While Greece is an incredible destination with friendly locals, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, like any major tourist destination, it has its fair share of tourist scams that you are best to avoid to ensure a pleasant experience. Being aware of the tactics used by scammers will help you enjoy your trip safely and fully.
This guide covers some of the most common scams and provides you with tips and personal insights to help you stay one step ahead.
While we’re addressing and explaining specific scams you may encounter while visiting Greece—either based on personal experiences or documented reports—these scams are by no means unique to Greece. They are prevalent in most, if not all, popular tourist destinations across Europe and the world.
The European countries where you are most likely to encounter scammers are Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Czech Republic, England, Hungary, and Romania, but certainly not limited to these. Romania, in particular, is often noted as a hub for “scam exporting” due to its Roma population, some of whom specialize in these activities and operate throughout Western Europe, especially since they’ve joined EU. However, it’s important to emphasize that these scams are more related to tourism in general than any specific country. Wherever large numbers of tourists gather—often unfamiliar with their surroundings and more trusting, willing to spend and adventurous—scammers are likely to appear.
We’re sharing this information not to deter you from traveling to Greece—or anywhere else—but to help you recognize, avoid, and handle these situations, ensuring your trip remains enjoyable and hassle-free. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at some of the scams you’re most likely to encounter in Greece:
1. The “Friendly Local” Scam
What It Is: You’re strolling through Athens or Thessaloniki, soaking in the sights, when a seemingly friendly local strikes up a conversation. They might compliment your Greek pronunciation, offer to show you “secret spots,” or even recommend local bars and restaurants. As the conversation flows, they may guide you to a specific restaurant or bar, where the food might not be as authentic as they claimed, and the bill will leave you shocked. At this point, your “guide” may ask for a cut or subtly hint at a tip for their help.
Real-Life Insight: This scam is common around tourist-heavy spots, such as the Plaka neighborhood in Athens. Many tourists have found themselves paying way above average for drinks and meals because they followed a seemingly harmless recommendation from a stranger.
How to Avoid It: While Greek hospitality is genuinely warm, always be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Politely decline and stick to restaurants and bars with good online reviews or those recommended by your accommodation. If you’re looking for a local guide, book a reputable tour in advance.
That Being Said: Making friends is one of the most rewarding parts of travel, so please don’t take these suggestions as a reason to keep to yourself or avoid conversations with locals altogether. Instead, stay observant and vigilant, and pay attention to the overall situation. This is especially important if you’re a solo traveler, though when traveling with others, you can afford a bit more freedom by watching out for one another.
Most scams happen around main tourist attractions and less frequently on the outskirts, where genuinely kind and welcoming people are more common. This isn’t to say that every interaction in the city or near tourist attractions is suspect—far from it. However, if you wish to avoid potential issues, these are areas where you should stay especially vigilant. City centers and tourist spots attract all kinds of people, including some with less honest intentions, so the likelihood of encountering a scam is considerably higher there. If you want to connect with locals and experience the culture authentically, aim to do so organically or away from the main tourist hotspots.
Getting to know a farmer harvesting olives or an artist painting a sunset over the Adriatic for their own enjoyment is likely to offer a more enriching experience than a random person who approaches you without reason while you’re waiting in line at the Parthenon, leading to a seemingly friendly conversation that eventually results in an “invitation” to hang out. While the interaction could certainly be genuine, the odds are naturally stacked against you in these crowded areas. On the other hand, sharing a meal or having a drink with a local from the previous example could end up being the true highlight of your trip.
This applies to any touristy country and location in the world, and is far from unique for Greece. Italy and France for example are no different, many would say they’re actually worse. So wherever you go, make friends, it will be the highlight of your trip, but stay vigilant at the same time.
2. Taxi Overcharging and “Broken Meter” Tricks
What It Is: In Greece, particularly around major hubs like Athens International Airport or ferry ports, some taxi drivers may try to overcharge tourists. They might claim their meter is “broken” and insist on a flat fee, which is often significantly higher than the standard rate. Some may even take unnecessarily long routes, especially if you’re visibly unfamiliar with the area, to bump up the fare.
Real-Life Insight: A tourist arriving at the airport in Athens was once quoted €50 to get to central Athens—almost double the regular fare. Luckily, they knew the approximate rate and were able to negotiate a fair price.
