High Incidence of Theft During Holidays:These Cities Top the List for High Theft Rates - holiday theft: Most prevalent in these major cities
European Tourist Hotspots: A Guide to Safety
Travelling through Europe can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks involved. A recent study by accommodation platform Paul Camper, in collaboration with the Swiss Foreign Ministry, has examined 25 popular cities across the continent for a theft risk ranking.
While the exact ranked list is not provided, the study sheds light on some cities where petty crime, including pickpocketing and theft, is more prevalent.
Cities to Watch Out For
- Prague, Czech Republic: Despite its well-organized law enforcement and good surveillance systems, Prague still experiences some petty crime. Tourists are advised to keep a close eye on their belongings.
- Kraków, Poland: While the city overall has a low crime level, there has been a moderate increase in petty theft in recent years. The police presence in tourist zones helps reduce the risk.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands: The city's overall crime rate is low, but there has been a recent growth in petty crimes. Its tolerant culture and police trust help reduce unreported incidents.
- Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Aveiro in Portugal: These cities are among the safest in Europe, but petty theft is still common in major tourist areas.
Safest Cities in Europe
On the other hand, countries like Portugal and Slovenia rank very high on safety indexes. Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana, is considered one of the safest European cities.
Tips for Safe Travel
Regardless of the city you visit, a few simple safety measures can help you avoid becoming a theft victim. These include:
- Be aware of your surroundings and personal belongings, especially in crowded tourist locations, public transport, and busy streets.
- Avoid obvious display of valuable items such as smartphones, wallets, and jewelry.
- Use hotels’ safes or secure money belts to protect passports, cash, and cards.
- Report any theft or suspicious activity promptly to local police or tourist police stations.
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid poorly lit or isolated locations at night.
- Carry an official photo ID and keep emergency numbers handy.
- Use official, reputable transport services to avoid scams.
- Be cautious of common tourist traps and potential scams related to taxis or services.
- Follow local advice and updates on safety when visiting major tourist cities.
The study also suggests additional tips, such as using lockable zippers on bags, not leaving valuables unattended, choosing well-lit and guarded parking spots, and using anti-theft devices.
Remember, being informed and vigilant can greatly enhance your safety and enjoyment during your European travels. Happy exploring!
[1] Source: Paul Camper and the Swiss Foreign Ministry [2] Source: Various local news reports and Eurostat [4] Source: Lonely Planet [5] Additional tips sourced from Paul Camper's study on European tourist safety
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive concerning travel safety in European cities, considering the increase in petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft. It is essential to integrate lifestyle choices, such as abstaining from displaying valuable items, into travel habits to minimize the risk of falling victim to such crimes across Europe.
