Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kraków, Poland

1. Tourist Trap Restaurants

Avoid overpriced restaurants in Old Town. Look for menus displayed outside to check prices before entering.

Avoid taxis without a meter. Use reputable companies like MegaTaxi or KomfoTaxi.

Metered Taxi: Ensures the fare is fair and transparent
Reputable Company: Reduces the chance of being overcharged
Avoid Street Taxis: Street taxis often do not have a meter and can overcharge

Only exchange money at authorized exchange offices. Be wary of street vendors offering to change currency.

Authorized Office: Ensures you receive genuine currency
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may give counterfeit or incorrect change
Check the Exchange Rate: Compare exchange rates before making a transaction

Book tours through reputable agencies. Be wary of unsolicited offers on the street.

Be aware of your belongings in crowded places like markets and festivals. Use a money belt or lockable bag.

Use ATMs in banks or well-lit, busy areas. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Bank ATM: Reduces the risk of skimming devices
Well-lit, Busy Area: Minimizes the chance of someone watching as you enter your PIN
Cover Keypad: Prevents camera devices from recording your PIN

Bargain for souvenirs in markets. Compare prices at multiple stalls before purchasing.

Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN when connecting to public networks.

Research the gallery before visiting. Be wary of galleries without a fixed address.

Only buy tickets for events and attractions from authorized sellers. Check the official website for ticket information.

Authorized Seller: Ensures you have a valid ticket
Official Website: Provides accurate and up-to-date information on ticket sales
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may sell counterfeit or invalid tickets

Support genuine performers by giving directly to the artist. Be wary of individuals collecting donations for others.

Give Directly: Ensures your donation goes directly to the artist
Avoid Collectors: Collectors may keep a portion of the donations for themselves
Support Local Artists: Encourages and supports local talent

Always ask for identification. Report any suspicious activity to the official authorities.

Ask for ID: Ensures the officer is legitimate
Report Suspicious Activity: Protects you and other travelers from potential scams
Official Authorities: Provides assistance and information on how to stay safe

Only buy alcohol from licensed stores or bars. Be wary of street vendors offering cheap alcohol.

Licensed Store or Bar: Ensures the alcohol is genuine
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may sell counterfeit or watered-down alcohol
Check Labels: Ensure the product is sealed and has an authentic label

Only rent cars from reputable companies. Check for hidden charges before signing the contract.

Reputable Company: Ensures a reliable and safe vehicle
Check Contract: Avoid unexpected fees or charges
Insurance Coverage: Ensures you are covered in case of an accident or damage

Book accommodation through reputable websites or agencies. Research the property before booking.