit tourists’ trust and authority. They may wear convincing uniforms and use intimidating tactics to gain control over unsuspecting tourists. This can lead to stolen belongings, financial losses, or potential threats to personal safety.

To protect yourself from this scam, remember that genuine police officers will have proper identification and credentials. If you are approached by someone claiming to be a police officer but are unsure, it is advisable to seek assistance from nearby locals, legitimate law enforcement officers, or go to the nearest police station. Trust your instincts and do not hesitate to take measures to ensure your safety.

10. Souvenir Scams

10.1. cheap imitations.

Souvenir scams often involve the sale of cheap imitations masquerading as authentic and valuable items. Tourists may be enticed by seemingly great deals on items such as rugs, ceramics, or traditional crafts , only to discover that they are of poor quality or made in mass quantities.

To avoid falling for this scam, it is important to research the original prices and quality of the souvenirs you are interested in purchasing. Educate yourself about the materials, craftsmanship, and distinct features of genuine items to identify fakes. Consider purchasing from reputable vendors who source their goods from trusted artisans or cooperatives.

10.2. Misrepresentation of Authenticity

Some sellers may try to misrepresent the authenticity of souvenirs to command higher prices. They may claim that the items are handmade by local artisans or have historical significance. In reality, these claims may be exaggerated or completely false.

To protect yourself from this scam, ask the seller for detailed information about the item’s origin, materials, and the artisan who created it. If possible, verify the information independently before making a purchase. Additionally, consider seeking recommendations from locals or fellow travelers to find reputable sellers who are unlikely to misrepresent the authenticity of their products.

10.3. Price Inflation

Price inflation is another common scam involving souvenirs. Some sellers may inflate prices when dealing with tourists, assuming that they are more willing to pay higher amounts for mementos from their trip.

To avoid falling victim to price inflation, it is advisable to research the average prices of souvenirs in the area before making any purchases. The more familiar you are with the fair market value, the better equipped you will be to negotiate or detect overpriced items. Bargaining is often expected in certain markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate and try to secure a more reasonable price for the souvenir you desire.

As a tourist in Turkey, it is important to be aware of common scams and take preventative measures to protect yourself from falling victim to them. By staying informed, conducting research, and trusting your instincts, you can enjoy a safe and memorable travel experience free from the deceit of scammers. Remember, friendly locals, reputable businesses, and fellow travelers can be valuable resources in providing guidance and recommendations to help you navigate the potential pitfalls of traveling in Turkey.

What Are The Best Mobile Apps For Navigating Turkey?
What Are The Best Resources For Up-to-Date Travel Alerts For Turkey?
How To Respect Local Customs And Laws While Traveling In Turkey?
How Safe Is It To Travel In Turkey Right Now?
How Does Travel Insurance Work In Turkey?
How To Stay Connected With Loved Ones While Traveling In Turkey?

Istanbul Insider

Istanbul travel guide and advice by locals.

How To Spot and Avoid Common Istanbul Tourist Scams?

Istanbul, just like every world city, has to cope with its typical tourist scams. Although most Turks are unbelievably honest and would go the extra mile to help you rather than rip you off, in a city with well over 18 million inhabitants, you’ll always find a few people with different intentions. This shouldn’t scare you, on the contrary. Compared to other world cities, Istanbul has fewer tourist traps, and thanks to this post you will be able to spot and avoid these Istanbul tourist scams easily. Once you’re done, don’t forget to check out how to prevent popular Istanbul taxi scams , too.

Pickpocketing is only one of the few Istanbul tourist scams you can experience.

The Setting

Before I dive into the details of each different Istanbul tourist scam, keep the following in mind:

Most of these rip-offs occur in Istanbul’s very touristic, crowded and/or busy places, e.g. Sultanhamet Square, Istiklal Caddesi, Cumhurriyet Caddesi, Taksim Square and its surrounding streets. Therefore, you are less likely to come across scams in residential areas such as Cihangir.
Their preferred targets are tourists travelling alone (Let’s Have a Drink) or in very small groups
If you suspect a scam coming up and don’t accept their invitation right from the start, they will never get rude or insult you, and just move on

Let’s Have a Drink

Goal — Get you to enter one of their bars with overpriced drinks and underdressed women. The result is always the same: you end up with a huge bill, often into hundreds of Euros.

Target — Single white men

Set-up — A well-dressed man, fluent in English, approaches you and tries to start a conversation. If you’re a smoker he’ll ask you for a lighter (and if you pay close attention, you may even notice him throwing away a burning sigarette seconds earlier). If you’re not, then he may just walk up to you. And even if you’re sitting alone at a terrace table, he may sit down at the table next to you and start a conversation this way. Regardless of his approach, the conversation will always lead in the same direction: whether you would like to join him for some after work drinks in a great place (of a friend of his) that he knows.

How to Avoid — Never take advice from complete strangers about establishments worth trying out. You’ll find a nice selection of the best cafés, bars and nightclubs on this site. Just tell him you’re waiting/meeting with two or three other friends and are not interested. Right from the start decline his invitation and move on. Don’t promise ‘tomorrow’, because he may keep on trying his chance for days to come.

Carpet or Leather Shop

Goal — Get you to buy goods in shops he works for, and where you with near certainty won’t get the best bargain.

Target — Anybody wandering around in Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar

Set-up — A very friendly guy, fluent in several languages, will ask if you are lost and need some help in locating some of the sightseeing spots and/or Grand Bazaar shops. And as he ‘guides’ you, he’ll pass some of his shops and remember he had to drop something off. He will of course invite you in to meet his family member(s). Before you know it, you’ll be drinking tea, listening to how only they still make quality leather or carpets, and why you should buy something there. If you manage to keep your wallets closed, he promises to take you to the place you were actually looking for … and the whole procedure starts again.

How to Avoid — When people offer to guide you around, be aware. Instead, if you’re really lost, you take the initiative by asking someone.

Pickpocketing

Goal — Steal your wallet or other valuables.

Target — Careless tourists.

Set-up — None! Any crowded street, public transport, or place will do.

How to Avoid — Just like any Turk, keep your wallet in the front pockets of your pants, wear your handbags within eyesight and carry back-packs on the front of your body. Make sure all the zippers are properly closed. Also, never leave bags or other valuables such as mobile phones, iPods, etc. unattended on (terrace) tables or easy to grab for bypassers.

Picture of mobile shoe shine in Istanbul, Turkey.

Goal — Talk you into getting a shoe shine (for free) and overcharge you afterwards.

Target — Singles, couples, small families or groups

Set-up — They have mainly two tricks up their sleeve to get them to polish your shoes. Either they walk past you and drop their brush on one of your shoes, or they walk in front of you and drop their brush hoping you would pick it up and hand it to him. The result for both cases is the same: to apologize or as a token of gratitude, they start shining your shoes. While you think it’s for free, he’ll demand you to pay much more than the price of a regular shoe shine. If you start arguing, more of his ‘colleagues’ will show up to back him up.

How to Avoid — Don’t pick up the brush and just keep on walking. In case the brush fell on your shoe, tell him that it’s ok and move on. Having said this, there are plenty of legitimate shoe shines in Istanbul doing a great job. They normally don’t move around and ask between 5 and 10 TL. Agree on the price beforehand — for both shoes! (another trick)

Restaurants 1

Goal — Overcharge tourists.

Target — Unaware tourists.

Set-up — They offer tourists a different price list (in their own language) than locals, with prices significantly higher than they would charge locals.

How to Avoid — Compare the Turkish price list with the one you got, but if nobody in your group speaks Turkish, it’s pretty difficult to do. Make sure to have a good look at the price list, and compare it with the same dishes at similar establishments. Only enter if it looks reasonable for what you anticipate to get.

Restaurants 2

Goal — Make you pay for things you didn’t order (but consumed).

Target — Unaware hungry tourists.

Set-up — This mostly happens in restaurants specifically geared towards tourists. You and your friends are hungry and tired, sit down, flip through the menu and order your meal, not really paying attention to what’s included and what’s not. You also order a few beers, for example. If you don’t specify which beer brand you prefer, surely he’ll bring you the more expensive Miler than instead of the cheaper local Efes. While waiting for your food, the waiter brings your aperitifs and puts some nuts or bread on the table. Besides the ordered drinks, he also pour everyone a glass of water. Hungry as you are, everyone digs in and consumes the bread and plate of nuts, thinking this is complementary. Of course you’ll find those items on your bill later on. The same with “can I happen some more french fries, please?” This more often than not will be jotted down as an extra portion.

How to Avoid — Pay close attention to what you’re ordering, and when in doubt specifically ask the waiter what comes with the dish and what you need to order extra. Also be very specific while ordering, and be sure to immediately send back anything you didn’t order and without touching or trying it.

Goal — Overcharge you for the ride.

Target — Anybody

Set-up — Traffic jams, short cuts, etc.

How to Avoid — Check out Tips To Prevent Popular Istanbul Taxi Scams .

Further Recommended Reading

How to Bargain Like a Pro in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and Elsewhere
Tips To Prevent Popular Istanbul Taxi Scams
Fresh Fish in Istanbul – How to Pick and Order a Nice One

Birol Ozturk says

March 14, 2024 at 6:50 pm

I was in kusadasi and decided to stop at an atm for cash. I put my card in but it got stuck. The screen didnt register my card. I could see the card but I couldnt reach it. A local who was standing on the corner asked me if I needed help. I said my card is stuck. He said it happens all the time. Just put ur pin number in and it will come out. I said it wont cos the computer is not showing it has my card.He was insisting again and again. So I pressed 0000 which isnt my number.Of course nothing happened. He said come back 2moro morning and the bank will give it to u. He walked back to the corner. I remained there for a few minutes with the guy nearby. He came back and I said to him I wont be leaving till I get my card.He pulled out his atm card turned it around so the raised numbers were facing downward and put it in the atm and pulled my card out. Gave it to me and walked away. If he saw my pin number he would of waited till I was gone and hot my card and withdraw my money. Now I will only use atms overseas during the day when the banks are open.

Federico says

July 30, 2023 at 5:44 pm

Hi, me and my girlfriend are visiting Istanbul and we just experience something suspicious.

We got stopped in Galata by a young girl claiming she was a student doing a school project, and because of this she was selling newspaper to pay for her studies. We asked how much was it and she said free offer, it all sounded legit but something was off and we kindly refused and left.

Just few moments after we noticed a guy was chasing us, he had a bad look, we stopped and changed directions a couple of times and he kept following, so we took a turn and ran, when we stopped and looked at him straight in the face he understood we were aware of him chasing us so he turned around and walked off.

Now, i don’t know if the two episodes are linked but i feel they are. We are not sure what the guy wanted from us but be extra careful when someone stops you.

May 28, 2023 at 2:31 pm

Are the girls using real pictures in the social escort website and is it safe to visit one?

Erlend says

May 28, 2023 at 8:56 pm

Really wouldn’t know.

Serdar says

July 27, 2023 at 5:38 pm

No, If you are not local I wouldn’t risking trying to visit a escort my guy. It is not thailand it is istanbul. You can either get beaten and taken all your money or you can get arrested by undercover cops because it is illegal.

October 1, 2023 at 12:29 pm

How any of the subway one not mentioned is beyond me

Ralph Bétand says

March 20, 2023 at 11:31 pm

I can also report a new one. At midnight in January, a well dressed guy passed by in front of the Airbnb where I have been living in Istanbul and asked me if I speak French (which I do).

He pretended to be French, and said his wallet was stolen, and he needs money, to avoid sleeping in the streets. Since he got really(!) aggressive (stating that he would kill the next person who who would not help him) and due to the fact that he knew where I have been living at that time, I just gave him the money. Moreover, he played his role so well (many details of the story etc.) that I partly want to trust him. In the end I gave him 100€.

At last, He wanted to meet me again the day after in order to give me the money back via Western Union „from his cousin in England“, who would send 350€, for him And me. In this case, I realised that it is a scam: They send you a check which is to „evaluated“ by Western Union. In the end, you get cash, but the back wants it back.

This one was special concerning the heavy psychological threat, which I at least reported to the police which has been investigating the case.

— Do not give money to strangers, don‘t start conversations, just walk by and do not take money by Western Union from strangers —

Scott Barrie says

March 14, 2023 at 11:00 pm

If I may share my story as it has happened to me only an hour ago and I’m safely back at my hotel:

I’m absolutely upset with this as normally I check out scams to countries that I visit but because I have been to Turkey (Antalya) the locals were very nice there so I never felt I needed to check.

So I am staying in a hotel on the west side of Istanbul where a lot of people coming over for medical appointments stay. I was walking around the hotel vicinity when a guy asked where I was from and I of course said England, then he started talking about where he is from.

He said there was a great bar with british people just down the road and did I want to have a drink, i initially said no thanks as I was looking for somewhere to eat. Not finding anything to local to eat i headed back to the hotel and there he was again, this time he was more convincing that we should go. I don’t even drink but thought we’ll I guess one drink would be fine…..Wrong !!

Same script as everyone else, two underdressed girls at the bar (Russian) and we ordered a beer each and he invited them over. 3 beers and 3 drinks each for the girls equated to TL 18000, I sunk in my seat trying to work that out in pounds and of course this guy was frogmarched to the cash machine first (now looking back he didn’t get any money out) then I was too. My card only let me take out TL4000 and I had about TL1000 in my pocket and I said that’s your lot !! He said come back inside and have a whiskey which I politely declined and legged it.

Like I said, this has happened just an hour ago from writing this and I’m absolutely beside myself. I still have 3 days here and I just feel I can’t leave the hotel in fear of more scams. Turkey, you have let me down and it’s people and I won’t return again.

Dennis says

March 7, 2023 at 2:53 am

I had the same experience in taksim square. I a guy approached me asking for a lighter and started conversation. He said he is a civil engineer and that he has a fiance. He speaks very fluent English so that he is also traveling alone just like me. We ended up in a club and met 2 russian girls in the club. Champagne was ordered for the girls twice. I ended up paying £900 which is supposed to be split by two of us. I felt so stupid for wanting to have a good company for the night. Be careful when traveling alone in Istanbul. Never again. I should have read this scam earlier.

Jackie says

February 25, 2023 at 10:23 am

Visited Istanbul few years ago and got scammed by a taxi driver. Took a taxi and he stopped below a dimly lighted bridge, telling us he is avoiding traffic and asked us to walk up instead. When paying, he did the note swap scam on us. First time, we figured it was our mistake. Second time, we were kind of shocked from the first time so we paid. He did it a third time, then we realized we were getting scammed. Exited the cab and slammed the door on him.

Fast forward last month.. arrived at the airport and took a cab down to the city. After a bad experience previously Decided to book though an app this time. When we arrived at the airport, we booked on the app. First few rides were cancelled by the drivers. Finally, a driver asked us to go to a certain area for get the cab. Did not realize that we were being followed by another individual behind. When we reached the taxi, the other individual blocked the taxi and refused to allow us load our luggage. Our taxi driver and that guy were arguing. He kept on insisting that we take an Airport Taxi and not use the App. He was polite but kept on blocking our path and stopping us from loading our luggage. I lost my cool and started screaming and threatening him.. he then backed off. Then our taxi driver started to small talk with us and suggested we take a faster way, and asked to be paid toll in cash only. Reached our destination, not only he collected toll cash X4 times normal rate (we searched at the hotel), he also charged us in the APP. Have since disputed the charges through the APP.

2/2 taxi experiences = scammed. Since, I refuse to take taxi in Istanbul. To me all are scammers.

March 5, 2023 at 12:48 am

I was scammed too out of $430. And the driver even didn’t show up when he was supposed to take me to the airport.

August 29, 2022 at 11:39 am

I’m not sure if I had the lets have a drink scam or not…

So was at Taksim Square, had an older (mid 50s) well dressed guy talks about the history of the monument, who was on it and stuff. We talk for a while about all kind of things, travel, family, sports, US politics… good conversation. He then suggests lets get a drink. I hadn’t read any of this thus far, so I said sure why not. He leads us to a bar, we get multiple drinks had good conversation, spent multiple hours. There were some obvious prostitutes around, but they never joined us nor made any attempt to. We did talk about some of the clubs and I told him that I wasn’t interested, how I read about them cheating tourists. The bill came, it was a reasonable, about 900 lira (~$50), I paid for it all. He then got offended, said I made him feel low, like he couldn’t afford it, but he has money. I suggested we should do this again. So we were planning to meet up again this evening.

Everything matches the scam perfectly except for the bill being correct.

Not sure if this guy was legit or not. Reading up, it matches pretty well with the setup, but I didn’t get scammed. Maybe its a setup for a bigger one?

September 1, 2022 at 7:33 pm

I would agree with you, you haven’t been scammed yet, but it could have been a setup for a bigger one. Thanks for sharing.

