Worst country in Europe for pickpockets named

Unfortunately tourists are often targets for pickpockets. Public transport stations, major tourist attractions and busy areas are usually the worst spots for thieves.

But there are a few European destinations where tourists are most likely to fall foul of a pickpocket.

New research from the travel expert team at Quotezone.co.uk has unveiled which top European country is the worst destination in the world for pickpockets.

Spokesperson Tiffany Mealiff said: “European cities are famously popular tourist destinations for sightseeing, with the recent surge in holidaymakers expected to continue throughout 2024, unfortunately this also makes them some of the danger zones for pickpocketing.

“With many people starting to plan out the details for their summer holidays, we are warning holidaymakers to be aware of the potential hazards that come with travelling to these tourist hotspots.”

Italy topped the list as the European holiday destination where British tourists are most likely to have their valuables pickpocketed.

Rome’s Trevi Fountain was the worst attraction for pickpockets with over 470 mentions of ‘pickpockets’ on Tripadvisor reviews.

The popular water feature attracts thousands of tourists a day but keep an eye out for thieves.

France was the second worst destination for pickpockets and Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower was the worst sport.

The French capital will be under the spotlight this summer during the Summer Olympics and has already hiked its tourist tax.

Despite Barcelona’s reputation for pickpockets, Spain was only the third worst destination for thieves with Las Ramblas the most likely spot to meet a thief.