Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Thessaloníki, Greece

1. Taxi Scams

Unlicensed taxis may overcharge or take longer routes. Always use licensed taxis from the airport or taxi stands.

Recognizable Uniform: Licensed taxis have a distinctive uniform and identification
Meter Usage: Licensed taxis use meters for fare calculation
Safety Assurance: Licensed taxis provide a safer and reliable service

Some street food vendors may use low-quality ingredients or overprice their dishes. Opt for popular and frequented food stalls.

Popularity Indicator: Frequented food stalls often indicate good food quality
Health Inspections: Regularly inspected food stalls ensure food safety and hygiene
Pricing Comparison: Compare prices with neighboring vendors to avoid overpricing

Counterfeit goods are widely available in markets and shops. Be aware of deals that seem too good to be true.

Brand Authenticity: Authentic products carry original brand logos, packaging, and quality
Price Consistency: Consistent pricing of popular goods across shops is a good sign
Shop Reputation: Avoid shady or suspicious-looking shops, opt for reputable ones

Some ATMs may skim cards or overcharge fees. Use ATMs located inside banks or hotels.

Location Security: ATMs within secure locations reduce the risk of card skimming
Bank Affiliation: ATMs affiliated with your bank offer better protection and lower fees
Transaction Monitoring: Monitor your account for any unusual activity after using an ATM

Unregistered SIM card vendors may sell stolen or counterfeit cards. Buy from authorized retailers.

Authorized Vendor: Authorized retailers provide registered and legitimate SIM cards
Data Security: Registered SIM cards ensure data privacy and security
Customer Service Support: Authorized retailers offer after-sales support and assistance

Some beggars may distract you while others pickpocket. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Safe Zones: Avoid secluded areas and stay in well-lit, populated places
Valuables Security: Keep your valuables secure and hidden from view
Police Presence: Report any suspicious or intimidating behavior to the police

Unlicensed tour guides may overcharge or take you to scammy shops. Use licensed guides from reputable agencies.

Licensed Tour Guide: Licensed guides are knowledgeable and provide authentic information
Agency Reputation: Reputable agencies ensure a reliable tour guide experience
Itinerary Customization: Licensed guides accommodate your preferences and interests

Some restaurants may serve smaller portions or poor-quality food. Choose popular and well-reviewed eateries.

Popularity Indicator: Frequented restaurants often indicate good food quality
Reviews and Ratings: Consult online reviews and ratings for credible opinions
Menu Transparency: Transparent menus with clear pricing help avoid hidden costs

Some bars may overcharge drinks or serve watered-down alcohol. Opt for popular and frequented bars.

Popularity Indicator: Frequented bars often offer quality service
Menu Transparency: Transparent menus with clear pricing help avoid hidden costs
Happy Hour Deals: Take advantage of happy hour deals for cost savings

Some vendors may sell low-quality or counterfeit goods. Opt for established market stalls.

Established Stall: Established stalls often provide higher quality products
Pricing Consistency: Consistent pricing of popular goods across market stalls is a good sign
Shop Reputation: Avoid shady or suspicious-looking vendors, opt for reputable ones

Counterfeit or overpriced event tickets may be sold. Buy from authorized outlets or online platforms.

Authorized Outlet: Authorized ticket vendors provide authentic and valid tickets
Online Platforms: Trusted online platforms offer secure and convenient ticket purchases
Ticket Verification: Check the validity of tickets before purchasing to avoid scams

Some car rental companies may damage their vehicles or overcharge. Rent from reputable and trusted agencies.

Reputable Agency: Reputable agencies ensure a transparent and reliable service
Condition Report: Inspect the vehicle for damage before renting to avoid additional charges
Insurance Coverage: Check insurance coverage for theft, damage, and liability protection

Some hotels may overcharge or provide subpar service. Book from trusted hotel booking platforms.

Trusted Platform: Trusted platforms offer secure and convenient bookings
Reviews and Ratings: Consult online reviews and ratings for credible opinions
Transparent Pricing: Clear pricing helps avoid hidden fees or charges

Some Airbnbs may be fake, overpriced, or damaged. Book from verified hosts with good reviews.

Verified Host: Verified hosts offer a secure and reliable booking experience
Good Reviews: Positive reviews indicate a good guest experience
Property Condition: Check property photos and descriptions for accurate information

Some exchange booths may provide unfavorable rates or overcharge fees. Use banks or reputable exchange agencies.

Reputable Exchange Agency: Reputable agencies offer fair exchange rates and transparent fees
Location Security: Exchange in secure locations to avoid theft or fraud
Competitive Rates: Compare exchange rates across agencies for the best deal