Bob Macadoo says

June 26, 2022 at 2:22 pm

Can you explain why places list prices in GR rather than TL? I feel like I got scammed today buying a doner wrap. The list said 150 GR and when I asked what GR was they said lira. I have bought similar wraps mostly for 40-70 lira.

June 26, 2022 at 2:30 pm

The GR in 150 GR means grams. That’s the amount of meat that will be in the wrap.

May 18, 2022 at 6:53 pm

The people in hoteles reception are very desperate for money. If they call a taxi, book a cruiser, excursion , diner or anything the will over charge you. Do your own research and get you own taxi. People are desperate for money especially in Istanbul. They will do anything for it. That the only thing I did not like the rest is a wonderful city

May 18, 2022 at 12:24 am

Another common scam we came across is restaurant staff in the streets offering you discounts and free starters or desserts and what not, then when the bill comes they have a service charge labelled as TEX for the same amount as the item they offered you for free. Another thing they can do is place items on the table which you assume are complimentary but aren’t, like small water bottles.

May 18, 2022 at 8:09 am

I’ve never heard of TEX so far, so thanks for sharing. Putting things like water, bread on the table that seem complementary but aren’t is not a typical Turkish style move I’m afraid. I’ve experienced this is other countries, too, unfortunately.

May 18, 2022 at 12:19 am

We had a weird one today in Alsaray metro station. We were trying to figure out how to buy a ticket for the metro to go to halic, but the machine was showing a higher price for the ticket than what the online guides were suggesting. This man approached us and offered to help us get tickets if we have him 45 liras each. We walked away from him to look for a kiosk or a help desk. We couldn’t find one. Then we tried to make sense of a different machine and selected English as the language and this machine showed 15 liras, we couldn’t tell if it was for a single or a return journey. Another man approached us and offered to get us tickets if we gave him 15 liras each, which after deliberating for a min, we did. He then tapped his card for each of us and let us through the gates and went on his way and we went onto the tram without any further issues. We knew he was scamming us for sure. We just didn’t know how. The machine showed 15 liras on it, and he charged us 15 liras. Does anyone know what was going on? Did he pay for a single ticket for us but took money for a double?

May 18, 2022 at 8:05 am

What probably happened is that the machine showed you the regular single ticket price (15 TL) instead of the discounted price when you use the anonymous Istanbul Kart, which is about 7,5 TL.

So, the person who suggested to help you, used his card to actually pay for your ride, but made minimum 7,5 TL per person because you paid him 15 and he was charged 7,5 or less.

Ben Wadsworth says

July 14, 2023 at 12:20 am

This sounds like a win win situation.

Khashayar says

April 30, 2022 at 8:56 am

We ate 2 soup in very very normal place and local Restaurant in Istanbul actually it was Water and a little bit sheep tripe in it . At the end i paid 70 TL and agin it happend in another Restaurant 2 pide and 2 Dürum about 135 TL

April 30, 2022 at 10:18 am

I can’t say anything of the quality of the soup of course, but why don’t you ask for the menu / price list before you order? If they don’t have one, move on to the next establishment.

February 21, 2022 at 1:10 am

I wish I have read this thread before today! I have just come back from a bar in Taksim area and my experience was horrible. I was walking alone around midnight. A man approached me and asked me in Turkish whether I have alighter. I replied No. Then he started speaking to me in English with so much details. He said that he is 52 years old, a civil engineer, married with 3 boys. He was explaining to me about his wife who prays and put Hijab, but he drinks and don’t practice religion. He asked me to offer me a drink, and it was my biggest mistake when I said yes.

He took me to a bar. I don’t drink Alcolol so he offered me a soft drink. Suddenly, two girls joined us. They ordered a few bottles of Champagne. There were many girls dancing around us. I tried to excuse my self but they insisted that I stay a little bit more. To put it short, I ended up with a bill of more than 12 thousand TL, which is about £670. I had no choice by to pay being surrounded with 5 well built guys. I regret the minute I started talking to this man. I hope no once else will get scammed.

February 21, 2022 at 8:14 pm

So sorry to hear that Karim.

April 13, 2022 at 3:52 am

i had the exactly same experience!

June 17, 2022 at 2:12 pm

Happened to me too. Surrounded by pretty girls ordering champagne etc. Came to the bill and they tried to get me to pay over £3000. I refused.

February 27, 2023 at 1:27 am

Same happened to me I started fighting the bastards I didn’t pay them a penny I wasn’t drinking or dancing start fighting they will get scared and let you go

Suzy Hall says

January 24, 2022 at 9:46 pm

I was walking during the day to get a taxi back to the Asian side. I was walking through Sultanahment and a man asked me where I was from and could he help me. I told him I was Scottish and looking to get a taxi. He said he’d show me his shop and phone me a taxi. I told him I wouldn’t be buying as I’d already bought things and just wanted to get back to my hotel.

He took me down a side street and we went past his shop. I asked him why he wasn’t stopping at shop for the taxi as he’d been on phone supposedly organising taxi to pick me up at shop. He said he was taking me to a private taxi where it would be “safe”. I was starting to feel incredibly unsafe. I looked back and saw a man following us, clearly videoing with his mobile phone. I looked back several times and the man was still following and videoing. I told the man who was taking me to the taxi we’re being followed but he dismissed it.

I felt extremely nervous and thankfully all of a sudden 2 girls appeared so I ran over to them and they spoke English. The man who was videoing ran down and flashed a card saying he was ‘police’ and was following to make sure this man didn’t take me to shops. None of us 3 girls saw the card correctly and he didn’t have police clothes on.

I walked back up the street with the 2 girls and they phoned me a taxi. The man and the supposed police man came up to us again and the supposed police man said I’m going to “punish him”. We thought it was all very strange and said it wasn’t necessary.

I’ve travelled solo so much throughout my life and never felt scared until today and this was broad daylight. I’ve absolutely no idea what was actually going to happen.

Moral of the story get your own taxi.

May 21, 2022 at 4:13 am

I’m so sorry. Two guys followed me and one ripped my phone out of my hand. I travelled a lot and was in much poorer countries but got never scammed the amount I got in turkey

December 26, 2021 at 4:41 pm

Hi, curious about something. Bumped into a croatian (not Turkish) guy in Istanbul and we spent the afternoon wandering and I ended up following him to a seedy club with girls and a 150euro bill each.

Was wondering if the Croatian was in on the scam or whether we both just walked into it? I’d be surprised because 1) he wasn’t so well dressed 2) his Turkish wasn’t good and 3) he seemed like he was naive and stumbled across the place. He said he was an electrician in Izmir and it was his last night before going home. This could all have been an act though.

I guess since the club were not that forceful and just made me pay the (annoyingly) very expensive bill, maybe we’d just walked into the scam thanks to my Croatian friend rather than him leading me there.

Just interested though if anyone has heard of the ‘let’s have a drink place being carried out by white guys, so eastern or even Western Europeans? Could be an extra level to watch out for. Thanks

December 27, 2021 at 12:35 pm

Thanks for sharing. It’s hard to say. Normally they don’t spend a whole afternoon just to get you into a bar.

January 28, 2022 at 10:51 am

Huh, that electric guy from Izmir… I had same/similar guy, though he claimed he was from Cyprus. I turned down his offer because I found it strange that he was so friendly right from the start. I also told him I don’t drink and he lost interest quickly.

March 23, 2021 at 8:52 pm

Be very careful in Taksim. Many pickpockets! As a rule i found most areas to be safe. If you are staying Sultan Ahmet area, do not pay for walking tours. Most places can be found by google map and i deffinitely recommend buying the travel card for the trams. Frequent and inexpensive. I like to travel to the smaller areas and wander round the back streets. The boats are also inexpensive. Some little back street stores where the locals go are amazing. Just as in Marmaris, be careful. I agree, don’t let anyone take you to their shop, their friends shop. Shop around, have an idea of prices, you can often get a cheap meal for a fraction of a price in a local restaurant. Simit with Nutella is a must!

March 4, 2020 at 10:09 am

This is so true. When I was in Istanbul, I exited a restaurant and a guy came up to me and said ‘thank you for coming to my restaurant’. I s/h known there and then. He then led me to his ‘new’ cafe. we had a drink and when the bill came, basically I lost about $700. When I tried to speak 5 tough guys showed up. Fortunately, I still had some money back at the hotel. Never again will I be so naive.

February 1, 2020 at 2:25 pm

A victim of a common scam in Istanbul – on 27th January 2020

Dear readers,

I would like to describe my experience of how I unfortunately became a victim of a common scam in Istanbul.

I was a tourist and stayed in Sultanahment, Istanbul, Turkey for 5 days. I was approached by a Turkish man on a Monday evening, who spoke exceptional English and Turkish. He appeared to be quite knowledgeable with regards to tourist locations and the history revolving such places. He was dressed in fashionable clothes. He offered to be my guide for around 1-2 hours showing me the major landmarks. As I had no particular plans that evening, I let him accompany me.

We soon arrived at a local cafe and had two cups of chai (tea), which I offered to pay for. At this point I recall the man looking into the contents of my wallet, possibly to assess how much money I had. I didn’t think much about it at the time. The man then bought a cheap loaf of bread. As the evening drew on, he suggested that we go to a bar for a quick drink. I didn’t want to be disrespectful, so I said I would join him only for a short while (in hindsight this was a major mistake on my part, I should have been more vigilant).

We arrived at a bar located in Taksim square, the entrance to the building was quite narrow, and it had a title “tattoos and piercings”, we went to the top floor (3rd floor). There was a bar and girls and mature women parading without much clothes on. The man “offered to buy me a drink”, and I initially declined. When he kept on insisting about a drink, I said a fruit juice would be good. He ordered a beer for himself. We were soon accompanied by a couple of girls along with a bottle of champagne. During this time the man leaves you with the impression that the drinks are entirely on him!

The champagne bottles kept on arriving (I don’t drink alcohol), so the champagne was consumed by the girls and the guy that brought me to the bar. At this point it looked very suspect, and I asked where the toilet was, as I really wanted to escape. I was told the toilet was out of order, (the toilets were on the ground floor), and I was told that I couldn’t leave until the bill arrived (again more alarm bells ringing).

The bill was brought and the amount was for 4, 400 Turkish lira, around over £500. I disputed the bill, and said to the owner of the bar (who was about 6’ 2”, and well built), that the man brought me here and offered to buy me a drink. At this the owner pushed the man who fell onto a comfy sofa cushion (it was obvious this was nothing but drama, a well scripted pantomime being played out). The owner then looked towards me as if hinting to do the same to me. There were many other staff around who were blocking my exit to the building. In order to prevent any form of further altercation, and possibly also prevent sustaining bruises at least to myself, I very reluctantly had to hand over the contents of my wallet. This was 300 Turkish lira and cash of £60, so in total about £100 cash (i.e. British Pounds).

Whilst they were counting the cash and security checking the £60 notes, I discreetly slipped my debit card into my pants and fortunately they didn’t get me to strip! Once they were satisfied the cash I had was legit, and once they gave up on looking for any debit/credit cards, only then was I allowed to leave the premises.

The morale of the story is, if a complete stranger approaches you in Turkey, please just kindly say “no thank you”, and promptly walk away. I promise you, it will save you at least £100 in cash!

P.S: the above was definitely a scam. After I excited the building I attempted to take photos of the man that lead me to the bar. He kept on blocking the camera on my phone. I managed to get a photo from the side of his face and took a photo of his back whilst he was briskly walking away from me. Essentially the man gets a big commission from the bar, for swindling unsuspecting tourists, hence this explains the modern trendy and expensive clothes he was wearing.

If you don’t look Turkish then you will be a prime target. These fraudsters prey on tourists.

February 2, 2020 at 1:32 pm

Thanks for sharing this, a perfect example of the “Let’s have a drink” scam in my article. I’m glad you could hide your credit card, if not the would have accompanied you to an ATM to withdraw the rest of the money.

Again, most Turks are very welcoming and hospitable, with the best of intentions to make your stay as nice as possible. Unfortunately, there are always a dozen of rotten apples who ruin it for everyone.

June 3, 2022 at 7:57 pm

I was walking in Istikal street. Man started speaking Turkish and I said sorry. He said aww you look Turkish … would you like me to come to my restaurant. I declined as I was tired. He insisted he showed me it and would like to give me a card to give to friends. Anyway, went up side street and he went into a shop and came out and put what looked like a packet of weed on my hand ( it was just spices) . I said I didn’t want but he wanted me to pay. He marched me to ATM and I lost about 500 quid. I was too scared to go to tourist police as a I suspected that they might be in on the scam . The guy was operating on a busy street.

June 3, 2022 at 11:33 pm

Sorry to hear about your adventure. But you should have gone to the police and report it, the police is never part of a scam, on the contrary. They try hard to protect tourists as good as they can.

marilen tomacruz says

January 7, 2020 at 5:47 pm

Me and my husband are traveling to istanbul this april for a week, Is Sultanamet the best area to stay at? Thank you.

January 8, 2020 at 10:08 pm

Hi Marilen,

Have you read this post on h ow to choose between Sultanahmet and Taksim ?

Hope this helps.

December 22, 2019 at 5:56 pm

Be careful of the fake money!! A taxi told me that if a money has a letter for example, C before the numbers its not for taxi and its only for shopping!! Lol what a BS!! And he told me that i need to give him 100 turkish lira so he can exchange the rest. If you give the money, in return he will give you fake copied money. And also this happen near Bosphorus cruise trip

December 23, 2019 at 4:12 pm

Thanks for sharing this Amir.

November 10, 2019 at 7:50 pm

I m now in Istanbul and I faced few of these scams I suggest For single tourist to be very careful before visiting any night club or bars . Group of people targeting and trying to steal money from single tourists … in fact I say , never go alone to any bars or nightclubs near Taksim.

October 29, 2019 at 12:23 am

Another type of approach they are doing is pretending to take selfie and asking for help to take the picture..introduce himself as a civil engineer, offerring you meals and he paid for it, then ask you to spend sometime with beer in the bar..come out with extra ordinary bill.

October 30, 2019 at 10:10 am

Thanks for sharing this.

Habib Mahdaoui says

July 19, 2019 at 7:21 am

A white man who bring you to a Bar (their Bar), and the bill is $120 a bottle! Because one of their girls set beside you and wa talking to you.. according to the boss, you were enjoying girl sitting beside you 😆😆😆 crazy people..

Popular Attractions

Hagia Sophia Topkapi Palace & Harem Dolmabahçe Palace Bosphorus Tour Whirling Dervishes

Travel Tips

Accommodation & Locations Airport Transportation Istanbul Kart , Museum Pass , Tourist Pass Public Transportation Taxi’s in Istanbul

Privacy Overview

29 Istanbul Travel Tips: From Haggling at the Bazaars to Tourist Scams

Culture shock is one thing, but being lost like a goose in a snowstorm doesn’t help anyone enjoy their vacation. Learn to navigate your way through everyday situations in Istanbul, its traffic, prices, food, and scams, and visit Istanbul without a care in the world.

You might also be interested in reading:

3 Days in Istanbul Itinerary
What Happens in a Hamam in Istanbul: Our Experience
The 4 Best Areas to Stay in Istanbul
What to Eat in Istanbul: Our 13 Top Tips

Tourist scams in Istanbul

Shoe shine in Istanbul, a common tourist scam in Istanbul

If he drops his brush, run

While Istanbul is a safe place in general (if you stay out of Şişli and some other less desirable Istanbul neighborhoods ), you do need to be aware of some common tourist scams. Otherwise you’ll be taking out your wallet in all the wrong places.

1. The “Oops, I dropped my brush!”

Oops, I dropped my brush and scuffed your shoe ! How stupid of me! Here, let me shine your shoes for free as an apology. Again, it won’t be free, and your shoes will end up destroyed in the process.

Just pick up the damned brush and go.

2. The “Let me take you to my brother’s [fill in the blank] around the corner!”

We always got told as children to never do anywhere with strangers. But somehow, in Istanbul, they manage to convince tons of adult tourists to do just that.

“Follow me to this cool bar around the corner for some free drinks!”, or “My brother owns a shop down the street where you can buy that way cheaper”. His brother might own it, but it sure as heck won’t be cheaper !

Just like it was hard for you to say no to the offer to follow the stranger, it will be 10x harder to refuse to fork over the cash whatever you are being forced to pay a few minutes later. Because it won’t be just one guy, it’ll be his brother, and dad, too.

It also won’t be around the corner, but it’s really hard to say no to these people once they have you in their claws. So you just keep walking.

3. The “Show me your ID and credit cards” (really)

If a police officer approaches you and asks for your ID and then credit cards, don’t go taking out your wallet and handing important documents over just yet.

