16 European Cities Where Pickpockets Are Most Active (And How To Avoid Them)
Europe’s charm is undeniable but so is the risk of having your dream trip spoiled by a skilled pickpocket.
In some of the continent’s most beautiful cities, crowded squares and busy transport hubs double as hunting grounds for thieves who blend in seamlessly with the crowds.
They’re fast, clever, and know exactly where tourists let their guard down. To help you travel smarter, I’ve rounded up the cities where you’ll need to be extra alert and tips to keep your belongings exactly where they belong.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Few places in Europe match Las Ramblas for sheer pickpocket density, with coordinated groups staging distractions to swipe phones and wallets.
The subway system, particularly around major stations like Plaça Catalunya, is another hotspot where criminals operate. They often work during rush hour when packed trains make it easy to bump into you without suspicion.
Keep your bag zipped and in front of your body when walking through crowded areas. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, and consider using a money belt for important documents and cash.
2. Rome, Italy
Rome’s ancient streets hide modern-day thieves who’ve mastered the art of distraction. Near the Colosseum and Vatican City, you’ll encounter children who approach with clipboards or flowers, working as decoys while adults pick your pockets.
The city’s buses and metro lines are notorious hunting grounds, especially the crowded Line A that connects major tourist sites. Pickpockets often strike just as doors close, making escape impossible for victims.
Stay aware of anyone who gets unusually close to you in crowds. If someone spills something on you or creates a commotion, immediately check your belongings before helping. Trust your instincts when situations feel staged or unnatural.
3. Paris, France
You won’t see them coming, but well-dressed pickpockets near Paris’s most famous attractions have made seamless theft their specialty.
The metro system presents constant danger, particularly on lines 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 14 that serve major tourist destinations. Thieves work in coordinated groups, surrounding victims while one person does the actual stealing.
Never leave your bag unattended at cafes or restaurants, even for a moment. When using the metro, keep your bag in front and maintain awareness of everyone around you. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying expensive cameras openly.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s relaxed atmosphere can lull tourists into a false sense of security, but pickpockets thrive in the city’s busy train stations and tourist districts. Central Station and the Red Light District see the highest concentration of theft incidents.
Bicycle theft is also rampant, but pickpockets prefer targeting tourists at outdoor cafes and markets. They often work during evening hours when people are enjoying drinks and paying less attention to their surroundings.
Secure your bike with quality locks if you’re cycling around the city. When sitting at outdoor cafes, keep bags on your lap rather than hanging them on chair backs. Be especially cautious in crowded areas after dark when visibility is reduced.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
The cobblestone magic of Prague doesn’t stop theft, with pickpockets posing as innocent visitors near Charles Bridge and the bustling Old Town.
The city’s efficient public transport system becomes a hunting ground during peak tourist season. Trams and metro cars get packed with visitors, creating perfect conditions for skilled thieves to operate undetected.
Exchange money only at official locations, as fake money-changers often work with pickpocket gangs. Keep important documents in hotel safes and carry only what you need for the day. Watch for staged arguments or accidents that might be diversions.
6. London, England
London’s massive Underground network provides endless opportunities for pickpockets, especially on the Central, Northern, and Piccadilly lines that serve major tourist attractions. Rush hour creates perfect cover for thieves to operate.
Borough Market, Camden Market, and Oxford Street see frequent pickpocket activity due to heavy foot traffic and distracted shoppers. These criminals often work in pairs, with one creating a distraction while the other steals.
Mind the gap between train and platform, but also mind your belongings when boarding crowded trains. Keep wallets in front pockets with buttons or zippers, and consider using bags that zip completely closed. Stay alert in busy shopping areas and markets.
7. Florence, Italy
Even in a city dedicated to beauty and culture, the reality of petty crime persists, with pickpockets working the crowds near Florence’s most iconic landmarks.
These thieves often work during peak visiting hours when crowds are thickest and security is stretched thin. They’re particularly active near popular photo spots where tourists become absorbed in taking pictures.
Book museum tickets in advance to avoid standing in long, vulnerable lines where pickpockets hunt for easy targets. When taking photos, designate one person in your group to watch for suspicious activity. Keep cameras secured with straps and avoid displaying expensive equipment unnecessarily.
8. Madrid, Spain
Don’t let the energy of Madrid’s street performers fool you—their audiences often become unintentional shields for pickpockets moving through the crowd.
The city’s metro system, particularly during evening hours when people are heading to dinner or nightlife, becomes a prime hunting ground. Pickpockets target tourists who might be tired or slightly intoxicated.
Avoid displaying large amounts of cash when paying for meals or shopping. Spanish dining happens late, so stay extra vigilant during evening hours when pickpockets are most active. Consider leaving expensive items at your hotel when exploring nightlife areas.
