Heightened Risk of Pickpocketing in Popular European Destinations: A Travel Advisory

By Ivan PetrenkoMay 6, 2024 23:30 PMNews
Share:
Wallet protruding from the back pocket of beige pants with a leather belt
Wallet protruding from the back pocket of beige pants with a leather belt. Source: pixabay

In a recent study by Quotezone.co.uk, Italy emerged as the European country with the highest prevalence of pickpocketing incidents, highlighting a significant concern for travelers. The study meticulously analyzed visitor reviews of top attractions like Rome's Colosseum and Florence's Uffizi Gallery, revealing a staggering 478 mentions of pickpocketing per million British tourists.

Italy's bustling tourist sites, combined with its allure as a cultural and historical epicenter, make it a hotspot not only for travelers but also for pickpockets. The study underscores the importance of vigilance and offers practical advice, such as using cross-body bags and securing valuables, to help tourists safeguard their possessions.

France and Spain followed Italy in the rankings, with notable pickpocketing activity around Paris's Eiffel Tower and Barcelona's Las Ramblas. Each location reported significant instances of theft, stressing the need for heightened awareness in these busy areas.

Conversely, Ireland was noted for its lower risk, with only seven incidents per million visits, indicating it as a relatively safer destination for tourists concerned about theft.

The study's insights are a crucial reminder for all travelers to remain alert and prepared, especially in renowned tourist destinations where pickpockets are more likely to operate. As travel continues to surge post-pandemic, being informed and cautious can greatly enhance the overall safety and enjoyment of your European adventures.

Top Articles
Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM
Smartphone with eSIM logo surrounded by travel essentials like flowers, map, camera, and sunglasses

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
More News
Delta Air Lines aircraft landing against a cloudy blue sky

Delta Turns Copenhagen Flight Into Festival Warm-Up

May 20, 2026 23:55 PM
Etihad Airways aircraft flying against a blue sky

Etihad Adds More A380 Flights for Paris

May 20, 2026 23:42 PM

Boston-Barcelona Flights Put Gaudí’s City Closer

May 20, 2026 23:39 PM

Chester’s Historic Queen Hotel Gets a New Chapter

May 19, 2026 22:16 PM
Riyadh Air aircraft being serviced on the airport tarmac

Riyadh Air Opens London Sales

May 19, 2026 22:03 PM
Virgin Australia aircraft on the runway at an airport

Virgin Australia Brings Back Holiday Packages

May 19, 2026 21:58 PM
Aerial view of Charing Cross station and Hungerford Bridge in London

London Rail Closures to Hit Summer Plans

May 19, 2026 21:44 PM
Lufthansa Allegris First Class suite with private seating and large screen

Lufthansa Brings First Class Back to Singapore

May 19, 2026 21:31 PM
White-sand beach and turquoise sea in Zanzibar

Tanzania Flights Could Finally Go Direct

May 19, 2026 21:28 PM

Europe’s Rental Rules Reach a Turning Point

May 19, 2026 21:15 PM

Dutch Travellers Fear Costlier Flights

May 19, 2026 21:02 PM
Qatar Airways aircraft flying through cloudy skies

Qatar Airways Adds More Africa Flights

May 19, 2026 20:59 PM
Transavia aircraft flying against a blue sky

Dutch Flight Tax Could Push Fares Higher

May 19, 2026 20:46 PM
Pokémon-themed airport atrium with Pikachu on a plane

Japan’s Pokémon Airport Gets Ready for Take-Off

May 18, 2026 23:03 PM
Baggage claim carousel with suitcases at an airport

Why Airport Luggage Wrapping Still Has Fans

May 17, 2026 20:57 PM

WestJet Brings Toronto Back to Glasgow

May 17, 2026 20:44 PM

Gatwick Gets Its First Ottawa Flights

May 17, 2026 20:31 PM
Aerial view of Tel Aviv and Jaffa coastline

Bratislava Gets a Direct Tel Aviv Link

May 17, 2026 20:28 PM
Alpine hotel surrounded by snowy Courchevel slopes

Courchevel Lines Up Two New Alpine Hotels

May 16, 2026 13:15 PM
airBaltic aircraft taking off against a blue sky

airBaltic Adds More Alpine Winter Flights

May 16, 2026 13:02 PM
TAP Air Portugal aircraft on an airport runway

TAP Air Gives Travellers Free Date Changes

May 16, 2026 12:59 PM
Seattle waterfront skyline with the Great Wheel

Seattle Plans a Floating World Cup Party

May 15, 2026 18:36 PM

Dubai Opens a New Route to Libya

May 15, 2026 18:23 PM

Vienna Gets a Direct Cluj Link

May 15, 2026 18:17 PM
easyJet aircraft landing near a city skyline

easyJet Opens Spring 2027 Flights Early

May 15, 2026 18:04 PM
British passport held in a person’s hand

Passport Rules Could Catch Out Summer Travellers

May 15, 2026 17:51 PM