Chances are it is a fake policeman or two (they usually work in pairs). This will often happen when you are helping another “tourist” (pointing them in the right direction for example). The policemen want to make sure you are exchanging money, and need your ID and then, get this, to see your credit cards (!) to be able to phone them in to their headquarters to check if anything is suspicious.

It doesn’t help that the other “tourist” complies with all of their requests, and that the “police” threaten to handcuff you when you don’t want to give your CC details to them.

Just ask for their badge and say you want to call the police to verify their ID number. They’ll be gone before you know it.

4. The “This perfume/rug/jewelry is great, just for you, sir!”

If someone is relentlessly offering you a bottle of perfume that certainly is not fake (it is), just ignore them. Don’t engage. It sounds easy, but if the bottle suddenly lands in your hands, you’ll have a hard time returning it to them and they will not stop until you pay them to leave you alone. They’re like a cold. They just latch on and take forever to leave .

The same thing happens with carpets and jewelry , but the money in stake is much higher than that of a shitty perfume. You might be tempted, because the real deal, especially for rugs, would cost hundreds or thousands of dollars . But just don’t. If you’re on the market for a good rug, do your research and shop at a reputable store.

5. The “Here is some water and a nice appetizer before your meal”

My face when the server tries to give me “free” appetizers

You’ve heard of the incredible Turkish hospitality , so when a few bowls of nibbles and some water lands on your table before your meal at a restaurant, you may chock it down to that. But you’d be wrong. It’s an easy way for the restaurant to make extra money on unsuspecting tourists, because you will be paying for it at the end .

For the people in the back: Nothing that lands on your table at a restaurant is free. If you eat it, you’re paying for it, even if the nice server gave it to you with a big smile and proclaimed something in Turkish that sounded like he meant “It’s on the house!”. He probably said “ Enjoy these nuts, suckers! ”.

Click through the map to access our Google Maps list of places to visit in Istanbul , including restaurants

But before you get scammed, you first have to get in!

6. Fly Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines are the way to travel. It’s a high-quality airline that has been names Europe’s best airline over and over again. We weren’t expecting much when flinging into Istanbul from Prague, but we got not only food (great for airplane food!), but an entertainment system , too! Now that’s rare on such a short flight. Kudos to you, Turkish Airlines.

I’m not even mentioning the great service and modern planes. Turkish Airlines is the way to fly.

7. Istanbul Airport is far away from the city

Istanbul’s main airport is called simply Istanbul Airport (IST). It replaced Ataturk Airport in 2019 when the old airport was no longer sufficient for the growing international plane traffic. The new airport is the busiest in Europe and the second busiest in the world when it comes the international passenger traffic (only Dubai surpasses it).

Istanbul Airport is located about 50 km (30 miles) to the northwest of the city on the European side. There is another, smaller, airport, on the Asian side of Istanbul. Nobody cares about that one.

How far you will drive also depends on which route the driver takes . His choice might depend on how gullible you seem (he could try to take you the long way), but also on how much traffic there is. For example, if you’re staying at the Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery , Google Maps shows three possible routes. There is a 10 km (6 mile) different between the shortest and longest one.

The Historical Çeşme Bath at the Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery, a hammam in Istanbul

Consider staying at this cool, elegant hotel with a 300-year-old hammam @ Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery

8. You need to take a taxi to get to the city

There are no trains from Istanbul Airport to the city, so you will have to take on the traffic in a taxi (or shuttle of some sort).

9. Getting from Istanbul Airport to the city takes 2 hours

Depending on the time of day you get into Istanbul your trip from the airport to the city center will take anywhere from 1 hour (like in the middle of the night) to over 2 hours (like when we arrived in the morning).

It’s not fun getting from Istanbul Airport to the city , but what can you do. Just consider the traffic part of the Istanbul cultural experience. Just think of the wonderful Istanbul hotel you’ll be arriving at (we recommend Boutique Saint Sophia or Vogue Hotel Supreme in Sultanahmet, both of which are steps away from Hagia Sophia).

10. Airport taxi prices depend on the color of your vehicle

There are taxis available at the airport 24/7. There are three taxi classes at Istanbul Airport : yellow is the cheapest with the smallest and crappiest cars. Blue are normal cars that cost 15% more than yellow. Black are fancier cars or large vehicles, and the price is 100% more than for yellow. Always use black . You are not a teenager.

A taxi from the airport will cost you around USD 20 (for a blue taxi) without traffic and up to USD 30 with bad traffic. Airport taxis do not have a fixed price and will charge you based on whatever the taximeter tells them. Just make sure it’s on when you get in (it’ll start at something like 11 TL in the blue taxi) and hope that your trip won’t last 2 hours (but it probably will).

If you’re heading to the Asian side of Istanbul, be ready to have tolls for bridges and/or tunnels added to your fare.

11. Taxi drivers do not take cards

You have to pay the taxi driver in cash , they do not take cards.

Save yourself the hassle of getting ripped off and withdraw or exchange your money into Turkish Lira at the airport. Taxi drivers will accept USD and EUR, but the exchange rate in a taxi is, not surprisingly, horrible.

12. Ubers are more expensive than regular taxis

Uber can be called to the airport. Note that Ubers in Istanbul are regular taxi vehicles. Ubers will cost more than a regular taxi, but you might prefer the convenience of calling and paying for your ride through the app.

Our top Istanbul travel tips:

Don’t trust taxi drivers. Make sure the meter is on, know how far your destination is, and don’t pay in anything other than Turkish Lira.
Always carry cash. A Visa or MasterCard will get you a long way, but it won’t let you pay your taxi fare, tip, or buy a bottle of water (or any other small purchase).
Prices in bazaars are crazy high. That’s because you are expected to haggle. Good luck (read our tips)!

Getting around

Photos from yacht tour on the Bosphorus in Istanbul

You could also take a yacht... Read our article about the top things to do in Istanbul for more details.

You’ve made it from the airport to the city center and you’re ready to see the sights! Now what?

13. Bring your running shoes

Istanbul is built on 7 hills— wear comfortable shoes and be ready to walk…a lot! Even though the tourist center seems relatively compact, you shouldn’t be surprised if your smart watch tracks you walking 30 km (18 miles) over your 3 days in Istanbul .

14. Avoid driving in Istanbul

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT rent a car in Istanbul . Driving in Istanbul is not something you want to be trying out on this trip. You risk slow suicide by traffic, there is never anywhere to park, and well, yeah, traffic.

15. Don’t get run over

Traffic will annoy you not only if you’re driving, but also when you’re walking. Don’t ever expect a car to stop for pedestrians —they will not. You will be stuck in the middle of the road with cars coming at you from both sides.

Crosswalks , if not accompanied by a traffic light, are just nice stripes on the road, nothing else. They should not make you feel safe to cross the road. Pretend they aren’t there, you do not have the right of way.

If a crosswalk does have a light, don’t naively assume everyone will stop at a red light , or that they will let you finish walking if you are a little slow and their green light comes on. Just run to safety.

16. Know your Istanbul neighborhoods

A map of the best areas to stay in in Istanbul : Sultanahmet for the win

All the best places to visit in Istanbul are located in a pretty small area, at least when compared to the size of the whole city. You’ll be spending the vast majority of your time in Istanbul in Sultanahmet, followed by Eminönü and Galata/Beyoğlu , and possibly Taksim.

We have an article about the neighborhoods of Istanbul that you can read to get a better understanding about what is what. That way, you won’t end up in a hotel that’s far away from everything, or even on the wrong continent!

Book your Istanbul hotel using our affiliate links in this article not just because you want to help us with small commission we get for that (at no extra cost to you!), but because we really go out of our way to choose the best hotels we can for you. Cause we like you and don’t like blogs that don’t know (or care!) what they’re talking about.

17. Get Google Maps offline

You can download an offline map on Google Maps that will show all the places you saved during your research (or use our own Istanbul list on Google Maps , it includes all the best places to visit in Istanbul and the best places to eat ).

This will help heaps if you don’t get a local SIM card.

18. Know how to take a taxi in Istanbul

Taxis near a mosque in Istanbul, choosing an area to stay in in Istanbul

Taxi is spelled „taksi“ in Turkey

You will be walking a lot, but unless you’re on some sort of personal marathon, you’ll want to leverage other modes of transport from time to time. If you ask me, taxis are the way to go , but there are also trams that you can try to figure out.

You can get a taxi ( taksi ) by simply raising your hand by the road . You won’t wait long.

Only get in if it has a “taksi” sign on top. Your taxi will usually be yellow , but you’ll also see blue and black taxis. All of them are official taxis, their color just indicates how fancy (or big) they are. Yellow is the cheapest and black is the most expensive. If you can, always choose black. The difference is huge .

Don’t ever settle for a fixed price , you will almost always pay more than you would using a taximeter. Remember taxi fares in Istanbul! And no, the number on the taxi meter isn’t in USD ! Nice try, taxi man ( look at common tourist scams in another section ).

Money and prices

At the top of the Galata Tower with a view of Istanbul

The view from the top of the Galata Tower

Istanbul is a cheap destination compared to the US or Western Europe.

19. It can be as cheap or expensive as you want it to be

I’ve seen comparisons with my own city (Prague, Czech Republic) that say a tourist needs twice as much money per day in Prague than in Istanbul, USD 44 in Istanbul vs USD 82 in Prague. Take that information with a big grain of salt, because we easily spent USD 100 for dinner in Istanbul every night, but I guess it is easy to spend less in Istanbul. You just have to want it hard enough.

Taxis are cheap , which is great. It’s balanced out by the sheer number of taxi drivers trying to trick you into spending way more than you need to ( see common tourist scams ).

The price per kilometer in a taxi in Istanbul is around TL 6, with a base fee of TL 10 and a minimum total amount of TL 28.

A meal for 2 in a Turkish restaurant can be USD 10, but if you go to somewhere more upscale or targeted at tourists, you’ll spend USD 100. If you’re eating in Sultanahmet , which is what we did almost exclusively (because that’s where the best restaurants in Istanbul are), you’re looking at prices 5-10x higher than you’d pay in other parts of Istanbul (for a similar meal).

Getting into tourist sites such as museums costs anywhere between USD 2–5, and even the most expensive place, Topkapi Palace, will cost just USD 10. Mosques are always free to enter . We always put ticket prices in our articles, so it isn’t hard to work out how much you’ll spend. You can check out the prices of all the top places to visit in Istanbul in another article .

Walton Hotels Galata, the best 4-star hotel in Istanbul Galata

Lots of art and their very own rooftop bar @ Walton Hotels Galata

Hotels in Istanbul come in all shapes and prices. For example, the very cool, 4-star Walton Hotels Galata , with a great rooftop bar, goes for as little as USD 100 per night for 2 people.

The sultan-worthy, extraordinary property of AJWA Sultanahmet , will cost you USD 270 per night. Again with their own rooftop bar, close to the mesmerizing Blue Mosque. So not cheap, but cheap for what you get.

20. You’ll need cash more than cards

You are never far from the nearest ATM in Istanbul, which is great because the preferred mode of payment is cash .

You’ll certainly need cash in taxis or public transportation, in some shops or when your purchase is too small (there’s a bottom limit), or at street food vendors ( more on eating in Istanbul ).

Tipping in restaurants or at hammams (m ore about our amazing experience of getting washed like a sultan ) is also done in cash.

So you see, you’ll need cash in Istanbul basically all the time.

Don’t ever pay in USD or EUR , you’ll always get a bad exchange rate if you’re at a store or restaurant (and an exorbitant one if you’re in a taxi).

21. Visa and MasterCard are your best bet

As far as withdrawing from ATMs or paying by card, you will run into problems if you carry an American Express or Discover card. Visa and MasterCard are accepted everywhere where cards are accepted, so always have one of the two with you.

22. Withdrawing from ATMs is easy

There are ATMs absolutely everywhere in Istanbul and you shouldn’t be afraid to use them unless they are down a dark alley.

Most ATMs have a withdraw limit of TL 5000.

They can charge you an international withdraw fee . It varies, but is generally around 6%. If you want to avoid it, try to find an ING or PTT ATM. Note that your own bank may charge you a fee for withdrawing internationally.

Always decline the ATM’s “great“ offer of its own conversion rate. It’ll always be crap compared to what your own bank will give you.

23. Don’t haggle in Istanbul unless you’re at a bazaar

The crowds at Grand Bazaar in Istanbul in Turkey

Thousands of tourists ready for some haggling practice at the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul

If you can’t be swayed from visiting the Grand Bazaar ( my swaying attempt here ) or you have your sights set on buying souvenirs at the Spice Bazaar , you’ll need to brush up on you haggling skills. It might feel strange to argue about the price of a scarf at first, but just pretend you’re buying a new car or house .

First of all remember that these bazaars are visited by hundreds of thousands of visitors daily , so the merchants are very experienced in dealing with tourists trying to knock the price down.

The basic rules of haggling are this:

Stay cool . Don’t show how much you want that spice set. Always maintain an unsure attitude.
Play the game . Turn your charm on and have a back and forth with the seller. They smile, you smile. They give you a line, you give them a line. It’s like a dance. Don’t get annoyed or angry.
Take your time . It’s either time or money, and you can’t save both at a bazaar.
Be ready to say no . If the price isn’t right, walk away. And when you do, the price usually goes down again and the dance continues.

It’s good to have an idea of what the item you’re after should cost. It’s standard that the price the seller offers you is 50–100% more than you’d think it should be. They are ready to haggle, so don’t be stupid and go buying it for the first price they tell you. They know its way too expensive.

Pro tip: You have a better chance at striking a deal in the first part of the day when sellers are focused on meeting their quota (the bottom limit of the number of items they need to sell given to them by the shop owner). Once they meet their quota, they are more interested in making commission for themselves, hence being a little fiercer in bargaining.

Definitely do not haggle at brand stores and I don’t know who needs to hear this, but obviously not at supermarkets and places like drug stores and restaurants . Bargaining is only acceptable at markets or small shops.

24. The Istanbul Museum Pass will save you time and money. But mostly time.

A long line of tourists at the ticket desk of Topkapi Palace in Istanbul

You can skip the eternally long line at the Topkapi Palace with the Istanbul Museum Pass

The Istanbul Museum Pass costs TL 700 (about USD 38) and is valid for 5 consecutive days and gets you into 13 museums in Istanbul. It can be bought at any of the museums that it is valid in.

It’s not the cheapest museum pass but even if you don’t end up saving money, like if you don’t have time for that many museums or if you just plain don’t love museums as much to try to make the price worth it, it does one other very important trick : it gets you past the lines.

At Topkapi Palace, that could mean flying past hundreds of people at the ticket desk . It could literally save you an hour of your time at just this one tourist site. It’s worth considering! Btw, our article on the best places to visit in Istanbul has a whole detailed section with more tips on visiting Topkapi Palace.

Eating and drinking

Best restaurant in Istanbul with a view: Turk Art Restaurant in Istanbul

One of the best restaurants in Istanbul with a view is definitely Turk Art Restaurant in Sultanahmet. You get Hagia Sophia at your fingertips, the best waiters, and some spectacular steaks and seafood.

You won’t go hungry in Istanbul . The food is wonderful and there is plenty of fun street food for you to stuff into your head when you’re behind on your sightseeing schedule and can’t stop. More on what and where to eat in Istanbul in another article .

25. Don’t eat at restaurants that don’t give you a menu

There are restaurants in Istanbul that will try to make more money off you than they should. One way to do that is to not give you a menu, or not display one outside and lure you into sitting down and ordering drinks before they show you their horrible prices.

In Istanbul, it’s always a good idea to know how much you’ll be paying for whatever you order. So no menu should mean no business.

Also, if the restaurant’s menu is only in English , there’s a good chance the prices are too high and the food will be crap.

Refer to the tourist scams section for more things to look out for.

26. Drink tea, not coffee

Karin drinking Turkish tea at the Topkapi Palace cafe: low quality food, high prices, but wonderful views

Turkish tea is served all day every day at all meals. It is a strong black tea that’s typically served in a small, tulip-shaped glass cup . Made from loose leaves of (ideally) domestic tea, often taken with sugar. That is sometimes already added to your tea, sometimes you get a couple of sugar cubes on the side. It‘s delightful and you don’t have to be English (or Turkish) to appreciate it.

Turkish coffee , on the other hand, can stay far, far away from me . Yes, the cezve , or small pot that is used to make the coffee, is cute and very Turkish-looking and all, but the taste is just nope.

27. Try Turkish sweets even if you don’t like sweets

The god-like sensation you get when eating a baklava is something I’ll remember until the day I…have baklava again. And I don’t even like sweets in real life!