9. Vienna, Austria
In a city where everyone seems impeccably dressed, it’s easy to overlook that some may be scanning for wallets instead of architecture—especially near Vienna’s top attractions.
The U-Bahn system, especially around Stephansplatz and Karlsplatz stations, sees regular pickpocket activity. Thieves target tourists carrying shopping bags from luxury stores or those distracted by the city’s beautiful architecture.
Dress modestly to avoid standing out as a wealthy tourist target. When visiting palaces or concert halls, use bags with secure closures and keep them in front of your body. Be particularly cautious in crowded areas after cultural events when people are distracted by discussions.
10. Naples, Italy
The city’s gritty charm comes at a cost in Naples, where thieves operate confidently amid the bustling crowds of the port and old town.
The city’s narrow streets and busy markets create perfect conditions for theft, as escape routes are numerous and crowds provide easy cover. Scooter-riding thieves also snatch bags from pedestrians in busy areas.
Keep bags secured and avoid wearing them on the street side when walking. Don’t carry all your money in one place, and be extra cautious around the port where cruise ship passengers are obvious targets. Trust local advice about which areas to avoid, especially after dark.
11. Budapest, Hungary
As you soak in Budapest’s beauty, keep a hand on your belongings—especially near tourist hotspots like Váci Street and the bustling Great Market Hall.
Public transport, especially trams and buses crossing the Danube, provides opportunities for theft when tourists are distracted by scenic views. Pickpockets often strike during boarding and disembarking when crowds are most chaotic.
When visiting thermal baths, use provided lockers and never leave valuables unattended. The relaxed atmosphere can make you vulnerable, so stay alert even while enjoying the city’s famous spa culture. Keep minimal cash and cards when exploring markets or shopping districts.
12. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s famous Tram 28 has become a mobile pickpocket headquarters, with thieves targeting tourists who are busy taking photos of the scenic route. The historic trams get incredibly crowded, making theft almost effortless.
The Rossio Square and surrounding areas see frequent pickpocket activity, especially during evening hours when people are enjoying outdoor dining. These criminals often work with accomplices who create distractions.
Board trams quickly and move away from doors where pickpockets congregate. When dining outdoors, keep bags on your lap rather than hanging them on chairs. The city’s hilly terrain can make you focus on walking, so stay aware of your surroundings even when navigating steep streets.
13. Berlin, Germany
As tourists flock to Berlin’s iconic sites, pickpockets take advantage—Alexanderplatz and museum areas are especially risky in peak season.
The efficient S-Bahn and U-Bahn systems become hunting grounds during rush hours and major events. Pickpockets often target tourists who appear lost or are consulting maps and guidebooks frequently.
Learn basic German phrases for asking directions to avoid looking like an obvious tourist target. When using public transport, keep bags zipped and in front of your body. The city’s many festivals and events create crowds that pickpockets exploit, so stay extra vigilant during these times.
14. Athens, Greece
The awe of standing before the Parthenon can distract even the most cautious traveler, and that’s exactly when Athens’ pickpockets strike.
The metro system, especially the line connecting the airport to the city center, sees frequent pickpocket activity. Tired travelers with heavy luggage make easy targets for skilled criminals working in teams.
Stay hydrated and alert when exploring archaeological sites, as heat exhaustion makes you more vulnerable to theft. When using the metro from the airport, keep luggage secured and be aware of anyone following you. The narrow streets of Plaka can become crowded, providing perfect cover for pickpockets.
15. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels serves as Europe’s political capital, but it also hosts sophisticated pickpockets who target both business travelers and tourists. The areas around EU institutions and Grand Place see regular pickpocket activity.
The city’s central train station becomes particularly dangerous during peak travel times when crowds are thick and people are focused on catching trains. Pickpockets often work in the confusion of rush hour.
Business travelers should be especially cautious as they often carry expensive electronics and important documents. When visiting Grand Place or other tourist sites, avoid displaying expensive cameras or jewelry. The city’s international atmosphere means pickpockets speak multiple languages and can easily approach victims.
16. Stockholm, Sweden
The sense of security in Stockholm can be misleading; opportunistic thieves operate in tourist-heavy areas, especially during peak summer months.
The T-bana (subway) system, particularly during morning and evening rush hours, provides opportunities for theft. Pickpockets blend in with commuters and target distracted tourists consulting maps or phones.
Don’t assume Sweden’s general safety means you can be careless with belongings. When exploring the old town’s narrow streets, keep bags secured and be aware of your surroundings. The high cost of living means even small thefts can be expensive, so protect cards and cash carefully.