Famous tourist capitals, iconic landmarks, and seaside resorts attract millions of visitors every year. However, heavy tourist traffic also creates opportunities for pickpockets and scammers. According to research carried out by the price comparison service Compare the Market, several cities stand out as places where travelers face a higher risk of theft.

Paris, often called the City of Love, tops the list as the most risky destination for tourists due to frequent pickpocketing. The greatest number of incidents is reported near world‑famous attractions, particularly around the Eiffel Tower and in the Montmartre district, where dense crowds make it easier for thieves to operate unnoticed.

Las Vegas in the United States ranks second. Known for its casinos and vibrant nightlife, the city scored 47.69 out of 100 in terms of tourist concern about robbery. In addition to pickpocketing, various scam schemes targeting visitors are also common.

New York takes third place in the ranking. Travelers frequently express worries about robbery and fraud, and the city received a score of 49.68 out of 100 for theft-related concerns. Visitors also report losing personal belongings in busy areas.

Italy’s capital is likewise considered a hotspot for pickpockets. In Rome, the areas seen as most vulnerable include Roma Termini railway station, the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, and the Spanish Steps, all of which attract large crowds throughout the year.

Los Angeles occupies fifth position, earning 15.2 points on the pickpocketing and fraud index. Despite its glamorous reputation, petty crime remains an issue, especially in nightlife districts and along Hollywood Boulevard, where tourists often gather.

In London, pickpockets frequently work in coordinated groups, using distraction techniques and busy surroundings to their advantage. Visitors are advised to be particularly cautious while shopping and in heavily crowded public spaces.

Although Athens is celebrated for its ancient heritage and strong tourist appeal, the Greek capital also struggles with pickpocketing. The risk is especially high near the Acropolis, where large numbers of visitors create ideal conditions for thieves to blend into the crowd.

Sofia, Bulgaria, ranks eighth with a score of 29.19 points. Besides pickpocketing, tourists may encounter scams such as inflated taxi fares or dishonest currency exchange practices. Extra vigilance is recommended near the Central Railway Station, the Central Bus Station, and Lion’s Bridge, particularly after dark.

Barcelona has long had a reputation for pickpocketing. The most problematic areas include La Rambla boulevard, Plaça de Catalunya, the Gothic Quarter, and Carrer de Montcada. According to local police data, pickpocketing accounted for 48.1% of all recorded crimes in the city in 2023.

Travelers are also advised not to display expensive watches near luxury hotels, shopping districts, or nightclubs, as organized groups specializing in stealing high‑value accessories have become increasingly active in recent years.

Amsterdam in the Netherlands completes the ranking. Higher‑risk zones include Dam Square, Central Station, the Rijksmuseum area, and certain parts of the Red Light District at night.

Experts emphasize the importance of staying alert to any attempts at distraction, particularly in crowded locations, since pickpockets often act in organized teams and rely on confusion to target unsuspecting visitors.