The dough of the baklava has to be the thinnest thing ever in order to make the finest layers of nuts (generally pistachios, but can also be walnuts or hazelnuts) alternating with the dough. Douse in butter, bake. The final step—soaking in a syrup, will make all your cavities sensitive , but your taste buds will feel happy.

Turks are masters of pastries , so besides baklava you’ll find an abundance of cakes and cookies as well. Go ahead, give it a try. It’s the Turkish way!

28. Make restaurant reservations well in advance

If you have your eyes set on a particular Istanbul restaurant, make a reservation at least 2 weeks in advance to secure a spot. This is true especially in the higher-end establishments and in popular restaurants in Istanbul with a view . We’ll save you a Google and present the best ones we found in our Eating in Istanbul article .

Tip: Some Istanbul hotels have their very own rooftop restaurants, like the luxurious and Ottoman-styled AJWA Sultanahmet . Once you chow down you can walk across the hand-made carpets and head to the spa and indoor pool.

AJWA Sultanahmet, the best 5-star hotel in Sultanahmet Istabul

Livin’ like a sultan @ AJWA Sultanahmet

29. You have to try the street food

Move over, McDonald’s—you have to try the best street food in Istanbul. Get yourself a bal ı k ekmek at one of the boats on the Eminönü waterfront.  It’s a grilled mackerel sandwich that’ll cost you just TL 10 (50 US cents ) at most of the places that sell them. It’s super tasty.

There’s also kebab, pide , tons of pastries, and the churros equivalent of halka tatlisi . All cheap, fresh, and delicious. More on the best street food in Istanbul here .

That’s all for now, folks. Most importantly, enjoy Istanbul! We thought it was a fantastic destination. If you have questions about visiting Istanbul, shoot us a comment under this article, or even on our Facebook page .

This post may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps us keep this blog free, thank you!    

Thoughts? Give us a shout!

Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.

I was first inspired to start this blog by my own experience of researching for upcoming trips—I often struggle with a lack of good information, accuracy, and authenticity of resources. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” don’t even visit the destinations they write about!

My goal with this blog is to provide you with complex and practical information so that you can plan your own vacation, complete with insights you’d only get if you visited the place. I also put together itineraries that are fully planned out trip guides.

Another aspect that drives this platform is my curiosity about the history, geography, politics, and economy of each country I visit, so I try to include this information in my articles, too. It’s always great to get the bigger picture, right?

And just to be clear, I am not trying to compete with backpacking blogs or provide hacks for an economical and affordable experience. My vacations follow the standard pattern of traveling by plane, staying in good hotels, and renting a car on the spot to get around. I’m also always up for a fantastic meal, though I don’t shy away from local delicacies and street food, either.

Destinations
Travel hacks
Privacy policy

Licensed Tour Guide in Turkey

Hire your professional licensed Turkish tour guide!

Top Tourist Scams in Turkey

Wherever we are in the world, low incomes and low living standards have taught people little survival tactics and tourists are always the easiest prey! Here are the ‘tourist scam’ tactics used all over Turkey!

Fake Ancient Coins

Coins of ancient times, especially those with high historical and valuable value, which are rare in museums, are found and imitations are made by casting or minting. These rare coins can find serious buyers in the market. In this method, the buyer is first shown and attracted with a few original coins, and then counterfeit coins are sold to him.

Taxi drivers inflating prices for foreign tourists is not unique to Istanbul. It is a situation encountered in many big cities around the world that taxi drivers take advantage of the language barrier to overcharge or extend the route.

Fake Tour Guide

You can come across people who pretend to be tour guides and who are extremely friendly. They will offer you free guiding services which will end up demanding money in the end or will end up with you being pushed an overpriced souvenir. Always ask for the official license of the tour guides.

Friendly Photographer

While walking around a popular spot, a scammer who approaches you will support you in taking your photo. As soon as you accept the offer and give your phone or camera, you are helping the scammer reach his goal.

Shoe Shiners

In touristic neighborhoods in Turkey, shoe shiners make it look like they’ve accidentally dropped their supplies, enticing tourists to help and offering to shine their shoes as a courtesy in return. However, after the shoes have been painted or polished, it turns out that this is not a counter gesture. The shoe shiner persistently demands money.

Bars and Nightclubs

It is a system that turns into a trap especially for male tourists traveling alone. In this method, where a beautiful-looking woman is used, the woman who approaches the man who is traveling alone invites the man to a bar or nightclub by courting. The woman, who dances with the man and consumes a lot of alcohol, leaves the scene by throwing the heavy bill on the tourist.

Phone Line Scam

Tourists, who use the lines taken on their own passports, leave the lines back to the tourism offices when they leave Turkey. These lines are not closed and provided to certain gangs for dark jobs. According to the evidence, phone scammers threaten people by presenting themselves as police and prosecutors with these lines.

How to Avoid Being Scammed in Turkey

Most of these scamming tactics are not just unique for Turkey. You should be always beware and careful while traveling around the world. The best way of avoiding these scams is to have a trusted, licensed, professional tour guide with you. Contact me to learn more about Turkey and to hire a Turkish tour guide for your Turkey tour. See you soon, Hasan Gülday .

Temple of Artemis in Ephesus

Great Artemis Statue with a Eroded Nose in Ephesus Archeological Museum

8 Stunning Archeological Structures from Turkey

Cat posing in front of Celsus Library of Ephesus

Cats of Ephesus

Use a wordpress.com, twitter, facebook, or google account to comment or to leave a reply cancel reply.

Next story Menorahs in Ephesus
Previous story Zerzevan Castle and Mithras Temple

Guided Turkey Tours

10 Interesting Facts About Cappadocia

Beautiful Assos Ancient City

Boncuklu Tarla. A Site Older Than Famous Gobeklitepe?

Night Tours and Concerts in Ephesus

Miracles at the House of Virgin Mary in Ephesus

All About Turkish Cheese

Cities Visited by Apostle Paul in Asia Minor

Balat, an Amazing District of Istanbul

Hours & Info

the best tour guide in Turkey Hasan Gulday

Send A Quick WhatsApp Message

What to Do if You Are Scammed in Turkey

Being scammed can be a frustrating and financially damaging experience, and it’s important to know what steps to take if you fall victim to a scam while traveling in Turkey. It’s also important to be aware of common scam types in Turkey and how to avoid them.

If you are a victim of a scam in Turkey, the first step is to contact the local police and report the incident. The police will take a report of the scam and may investigate the situation to try to locate the responsible individuals. It’s important to provide as much information as possible about the scam and the individuals involved, such as their names and physical descriptions, as well as any evidence that you may have.

It’s also important to contact your embassy or consulate, they can provide advice and assistance, and can also help to contact the local authorities on your behalf. They might also help you to contact a translator, a lawyer, or even with financial aid if it’s necessary.

If you have fallen victim to a scam that involves the loss of money, it’s important to contact your bank or credit card company as soon as possible to report unauthorized transactions and have the cards blocked or canceled. This will prevent any further unauthorized use of your cards.

You should also inform your travel insurance provider if the scam has caused financial loss and if you have taken all the necessary steps.

Now, Let’s talk about some common scam types that foreigners may encounter in Turkey:

The “Helpful stranger” scam: This scam involves a seemingly friendly individual who offers to help a foreign tourist with directions, money exchange or other assistance. The individual then takes advantage of the tourist by overcharging them or stealing their money or personal possessions. To avoid this scam, it’s important to be cautious of strangers offering assistance, and to use official currency exchange offices or ATMs instead of exchanging money with individuals on the street.
The “Free Tour” scam: This scam involves an individual or group who offers a free tour of a city or attraction, but then pressures tourists to purchase overpriced goods or services or to give a large tip. To avoid this scam, it’s important to be wary of free tours, and to research and book tours in advance through reputable tour operators.
The “Fake Police” scam: This scam involves individuals posing as police officers who ask for money or personal documents, claiming that the foreign tourist has done something wrong. To avoid this scam, it’s important to be aware that real police officers will not ask for money or personal documents, and if you are unsure whether someone is a real police officer, you can ask to see their identification or badge. Additionally, if you are stopped by the police, you have the right to call your consulate or embassy for assistance.
The “Overpriced taxi” scam: This scam involves taxi drivers who overcharge tourists by taking them on a longer route or by using a tampered meter. To avoid this scam, it’s important to research approximate taxi fare rates ahead of time, and to agree on the fare before getting in the taxi. It’s also a good idea to take a picture of the taxi’s license plate, and if possible use official taxi companies or apps which are more reliable.
The “Fake shopkeepers” scam: This scam involves shopkeepers who sell counterfeit or overpriced goods to tourists, or who switch a valuable item with a cheaper one while making the transaction. To avoid this scam, it’s important to research prices and quality of goods ahead of time and to be aware of common scams when shopping in Turkey, also be careful and don’t rush into buying items.

In conclusion, being scammed can be a frustrating and financially damaging experience, and it’s important to know what steps to take if you fall victim to a scam while traveling in Turkey. It’s important to contact the local police, your embassy or consulate and your bank or credit card company as soon as possible to report the scam and to prevent any further unauthorized use. Additionally, being aware of common scam types in Turkey and knowing how to avoid them can help to reduce the risk of falling victim to a scam.

Istanbul.tips

The Best of Istanbul in One Place

How to Avoid Tourist Scams in Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful city that attracts tourists from all over the world. There are quite a lot of scams in Istanbul that tourists need to be aware of. This guide will help you understand some of the most common tourist traps in Istanbul and how to avoid them.

Page Contents

🚗 First Time in Istanbul? Be Prepared & Carefree!

Istanbul: Private Airport Transfer with Meet and Greet 🌟 4.4 / 5 (318 reviews)

Istanbul: Turkey and Europe eSIM Roaming Mobile Data 🌟 4.1 / 5 (216 reviews)

Istanbul: Full-Day Highlights Tour with Guide and Lunch 🌟 4.5 / 5 (1101 reviews)

Pickpocketing in Istanbul

Pickpocketing is one of the few scams that you might experience in crowded areas. Scammers mostly target tourists and usually touristic places, such as Sultanahmet, Istiklal Street, Taksim Square, and some other crowded places. They are less common in residential areas. Usually, their targets are solo tourists and mostly women. They may offer to buy you a drink. The main goal is to take you to bars and serve overpriced drinks so you can end up paying hundreds of dollars.

How to Avoid: Never take advice from strangers about a place. If they approach you, respectfully decline their offer and tell them you’re waiting to meet up with a friend.

🕌 Discover Famous Landmarks of Istanbul

Istanbul: Topkapi Palace & Harem Museum Ticket & Audio Guide 🌟 4.2 / 5 (205 reviews)

Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry & Audio Guide 🌟 4.4 / 5 (318 reviews)

Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Small-Group Tour 🌟 4.4 / 5 (318 reviews)

Carpet or Leather Shop Scam in Istanbul

They try to persuade you to sell goods from the shops they work for. Usually, target tourists wandering around the Sultanahmet area and the Grand Bazaar. They speak several languages fluently and are friendly people. If you get lost and ask for directions, they will guide you and invite you to the shops where they work. They will display their best behaviour and try to convince you of the quality of the product they are going to sell.

How to Avoid: When people offer help, thank them and make sure they mean well. Tell them to keep their wallets closed and stop by later to buy something so you have a chance to think.

Shoe Polisher Scam in Istanbul

Shoe Shiners often target singles, couples, small families, or groups. There are 2 basic tricks to shine your shoes and get your money. Somehow they drop paint on your shoes, or they drop a squirt of paint as they walk in front of you, hoping you’ll give it to them. As an apology or an expression of thanks, they begin to shine your shoes. While you may think it’s free, they will ask you to pay much more than a regular shoe shine price. If you start arguing, his friends and the people around him will support him.

How to Avoid: Don’t see the brush and keep walking. If the brush falls on the shoe, tell him you’re okay and move on. Besides all this, there are legitimate shoe shiners in Istanbul who do an honest job. They don’t normally move, and the shoe shine costs between 5 and 10 TL.

Restaurants Scams in Istanbul

Restaurants often target unaware tourists. Tourists are offered a different price list than locals, while locals are offered a lower price list. Another method is to open a ticket for the food you did not order and eat.

How to avoid: Examine the menu price list carefully, and compare the price written in the price list with the same meals at similar restaurants. Only order the food you intend to eat if the price is right for you. Pay attention to what you order and pay attention to whether the food you eat is written on the ticket receipt.

Don’t Miss The Best Tours and Cruises in Istanbul

Taxi scams in istanbul.

The taxi driver will take you to your desired destination by a different route, which is a longer distance, so you will have to pay a higher taxi fare. Read more…

How to avoid : Try using Bitaksi or other city transfer services during your trip and monitor your route on GPS. Or use public transport! Here’s a guide on how to get from the airport to Istanbul.

Things you Might Think Are Free, but You Are Mistaken

There are many places to visit in Istanbul, which also include restaurants, clubs, and bars. If you’re sitting in a restaurant and some items have already been placed on your table, and you think these are free with the food, you might be wrong. There can be a bottle of water on the table, and you will drink it, and at the end, they will charge a lot of money for that too. Appetizers are almost complimentary in restaurants but not in every restaurant. If you’re at the club or bar, they will serve a bowl of nuts and candies that also cant be free. If you eat these items, they might charge you a lot for this.

Solution: The best way to keep yourself away from these scams is to ask them if they are free or not. Avoid eating anything before asking the price.

The Currency Scam in Istanbul

It is impossible to stop tourists from shopping for souvenirs or clothes. This is so true that Turkey is producing one of the finest quality clothes and carpets. You’re strolling in the streets of Istanbul, and you stopped by a shop for shopping. The salesperson will treat you so perfectly that you will think he is the best salesperson, but it’s not what you think. They will also let you buy an item at a low price. But in reality, when you ask them to charge, they might charge you in Euros instead of Liras through the card machine.

Solution: Before paying through your credit card, make sure the machine is charging in Liras, or the other best way to stay away from the scam is to pay in cash.

Choose Local Neighborhoods Instead of Tourist Areas

To avoid falling victim to these scams in Istanbul, consider choosing local neighbourhoods instead of tourist areas. Not only will you have a more authentic experience, but the locals in these areas are often friendly and welcoming. They can provide you with valuable insights into the culture and lifestyle of Istanbul that you might not get in the more touristy areas.

In addition to avoiding scams, staying in local neighbourhoods can also be more budget-friendly. Prices for food and accommodations can be lower than in tourist areas, and you’ll have the opportunity to discover hidden gems that aren’t as well-known to tourists.

Overall, Istanbul is a safe city for travel and tourism. It’s essential to be aware of the common scams that tourists may encounter to avoid falling victim and ruining your trip. By following these tips, you can have a great trip to Istanbul without falling victim to any scams.

Istanbul in may: weather & things to do, events in 2024, traveling in istanbul with a baby: places to see and tips for a pleasant vacation, istanbul archaeological museums: museums, tickets, opening hours (2024), leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Best Food Delivery Apps in Istanbul: How to Order Food In

April weather in istanbul: the ultimate guide for travelers (2024), how to make turkish coffee: step-by-step recipe.

What to do if you get scammed in Turkey

Falling victim to a scam can be a frustrating and financially detrimental experience, so it is essential to know the steps to take if you are scammed while traveling in Turkey. It is also important to know the common types of scams in Turkey and how to avoid them. If you are scammed in Turkey, the first step is to contact the local police and report the incident. The police will take note of the scam and may investigate the situation to try to locate the responsible parties. It is crucial to provide as much information as possible about the scam and the people involved, such as their names and physical descriptions, and any evidence you may have.

It is also important to contact your embassy or consulate, who can provide advice and assistance, and can also help contact local authorities on your behalf. They can also help you with a translator, a lawyer or even financial help if needed. If you have been the victim of a scam that involves the loss of money, it is important to contact your bank or credit card company as soon as possible to report unauthorized transactions and have the cards blocked or cancelled. This will prevent further unauthorized use of your cards. You should also let your travel insurance provider know if the scam caused any financial loss and if you took any necessary action.

Now let’s talk about a few common types of scams that foreigners may encounter in Turkey: The “Friendly Stranger” scam: This scam involves a seemingly friendly person offering help to a foreign tourist for directions, currency exchange or other types of assistance. The person then takes advantage of the tourist by overcharging them or stealing their money or belongings. To avoid this scam, it is important to be wary of strangers offering help and to use official money changers or ATMs rather than exchanging money with individuals on the street.

The “Free Tour” Scam: This scam involves a person or group offering a free tour of a city or attraction, but then tricking tourists into buying overpriced goods or services or giving away a significant tip. To avoid this scam, it is important to be careful with free tours and research and book tours in advance through reputable tour operators.