How to Avoid It: Always insist on using the meter, and familiarize yourself with approximate fares for common routes. Apps like Beat (popular in Greece) offer a safe alternative, allowing you to book taxis with clear pricing. If in doubt, ask your hotel or accommodation for reliable taxi services.
3. Fake Designer Goods
What It Is: Greece, especially in cities like Athens, has its fair share of street vendors selling “designer” goods—think bags, watches, sunglasses, and electronics. These items are often branded with designer labels but are counterfeit and usually of very low quality. Vendors may claim these are “overstock” or direct from the factory, luring you with “deals” that are simply too good to be true.
Real-Life Insight: In busy tourist areas, vendors can be quite convincing, and some travelers have ended up spending a fair amount on bags or sunglasses, only to find the items falling apart after a few days.
How to Avoid It: If you’re interested in purchasing something high-end, stick to reputable stores. Genuine designer items are rarely, if ever, sold on the street. If a deal sounds suspiciously good, it’s best to pass.
4. Pickpocketing and the “Messy Accident” Scam
What It Is: Like in many popular European cities, pickpocketing is a concern in Greece, especially in crowded areas like the Athens Metro or the streets of Monastiraki. Pickpockets often work in groups and use distractions to catch their victims off guard. One common tactic is to spill something, like coffee or paste, on you and then apologize profusely, trying to “help” you clean it up while another accomplice picks your pockets.
Real-Life Insight: Pickpocketing is common in busy areas, so keep a close eye on your belongings. A friend of mine once felt a “bump” in a crowded metro in Athens, only to find her wallet gone a few moments later.
How to Avoid It: Keep valuables in secure, inner pockets or in an anti-theft bag. Avoid carrying too many valuables when out in crowded spaces, and stay aware of your surroundings. If someone spills something on you, firmly decline any help and move away from the area.
5. Restaurant and Bar “Hidden Costs” Scam
What It Is: In Greece, as in other tourist-heavy countries, you may encounter restaurants that lure you in with friendly hosts or enticing menu items. Once inside, you might find menus without prices or vague explanations of “specials.” At the end of the meal, the bill arrives, and it’s shockingly high, often with hidden charges or additional items that you didn’t order.
Real-Life Example: In some areas like Mykonos, tourists have reported receiving bills of over €100 for simple drinks or dishes. These restaurants take advantage of unsuspecting tourists, and the inflated charges can ruin a beautiful evening.
How to Avoid It: Always check the menu for prices before ordering. Ask upfront about any “specials” and make sure they aren’t automatically added to your bill. Reading reviews online or asking your hotel for recommendations can also help steer you clear of these traps.
6. Fake “Skip-the-Line” or Ferry Tickets
What It Is: In busy tourist spots, such as the Acropolis in Athens, you may encounter people selling “discounted” or “skip-the-line” tickets for entry. These tickets are often fake, and once you get to the entrance, you’ll be turned away. Similar scams can happen at ferry ports, with scammers offering fake tickets for a reduced price.
Real-Life Example: Reports from tourists mention fake ticket sellers outside the Acropolis, who took advantage of long entry lines to lure in travelers looking to save time.
How to Avoid It: Purchase tickets only from official websites, ticket offices, or authorized resellers. Avoid buying tickets from individuals outside attractions or ports, as these are likely to be fake.
7. The “Broken Camera” Picture Scam
What It Is: This scam is common in Europe’s major tourist destinations. Someone may ask you to take a photo for them, and when you hand back their camera, they might “accidentally” drop it, claiming you broke it and demanding payment.
How It Works: The scammer relies on your sense of responsibility, hoping that you’ll pay up to avoid a conflict. This scam is often seen in high-traffic areas where tourists are more likely to stop and help.
How to Avoid It: If anyone asks you to hold expensive items or cameras and something feels off, politely decline. Alternatively, suggest using their phone instead of a more expensive camera.
8. The “Kicked Busking Cup” Scam
What It Is: A street scam where “busking” individuals place a transparent cup filled with a few coins in high-traffic pedestrian areas, aiming for passersby to accidentally knock it over and feel compelled to offer money out of guilt.
