TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - In the eyes of international tourists, European corners are always brimming with magical hues, complete with endless holiday opportunities. Yet, beneath the thrilling fantasies of Alpine peaks and the tranquil breeze of powdery beaches lies a rooted problem of pickpocket cases.
Though pickpocket rates by country largely vary, Europe is universally known to house some of the worst pickpocketing evidence in the world. If you are going on a Europe trip, let’s learn about the metric to plan more wisely.
Pickpocket Rates by Country in Europe
Travel experts from Quotezone.co.uk and Radiotimes concluded a study that navigated the pickpocket rates by country in Europe, demonstrating staggering numbers across different keypoints. See more about the explanation below.
1. Italy - 478 cases per million visitors
Perched off of 1,500 majestic lakes, three major rivers, and an expanse of breathtaking coastal side, Italy has come around among mainstream travel destinations. However, the country has also reluctantly built a reputation as the top country that inflicts the most pickpocket fear to tourists and locals alike. From 478 pickpocket mentions per million visitors, Trevi Fountain emerges as the worst area that enables such crime.
2. France - 251 cases per million visitors
Dubbed as a romantic destination most beloved by foreigners, France surely dazzles travelers. Even so, travel superstar, Eiffel Tower, has actually been cited as the worst pickpocket area, mentioning 251 cases per million visitors. Over the years, its faulty reputation made it to social media, where many people post about tips to avoid getting robbed in tourist hotspots.
3. Spain - 111 cases per million visitors
Ranking third on the list, Spain’s famous Las Ramblas is a destination that blends charm with caution. Stretching 1.2 kilometers, this lively boulevard draws countless visitors with its energy and allure. But, behind the vibrant atmosphere lies a hidden risk, as it records 111 pickpocket incidents per million travelers.
4. Germany - 111 cases per million visitors
Matching Spain’s numbers, Germany also faces persistent pickpocket problems, particularly around iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate. The site’s magnetic appeal draws endless streams of tourists, creating the perfect cover for opportunistic thieves. As crowds gather to admire its history and grandeur, pickpockets quietly turn the bustle into their own advantage.
5. Netherlands - 100 cases per million visitors
Red Light District in Netherland singlehandedly brought international visitors to the Land of Tulips, making an exploration even riskier. While the crowds fall into fascination, the pickpockets seamlessly blend to deceive unknowing travelers.
6. Portugal - 58 cases per million visitors
When it comes to European pickpocket rates by country, Portugal is listed among the top ten, owing the damaging prejudices solely to Alfama. Amid the charm of medieval treasures, travelers are often swept away by the beauty around them. Yet in these enchanting settings, pickpockets slip by unnoticed, turning wonder into risk.
7. Turkey - 21 cases per million visitors
Straddling the edge of Europe, Turkey boasts some of the world’s most remarkable landmarks, from the Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace to the Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern. Among these treasures lies the historic Sultanahmet District, a hub that draws countless visitors each year. But, beneath its cultural splendor, it carries a reputation as the country’s top pickpocket hotspot, making vigilance a must for every traveler.
8. Greece - 19 cases per million visitors
For those adding the Acropolis Museum to their Greece itinerary, a little caution goes a long way. Pickpockets are known to target the area, making it wise to stay alert while exploring. To avoid unwanted hassles, travelers should carry only the essentials and leave anything flashy behind.
9. Poland - 18 cases per million visitors
Poland also reports a comparable number of pickpocketing incidents, putting travelers on alert. In bustling tourist hubs like Krakow’s Rynek Gówny, the lively crowds create the perfect cover for thieves. Blending seamlessly among curious visitors, pickpockets take advantage of the excitement to strike unnoticed.
10. Ireland - 7 cases per million visitors
Ireland closes the list with 7 mentions of pickpockets per million visitors. At Dublin’s monumental Guinness Storehouse, the excitement of exploring its seven vibrant floors often leaves visitors completely immersed in the experience.
In these moments of distraction, many tourists unknowingly lower their guard, creating easy opportunities for pickpockets.
The study on the European pickpocket rate by country shows that while some destinations carry a higher risk than others, no city is entirely immune to opportunistic theft.
By staying alert, traveling light, and knowing the hotspots, tourists can enjoy the continent’s wonders without letting pickpockets steal the magic of the journey. But, if you dream of traveling in confidence, head to these safest countries in the world instead.
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