The “fake police” scam: This scam involves people posing as police officers asking for money or personal documents, claiming that the foreign tourist has done something wrong. The “helpful stranger” scam: This scam involves a seemingly friendly person who offers to help a foreign tourist with directions, currency exchange, or other services. The person then takes advantage of the tourist by overcharging them or stealing their money or personal belongings. To avoid this scam, it is important to be careful with foreigners offering help, and to use official exchange offices or ATMs instead of exchanging money with people on the street.

The “Free Ride” Scam: This scam involves a person or group offering a free tour of a city or attraction, but then pressuring tourists to buy products or overpriced services or that they give a large tip. To avoid this scam, it is important to be wary of free tours and research and book tours in advance from reputable tour operators.

The “Fake Police” Scam: This scam involves individuals posing as police officers asking for money or personal documents, claiming that the foreign tourist has done something wrong. To avoid this scam, it’s important to know that real cops won’t ask for money or personal documents, and if you’re not sure a person is a real cop, you can ask to see their identity card. identity or badge. Also, if you are arrested by the police, you have the right to call your consulate or embassy for assistance.

The “overpriced taxi” scam: This scam involves taxi drivers who overcharge tourists by taking them on a longer route or using a doctored meter. To avoid this scam, it is important to research approximate taxi fares in advance and agree on the fare before getting into the taxi. He is

Home News 2024 Essential to Navigating Scams in Turkey

2024 Essential to Navigating Scams in Turkey

Whether it's your initial visit or a return, understanding potential scams is crucial while exploring Turkey. While your experience in this vibrant country is likely to be overwhelmingly positive, awareness of common scams ensures a more enjoyable and secure journey , allowing you to focus on the richness of its culture.

Beware of Potential Alcohol Scams in Turkish Tourist Resorts

The dynamic nightlife is a highlight for many tourists visiting Turkish resorts. However, while enjoying the revelry, vigilance around alcohol is essential , as scams unfortunately exist. Being an informed traveller can help avoid potentially unsafe situations involving tainted drinks.

Fake alcohol poses one critical concern, although authorities combat this actively. Counterfeit beverages may seem fine initially before tasting oddly, making sending back imperative over attributing to preference. Paying attention to reviews noting fake liquor can steer tourists away from dangerous bars.
In addition, some establishments water down real drinks , cutting costs while charging full-price . If a cocktail appears too weak, addressing staff and asking for a replacement is best. Remaining observant of drastic variation in taste can enhance the Turkish nightlife experience.
With awareness, tourists can continue enjoying resort nightlife safely. Knowing the scams prevents falling victim when simply looking to indulge in the culture.

Beware of the Shoe Cleaning Scam

A seemingly innocent act of kindness can quickly turn into a scam , as evidenced by the great shoe cleaning debacle. Picture yourself strolling along, and a man in front of you accidentally drops his cleaning brush. You kindly alert him, and he retrieves the brush, expressing gratitude.

However, the twist comes when he insists on cleaning your shoes . Initially, you may think it's a gesture of appreciation, but in reality, he's gearing up to charge you for the unexpected service . Once your shoes are spotless, there's no recourse.

This deceptive tactic is one of the oldest scams targeting tourists in Turkey . Stay alert and be cautious not to fall victim to this clever ruse – a lesson learned from a near miss.

Avoid Opening a Tab in Turkey - Especially with Uber

Venues often suggest patrons open tabs to accumulate charges over weeks before settling, but caution is wise. Tracking expenses can prove challenging over long durations.

The risk emerges at the end when presented with a substantial bill, potentially containing unforeseen costs that accumulated . Financial prudence gets abandoned opening tabs.
Additionally, though infrequent, undisclosed items may get added , and with no itemised receipt, proving fraud becomes difficult. Still, the potential money lost from this scam makes wariness essential.
Overall, resisting opening tabs when possible is most prudent, even at familiar places. Careful tracking of each purchase provides financial clarity compared to tabs.
Settling nightly or using cards to accumulate points, not charges , better protects tourists. Tabs may offer convenience but ultimately enable potential overspending and deception.
Simply put, maintaining awareness around spending and transactions nightly prevents nasty surprises. Open tabs may feel easier in the moment, but lead to less control and oversight when traveling.

Beware of Change Scams in Istanbul Restaurants

A common scam involves musicians approaching diners to perform, creating a festive distraction. When paying the bill amidst the atmosphere, tourists may be less attentive, opening the door for deception.

To avoid potential issues, paying the exact amount or putting the transaction on a card is best. This eliminates confusion around change expected back.
If overpaying with cash, waiters may claim the full amount provided was correct, starting an awkward dispute. Some walk away without returning proper change by exploiting diverted attention.
While not every Istanbul restaurant practices this, it occurs sufficiently to warrant wariness when paying . Staying alert, especially after musicians visit the table, can prevent this specific tourist scam.
Essentially, enjoy the culture and cuisine but remain conscious during payment. Don't allow yourself to be caught unexpectedly without your entitled change – even pleasant distractions are meant to lower guard.

Watch Out for Unwanted Additions to Your Bill

Some Turkish bars secretly add extra drinks to bills , making tourists pay for unordered items, often when distracted in big groups.

Patrons end up in difficulty “he said, she said” disputes unable to prove fraud clearly occurred. Establishing truth becomes nearly impossible once the bill arrives.
Requesting individual bills per family or couple when possible better manages expenses. This segmentation provides transparency, letting tourists verify bill accuracy.
Being proactive shields tourists from potential overcharging scams in the moment rather than exposing them to fraud first. Groups should take precautions together.
Essentially, staying alert to billing practices , even while enjoying yourself, prevents nasty financial surprises. Don't let your guard down assuming fair treatment.
Scrutinising itemised bills carefully , questioning discrepancies, and asking for separate checks saves money and headaches. A few wise precautions can mean carefree fun.

Exercise Caution Regarding Your Hotel Room

This cautionary advice extends beyond Turkey, as it pertains to a global issue that travellers should be aware of. While not all hotels engage in this practice, it's a matter of common sense and prudence.

When stepping out of your hotel room, it's essential to secure your valuables, including money, by utilising the provided safe. Leaving belongings exposed in the room creates a potential risk, as individuals such as cleaning or maintenance staff may enter the room in your absence.

While most staff members are trustworthy, it's a proactive measure to ensure the safety of your valuables . Although incidents are rare, it's challenging to prove the status of items left in the open if they were not placed in the hotel safe. Taking these precautions adds an extra layer of security to your travels, promoting peace of mind during your stay.

Navigating Haggling Challenges

When considering the purchase of a sizable item, it's advisable to enlist the help of a trusted local for the haggling process. Some shopkeepers have been reported to inflate prices when dealing with foreigners or 'yabanci,' marking this as a regrettable and disheartening scam.

Seeking assistance from a local, however, can potentially lead to a more favourable price negotiation or, at the very least, ensure that you are quoted the authentic price. This strategy adds an extra layer of protection against falling victim to price inflation based on your foreigner status.

Beware of Taxi Scams in Istanbul

Navigating Istanbul's transportation, particularly with taxis, requires vigilance due to the prevalent taxi scams across the city. Some taxi drivers may intentionally take a longer route, increasing the cost of your journey. However, you can safeguard against falling victim to this deception by taking specific precautions.

Upon entering the taxi, request the driver to start the metre immediately. Additionally, inquire about a rough estimate for the fare. This proactive approach signals to the driver that you are aware of the common practice of taking passengers on a scenic route to inflate the fare.

By taking these steps, you can enhance your awareness and minimise the risk of being conned during your taxi journey in Istanbul.

Be Cautious of Unexpected Charges

One of the recurring scams in Istanbul involves items being added to your bill that you assumed were complimentary. It's not uncommon to discover that seemingly free items actually come with a substantial cost in Lira.

If anything arrives at your table that you didn't specifically order, it's advisable to inquire about it or refrain from consuming it . While meze is generally complimentary, this may not be the case in every restaurant, so it's essential to confirm. For instance, at an ocakbasi (a typical Turkish grill restaurant), water on your table may not be free, despite assumptions.

This practice extends to bars as well. A bowl of nuts placed on your table when ordering drinks may seem complimentary, only for you to be charged a significant amount for it. To avoid falling victim to unexpected charges, carefully scrutinise your bill upon its arrival and question any discrepancies that catch your attention.

Be Cautious of Beach Walk Invitations

While this issue has become less prevalent, it's still worth noting as a potential scam when navigating beach walks in Turkey. It's important to clarify that this doesn't apply universally and is not the case for everyone. In the past, there have been instances where a young local might suggest a beach walk after work.

While the offer may seem innocent, it's essential to recognize that the intention may not solely be for a pleasant conversation in a beautiful setting. Some individuals may have different expectations, and if those don't align with your intentions, it's advisable to avoid potential awkward situations.

Politely declining such invitations can help prevent uncomfortable encounters, ensuring you enjoy the rest of your holiday without feeling the need to avoid someone due to rejecting their proposal.

What are common scams in Turkey that locals warn about in 2024?

Locals often warn about scams related to fake alcohol, watering down drinks, and adding extra items to bills in bars and restaurants. Additionally, caution is advised regarding taxi drivers taking scenic routes to increase fares and unexpected charges for items assumed to be complimentary.

Are there specific precautions when haggling in Turkey?

When haggling, especially for larger purchases, it's advisable to have a trusted local assist you to prevent price inflation based on your foreigner status. Seeking help from a local can often lead to more favourable negotiations.

What precautions should I take in hotel rooms to prevent theft or scams?

When leaving your hotel room, use the provided safe to secure money and valuables. Avoid leaving items out in the open, as cleaning or maintenance staff may have access, and it's challenging to prove the status of items left unprotected.

Is it safe to accept invitations for beach walks from locals?

While not universal, some locals may have different expectations when suggesting beach walks. If you're unsure of the intentions and want to avoid potential discomfort, it's okay to politely decline such invitations to ensure a pleasant holiday experience.

How can I ensure fair pricing when making purchases in Turkey?

To ensure fair pricing, especially for larger items, consider having a trusted local assist with haggling. Additionally, inquire about the price beforehand, and if possible, pay with the exact amount or use a card to avoid potential scams.

Leave your Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Apply for Turkey visa:

Online Application: Fill out the visa application with your passport details.

Payment: Use a credit card to make an online payment.

Email Confirmation: After payment confirmation, your visa will be emailed to you.

Sign in to continue

Please Sign in or Create an account to continue.

Please Varify Captcha

Jul 30, 2023 · travel safety · 8 min read

The Most Common Taxi Scams in Turkey

Stay safe and scam-free while traveling in Turkey.

In larger cities such as Istanbul, which is home to more than 20,000 taxis, taking a taxi can be an affordable and convenient means of getting around. The majority of taxi drivers in Turkey are honest and fair; however, there are some drivers looking to take advantage of unknowing tourists whenever the opportunity arises. We’ve created a list of the most common taxi scams and how you can avoid them so they won’t happen to you.

So what are the most common taxi scams in Turkey?

Extending the Ride

This is a common trick pulled on tourists in most big cities. On both long and short trips, the driver can extend the duration by making a huge and unnecessary detour. As a tourist, you probably do not know the direction of where you are going or how much it should cost.

How to Avoid - this can be hard to avoid if you don’t speak Turkish or know the area well. Here is a Taxi Fare Calculator you can use for an estimated fare to expect. You can follow along using the maps feature of your smartphone to get a general idea of the time and direction you should be going.

The Sneaky Note Swap

A driver will swap out the Turkish Lira notes for that of a lower denomination. If your taxi ride costs 25 TL and you hand him a 50 TL note, he will quickly swap the 50 TL note for a 5 TL note while you are not looking. He shows you the 5 TL note and waits for you to hand him the remaining 20 TL.

This can result in quick confusion as you were expecting change and unfamiliar with the currency notes. You now have just paid 70 TL for a 25 TL ride.

How to Avoid - be sure to carry plenty of low denomination notes (5 TL and 10 TL) along with coins so you can give the exact amount. If you do need change, show the driver your note first before you hand it to him so he can prepare the change for you. If possible, try to familiarize yourself with the currency and note the different colors between different banknotes.

“I Have No Change”

You need 5-10TL worth of change from the driver. He shows you that he only has 2-3 TL in coins, trying to score an extra bit on top of the fare.

How to Avoid - Ask the driver to go into a shop to change the note. Usually, the change suddenly appears out of thin air. You can also let it go as it may only be a few liras worth if you don’t want to put up the fight.

An “Agreed” Price

You agree with the taxi driver on a fixed price to your destination before getting in. He may tell you there is a lot of traffic, so it will be a better deal, rather than sitting in traffic running the meter up. He may tell you he can take a shortcut to save you time.

Unfortunately, you are now at the mercy of the driver’s discretion. He can easily change the previously “agreed upon” price, and you may be stuck in a situation with an angry driver asking for a higher than usual amount.

How to Avoid - insist on using the meter, no matter what. Meters in taxis are required by law. If the driver refuses or claims the meter is “malfunctioning,” immediately get out of the taxi and find a new one.

Per Person Fare

If you’ve already made the above mistake of agreeing to a fixed fare with the driver, this can be an add-on scam. Let’s say it’s a short trip and you agree to 15 TL for your group. Once you arrive at your destination, the driver will argue that the fare is for each person in your group.

How to Avoid - taxi fares are always per vehicle and should never be per person. Stick to using the meter from an official taxi and don’t agree on the fare ahead of time unless you know the exact route of how to get where you are going and how much it should be.

The “Private” Taxi Driver

There are nearly 20,000 registered and licensed taxis in Istanbul alone. There are also thousands of taxi drivers who are not licensed or operate as “private” drivers.

You may find these unlicensed drivers working in different hot spots of the city hawking customers instead of waiting at a taxi rank. They may claim to offer a better deal than official taxis, but in the end, most will not.

How to Avoid - only take official taxis which are yellow or blue. They will have a “ taksi” sign on the roof and have a meter built into the mirror or dashboard. They will also be clearly labeled with their affiliation to an airport, hotel/resort, or neighborhood taxi rank. Most hotels will be able to call one for you or direct you to the nearest taxi rank. Also, an official taxi will allow you to get a receipt or “ fatura ” if needed.

The “Nightime” Fare

The taxi driver may switch the meter to the “ gece ” (nighttime) rate during the day, which is more expensive. Nighttime rates are no longer allowed, and all taxis operate at a standard rate regardless of the time of day.

How to Avoid - make sure the meter says “ gündüz ” (daytime). If you do not see this, speak up, get out, and find a new taxi.

Higher Starting Fare

Let’s say your taxi driver just dropped off another customer after a short trip, leaving a small fare on the meter (10-20 TL). Instead of resetting the meter, your driver leaves this as the starting fare, so you end up paying more than you should.

How to Avoid - be sure to check the meter upon entering and when you start moving. The meter should display 4 TL as the starting flat rate. The fare should increase by 2.5 TL with every kilometer. If stuck in traffic not moving or waiting for you, .30 TL will be added per minute.

The Rigged Meter

This may not be as common as the other tricks, but it is still something you should watch out for. The meter will be at the bottom of the dashboard by the gearshift, and it may have been previously rigged up by the driver.

The driver may covertly touch a button on the meter while you are not looking as he rests his hand on the gearshift. This can add to or bump up the fare increment.

How to Avoid - if you are in a group, have one person sit upfront so they can keep a close eye on the meter. Be sure to check the meter every 5-10 minutes and make sure you are going at the correct fare.

What to Do If You Get Scammed

If you are the victim of a taxi scam, you may be feeling angry or upset but do not panic. Take a deep breath and remember that scams are very common and happen every day to unknowing tourists.

Fortunately, most taxi scams will not be for a significantly large amount. Therefore, it’s best to put it behind you and learn from your mistake, so it doesn’t happen again.

Should You Tip the Taxi Driver?

Most locals do not tip taxi drivers but will round up the fares. A fare of 24.20 TL will become 25 TL. If the driver carries the luggage to and from the car, they will tip.

Some taxi drivers may expect a tip from a tourist, but do not feel pressured if you were not happy with the service. Many drivers will be very friendly and talkative and even offer you advice on the city, so if you wish to tip a small amount or round up your fee, that is your choice to do so.

Taxi Alternatives

BiTaksi is a taxi app you can download on your phone. The app is very similar to Uber or Lyft and has only registered taxi drivers that offer standard meter rates.

The BiTaksi app is now available in English and is pretty straightforward to use if you are familiar with Uber or Lyft. We recommend this if you have a smartphone with a data plan.

Staying Safe

Petty theft and muggings are rare in Istanbul but you should be extra cautious when in crowded touristic areas of the city such as Grand Bazaar. The most common thing to watch out for are pickpocketers and other types of tourist scams .

Remember to always buy travel insurance when planning a trip to Turkey, just to be safe! World Nomads has a large selection of travel insurance available.