How It Works: Scammers position a clear cup containing a small number of coins on busy sidewalks, often extending it into the walking path. Due to its transparency and subtle placement, pedestrians may not notice the cup and inadvertently kick it over, scattering the coins. The scammer then approaches, sometimes acting distressed or upset, to elicit sympathy from the passerby, who may feel obligated to compensate for the mishap by giving money. In some cases, the scammer may become confrontational, pressuring the individual to pay.
By applying social pressure, they target people who are eager to avoid confrontation or embarrassment, coercing them into paying up.
How to Avoid It:
- Stay Observant: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, to avoid unintended interactions.
- Apologize and Move On: If you accidentally knock over such a cup, a simple apology is enough. Avoid engaging further or offering money. If they create a fuss, calmly inform them that you are aware of the scam and will contact the police if they continue harassing you. This will usually signal to them that you’re not an easy target, prompting them to back off.
- Recognize the Scam: Understanding this tactic can help you respond appropriately and avoid falling victim.
By maintaining awareness and not succumbing to undue pressure, you can navigate busy streets without becoming a target of this scam. If you happen to accidentally kick the cup, do not feel bad about it and do not succumb to pressure, as that is what they are counting on.
Video Example Above: In the video, the kid can be clearly seen placing the cup directly in the path of pedestrians, even using his foot to subtly push it in front of them. While this may seem like a harmless hustle, it’s still a deliberate attempt to trick unsuspecting individuals into feeling guilty and handing over money.
It’s worth noting that this is an older example, from a time when the scam was less refined. Reports indicate that clear cup scammers have since become more aggressive and brazen in their tactics. They’re now known to make a scene, yelling, following the “offender,” and demanding compensation.
Understanding this evolving tactic is key to recognizing and defusing the situation calmly (or not so calmly), ensuring you don’t fall victim to these manipulative schemes.
PS: The irony is that many of these gypsy kids—and adults—are often highly skilled self-taught musicians. When they channel their efforts into playing instruments like the accordion, instead of tricking people, they can earn decent money legitimately, showcasing their talent and enriching the atmosphere of the streets (as well as bars, restaurants, etc). Unfortunately, scams like this represent a lazy shortcut, often chosen by those who either lack the musical talent or the willingness to put in the hard work to make an honest living. Do not reward this behavior by giving them money—give it to a person enriching your experience with their talent instead.
9. The “Cups and a Ball” Scam
What It Is: A classic street scam where scammers use sleight of hand and distraction to trick participants into betting money on a seemingly simple game of skill and chance involving a ball supposedly hidden under one of three cups.
How It Works: Scammers set up a small table or a “doormat” in busy tourist areas, placing three cups and a small ball (or similar object) on it. The goal appears simple: keep track of the ball as the cups are shuffled and guess its location. Tourists are enticed by staged observers and players (accomplices) who seemingly win large amounts of money, creating the illusion that the game is winnable. Out of 10 people surrounding the mat, 8 of them are probably in on it.
When a tourist decides to participate, the scammer uses sleight of hand to ensure the ball isn’t under the chosen cup (or any cup for that matter), making it impossible to win. Additionally, accomplices often distract or pressure participants, increasing the likelihood of mistakes. Once the tourist loses their money, they’re encouraged to chase the loss by doubling up.
How to Avoid It:
- Don’t Engage: It’s very easy. Never stop to watch or participate in these games. The entire setup, including the “crowd” is an elaborate scam designed to manipulate you. If you’re curious and decide to watch, do so from a safe distance and avoid participating at all costs. Be aware that these scammers often have a secondary tactic: pickpocketing. While you’re distracted by the game, their accomplices may target your belongings, so keep them secure at all times.
- Recognize the Setup: Be wary of any game or street activity involving money in crowded tourist areas. The presence of a group cheering or winning large sums is most of the time staged to lure in and encourage unsuspecting victims.
- Keep Walking: If approached or invited to join, politely decline and move along without hesitation.
By staying vigilant and avoiding interaction, you can steer clear of this common tourist trap and keep your money safe. There are usually several groups doing this in the same area and they are all connected. They also have lookouts with earpieces on both sides looking out for police
10. The “Stranded Tourist” Scam
What It Is: A scam where an individual, often claiming to be a fellow traveler or a tourist, approaches you with a story about being stranded and needing help, typically involving money for a fare or gas.
