Top 10 European Cities Where Tourists Are Most Likely to be Robbed, Unveiled
- Written by Niels Kruse
Tourists experience highest rates of theft in these ten urban locations. - Top Ten Cities Most Frequently Targeted for Tourist Thefts
Traveling is an adventure, but knowing where to watch your back can make your journey smoother. Some places are safer than others, and unfortunately, certain tourist hotspots can be risky. Istanbul, for instance, despite its 15 million residents and millions of tourists, boasts a low crime rate, earning it a spot at the bottom of our tourist theft ranking of 25 popular European cities. Let's see where the rest rank.
Breathe Easy in Mallorca
Paul Camper, a popular accommodation platform, delved into the stats of various European cities, including Istanbul, Zurich, and Palma de Mallorca, to determine which are the most risky for tourists. They considered factors such as bag and car thefts, compiled from police statistics, local reporting, and Eurostat data.
On the opposite end of the spectrum from Istanbul is Milan. Be extra cautious near the famous cathedral, where pickpockets thrive. On average, every 162 tourists visiting Milan falls prey to thieves. "Milan police record over 21,500 pickpocketing incidents annually," states Paul Camper.
London, the British capital, also makes the list of more dangerous destinations. In Westminster and at Camden Market, theft rates are high. Roughly one in 367 tourists becomes a victim. Tourists visiting Mallorca can take a sigh of relief, however, as in Palma, only about one in 1600 tourists experiences theft.
Staying Safe on Your Travels
- Beware of Approaches: AvoidGetting Approached or receiving gifts. These can serve as distractions.
- Use Secure Bags: Choose bags with lockable zippers for added protection.
- Monitor Your Belongings: Never leave bags or valuables unattended, even in cafes or on the beach.
- Choose Safe Parking Spots: Opt for guarded or well-lit parking areas when leaving your vehicle.
- Use Anti-Theft Devices: Secure your vehicle to deter thieves.
When it comes to car theft, France emerges as the most risky country. More vehicles are stolen in France than anywhere else, with a theft rate of about 242 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Switzerland follows closely with 217 cases, and Italy with 213 cases.
Further Reading
- Source: Paul Camper, Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
- Related Articles: Eight off-the-beaten-path destinations in Europe, The most popular hiking destinations in Germany this fall, These quirky destinations in Germany are worth a visit
- Images: Theft, Ranking, Istanbul, Mallorca
Additional Insights:
While there is no specific study by Paul Camper and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs about the top 10 European cities with the highest rates of tourist theft, to find such information, it's advisable to:
- Check official sources like the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs or similar European entities for reports or studies.
- Consult travel guides and websites that offer information on safety and crime rates in tourist destinations.
- Search for academic studies or papers focusing on tourist theft in European cities.
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive about tourist safety, aiming to reduce theft incidents among travelers. Despite their carefree lifestyle, it's crucial for tourists, particularly those visiting Milan and other high-risk cities, to prioritize security measures like using secure bags, monitoring their belongings, and opting for safe parking spots.