Getting a quick quote from World Nomads is simple - just click the button below to get started!

Final Things to Remember

The meter should display 4 TL as the starting flat rate. The fare should increase by 2.5 TL with every kilometer. When you are stuck in traffic not moving or the taxi is stalled waiting for you, .30 TL will be added per minute. The minimum fare is 10TL so you can’t take super short rides. There's no difference between day and night rates.

If you are coming from the New Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport , know that there are other travel options than just taxis. Keep in mind that not all taxi drivers will speak English, so it will help to have your destination address written down or a smartphone available.

Have Turkish liras readily available as some taxis may not be able to take payment by card. Always look for officially licensed taxis that are yellow or blue with “ taksi ” written on the roof.

The majority of taxi drivers are honest, hardworking, and want to help. This guide on common taxi scams is not to scare you but to give you some insight so you can prevent one from happening to you.

It's always a good idea to have more insight on things you should know about Turkey before your visit , and now you have it. We wish you safe and scam-free taxi travel in Turkey!

19 of the World’s Worst Travel Scams (and How to Avoid Them)

Travel scams are common all over the world. From rigged taxi meters to blind robbery to fake cops, 19 travel bloggers share their worst travel scam stories—and how to avoid them.

She grabbed my crotch and shouted, “I make you real happy!”

I swatted her hand away. But not too hard. I mean, I was drunk, alone, and it did feel kind of good. Sue me.

“Come onnnnnnnnn,” she pleaded. “Real, reaaaaal happy!”

She grabbed me again, this time rubbing a little more and adding a bit of massage.

C’mon, Jeremy. You don’t pick up hookers. Get rid of her.

“Not interested,” I told her. “Go away.” She’d only listen was if I was stern—these girls are incredibly stubborn. In a fit of pique, she gave up and retreated behind me into the night.

I was walking back to my hostel alone from the infamous Pub Street in Siem Reap, Cambodia, when she approached me. At that hour of the morning, the moon was the only source of light on the street to my hostel. I could barely see the woman’s face, but I could tell she was slender, obviously pretty, but also definitely a local prostitute.

I knew this area was rife with travel scammers, and walking home late at night, drunk and by myself, only served to put a target on my back.

At this hour, the locals were only going to want one thing from me—my money…or maybe a kidney.

What ungodly time of the morning is it, anyway?

I reached into my pocket to check the clock on my phone. SHIT. My phone—it’s gone. Panic.

The Infamous Pub Street in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Sobriety kicked in fast. What just happened? Where did my phone go? It was in my hands five minutes ago!

I paused for no more than three seconds to assess. I realized that all that rubbing and massaging was actually the girl’s way of finessing my smartphone out of my pocket and into her hands! Sneaky trick.

I bolted back toward the girl at full speed. Luckily she hadn’t gone far. We locked eyes, and without saying a word or batting an eye, I forcefully retrieved my phone from her hands. She knew she was caught and there was nothing she could do. The jig was up. I got my phone back.

Not everyone gets as lucky as I did that night (not like that—come on!). Travel scams like these are common. I’ve fallen victim to rigged taxi meters and I’ve seen friends pickpocketed before my very eyes. Unfortunately, these kinds of things happen all over the world, from London to Beijing to Paris and, yes, definitely Siem Reap, Cambodia.

But if you keep your wits about you, these travel scams can be avoided.

I reached out to 19 travel bloggers to find out some of the most common travel scams they’ve encountered and exactly how to avoid them. From bribery to the ol’ bait-and-switch, don’t fall prey to one of these common tourist scams around the world.

Drug Busts in India

Person with hoodie and smoke near his face

“While driving a rickshaw across India, I, of course, ran into a lot of problems with my tuk-tuk breaking down. This can be a stressful event and so, as is only natural for me, I sought one day to treat myself to a cheeky joint. I took to the streets and was almost immediately approached by a friendly young lad who sold me some weed. Good stuff, too. He then reported me to the police. It was a white devil shake-down. I was accosted by two unfriendly police officers who demanded that I empty my wallet in order to get out of prison. Unfortunately, my wallet was uncharacteristically full, meaning this exchange was a costly one.”

How to Avoid This Travel Scam

“First, watch yourself when buying any kind of substance abroad. Second, and perhaps more importantly, keep the bulk of your money well hidden. These days I hide all of my cash in a specially designed backpacker belt (no, not one of those stupid money belts) that can hold up to 20 notes and is super inconspicuous.

Border Bandits in Tanzania, Africa

“We had absolutely no money to take transport from the border into town so we had no choice but to change our money at the border. There are men who notoriously hang out between borders—in no man’s land—to change black market money with travelers, often at excellent rates. The man we interacted with that day, however, was not one of these people. First, he handed us the Tanzanian shillings, so our inclination was that he was legit. We gave the guy our Malawian Kwacha, but he counted it, claimed it was fake, handed it back to us, and walked off. We counted the Malawian Kwacha again. He had pocketed half without us noticing! Our $70 just became worth $35.” – Nick and Dariece, Goats on the Road

Cocktails With College Girls in Budapest

A common tourist scam in Budapest is getting served overpriced drinks.

“This is the common ‘let’s have a drink’ tourist scam. Two college girls invited us to have a drink— something most guys would probably get excited about and love to take part in but perhaps should question. Well, we didn’t; we took the bait. The girls were probably using us to pay for their colleges because they took us to a bar that charged 10 to 20 times the normal cost of a drink! The girls definitely get a kickback from the bartenders.”

Double Taxi Fares in New York City

“One thing to be aware of when you’re getting to the airport—especially Laguardia—is that there will often be people offering to drive you to your accommodation right away in an Uber. Sounds great right? No need to order one and wait for it to show up in the confusing mess that is the airport. What they don’t tell you is that they’ll be charging you more than double the rate of an Uber you’d hail through the app on your phone.”

Access Denied in Indonesia

A lady standing on hill and looking at farm

“Many times there will be a massive tourist attraction that’s either free and open to the public or for a very low-cost entry fee. Well, local young men will set up a fake stand with fake printed tickets across the street, hoping to lure those who want to get in. Tourist after tourist will pay varying amounts for the fake ticket, only to get inside and realize that there’s nobody there to verify it and that they will end up paying more money to actual ticket sellers who are the ones working inside.”

Train Troubles in India

“The India rail system is confusing and it’s often possible to sit in a car that is in a different class than your ticket. Many times, officials will simply have you upgrade for a small fee if you had gotten into the wrong car—but scam artists often take advantage of this. Many times, we knew we were in the right compartment, but men with notebooks and official-looking badges asked to see our tickets. When they looked at them, they said we were in the wrong class and asked for way too much money. We fell for this once and learned our lesson.”

Card-Game Crooks in Paris

“You’ll see people on the street playing a card game (sometimes known as three-card Monte) or hiding a ball in a cup and someone guessing where it is and winning money. Then you decide to play—and you win! Thinking this is great, you bet more money…and then you lose…and lose again and again. It’s one of the most common travel scams on the streets of Paris.”

“There are often others playing the game that are accomplices with the scammer—they lose on purpose while you initially watch to make it seem like you can beat them. Remember, the house always wins!”

Mystery Meters in Romania

“My husband and I had read online that you should get a pre-paid taxi inside the airport in Bucharest, but the booth was closed so that wasn’t an option. We went outside, saw what appeared to be an official taxi, asked if the meter was working and got in. As we started driving out of the airport, I noticed that our driver had turned the meter away from us. I immediately asked him to turn it back so that we could see the fare, but all of a sudden he seemed to forget his English. When we reached our hotel, he started fiddling with the meter and turned it back around to show us an exorbitant amount he intended to pass off as the fare… We eventually managed to bring down the price, but we still overpaid seeing as he was holding our luggage hostage in the trunk.”

Fragrant Foes in Eygpt

Shopping in Egypt is an easy place to fall for travel scams.

“In Cairo, I had a man offer to show me a local attraction I was walking to. Always down for a local encounter and some nice company, I didn’t think too much of it at first. After a considerable amount of time, he asked me to come to his perfume shop. I followed but, not too soon after going inside, it was very clear that he got me to come in to make a sale. The entire thing was just a set up to get business out of me.”

Delightful Deceivers in Cuba

“I stayed in a Casa Peculiar in downtown Havana, which is basically where you sleep in the house of a local. The lady of the house was sweet and amiable. After a few hours chatting about what I already know about Cuba, I told her that I loved the famous Cuban band “Buena Vista Social Club.” Her eyes lit up and she preceded to tell me that three of the founding members of the band were headlining a massive concert that night—I was thrilled and paid the $70, foolishly trusting her. When I went to this “concert” it was just a couple of random blokes singing Cuban songs in a little bar… and just two other people who were also naive tourists and had fallen for this trap.”

Fiver Thieves at the Vietnam-Cambodia Border

“When crossing the border from Vietnam into Cambodia, one of the locals on the bus will come around and ask for your passport and enough cash for your Cambodia visa. They will ask for $5 extra and they explain that this is their fee so they can get you across the border quicker than if you were to do it on your own—if you’re not back on the bus when the majority of everyone else is, the bus will drive away without you.”

Shitty Swindlers in Chile

Common scams in Chile involve fake bird poop to deter your attention!

“While waiting in central Santiago for our Uber to take us to the airport, my travel partner felt a splat on his (white!) tee-shirt. Assuming it was bird poop from the heavens, the obvious reaction was to look up. A man insisted on helping him clean the poop, but thankfully, my partner was alert and shooed him away. An old lady then came and tried to do the same, with her eyes on his laptop bag. They used paint as a distraction to try to get their hands on his laptop bag. Luckily, we managed to shoo her away without anything being taken.”

Broken Promises in The Philippines

“In the Philippines, people offer transportation from the airport to your hotel to the point of harassing you—it always happens every time I land in Manila Airports. The person offering transportation will promise everything and anything just to make sure you say “yes,” and then immediately call the transport you requested. You are then handed off to the driver who doesn’t know anything about the promises; in fact, often times there are extra charges that are not disclosed.”

Lost Lira in Turkey

An easy tourist scam to avoid is to not use Euro instead of Lira in Turkey.

“With the Turkish Lira constantly losing value against the Euros, locals will try to charge in Euros in hopes of gaining some extra cash on your dime. It will happen when you try to purchase anything from tea to souvenirs. Any opportunity to get Euros instead of Lira can make them more money, so they’ll try this common tourist scam on anyone they can.”

Tea-Time Teasers in China

Having tea time in China can turn into a tourist scam easily with overpriced tea.

“I found myself talking to Chinese tourists “who happen to be visiting Shanghai” and were planning to go to a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. They asked if my travel buddy and I would like to join in nearly perfect English. We said yes, and they took us down twisting alleys with few people. Eventually, we were taken to a tea house that looked the part on the inside with people dressed up and, well, serving tea. Our new “friends” translated our tea order and I was told I was paying $10 for my glass of tea (expensive!). But when the bill came, we had to pay for each tea we tasted (I sipped from four other cups). The tea was good, but not $45 good.”

Big Bills in Cuba

“A well-dressed couple came up to us in the street and asked where we were from. They asked if we wanted to go to a jazz bar to watch some live music. We of course agreed, and we headed off. We checked the prices for drinks, which were reasonable but, after a few rounds, the waiter came over and handed us a highly inflated bill. The couple started demanding we pay for everyone or else we would “get in trouble.” The waiter started getting aggressive, as well, but we called their bluff, paid for our share at the menu prices and left quickly.”

Manipulative Muggers in Bolivia

“A girl I met lost her entire daypack, which held her passport, wallet, laptop, camera and hard drive because of this scam while she was at a cafe. Absolutely devastating! Somebody drops a handful of change near a tourist. While the kind, yet naive, tourist bends down to help pick up the coins, totally distracted by helping this individual, another person makes off with their belongings.”

Time-Suckers at the Thai-Cambodian Border

A common scam at the border in Southeast Asia is getting charged again for a bus ticket you already have.

“I bought a ticket from Battambang, Cambodia straight to Bangkok, Thailand. I got to the border ready to cross into Thailand bright and early with my ticket for the onward journey in hand, and a scammer was happily waiting for me. He expressed concern that I wouldn’t get on a bus until 1 pm (it was about 8 am at the time) unless I paid 300 Baht ($10 USD). We argued for a bit but he wouldn’t budge on letting me on a bus sooner (surely there was one)… There was a cafe with WiFi so I worked while I waited. When I came back at 12:30 pm to be sure I was there for the 1 pm bus he still tried to ask for money.”

Inflated Transits in Norway

“The “Norway in a Nutshell” tour is heavily promoted to tourists visiting Norway, but if you ask a local if they’d take it they’d laugh because the tour is actually just a collection of public transport tickets sold at a higher price. Norway isn’t generally a country where you have to worry about tourist scams, but if Norway does have anything close to a scam, this would be it!”

Have you fallen prey to one of these common travel scams? Or did you get scammed another way? Let us know in the comments below!

15 Best Travel Insurance Companies
12 Smart Ways Keep Your Stuff Safe When You Travel
17 Best Carry On Backpacks For One Bag Travel
Don’t Get Hacked Abroad: 6 Horrific Stories of Internet Fraud & Identity Theft

Travel Scams FAQs

How do i protect myself from travel scams.

The best way to protect yourself from travel scams is to do your research on common scams beforehand and always be on the lookout for red flags.

How do I know if a travel group is legit?

To find legit travel groups, look for larger well-established companies with good reviews on 3rd party websites.

What should I do if I've been scammed while traveling?

Depending on the country, there may not be much you can do if you’ve already been scammed. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

How can I protect my money while traveling?

You can protect your money while traveling by not keeping it all in one place, using a money belt, and using an RFID-blocking wallet to protect your cards.

How do I not get scammed while traveling?

The best way to not get scammed while traveling is to always be on the lookout, and don’t fully trust anyone at first.

Jeremy Scott Foster

Never fallen for any scams myself, but my boyfriend and our friend were once swarmed by a group of women when they stopped to “donate” to a deaf charity. We were in Paris and almost at the top of the hill of Sacre-Coeur. Luckily I had been before and knew that it was notorious for scammers and I quickly pulled them both away and we continued with our day. I’ll never let them both live it down that they fell for it.

At first it was just one woman, and once I turned around to see where they were there must have been 20 of them! I have no idea where they were hiding!

– An aquaintance of mine got tricked in Barcelona: On his day of departure he was in the centre with his luggage (a suitcase on wheels). Someone asked him for a lighter for his cigarette. He had a lighter indeed, and while his hands were busy lighting the fire he lost sight of his suitcase, forever. Another guy stole it behind his back.

– Also in Barcelona: All those games on the street (like the one in Paris described above) are also perfect opportunities for regular thieves. So if you really want to watch those shows, keep your valuables at the most secure places in your clothes and your daypack in front of you. Better though to just avoid these crowds.

– Probably happening anywhere: employees of strip clubs try to lure you into their establishments. If you agree and enter, they might not let you out (sometimes also threatening with violence) until you have spent a certain amount of money on overpriced drinks. Also never pay with card there.

How about the rental car scam? You check out a rental car comparison site for the best price, you find it then book and pay. Then you are told you’ll to collect your car from a different company who are agents for the one you booked. The guy behind the counter tries to upgrade you to a bigger car, you say no thanks. He then wants to upgrade the insurance. No thanks. 20 minutes later you are still stuck at the desk with the salesman pushing extra at you. You are now running late, you give in and end up paying extra. Later when you get your credit card statement you find out just how much extra. Scammers aren’t always phone thieves or card sharks.

I have been the victim of two scams. The first was in Bangkok. I went to a travel agency that looked really legitimate. The agent booked my overnight bus to Chiang Mai. I didn’t realize until it was too late that she charged me more than triple what it normally costs. My taxi to my hostel from the Manila airport rigged the meter to run faster and charged me more than triple what it should have been.

We were always asked to pay at least double for any taxi or tuk tuk in Bangkok. We always got them down….then gave ’em what they originally wanted. It was only a small bit of money….I just hate being scammed. It was my way of letting them know I didn’t want to be scammed. HOWEVER, we did fall for another scam there. Some nice guy engaged in conversation with us. He was so helpful. (haha!) We ended up taking a tuk tuk far away and ended in some jewelry shop. (He even advised us not to agree to the first amount the driver wanted to charge us…how clever!) We didn’t buy any jewelry and had a nice little discovery experience getting back.

In Egypt, we regularly go to Hurghada, but this ‘scam’ will probably be the case anywhere in the country… If you want to buy a souvenir, clothing and such, don’t go to the regular so called local shops if you don’t want or don’t care to bargain….The standard prize shopowners come up with for their goods is more than often at least triple the value of the article concerned. Instead, try to find a licenzed Cleopatra Bazar, which is a big shop with fixed prices. Yes, a bit touristy but usually you get far better deals (in fact decent prices) than bargaining on the street markets and local shops.