How It Works: The scammer may claim they’ve lost their wallet, had their belongings stolen, or been left without enough cash to get back to their hotel, airport, or another destination. They often sound convincing, even emotional, and might show a fake ID or ticket to make their story more believable. Once they receive money from you, they disappear, and you’re unlikely to see them again.
How to Avoid It: Be cautious about strangers asking for money, no matter how convincing their story may sound or how polished their English or corresponding foreign accent might be. If you genuinely want to help, offer assistance in ways that don’t involve cash, such as suggesting the nearest police station or providing directions to their embassy. Much like homeless individuals struggling with addiction who ask for “food money” but refuse actual food, scammers typically reject any form of help that doesn’t involve handing over cash—this is often a clear red flag.
Video Example Above: In the example video above, the featured individual appears to be either a retired man of Greek descent who previously lived and worked in the USA (likely Chicago) or an American native who has retired in Greece.
Despite his perfect accent and elaborate story (with holes), it’s been reported online that he’s been “stranded” in Athens for years now 😉
General Tips for Avoiding Scams
- Do Your Research: Familiarize yourself with common scams in Greece before your trip. Reading recent traveler reviews can provide up-to-date information on scams in specific areas.
- Stay Alert in Crowded Places: Tourist-heavy areas are prime spots for scams. Keep your belongings secure and avoid flashing valuables.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Politely decline offers that seem too good to be true.
- Use Reputable Services: For taxis, tours, and ticket purchases, stick to established services. Ride-hailing apps and official websites help ensure you’re dealing with legitimate operators.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Use anti-theft bags and consider carrying only essentials when exploring crowded areas.
- Do Not Feel Obligated to Help: It’s natural to want to help others, but the unfortunate reality of tourism is that such goodwill is often exploited. If you genuinely wish to help someone, do so on your own terms—choose the person, the time, and the method of assistance. Buy from a hard working artist or a farmer charging regular prices, then leave them a tip. Giving money to those who nearly demand it from you won’t make you feel good, and it only perpetuates the problem. By giving in to pressure, you reinforce the behavior, encouraging scammers to target more tourists. It also makes you feel horrible and powerless, and it can easily ruin your vacation, regardless of the amount you “lose” to them. True generosity is voluntary and should come from a place of genuine intent, not coercion.
- Do Not Give Under Pressure: Tourist scammers rely on social pressure, guilt-tripping, and creating uncomfortable situations where you feel compelled to pay just to escape. Some may even use subtle intimidation tactics to make you uneasy enough to buy or give them money. It’s important not to be afraid or give in to pressure. Most of these individuals aren’t looking for confrontation or trouble—they’re simply seeking an easier target. They’re not there to rob you in a literal sense but instead rely on psychological tricks to get you to “play along.” A firm “No, thank you,” combined with confidently walking away and ignoring them, is usually enough to deter them and disengage. Afterall, there’s always another tourist just around the corner…
How to Handle the Scammers
When it comes to handling the scammers, you must first learn to handle yourself.
Fight the Basic Human Impulses Such as Guilt, Fear and Social Anxiety
In the example below, you’ll see a hustle that relies on putting you in a socially awkward situation, making you feel like a bad person if you don’t buy from them. Don’t fall for it. The way they talk to “humanize” themselves is often just a tactic—they’ll say whatever it takes to get you to cooperate, whether it’s true or not. And while many local “hustlers” in underdeveloped countries like Nepal or India may genuinely be poor and in need (and unfortunately resort to misguided methods such as lying, coercion, or overcharging), many of the tourist scammers operating in Europe are far from impoverished. In fact, many of them belong to “scam gangs” and lead more luxurious lives than you, funded entirely by gullible and overly trusting tourists.
Conclusion
While these scams can happen anywhere, a little awareness and preparation go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip to Greece. By understanding common scam tactics and knowing what to look for, you can focus on enjoying the warmth and beauty that Greece has to offer without falling victim to these tourist traps.
Every trip has its challenges, but with these tips in hand, you’ll be ready to navigate Greece confidently and make the most of your visit. Safe travels!