Loved this post, Jeremy! I had 9 (annoying but didnt lost money) and 11 (lost a few bucks) happen to me. Even for a well seasoned traveler, they sometimes do it so fast that you really don’t get a chance to register what happened!

in China, walking along talking with my translator, a chap bumps into me and “drops” his cell phone. the glass is broken and he tries to get me to pay for it. i refused to be intimidated by him and after a bit of discussion we left, not scammed. so beware someone eyeing you so that they can try this scam. in Beijing, the center, major tourist street, a lovely gal wanted to practice her English. we walk along talking, she suggests having tea in this second flr. teahouse. we do so, we get separate teas, mine is uninteresting so i hardly drink any–she encourages me to drink it. all of a sudden, a vast empty space opens up within me–time to high-tale it !! i make my way to the cash register, the bill is of course higher than it should be, but rather than argue the issue i throw them some money and rapidly exit–i as wearing a money belt and was already too at risk of loosing it. fortunately a Starbucks was close by down the street so two double expressos helped return to normal. so, almost Shanghai’d!!! an hr. later walking back to my hotel, two chaps pass me and a minute later they are walking along side me. the Frenchman starts chatting me up, telling me he is starting a restaurant and would i like to try it? duh !!! i just went thru that movie—i of course said no thanks and continued on my way. beware free food and drink—–you might just get shanghai’d……. also, in Asia, make sure they open your beer in front of you; if you get a mixed drink, DON’T use a straw and only drink about half, as a drug would be in the lower half. be safe……

Good on getting back your phone!

The worst scam I’ve been in (before I knew better) was falling for the Bangkok Gem Scam. Lost over $3000 back in 2001. Stupid, stupid, stupid but they knew what they were doing. Wrote about it on the blog and still gets lots of comments because people still fall for it to this day. You’d think Thailand would have cleaned that up but too many people involved unfortunately.

Frank (bbqboy)

The gem scam? What’s that!?

I’ve had a gypsy women in Madrid try to give me Rosemary. Then i remember what should i do that as like your post and i put some advised that, don’t allow anyone to put anything on your body, and be extremely wary of accepting anything for free unless there is a good reason for it. Especially in very touristy areas. Ignore them and keep walking.

YES! This kind of thing has happened to me so many times!

Great tips Jeremy, thanks for sharing.

I’ve been planning a trip to South East Asia alone so i was kinda digging around for these kinda information so thank you so much for sharing! It’s sad that people love to take advantage of tourists, becoming the victim of a travel scam can really ruin your vacation.

I can tell you clearly about two ladies who live in Luxor but are orginally from England. Their names are Amira Gilani and Jane Irving. They go around the tourist areas and cafes and they promote their real estate business and dahabiya (boats) business to new tourists, what they do is they offer villas and apartments for the tourists to buy at a very affordable rate but they provide false papers and a fake buy/sale agreement that has no validity in the court. This kind of fraud is very common place in Luxor and since those two ladies are English, people trust them right away. I am originally from Australia and I was cheated by those two scammers and I hope everyone is warned.

Great blog. Very into detail and very helpful. Thanks for sharing!

I sometimes wander if the whole lesbianism thing is a hoax to lure in sexual predators and then send them to church and then send them to the military.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Search our latest articles, reviews and gear guides

TravelFreak on Instagram
TravelFreak on Facebook
TravelFreak on Twitter
TravelFreak on Pinterest

Thank you for signing up!

Watch Out! Don’t Fall for These Sneaky Tourist Scams While on Vacation

Traveling is an exciting experience but can also be a minefield of tourist scams and traps. Dishonest individuals target tourists, taking advantage of their unfamiliarity with local customs and surroundings to scam them of their money or belongings.

You should be aware of the common tourist scams and traps, from fake tour guides to overpriced restaurants, pickpockets, and fake ticket sellers. Taking a few precautions and keeping an eye out for possible tourist traps and scams can help ensure that your travels are safe and enjoyable.

One of the most common tourist scams around the world is taxi fraud. Some taxi drivers may try to scam you by taking a longer route to your destination, inflating the fare, or even driving you to a different place.

Take precautions to avoid this type of fraud. One way is to negotiate the price upfront with the driver or use a reputable taxi company. Researching ahead of time and learning about the average fare in the area can also help you avoid getting overcharged. When you are in a taxi, it is a good idea to use GPS navigation to ensure that the driver takes the most direct route.

Fake Ticket Sellers

When you’re traveling, it’s common to want to visit popular tourist attractions . Unfortunately, scammers often exploit this desire by offering discounted tickets to these attractions. While it may be tempting to save some money, it’s crucial to be cautious of such offers, as these tickets may be fake.

The smart option is purchasing tickets directly from the attraction’s website or a licensed vendor. If you buy tickets from a third party, ensure the vendor is reputable. Be wary of any vendor selling tickets at a significantly discounted price, and be bold and ask questions to ensure you’re getting what you paid for.

Street Vendors

Watch Out! Don't Fall for These Sneaky Tourist Scams While on Vacation

Street vendors can be a common sight in many tourist areas worldwide, offering a range of souvenirs, clothing, and other goods. While many vendors are honest and legitimate, some will take advantage of tourists by overcharging or selling counterfeit items.

It’s essential to take precautions when shopping with street vendors. The best way to ensure you’re paying enough is by bargaining. Haggling over the price is common in many cultures, and vendors often expect it.

Pickpockets

Pickpockets often target tourists, particularly in crowded markets, public transportation, and tourist attractions. Keeping your belongings secured and staying alert is essential to avoid falling victim to pickpockets.

Make sure to carry only what you need and leave any valuables, such as expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash, in a secure location, such as a hotel safe.

When you’re out and about, keep your belongings close to your body, such as in a secure backpack or a cross-body bag that can be worn in front of you. Avoid carrying your wallet or phone in your back pocket, as it’s easier for pickpockets to access.

Fake Police Officers

One of the most alarming tourist scams is when scammers pose as police officers to gain access to your personal information and belongings. These scammers may wear fake police uniforms, have fake badges, or carry phony identification. They may approach you in a public area or on the street, demanding to see your passport or other identification. Once they have your passport or identification, they may use it for identity theft or demand a bribe to give it back to you.

One way to verify a police officer’s identity is to ask for their badge number and call the local police station to confirm their identity. You can also ask to see their identification and take a photo with your phone, but be careful not to appear aggressive or suspicious. If the person claiming to be a police officer refuses to give their badge number or identification, this could be a red flag that they are not genuine.

Free Item Scams

A typical tourist scam in busy tourist areas is when someone offers you a free item, such as a flower or bracelet. However, after accepting the item, the person may demand payment or guilt you into donating money to their cause. This is often done using high-pressure tactics, such as saying that the donation is for a charity or a religious institution. The person may also become aggressive or threatening if you refuse to pay or donate.

You should be wary of anyone approaching you with a seemingly free item. While it’s understandable to be interested in interacting with locals or experiencing local customs, it’s essential to be cautious when dealing with strangers. If someone offers you something for free, it’s a good idea to decline and move on politely.

ATM Skimming

One of the most insidious tourist scams is using skimming devices on ATMs. Scammers may install small devices on the ATM to read your credit card information and steal your money. These devices can be hard to spot, but there are ways to protect yourself from falling victim to this scam.

It’s vital to use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas. Scammers are more likely to target ATMs in quiet, isolated areas where they can install their skimming devices without being detected. ATMs located in crowded areas or inside buildings with security guards are less likely to be targeted by scammers.

In addition, it’s important to cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Skimming devices may also include small cameras that can record your PIN as you enter it. Covering the keypad with your hand can prevent scammers from recording your PIN.

Fake Tour Guides

Another tourist trap travelers need to be cautious of is individuals who offer to guide them to popular attractions, especially if they need to wear official tour guide identification. These individuals may overcharge you or even lead you to a dangerous area.

These individuals often approach you on the street or near popular tourist spots. They may offer to show you around the area or take you to a specific attraction, claiming to know a shortcut or claiming that the attraction is closed due to construction or other issues. While some of these individuals may be well-intentioned, many others look to exploit unsuspecting tourists.

To avoid falling prey to fake tour guide scams, it’s best to use a reputable tour company or ask the hotel for a recommendation.

Hotel Scams

One common phone scam involves scammers calling hotel rooms and posing as hotel staff. They may ask for your credit card information, claiming that there is a problem with your reservation or that there has been a mistake with your payment. They may also ask for personal data like your address or passport details, claiming it’s for verification purposes.

Always verify the caller’s identity before giving out personal or financial information. Hang up the phone and call the hotel reception desk directly to confirm the validity of the call. Most hotels would never ask for personal or financial information over the phone and will be able to verify whether the call is genuine.

Another common hotel scam involves fake restaurant menus. Scammers may create fake menus, leave them in your hotel room, or slide them under the door. When you call to place an order, they steal your credit card number and never deliver your food. It’s a good idea to look up the restaurant to ensure it is legit.

Fake Beggars

While it’s natural to want to help those in need, some scammers will use this desire to their advantage. In some tourist areas, individuals may pose as beggars or use their children to gain sympathy and solicit money from unsuspecting tourists. They may use different tactics, such as pretending to be disabled, homeless, or needing medical assistance.

Be cautious when approached by someone on the street, especially those who seem overly persistent or aggressive. While some may genuinely need help, others may be scammers looking to exploit tourists’ generosity. It’s best to use your discretion when deciding whether to give money to someone on the street.

Scammers may pose as representatives of a charity or nonprofit organization and ask for donations.

Fake Attractions

Scammers may use various tactics to create fake attractions or events that lure tourists in with the promise of a unique experience or adventure. However, these fake attractions or events can be a waste of time or, worse, dangerous. They may involve hidden fees, inadequate facilities, or other risks that could put your safety at risk.

Do your research before visiting any attraction or event. Check online reviews and ratings from previous visitors to understand what you might expect. If an attraction or event has a lot of negative feedback or is not well-known, it’s best to avoid it.

“Found” Items

Tourists may encounter a common scam when someone approaches them and claims to have found a valuable item, such as a camera, wallet, or phone. The scammer will offer to sell the item to the tourist at a discounted price. The scammer may claim that someone else lost or abandoned the item and that they are simply looking to make a quick sale.

It’s essential to be cautious of buying anything not previously yours, especially when the circumstances surrounding the sale seem suspicious. The item could be stolen property, and purchasing it could put you at risk of legal trouble or financial loss. If someone approaches you with an offer, you should decline politely and walk away.

Misleading Directions

Tourists should be aware of scammers who give incorrect or misleading directions to steer them toward a specific shop or attraction. The scammer may work in cahoots with the shop owner or receive a commission for bringing tourists to a particular place.

Always verify directions with a map or GPS before following them. It’s good to research the area beforehand to have a general sense of where you’re going and what you’re looking for.

Tourist Traps and Scams

Falling victim to tourist traps and scams can be a frustrating and costly experience for travelers. While avoiding these traps altogether is impossible, being aware of common scams and taking steps to protect yourself can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. By staying alert, researching, and trusting your instincts, you can help reduce the risk of falling prey to scams and enjoy your travels.

This article Watch Out! Don’t Fall for These Sneaky Tourist Scams originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Photo Credit: [@Jandruk/DepositPhotos]

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States.

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

How to Avoid Common Travel Scams, According to the Experts

Fraud and travel experts explain how to spot the red flags and what you can do to protect yourself and your money.

over the shoulder view of young asian woman shopping online for flight tickets on airline website with laptop, entering credit card details to make mobile payment at home camera and passport on the table travel planning booking a holiday online

Free trips. Fraudulent websites. Fake listings. Vacation rental packages that look way too good to be true. These are just a few of the many common travel scams that so many have fallen victim to. Fortunately, equipped with the right tools and knowledge, spotting these scams and recognizing the red flags ahead of time can save you the headache and your hard-earned money.

We spoke with fraud and travel experts to learn how travelers can protect themselves from common travel scams, from pickpocketing to more sophisticated strategies like setting up a phony social media profile to trick you. Below, we've gathered experts' best advice to make sure you have a fun and safe vacay.

Skip Google's sponsored search results

Double check the website address

And never click on any email or text links. “Scammers can employ sophisticated tactics, such as duplicating legitimate travel websites, creating convincing replicas that can be really difficult to spot,” notes Hannah Hood, a marketing manager and phone fraud expert at Phonely . “These fraudulent websites are designed to steal your money or personal details, posing a significant threat to your financial security and privacy. It's crucial to take proactive steps like checking the website address to ensure you're on a legitimate platform. Also, make sure it starts with https:// – this is used by any website that needs to secure users and is the fundamental backbone of all security on the internet.” When in doubt, always type in the website address yourself.

Book direct and via reputable travel sites

cropped hand of woman shopping online for flight tickets on airline website with laptop carried out coronavirus rapid self test, negative rapid lateral flow test device and travel essentials on table planning for travel travel during pandemic concept

Becky Hart, President of Seven Corners Travel Insurance, advises travelers to always book directly with the travel provider. “It’s tempting to go through a third party if it looks like we can get a better price. You don’t always know if that person is a legitimate seller, though.” Stick to sites you know and trust, and you may even want to avoid reputable third-party channels, as issues can arise if you need to cancel. “Even if it’s not a scam, sometimes having a go-between to get your tickets or service can create more headaches. There are more hoops to jump through if you have to cancel and want to get your money back, or if you simply have questions.”

Read the reviews

black woman with laptop reading, typing and working for online digital newspaper, marketing or advertising company girl check email, post blog feedback or review social media content writing article

And make sure there are plenty of them. Lauren Gumport, Vice President of Communications & Brand at Faye Travel Insurance , tells us that most travel insurance policies typically don't cover scam scenarios. “Keep that in mind when booking accommodations and make sure the place you want to book has dozens of reviews before paying.”

Luxury Travel Expert Kat Fleischman agrees. “Conduct research on the property and the host. Look for reviews and ratings from previous guests and check how many stars they have or if they are a super host.” She also suggests communicating directly with the host through the platform’s messaging system. It's also a huge red flag if your host asks for payment outside of the platform.

Beware of any freebies

Assume nothing is free, and that if it sounds too good to be true then it likely is. For example, a free trip. “Look for reviews and ratings and Google the company name and the word scam for any red flags,” recommends Fleischman. “Never provide personal information or payment without doing your research first.”

At your destination, you may also be offered free gifts, like flowers or food samples. “After you accept the ‘gift,’ you’re asked for money,” notes Hart. “When in doubt about the legitimacy of the offer, simply say no thank you.”

Know the price going in

“Whether arranging a tour onsite or getting a taxi, determine the price beforehand to reduce confusion and avoid getting the runaround,” says Hart. “If you’re negotiating a ride somewhere, you might agree on the route, too. All too often, drivers will try to take you on the ‘scenic route’ to run up the meter.”

Research common scams in your destination

According to Fleischman, awareness is key to avoiding falling victim. “Be cautious when dealing with street vendors and always confirm prices before buying. Stick to reputable tour operators recommended by trusted sources, such as hotels or official tourism websites and check website reviews from other people.” Be aware of common pickpocket scams too, which are rampant in many destinations. “Keep your belongings secure, and be aware of distractions, such as strangers bumping into you or creating a commotion.”

Use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas

young woman withdrawing cash money at the atm

If it’s inside of a bank, even better. Fleischman suggests inspecting the ATM for any signs of tampering before use too. “When exchanging currency, research the exchange rates and compare them with the rates offered by exchange offices. Count your money carefully, and examine it for any signs of counterfeiting before leaving the exchange office or ATM.”

Use reputable taxi and transport companies

This protects you and your money. “Verify that the taxi has proper identification and markings before getting in, and ensure the meter is running before starting the ride so you don't get screwed,” says Fleischman. When in doubt, have your hotel call a taxi for you. If you're used to Uber or Lyft in your country, note that service can be restricted depending on where you visit.

Will Bolsover, Founder & CEO of luxury travel outfitter Natural World Safaris , tells us another “good way for travelers to ensure that they’re getting a good price with a trusted company is to talk to a destination specialist who will be able to help them secure transfers ahead of time.”

Always choose the local currency when using a credit card abroad

No foreign transaction fees are great, but if you want to avoid inflated exchange rates, you need to choose the local currency when purchasing anything abroad with your credit card. “If you are, for example, using a US credit card while in Europe, the payment terminal will often ask whether you want to pay in USD or Euros,” explains Patricia Palacios, co-founder of España Guide , a travel website for Spain. “If you select USD, the intermediary bank will give you an awful exchange rate.”

Moreover, she recommends travelers keep an eye on the screen of the terminal during the payment process. “Because sometimes the waiter or shopkeeper doesn’t even ask you and selects whichever currency they feel like.”

Verify you’re messaging with the actual company on social media

blonde woman lying on sofa, using smartphone at home

As of late, Bolsover has seen a lot of social media customer support impersonators. “One common travel scam that’s currently taking over social media, particularly X [f.k.a. Twitter] targets those who have had a recent flight change or cancellation,” he tells us. “Customers often reach out to airline help accounts on social media to help get issues resolved, but recently they find that the accounts responding are actually scammers posing as these airlines. They use the airline's profile picture and bio, and now that anyone with a bank account can secure a blue tick, they look trustworthy to unsuspecting travelers.”

To avoid this, he advises travelers to check the handle of the account to ensure it’s from the original airline. “It’s also helpful to check how many followers the account has, as an unusually low amount indicates that the account is fake. Looking at when the account was created is also a giveaway.”

preview for Good Housekeeping US Section: Life

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

The Best Caribbean Resorts for Families

Best All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

glacier bay national park and preserve, alaska

The Best Alaska Cruises

the map of universal studio's forthcoming epic universe land in orlando

Universal's Epic Universe Will Live Up to Its Name

three beautiful women sitting on the stairs of the city streets eating pizza

25 Fun Girls' Weekend Getaway Destinations

Inside Vrbo's Vacation Rentals of the Year 2024

20 Best Places to Visit in April

20 Surprising Disneyland Freebies

family running and splashing into sea together with body boards

The Best Family Vacation Ideas

The Best Bachelorette Party Destinations

young african american couple on vacation exploring

Romantic Weekend Getaways

The Star ePaper
Subscriptions
Manage Profile
Change Password
Manage Logins
Manage Subscription
Transaction History
Manage Billing Info
Manage For You
Manage Bookmarks
Package & Pricing

Police arrest international gang in $686 million medicinal cannabis scam

Saturday, 13 Apr 2024

MADRID (Reuters) - Spanish police said on Saturday it led an international operation to arrest a gang which allegedly defrauded 645 million euros ($686.41 million) from victims in 35 countries in a scam centred around cannabis plants for medicinal use.

The gang mounted a marketing system and attended international cannabis fairs to convince victims from countries including Spain, France and Germany to invest in the system, the Spanish National Police said in a statement.

It led the operation with the help of Europol and forces from Germany, France, the Dominican Republic, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Nine suspects, who have not been named, were detained on suspicion of fraud in Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany, Latvia, Poland, Italy and the Dominican Republic.

"The business model offered by this organization consisted of using the capital transferred from investors to develop partnerships to finance the cultivation of cannabis plants," Silvia Garrido, Spanish police spokeswoman said.

"With this system, they promised victims profits of between 70% and 168% per year, depending on the species of cannabis in which they invested."

Luxury cars, hotel parties and music videos were used in an advertising campaign to promote the scheme, police said, and victims were taken to legal cannabis plantations which were involved in the scam.

Police carried out raids in 2022 but did not say if any suspects have been charged with any offences.

Police blocked bank accounts containing 58,600.00 euros and 116,300.00 euros in crypto currencies, and 106,000 euros in cash was recovered. Properties worth 2.6 billion euros were seized.

($1 = 0.9397 euros)

(Reporting by Graham Keeley; editing by Clelia Oziel)

Found a mistake in this article?

Report it to us.

Thank you for your report!

Championing financial inclusion, social responsibility

Next in world.

Trending in News

Air pollutant index, highest api readings, select state and location to view the latest api reading.

Select Location

Source: Department of Environment, Malaysia

Others Also Read

Best viewed on Chrome browsers.

We would love to keep you posted on the latest promotion. Kindly fill the form below

Thank you for downloading.

We hope you enjoy this feature!

Share full article

For more audio journalism and storytelling, download New York Times Audio , a new iOS app available for news subscribers.

April 12, 2024 • 34:23 How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
April 11, 2024 • 28:39 The Staggering Success of Trump’s Trial Delay Tactics
April 10, 2024 • 22:49 Trump’s Abortion Dilemma
April 9, 2024 • 30:48 How Tesla Planted the Seeds for Its Own Potential Downfall
April 8, 2024 • 30:28 The Eclipse Chaser
April 7, 2024 The Sunday Read: ‘What Deathbed Visions Teach Us About Living’
April 5, 2024 • 29:11 An Engineering Experiment to Cool the Earth
April 4, 2024 • 32:37 Israel’s Deadly Airstrike on the World Central Kitchen
April 3, 2024 • 27:42 The Accidental Tax Cutter in Chief
April 2, 2024 • 29:32 Kids Are Missing School at an Alarming Rate
April 1, 2024 • 36:14 Ronna McDaniel, TV News and the Trump Problem
March 29, 2024 • 48:42 Hamas Took Her, and Still Has Her Husband

How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam

A mexican drug cartel is targeting seniors and their timeshares..

Hosted by Katrin Bennhold

Produced by Asthaa Chaturvedi and Will Reid

With Clare Toeniskoetter and Lynsea Garrison

Edited by Brendan Klinkenberg and Michael Benoist

Original music by Marion Lozano , Rowan Niemisto , Dan Powell , Pat McCusker and Will Reid

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

Warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence.

A massive scam targeting older Americans who own timeshare properties has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars sent to Mexico.

Maria Abi-Habib, an investigative correspondent for The Times, tells the story of a victim who lost everything, and of the criminal group making the scam calls — Jalisco New Generation, one of Mexico’s most violent cartels.

On today’s episode

Maria Abi-Habib , an investigative correspondent for The New York Times based in Mexico City.

A man in a plaid shirt and a woman wearing a red sweater are linking arms looking away from the camera. They are standing outside on a lawn with trees in the distance.

Background reading

How a brutal Mexican drug cartel came to target seniors and their timeshares .

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Katrin Bennhold is the Berlin bureau chief. A former Nieman fellow at Harvard University, she previously reported from London and Paris, covering a range of topics from the rise of populism to gender. More about Katrin Bennhold

IMAGES

5 Biggest Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid
Istanbul Common Tourist Scams
Istanbul Scams To Know Before You Travel
Istanbul Scam: Top Tourist Scams in Turkey and How to Avoid Them
A Local's Guide To Scams In Turkey To Avoid In 2023
ISTANBUL: Top 5 Scams to Watch Out for (And How to Avoid Them)

VIDEO

Turkey Tourist Visa || Turkey Visa Process || Jobs & TRC || Turkey to Europe ||
Tourist Scams to Avoid when Travelling to Tbilisi Georgia
Мошенники в Турции
Turkey tourist places
Как обманывают русских в Турции [7 популярных разводов в Стамбуле]
Top 5 things to do in Istanbul ( Turkey ) part 1 / Turkey 4K video/ how to avoid scam in turkey /

COMMENTS

A Local's Guide To Scams In Turkey To Avoid In 2024
The Alcohol Situation. If there's one Turkish scam you must be careful of in tourist resorts, it's anything to do with alcohol. Prices in Turkey have increased quite steeply over the last few years since the Turkish Lira has fallen in value, affecting businesses in many ways.Alcohol, in particular, is costly for bars to purchase, and in some cases, that means that some bar owners have ...
9 Pesky Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid In 2024
The biggest tourist scams in Istanbul, Turkey, range from missing change to extra additions to your bill and the famous "scenic" taxi route. Istanbul is a huge city, with a population of over 15 million and countless tourists visiting at any one time.
Common Tourist Scams in Istanbul & How to Avoid Them
Istanbul ...
How to Avoid Common Travel Scams in Turkey
The best way to avoid the problem of money switching is to hold up the note you're paying with, maintain eye contact, and say the amount out loud. Most drivers understand the words for fifty ( elli) or one hundred ( yuz) in English. It only takes a little research to avoid the most prevalent scams in Turkey.
17 Tourist Scams in Turkey and How to Avoid Them
1. Shoe Shine Scam. One of the most common tourist scams in Istanbul, the shoe shine scam, is where a shoe polisher walking past you suddenly drops his brushes or box. As you help him pick the items up, he offers a free shoeshine. You agree, and he polishes your shoes and chats innocently, distracting your thoughts.
Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in Turkey
Likewise, for a travel agency. If the scam artist was a street vendor or shop, call the gendarme, Zabita or local police. Also check out the website ALO 176, mostly set up to handle with tourist swindles and where to file complaints and get advice about common tourist scams in Turkey.
Tourist SCAMS in Turkey and how to AVOID them
Bar tourist scam in Istanbul Turkey . Bar scam happens often to tourists in a particular area of Istanbul, Taksim square and Istiklal street. They are areas where there are a lot of bars frequented by tourists. Bar tourist scam in Istanbul Turkey. The targets are usually foreigners, one man or two men who go out to a bar.
What Are Common Scams Targeting Tourists In Turkey?
As a tourist in Turkey, it is important to be aware of common scams and take preventative measures to protect yourself from falling victim to them. By staying informed, conducting research, and trusting your instincts, you can enjoy a safe and memorable travel experience free from the deceit of scammers. Remember, friendly locals, reputable ...
How To Spot and Avoid Common Istanbul Tourist Scams?
A victim of a common scam in Istanbul - on 27th January 2020. Dear readers, I would like to describe my experience of how I unfortunately became a victim of a common scam in Istanbul. I was a tourist and stayed in Sultanahment, Istanbul, Turkey for 5 days.
29 Istanbul Travel Tips: From Haggling to Tourist Scams
Refer to the tourist scams section for more things to look out for. 26. Drink tea, not coffee. Karin drinking Turkish tea at the Topkapi Palace cafe: low quality food, high prices, but wonderful views . Turkish tea is served all day every day at all meals. It is a strong black tea that's typically served in a small, tulip-shaped glass cup ...
Top Tourist Scams in Turkey
Phone Line Scam. Tourists, who use the lines taken on their own passports, leave the lines back to the tourism offices when they leave Turkey. These lines are not closed and provided to certain gangs for dark jobs. According to the evidence, phone scammers threaten people by presenting themselves as police and prosecutors with these lines.
What to Do if You Are Scammed in Turkey
If you are a victim of a scam in Turkey, the first step is to contact the local police and report the incident. The police will take a report of the scam and may investigate the situation to try to locate the responsible individuals. It's important to provide as much information as possible about the scam and the individuals involved, such as ...
How To Avoid Tourist Scams In Istanbul
Choose Local Neighborhoods Instead of Tourist Areas. To avoid falling victim to these scams in Istanbul, consider choosing local neighbourhoods instead of tourist areas. Not only will you have a more authentic experience, but the locals in these areas are often friendly and welcoming. They can provide you with valuable insights into the culture ...
What to do if you get scammed in Turkey
If you are scammed in Turkey, the first step is to contact the local police and report the incident. The police will take note of the scam and may investigate the situation to try to locate the responsible parties. It is crucial to provide as much information as possible about the scam and the people involved, such as their names and physical ...
9 Tips to Watch Out for 2024 Istanbul Tourist Scams
9 Tips to Watch Out for 2024 Istanbul Tourist Scams. Explore Istanbul confidently by avoiding common tourist scams. In this vibrant city of 15 million, be cautious of scams like missing change and scenic taxi routes. Stay incident-free by staying aware, especially in tourist-packed areas like Sultanahmet and Taksim.
13 Dos and Don'ts When Visiting Turkey
11. ...
Tourist Scams in Turkey & How to Avoid Them
Tourist Scams in Turkey & How to Avoid Them. As in any other city around the world also Istanbul has many common scams and usually tourists fall when they ar...
2024 Essential to Navigating Scams in Turkey
What are common scams in Turkey that locals warn about in 2024? Locals often warn about scams related to fake alcohol, watering down drinks, and adding extra items to bills in bars and restaurants. ... 9 Tips to Watch Out for 2024 Istanbul Tourist Scams Traveling to Turkey from Kuwait in 2024 Is it safe to travel to turkey right now
What You Should Know About Turkish Online Scams
Wymoo private investigators in Istanbul, Ankara, and other parts of Turkey have encountered an alarming number of cases of fraud, online and offline, and romance scam. That is why background check investigations are at the forefront of the fight against internet crime in this country. Given the high risk, our investigators offer some advice on ...
AVOID These Scams In Istanbul
With peak travel season coming to Istanbul and Turkey, make sure you avoid these scams in Istanbul to keep you safe and protect your money. The lemon street ...
The Most Common Taxi Scams in Turkey
The ...
19 Common Travel Scams (and How to Avoid Them)
Lost Lira in Turkey. An easy tourist scam to avoid is to not use Euro instead of Lira in Turkey. "With the Turkish Lira constantly losing value against the Euros, locals will try to charge in Euros in hopes of gaining some extra cash on your dime. It will happen when you try to purchase anything from tea to souvenirs.
Watch Out! Don't Fall for These Sneaky Tourist Scams
One of the most common tourist scams around the world is taxi fraud. Some taxi drivers may try to scam you by taking a longer route to your destination, inflating the fare, or even driving you to a different place. Take precautions to avoid this type of fraud. One way is to negotiate the price upfront with the driver or use a reputable taxi ...
How to Avoid Common Travel Scams, According to the Experts
Free trips. Fraudulent websites. Fake listings. Vacation rental packages that look way too good to be true. These are just a few of the many common travel scams that so many have fallen victim to.
Police arrest international gang in $686 million medicinal cannabis scam
MADRID (Reuters) - Spanish police said on Saturday it led an international operation to arrest a gang which allegedly defrauded 645 million euros ($686.41 million) from victims in 35 countries in ...
How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan ...
Islamism is dead in Erdogan's Turkey
Islamism is dead in Erdogan's Turkey The setback for the AK party is good news for the West - it is crucial that the region's largest democracy is secular and stable

9 Pesky Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid In 2024

1. Great Shoe Cleaning Scammers

2. The Great Carpet Shop Scam

Brands We Use And Trust

4. Beware the Nightclub Hustle

5. Where Is My Change?

6. The Tumbling Simit Seller Swindle

7. I Thought This Was Free! It’s Not

8. The “Officer” Impersonator Ruse

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

9. The Booze Bamboozle

Here are a few more scams in Turkey to watch out for.

Comments (4)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Sign In to Digit

File a Claim

More Products

Buy International Travel Insurance Policy Online

17 Common Tourist Scams in Turkey & How to Avoid Them

List of 17 Most Common Tourist Scams in Turkey

2. Fake Artefacts and Coins Scam

3. Turkish Carpets and Rug Scams

4. The Drink Scam

5. Taxi Scam

6. Pickpocketing

7. Currency Exchange Scam

8. Solo Traveller Scam

9. Property/Hotel Scam

10. Fake Policeman Scam

11. Streetside Sellers Scam

12. Ticket Seller Scam

13. Falling Simit Man Scam

14. Photography Scam

15. Friendly ATM Helper Scam

16. Guessing Game Scam

17. Distraction Scam

How to Avoid Tourist Scams in Turkey?

Emergency Resources for Tourist Scams in Turkey

Read More About Turkey

Best Time to Visit Turkey

What Is Turkey Famous For

Turkey Visa for Indians

Turkish Citizenship for Indians

Medical Tourism In Turkey

What is the other type of taxi scam prevalent in Turkey?

Is Istanbul in Turkey a safe place to visit?

How to prevent from falling prey to ticket scams in Turkey?

How to understand a man approaching you in Turkey and claiming as a policeman is true?

Other Articles about Tourist Scams Across the World

Download International Travel Insurance Policy Wordings

Other Important Articles Related to International Travel Insurance

Get our app

Do not miss this opportunity

Sign up to Save Properties

Sign in to Save Properties

Find Your Ideal Home & Investment

tourism in turkey , moving to turkey , life in turkey , culture Updated : 18 November 2020 Created : 20 August 2015

Common Tourist Scams in Turkey

2: Fake Coins and Artefacts

3: Solo Male Traveller

4: Turkish Rug Scams and Fake Carpets

5: The Common Currency Exchange

6: Restaurant Bills for Tourists

7: Tricked by Taxi Drivers

8: Romance and Online Dating Sites

9: Real Estate Scam

Turkey Tourism Complaint Centre

Recommended

Subscribe To Our Media

Smartly priced seafront Homes Istanbul

Tourist SCAMS in Turkey and how to AVOID them

Common Tourist Scams in Turkey

Ikamet: Turkey residence permit for 1 year. How I got it in Antalya

Izmir, Turkey: Where to stay, Things to see, Public transport

New Istanbul Airport: Travel Guide and Personal Review

3 DAYS IN ISTANBUL, TURKIYE: Best things to do if you have never been there before

ISTANBULKART: Istanbul Public Transportation Card: price in 2023, where to buy, get refund

How Much Lira for a Week in Turkey 2023: Budget-Friendly Tips

Similar Posts